BCMA Little Froggies in Ballarat, Victoria | Dance studio

BCMA Little Froggies

Locality: Ballarat, Victoria

Phone: +61 3 5331 3086

Address: 112A Victoria Street 3350 Ballarat, VIC, Australia

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25.01.2022 The BCMA approach to the Coronavirus challenge as at 16/03/2020. There is a whole letter here, but the bit you want to know is: Yes, the BCMA will stay open fo...r all classes until the conclusion of term 1 classes at 6.30PM on Saturday, March 28th. The spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) is extremely disconcerting, frustrating and really heartbreaking. I don’t want to release a black and white statement because this will affect so many people on different levels. The BCMA is a safe haven for many in so many ways, but in this case, we need to consider what ‘safe’ means. I was discussing the situation in depth with a group of 7 12 year old’s on Saturday morning since they were showing real concern about what might be happening. These children are very aware and are hearing lots of conflicting information just like the rest of us. Their main concern to me was obviously about whether the BCMA would need to close down or not. I explained to them that adults often quote Stop the World I want to get off and suggested that maybe now this is what is happening. That aside from this being tragic for those infected and their families, the economy and so many industries etc., that it may also be a time when the creative people are able to be more creative, the inventors more inventive, the dreamers more dreamy and a time when the world can rethink its direction in many areas. That people will need to learn to think differently to solve problems that we haven’t needed to deal with before. I also said that they (the students) had better keep their energy levels up, because if I become stuck at home for two weeks with my creative energy, who knows what I might come up with for them to do when we get going again? We are listening to it, reading it, following the news and feeling just as lost as everyone else about what to do and when it will all end (if ever). As well as paying close attention to the latest advice given by the Victorian Health Department & the Federal Government regarding the Coronavirus (COVID 19) and how it affects us, we are considering our extreme responsibility and duty of care to each of our students, their families and friends. Any decision that I make right now affects our students and families, but more so, our teachers who will have no income should we close the doors. Now that some of the Ballarat Schools have announced closures, we have been reconsidering our position and have decided that unless we are advised to do otherwise, we will continue to run classes until the conclusion of term 1. We will continually reassess this and advise if anything changes. We hope that we will be able to reopen for sessions at the beginning of term two, but again, will rely on advice for this. We have an average group size of 10.3 students per class and we feel that this is very manageable. The initial steps we have already taken in the areas of hygiene include: Extra Professional Cleaning has been contracted Hourly/half-hourly sterilising of all door handles, doors, ballet barres, coffee tables, bench tops, handrails etc. Removal of all communal items such as coffee cups, children’s drawing books and pencils from the lounge area Removal of all communal items such as exercise equipment & props in studios Installation of paper towel dispensers in the bathrooms Placing of advice posters in regards coughing, sneezing etc. in all rooms No contact rules are being enforced in all areas. No hugging, high fives etc. Choreography and drama activities have been altered to eliminate any contact Anyone displaying symptoms of being unwell may be asked to leave. Basic hygiene of coughing into elbows etc. will be carefully monitored. In addition: All holiday extra exam classes are now cancelled but private tuition or smaller groups may continue with those teachers and student who wish to do so. To be advised. All holiday FiPs, PiPs and MTE rehearsals are cancelled. Please expect some extra Sunday rehearsal later in term 2 if we are able. Participation in all Cecchetti conferences, conventions etc. will be at the discretion of the individual and enrolments will proceed as planned unless we hear from you that you don’t want your child to participate. We have been advised (16/03/2020) by Cecchetti that these events will be running at this stage. We are investigating postponing ATOD & Cecchetti examinations until later in 2020. We feel that with potentially fewer classes to prepare for these events, students (and teachers) will feel under-prepared and this will cause extra stress. We will proceed with entering those who are already organised and invoiced but will confirm a later examination date. All fundraising Cafes & BBQ’s are cancelled until further notice. Many dance competitions have already been postponed if not cancelled and we will keep those involved up to date with this advice. At this stage we are not offering refunds for classes not being taken in Term 1 as a personal decision made by families to withdraw. As you can understand the teachers have had no time to secure alternate work and we are not in a position to support them through this stressful time. For all students entering the BCMA premises, we ask that: hands are washed before each lesson and thoroughly after attending the bathroom. Please refrain from touching handrails and ballet barres. Bring (and take) personal water bottles. We will not be providing cups for water. Bring your own tissues in case of a need for it, but if unwell, please do not attend at all. Refrain from any physical contact including hugging, hi fives etc. We also ask that parents and friends only enter the building to pick up children rather than staying in the lounge area for any prolonged time. Sorrythis is hard. (Great chance to get your steps up though). I sincerely hope that we can find strength through our community even if we are not able to touch each other, that we can steady ourselves through this time to discover different ways to thrive, they we can support our children to feel safe and to stay healthy. Yours sincerely Paula Heenan

