Trained at: National College of Dance
Presently: Codarts Rotterdam
What is your best memory of your full-time dance studies?
One of my best memories at NCD was having the privilege to dance at incredible community events and take part in so many performance opportunities. We performed at charity events, balls, and galas in Sydney and Newcastle, including Porsche’s 75th anniversary, the Sydney Chocolate Ball, Superstars the musical, showcases, end-of-year concerts, and even at the Opera House — just to name a few. The level of professionalism required to prepare for and perform at these events gave me invaluable insight into what it’s like in the professional dance world and helped prepare me for the next chapter. At NCD, I felt I was treated and worked like a professional, while still receiving the support and guidance I needed from my teachers as a student.
How has your understanding of dance as an art form evolved during your full-time studies? Were there any particular moments or experiences that shifted your perspective?
Working on solos choreographed by Debbie Lineart and Timothy Gordon, with artistic direction from Brett Morgan, deeply shaped my understanding of storytelling and musicality. Throughout the choreographic and solo coaching process, each of my teachers gave me artistic freedom and the chance to discover my own movement qualities. At the same time, they guided me and challenged me to explore the boundaries of expression and creativity, and how to engage an audience through my body and emotion. This was a transformative part of my training that helped me find my own unique artistry and way of moving — something I’m still continuing to explore today.
Follow:
Dancers Instagram @mia_leishman
Dance School Instagram @nationalcollegeofdance
Photographer Instagram @everlineimagery