DANCING
By Andrea Rowe Photos Yanni
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OVID-19 has dealt a devastating blow to dance studios and the performing arts, which also sustain the wellbeing, physical health, entertainment, creativity and social connection of so many. For dancers on the Peninsula, this fulfilment, along with regular dance practice during the pandemic, has been exceptionally challenging to maintain. But dancers are masters at pivoting. And, Peninsula Dance School’s Director, Melanie Gard has led the dance studio to step boldly into the digital space to keep the magic of dance alive. “We’ve danced our way as a community through tough times and we’re standing strong,” says Melanie. Known by her adoring dancers, families and staff as Miss Mel, the determined Dance Director moved classes online last year to sustain the energies and expression of young dancers who are driven to perform. Now, they’re hungry to get back into the studio, and on stage. Under the floodlights, and adorned in costumes, they’ll dance to commemorate an impressive 60-year legacy of Peninsula School of Dance. The Diamond Jubilee celebration will reflect the talent of the former Rosebud Ballet School which was first established in 1961. Fast forward to 2021, and hundreds of young dancers call the studio their special place.
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10 | PENINSULA
December 2021
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