24.01.2022 Our hearts are genuinely full of pride for Samuel and gratitude to his family, Karryn, Chris and Sams siblings, and his incredible baller teachers; Karen Playsted and Ella Graham on his receiving this acknowledgment. Sam is such a beautiful, dedicated student and we all adore having him as part of the BCMA. Well done Smiley.

24.01.2022 INTRODUCING THE TEACHERS OF THE BCMA 2020 Name: Daniel Lamech -voice Summary of performance experience: ... Daniel began singing at age 4 with the Darwin Youth and Children's Choir and from age 10-15 toured with Gondwana Voices Choral School Through studying with the Federation University Ballarat Arts Academy he has played principal roles in Crusade, Chicago & My Favourite Year as well as creating his own Cabaret. In the Ballarat Amateur Theatre Scene you may have seen him as: Rum Tum Tugger in Cats Mrs Chorey in Mary Poppins Ja’Keith Gill/Candy in Rock of Ages Ensemble in Miss Saigon MC in Chicago or Tom Collins in RENT In between shows he has been performing in burlesque shows around Victoria What is something that you look stupid doing? Dabbing, flossing and air guitar - because they’re inherently stupid but I still do them regularly for comedic value In 40 years, what will people be nostalgic for? Those New Years glasses with the 0’s in the middle (2000s) What are the best things about working at the BCMA? The passion and love from the teachers, helping each student thrive in their unique skills and talents What part of a movie makes you laugh out aloud? Hearing a Wilhelm scream. Especially if no one is falling If animals could talk, which would be the rudest? Definitely cats. I’m 100% convinced that if they could open doors for themselves they would enslave us all What is the most embarrassing thing you have ever worn? Probably in Yr 10 when I regularly wore Camouflage Pants and a Fluro orange T-Shirt. It was horrendous Best advice for your students: Don’t compare yourself to other people. Just as you can’t sound or look or move the same way as someone else, no one can do things in the exact way you can. The only person you should compare you with, is yourself - and compete with your past every day to do better.

