Dance is for Every Body: EV Dance Studios Shine at Sydney Eisteddfod
EV Dance Studios delivered a standout performance in the Open Classical Group Dance section at Sydney Eisteddfod last weekend. The work was sensitively choreographed, and the joy of the dancers was evident from the moment they stepped on stage. Their performance was polished yet expressive, showcasing not only musicality and technique, but a genuine love of dance.
Adjudicator Lana Jones, former principal artist with The Australian Ballet, acknowledged the group before announcing the results. She made mention of the love of dance, hard work and passion on display
Based in Newcastle, EV Dance Studios is a space designed specifically for adult ballet dancers. Led by Alice McKechnie, an experienced RAD-trained teacher and adjudicator, the studio welcomes dancers of all levels. Whether returning to ballet after time away or starting fresh, students are encouraged to progress at their own pace in a supportive environment.
“At EV Dance Studios, our ethos is that ballet is for every body,” says McKechnie. “We celebrate the unique journey of every adult dancer, whether you're rediscovering ballet or trying something completely new.”
Beyond the performance opportunities, adult ballet offers wide-ranging physical and mental health benefits. Improved posture, flexibility and balance are common outcomes, while the structured nature of ballet classes supports coordination, memory and focus. Just as important are the social and emotional rewards: a welcoming community, a chance to challenge oneself, and a space to reconnect with joy through movement.
With beginner, intermediate, advanced and open-level classes, EV Dance Studios provides something for everyone, including a dedicated performance group for those wanting to take the stage. It was this group that brought their work to Sydney Eisteddfod, showing that adult dancers can hold their own on any platform.
Congratulations to the dancers and faculty of EV Dance Studios on a beautifully realised performance. We look forward to seeing where their journey takes them next.