WEBSITE
www.comdance.org
DIRECTORS
President: Diane Gepp B.Ed
HISTORY
COMDANCE (Home of CSTD) was founded in 1933.
The COMDANCE global community is made up of teachers and studios around the world who work as a global family. We operate in 16 countries which includes a very strong, dynamic and enthusiastic member base throughout Southeast Asia.
At Comdance we provide strong technique and expression along with experiencing enjoyment in an encouraging and empowering environment.
STYLES COVERED
Classical Ballet, Modern Jazz, Theatrical and Performing Arts, Tap, Contemporary, Ballroom and Latin, Hip hop, Pre School program: Come Dance with Me.
GRADING SYSTEM
Early childhood to professional level in all disciplines, including teaching diplomas.
MARKING AND ASSESSMENT
Exams are held in all subjects. Students receive written reports and certificates, medals, or trophies. There are five levels of credit, from pass to honours plus. Both classroom and public exams are available.
TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS
Teachers who have a teachers’ diploma from the Society use the letters CSTD together with the distinguishing letters for the genre.
COMPETITIONS AND AWARDS
Born to Perform competitions are held by the Society in Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Hong Kong. The Melbourne competition will be held for the 84th consecutive year in 2026. The event is open to all dance students, and each culminates in genre specific championships. Scholarships and cash prizes are offered in all the States.
Deanne Smith
Examiner, Executive Committee Member
What do you see as the real value of syllabus training and exams for young dancers?
Syllabus training and examinations, such as those offered by Comdance, provide young dancers with a structured pathway for growth and achievement. The repetition and progression embedded in syllabus work allow students to track their improvement over time while honing essential performance qualities—musicality, technical precision, and expressive artistry. Beyond the studio, the discipline and preparation required for examinations foster resilience and self-confidence. These experiences translate into valuable life skills, equipping students with the poise and self-assurance needed for future challenges, including job interviews and professional environments.
How is your syllabus preparing dancers for the future of the artform and the profession?
The Comdance syllabus is designed to equip dancers with the versatility, discipline, and artistry required for a sustainable future in the dance industry. Its progressive structure fosters technical excellence, musicality, and performance maturity, while its diverse and contemporary content ensures dancers remain relevant in an evolving artform. Many of our students have gone on to perform professionally across the globe, a testament to the syllabus’s ability to nurture industry-ready talent. Others have pursued teaching, earning recognised Comdance qualifications that allow them to inspire the next generation. Whether on stage or in the studio, our syllabus lays a strong foundation for lifelong engagement with the profession.