WEBSITE
www.edta.org.au
PRESIDENT
Leonie Stone
HISTORY
EDTA Inc is dedicated to the promotion of dance and theatre arts in the Asia Pacific region. Uniquely Australian in origin, it offers children of all ages through to adults an all-encompassing training system where all theatre arts can be combined and studied.
EDTA was founded in 1974 as an amalgamation of teachers originally in NSW and Queensland, and then in 2003 the association was incorporated and registered as a not-for-profit association to allow further growth and artistic development.
EDTA has new and exciting syllabus in all facets, choreographed by talented and professional people who are committed to continued development.
STYLES/GENRE
Classical Ballet, Modern Contemporary, Lyrical Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Speech and Drama, European (Polish, Hungarian, Russian), Spanish and Highland.
GRADING/MARKING SYSTEM
The training incorporates precision and fine technique with the artistic finish demanded by professionals.
Graded examinations from beginners to major levels, graduations and teaching qualifications are available in all facets.
Students receive a certificate, report and medal for their participation.
Non examination assessments are also offered based on individual studio work where students are provided with a report and medal.
TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS
Teaching qualifications; Members Technique & Diploma are available in all styles; Associate Technique & Diploma provide the student with Assistant Teacher qualifications.
EDTA also welcomes new members & recognises qualifications gained from other dance organisations. The Association provides continuing opportunities for teachers through refresher courses and seminars.
COMPETITIONS/AWARDS
EDTA offers annual competitions in solo, duo, trio and group performances.
Leonie Stone
EDTA President and Senior Examiner
What do you see as the real value of syllabus training and exams for young dancers?
Syllabus training and exams provide young dancers with structure, discipline, and clear goals. They ensure progressive technical and artistic development through a carefully sequenced curriculum which EDTA provides in all facets. Exams motivate students to work consistently and offer valuable feedback from external assessors, helping dancers understand their strengths and areas to improve. The process builds confidence, performance skills, and resilience as students learn to manage pressure and perform with poise; this confidence transcends to all aspects of life. Achieving exam results fosters a sense of accomplishment and recognition, while the habits developed—commitment, focus, and perseverance—extend beyond dance, supporting personal growth and lifelong learning both within and outside the studio.
In your view, what makes your syllabus distinctive compared to others?
The EDTA syllabus is distinctive because it combines all facets of dance, musical theatre as well as drama, encouraging students to develop both technical skill and creative expression. It focuses not only on movement and technique but also on performance, storytelling, and stagecraft. Each facet is carefully created and balanced so that students can develop and progress with understanding and ability and progress through to graduation with formal qualifications.Through choreography, improvisation, characterisation and expressive movement, students learn to communicate ideas and emotions effectively. The syllabus values inclusivity and creativity, allowing each performer to grow in confidence while developing strong artistic, theatrical, and expressive abilities. EDTA values and supports each of its members within a familiar and supportive environment.