Welcome to the Richmond School of Arts – Greater Western Sydney (GWS) Academy of Classical Ballet & Musical Theatre, a top performing arts group and ballet school located in Richmond, Australia. At GWS, we are dedicated to teaching the art and love of dance and the performing arts to individuals of all ages. We believe in nurturing our students in a non-competitive environment, allowing them to grow and thrive in their passion for the performing arts.
The school is owned and led by MsK Katrina A Pritchard Stutz, who has had a successful career as a performer in Europe and Australia. With her experience as a lead dancer in the show Formidable at the Moulin Rouge, Katrina brings a wealth of knowledge to her role. She holds a Licentiate in Classical Ballet coaching, a Diploma in Musical Theatre, and certifications in Training and Assessment, as well as Dance Management. Katrina's school is located adjacent to BelleKat Products Cabaret and Variety shows in Sydney, creating a vibrant and inspiring atmosphere for students.
Among the talented team of teachers at GWS, we have Ms Tatiana Rose Stutz, a founding dancer at GWS who now imparts her expertise to dancers of all levels, from Petite Chou to Advanced Ballet. Having completed all her ballet exams and extended her professional development at the American Ballet School in New York, Tatiana also excels as a makeup artist and photographer, making her an influential figure on Instagram.
Ms Natalie is another beloved teacher at GWS, with years of experience teaching students at all levels. She specialises in Character and Tap Dance and is known for her kindness, support, and ability to bring out the best in her students. Ms Jessie, a former student at GWS who pursued full-time dance training and holds a BA from Notre Dame University, now shares her bubbling and happy teaching style with the GWS community. She also holds a Certificate of Dance Teaching with the Royal Academy of Dance.
Ms Gabby, who has been with GWS since she was 7 years old, has achieved remarkable accomplishments, including completing all her ballet examinations, becoming a Cecchetti Scholar, and participating in summer intensives at Steps on Broadway in New York City. As a featured dancer in BelleKat Productions shows, Gabby's talent shines both on stage and in the classroom. Ms Zarah, who has been with GWS since the age of 5, excels in contemporary dance and is known for her kindness and helpfulness towards fellow GWS students.
Ms Jade, another long-time member of the GWS family, joined at the age of 3 and has since completed numerous Cecchetti ballet exams. With her energetic and kind nature, Jade has worked as both an assistant teacher and teacher in junior grades at GWS. Ms Kyah, who has been with GWS since she was young, teaches Grade 1-4 at GWS Dance Academy. As a Cecchetti Scholar, Kyah is known for her gentle and helpful demeanour towards her students.
In 2023, GWS will be welcoming Ms Elissa as an assistant teacher in Junior Tap, Junior Jazz, and Character Dance. Having been with GWS since she was a young girl, Elissa's versatility in all styles of dance, especially Musical Theatre, makes her a valued addition to the GWS team. Finally, Mr Jack, who has been with GWS since the age of 5, specialises in teaching Junior and Intermediate Jazz, captivating students with his energetic and engaging classes. Jack is also a featured dancer in BelleKat Productions shows.
Throughout the year, GWS Dance Academy hosts a variety of events, including the highly anticipated Photo Day held at the GWS Studios in November. Additionally, the Annual Concert, held at the Windsor Function Centre in December, showcases the talent and hard work of our students.
Join us at Richmond School of Arts – Greater Western Sydney (GWS) Academy of Classical Ballet & Musical Theatre, where we create a nurturing and inspiring environment for dancers and performers to flourish.