21.01.2022 INTRODUCING THE BCMA INSTRUCTORS FOR 2020 Rachel Bronca - Professional Production Class, Tap and Voice Summary of performance experience:... since moving to melbourne: (2020) AMAZING GRACE NEW YORK NEW YORKFeatured Dancer, Manilla St Productions, Karen Jemison, Luke Alleva (2019) LOVER’S ANONYMOUS, Q44 theatre, Gabriella Rose Carter (2018) NINECarla, StageArt, Michael Ralph (2016-Current) The Cover Girls AUGrayboy Entertainment (P&O and Princess) (2018) Spice Up Your LifeTake The Mic Australia, Chapel Off Chapel (2017) ELMOThe Entertainment Store (2017) Motown LiveTake The Mic Australia, Chapel Off Chapel (2016) SIGNIFICANCEDance concept show, Attitude Dance Company. (2016) Saturday Night FeverStephanie/Maria Swing, Ensemble, StageArt. Summary of teaching experience: 2010-Current Ballarat Centre of Music and the Arts 2019-Current - Choreographer, Trinity Speech and Drama and Musical Theatre Tutor at St Catherine's College, Toorak. 2017-2018 Dance Lecturer at Federation University 2018 - Caufield Grammar School (Little Shop of Horrors) 2017-2019 Kidko Performing Arts School 2014-2016 Impetus Dance School 2003-2009 Maryke Dance Academy What is something that you look stupid doing? Sport. all kinds. In 40 years, what will people be nostalgic for? Hopefully anything except flare pants. What are the best things about working at the BCMA? Seeing the personal growth of each student through the years and being a part of their journey. Except for their growth in height when they become taller than me. What part of a movie makes you laugh out aloud? ".........Samantha?" If animals could talk, which would be the rudest? I'm pretty sure that all animals are amazing, I doubt they have any sassy thoughts in their heads, but if i had to pick one....I would say an owl. They are so beautiful, and infinitely cooler than humans, but from their expression I always feel they are being a bit judgy. But I think that's fair. What is the most embarrassing thing you have ever worn? I used to be a suit artist and my character was Elmo. I LOVED being Elmo, probably one of my favourite things to to be. But....what I had to wear under the suit, and therefore what the public saw me in afterwards, was this sweaty, full length, kind-of-padded, wet suit. It was foul. Best advice for your students: Always be yourself, in every moment. You aren't competing with the person next to you, or whoever is in the room with you, or even whoever is in the same town as you. Keep in your lane and just focus on working on yourself. Be kind to the other performers around you. They are trying their best, just the same as you are. And if they aren't, maybe they need your support and kindness to get back to a place where they can be a better version of themselves. Your teachers are people. Yes, they need to earn your trust, but you need to respect their space and let them do their job. Always, ALWAYS, perform with your heart, not with your ego. We are artists. Looking forward to another incredible year Miss Rachel

19.01.2022 Only 8 days until this is drawn. Think about friends and family who may be interested in any aspect of the performing arts.

19.01.2022 Dana Reynolds Veruca Salt She wants it nowand she’ll probably get it! Dana is 10 years old and already making a name for herself in the performance industry.... Featured roles include Wendy (Peter Pan Jr. BCMA 2017), Marty (Madagascar Jr. BCMA 2018) and Mulan’s Mother (Mulan Jr. BCMA 2019). Dana also attended the Junior Musical Theatre Celebration this year in Newcastle and was cast in the ensemble of the Pilot Production of Finding Nemo Jr. as well as reprising her role as Marty. Her tuition in music theatre, voice, ballet, tap and drama set a foundation of performance skills with which she was selected to take to Los Angeles as part of the ARTS International Showcase in 2018. Here she took part in several performance workshops and presented for a number of casting agents, allowing her to prepare for a professional career. Dana’s personality is NOTHING like that of Veruca Salt which demonstrates what a wonderful little actor she is. "We'll begin with a spin traveling in the world of Dana’s creation." BCMA Presents Wonka Goes Bonkas Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts Saturday 7th December https://www.trybooking.com/book/sessions?eid=552651

18.01.2022 Max Moyes-Allan - Grandpa Joe Proudly introducing the next member of our stellar cast - Max Moyes-Allan as Grandpa Joe! Though looking much older on stage, Max ...swears he is 15 years old. He has been seen on stage in the roles of Shrek (Shrek Jr. BCMA 2016), Papa Ge (Once on This Island BCMA 2017) and Leslie ‘Gripper’ Wood in both the Australian Premiere and Chapel off Chapel seasons of ‘The Battle of Boat’. He was a member of the inaugural BCMA Playwright and Performance class and played the role of Archer Miller in the classes self-produced play Dust & Ruin. Max has had training in voice, drama, musical theatre and tap and is excited to portray such an iconic character. This role suits Max perfectly, and you will love the comedic slant that he brings to the role. "We are the music makers and we are the dreamers of dreams." So true, Max. BCMA Presents Wonka Goes Bonkas Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts Saturday 7th December https://www.trybooking.com/book/sessions?eid=552651

17.01.2022 Another article about the benefits of dancing on health and well being.

15.01.2022 Good evening all, Emails outlining our plans have been sent. I did about 16 variations of this letter today as information, advice etc. came through, but I hope that you will all at least give this new direction a try before making a decision. Stay in touch. Talk to us. Enjoy the possibilities. ... Thank you Paula Heenan If you have not received this email please let us know by emailing [email protected]

