Urban Funk Dance (UFD), originally known as Bairnsdale Jazz Funk, is ae dance school located in Bairnsdale, Victoria. Established in 2002, UFD was the first commercial dance school in the area and has been a leader in the industry ever since. Founder Renee Hallahan introduced a modern and fresh style of dance to East Gippsland, and under the current principal, Casey Davidge, the school continues to thrive.
UFD offers a wide variety of dance styles, including dance fusion, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, adult's jazz funk, Broadway jazz, and performance troupes. Enrolments are available for individuals starting from prep age all the way up to adults, catering to all levels and abilities. The school prides itself on providing a positive and encouraging atmosphere for dancers to learn and grow.
In addition to regular classes, UFD also offers casual and fitness classes for those looking to dance for fun and fitness. For dancers who meet the requirements, there are performance teams that represent UFD on a competitive level. These performance teams participate in various dance competitions and local eisteddfods, with opportunities available for individual dancers to compete as well.
UFD dancers have the chance to showcase their talents at the annual dance showcase, local school events, community fundraisers, and the end-of-year dance concerts. The UFD community is committed to giving back and has raised over $30,000 for local and national charities through benefit performances.
Many past UFD students have gone on to pursue further dance training and work at a tertiary level, both in Australia and the USA. Some have trained at prestigious institutions such as Jason Coleman's Ministry Of Dance and have found success in the film and television industry, as well as promotional appearances and more.
Urban Funk Dance is an all-inclusive dance school that welcomes individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and physical abilities. The school encourages dancers to shine in their chosen style of dance and supports them in reaching their full potential, whether that is on a casual level or in a professional arena.
Enrolment information and waiting list placements can be made by contacting UFD via email. However, please note that all classes for 2023 are currently booked out, and the waitlist is not currently open. Interested individuals are encouraged to check back in December 2023 for further updates.
The principal of Urban Funk Dance is Casey Davidge, who has trained extensively in various styles of dance, including jazz, funk/hip hop, commercial, tap, ballroom, and cheer. Casey holds a Certificate IV in Dance Teaching and Management, Diploma of Beauty Therapy, Certificate in Special Occasions Make-Up, and Assistant Coach Certification for Acro Dance Australia. In addition to her role at UFD, Casey is currently studying education support and works part-time in a local primary school.
Under Casey's leadership, UFD has expanded its repertoire and now offers additional styles such as dance fusion, hip hop, musical theatre, acro, and contemporary. The school and its performance teams have enjoyed many years of success at local and state-wide competitions, as well as the Crown International Dance Festival. Students have gone on to further their dance careers, gaining entry into Ministry of Dance and finding opportunities in film, television, and opening their own dance studios.