15.01.2022 INTRODUCING THE BCMA INSTRUCTORS OF 2020 ELAINE MILLS Hip hop and Jazz Dance Summary of performance experience:... Competed in various eisteddfods and competitions across Victoria & Tasmania (let’s be honest here.......and still does) BAFC productions and dance showcases 2012-2016 Summary of teaching experience: 15yrs teaching experience RAD, ATOD exam and non-exam classes (covering jazz, hip hop, Latin hip hop, contemporary, musical theatre, dancers strength/fitness and conditioning) Choreographed for Performance and Competitive troupes (Jazz & Hip Hop) Victoria & Tasmania Exam Syllabus choreographer Latin Hip Hop RDS What is something that you look stupid doing? Trying to make babies laugh In 40 years, what will people be nostalgic for? Driving your own car What are the best things about working at the BCMA? The opportunity to teach and guide such incredible individuals towards achieving their goals. Seeing your students succeed after witnessing firsthand how much hard work they have put into their craft fills me with so much joy and gratitude to be a part of their journey. I love that no matter what else is going on for our students BCMA is always a safe place filled with positivity and warmth where they can come each week and just be themselves without any judgement. I love being a part of what makes them leave with a smile. What part of a movie makes you laugh out aloud? The funny parts If animals could talk, which would be the rudest? A cat, they are self-centred and love mind games (but also adorable and fluffy which is misleading) What is the most embarrassing thing you have ever worn? It is unspeakable Best advice for your students: Dance is more than a sport, it’s more than an after-school activity. It is truly a gift never ever take it for granted. Enjoy every moment that you are provided the chance to perform and grab every opportunity to learn with both hands. Always remember to: Be thankful to your parents (you wouldn’t be in class without them) Learn to accept both compliments and criticism Competition and eisteddfods are stage experience, learn from them You can still be seen from the back line Try all styles of dance, even if you don’t think it’s for you, you are never too old to learn a new style The time you spend in dance class will be some of the best of your life, cherish every moment and never forget the people and memories along the way. Let’s do this Miss Elaine

12.01.2022 "There's this incredible bonding, a warmth and a primal response to singing to a baby that we mustn't lose. It's critical, really.

11.01.2022 Sing to your babies. https://www.abc.net.au//making-musical-children-s/10387462

09.01.2022 Anna Hodge Violet Beauregard This girl is explosive. Anna has been with the BCMA since she was 4 years old when she started with pre-school music & dance. A...t the moment she is studying Tap & Jazz dance at advanced levels. Whilst Anna hasn’t been involved on stage in many musical productions, she certainly blew us away with her audition this year and is well ready to hit the stage in a lead role this show. In fact, she is so dedicated to this role that she will possibly even turn blue for you. Performing is her passion as is sport, with netball and cricket being the favourites. Welcome to the world of BCMA musical theatre Anna. "Hold your breath. Make a wish. Count to three." BCMA Presents Wonka Goes Bonkas Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts Saturday 7th December https://www.trybooking.com/book/sessions?eid=552651

09.01.2022 Who’s getting excited to join us online?

09.01.2022 Some parents may like to check this page out. https://www.facebook.com//ball/permalink/1602320549921054/

08.01.2022 Don’t forget your tickets!

06.01.2022 INTRODUCING THE BCMA INSTRUCTORS OF 2020 Miss Elise Brennan Musical Theatre, Song and Dance, Jazz Dance & Voice Summary of performance experience:... I have worked in professional musical theatre and live music for over 10 years. In that time I have also built my business as a dance and singing teacher and choreographer. I have taught students in all age ranges, including mentoring young professionals. I began dancing at age 3 and pursued music, singing and acting at school, then completed a BA Musical Theatre in 2007. My professional music theatre credits include Guys and Dolls, Jersey Boys, Pippin, An Officer & A Gentleman, A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum, Saturday Night Fever and Company. I have also performed for Princess and Celebrity Cruiselines as a cast singer and lead vocalist. As a teacher, I bring with me a vast knowledge of the Entertainment Industry and a passion for nurturing performers at any age, or level. I am committed to celebrating the individual in every student. What is something that you look stupid doing? Trying to braid my hair! I truly can’t get the technique right. In 40 years, what will people be nostalgic for? I have a feeling, face to face conversation. The more tech savvy we get, the more we seem to loose our socialization skills. What are the best things about working at the BCMA? The community feel and the students. Everyone supports each other and it creates a second family, and safe space for all. I am returning after being away for a number of years, and it feels great to be coming ‘home’. What part of a movie makes you laugh out aloud? In something like Home Alone, all of it. Physical comedy to me is brilliant. If animals could talk, which would be the rudest? A slug. He would abuse you and calls you names and then as you tried to squash him, he’d go to goo so you can’t pick him up or move him and he would win the argument. Just plain rude. What is the most embarrassing thing you have ever worn? An elf suit that was four sizes too big and kept falling down at Christmas Photos for children. Best advice for students... Work hard, listen to the advice given to you by your teachers and mentors, but never be afraid to clarify what they meant or how best to achieve that. Communicate when you have a concern or question and remember your teachers are there to help you become the best version of yourself and want you to succeed. Most importantly of all, enjoy every minute of your training. Loving it will help you grow in more ways than you can imagine and give you skills for life! Thanks for having me back Elise Brennan

06.01.2022 We are so excited to welcome Carla as our newest string teacher covering both Violin and Cello.

05.01.2022 So extremely excited

04.01.2022 INTRODUCING THE INSTRUCTORS OF THE BCMA 2020 KAREN MASON / PLAYSTED Classical & Contemporary Dance What is something you like stupid doing?... Playing sport. Any sport with a bat and ball. Funnily enough I have really bad hand eye co-ordination. In 40 years, what will people be nostalgic for? Face to face conversation. The art of conversation is being lost in this social media world already. I’d hate to think what it will be like in 40 years. What are the best things about working at BCMA? The students. So much talent and so many gorgeous personalities. What part of a Movie makes you laugh out loud? The adult humour in kids’ movies. Subtle but effective! If animals could talk, which would be the rudest? Cats definitely! I have two and I love them dearly but every now and then I swear I see them rolling their eyes at me. What is the most embarrassing thing you have ever worn? Very tight little hot pants. Overall style! I had the wear them in a Ballarat Lyric Theatre show The Best Little Whore House in Texas. They were so tight I could barely move let alone dance! Best Advice for your students: Practice, perseverance, commitment and dedication. Be you! Don’t try to be someone else. Artistry comes from within and you can’t replicate that! Oh and don’t forget to be kind to yourself and those around you. Work History Guest Lecturer in Contemporary Dance at The Centre of Performing Arts Adelaide. Guest Lecturer in Classical and Contemporary Dance at the Victorian College of the Arts. Touring Country Victoria. Choreographer - Grease Ballarat Lyric Theatre Choreographer - A Chorus Line Pink Fish Productions. Geelong Director of Dance Department Ballarat Centre of Music and the Arts. Ballarat East Lecturer in Dance - Classical Ballet Ballarat Academy of Performing Arts. Victoria St Ballarat Dance teacher / Choreographer 2005 Terri Maree school of Dance. Ballarat Karen Mason Dance Studio 2006 - 2014 Artistic Director Ballarat Nth Mentor for Cecchetti Associate students 2012/13 Lecturer in Dance - Classical Ballet and Contemporary Dance 2015, 2016 and 2017 BAPA Federation University Camp St. Ballarat Dance teacher - Classical Ballet. 2015 The Academy of Classical Dance Ballarat Dance teacher - Contemporary dance 2017, 2018. Dance to the Beat Ballarat Dance teacher - Classical Ballet. 2017 - present Cecchetti and ATOD syllabi’s Dancemakers Magpie Dance teacher - Classical Ballet. 2017 - present Cecchetti syllabus Ballarat Centre of Music and the Arts Ballarat East Mentor for Cecchetti Associate Students 2018/19 Karen Mason Dance Services Tutu and costume designer. 2010 - Present Training and Qualifications Certificate in Performance Dance. Centre of Performing Arts - Adelaide SA. 1988 Bachelor of Arts Dance. Victorian College of the Arts - Melbourne Vic. 1990 Associate Qualification Cecchetti Syllabus - Cecchetti Ballet Australia. 1991 Licentiate Qualification Cecchetti Syllabus - Cecchetti Ballet Australia. 2011 VBP478 Design a ballet class VBP479 Correct gender specific characteristics VBP480 Design arrangements of classical enchantments to incorporate musicality VBP481 Apply knowledge of the traditional Cecchetti Advanced 1 Syllabus to the reaching of classical ballet VBP482 Select appropriate music for a classical ballet class Certificate IV Training and assessment. 2011 TAAENV402B Foster and promote an inclusive learning culture TAADES402B Design and develop learning programs TAADEL401C Plan and organise group-based delivery TAAASS401C Plan and organise assessment TAAASS402C Assess competence TAAASS403B Develop assessment tools TAAASS404B Participate in assessment validation TAADEL402C Facilitate group-based learning Personal development training. 2012 Examination expectation of students Alignment class with Colin Peasley Study of the 7th and 8th Port de Bras Childhood development with Professor Martin Comte Teaching Methodology. (April) Imaging and Musicality Syllabus knowledge Personal Demonstration. (April) Importance of Line and Quality of movement Teaching methodology. (June) Teaching of pirouettes Personal Demonstration. (June) Purity of line Syllabus knowledge of boys work Principles of the Cecchetti Method Personal development training. 2013 Teaching Methodology. (February) Advanced 1 pointe work Examination Procedure Preparation for Auditions Teaching young children Teaching Methodology. (April) Teaching young male students Personal development training. 2014 Teaching methodology The teaching of pointe work Dance Spectrum 2 Basic steps and Theory Cecchetti Conference attendance Adelaide. 2012 Melbourne. 2013 Sydney. 2014 Brisbane. 2015 Perth. 2016 Melbourne. 2018 New Zealand. 2019 Performance Achievements Winner of the Courier Classical Solo. RSSS Ballarat. 1985 Winner of the Pirouette Contemporary Solo. RSSS Ballarat. 1986 Recipient of the Anthony Pratt Scholarship. Victorian College of the Arts. Melbourne 1990 Toured with Vic Arts Dance Company 1990 Certifications Accredited First Aid Certificate HLTAID004 Provide an Emergency First Aid Response in an Education and Care setting CPR, Epipen/Anapen Training Current Working with Children Check

03.01.2022 NTRODUCING THE BCMA INSTRUCTORS FOR 2020 ELLA BEDGGOOD Preschool & Vocal Gym Music & Dance, Musical Theatre, Voice, Song & Dance Summary of performance experi...ence: Last year alone, I was involved either on stage or backstage in 36 productions/performances across Victoria, including understudying 'Belle' in BLOC's 'Beauty and the Beast'. I had the honour of performing in Disneyland in 2018 and in 2017 I had my Ballarat Theatre debut as 'Jemima' in Ballarat Lyric Theatre's 'CATs'! Make sure to come and see 'Mamma Mia' in May this year, where I'm very lucky to have been cast in the ensemble! Summary of teaching experience: This is my ninth year teaching dance and I thoroughly enjoy teaching various styles and age groups. I'm very lucky to be taking on more classes at BCMA this year and can't wait to start working with the students! This is my first year teaching singing but after performing and gaining industry experience for 10 years, I can't wait to share my knowledge with others so we can grow together! What is something that you look stupid doing? My Miranda Sings impression... In 40 years, what will people be nostalgic for? Julie Andrews What are the best things about working at the BCMA? It's my family and my second home! Working somewhere so professional yet so family oriented is an incredibly lucky balance to have. What part of a movie makes you laugh out aloud? Literally any of Olaf's scenes in Frozen 2 If animals could talk, which would be the rudest? Maybe hyenas? I feel like rude comments would accompany the laughter. There's no denying monkeys would be the cheekiest though! What is the most embarrassing thing you have ever worn? Early 2000's ponchos were a LOOK Best advice for your students: Focus on you and try not to compare yourself to others. Everyone is on such an individual journey, just focus on you and what you need to do to improve. Can’t wait. Miss Ella B.