Hannah has been part of the studio for 11 years, working for Gillian Moore for 10 years, upon her retirement she took over the reins as director in 2023. Originally from the UK, Hannah trained professionally in all genres of dance at Phil Winston’s Theatreworks. She went on to work as Dance Captain on board P&O Cruise ships for many years managing the Headliners Theatre Company. Hannah has featured in adverts, including the Playstation 3 sing star advert as well touring shows around the UK as a dancer and singer. Hannah has an associate degree in Modern dance and a diploma in Anatomy with the International Dance Teachers Association (IDTA), Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies with the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) along with teaching certificates for Acrobatic Arts and Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT). Hannah has a huge passion for dance and the performing arts and loves sharing her knowledge with her students.

Kaitlyn has been involved in the Arts since the age of 3. She has 15 years of classical RAD dance training and is fully qualified in NZAMD Modern Jazz and American Tap, training at Gillian Moore School of Dance. Kaitlyn has competed all over the country notably at PACANZ and NZAMD Scholarships with her Tap dancing. Kaitlyn then went on to study Stage and Screen Arts full time in Wellington (Te Auaha) gaining her a Diploma in Stage and Screen Arts and a Degree in Applied Arts (Performing Arts.) During her studies Kaitlyn performed in multiple shows at Wellington's BATS theatre, Te Auaha’s House theatres, Whitireia Performance Centre, WOW and TVNZ’s ‘Mistress Mercy’. After study Kaitlyn went on to directing full school musical productions with Gobsmacked, along with choreographing local Musicals in Tauranga. Kaitlyn is now a Registered NZAMD Teacher and certified Acrobatic Arts instructor.

Meet Our Ballet Teacher – Amanda

‍Our ballet classes are led by Amanda, a highly qualified and passionate RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) registered teacher who began her dance training at the age of four, training under the guidance of former owner Gillian Moore and current owner Hannah Robson. With a strong foundation in classical ballet, she also teaches jazz and contemporary, giving students a well-rounded and versatile dance education. Amanda places a strong emphasis on musicality, artistry, and expressive performance, alongside correct technique, strength, and alignment. Through a supportive and inspiring approach, she encourages dancers to connect movement with music, develop their individual artistry, and build confidence both in the studio and on stage.

She is also currently undertaking training in Mat and Reformer Pilates with Barre Body, further developing her knowledge of movement, strength, alignment, and body awareness to compliment her dance teaching.

Dee is a passionate dance teacher, choreographer, and gymnastics coach. Her journey began at the age of five in South Africa, where she trained across a wide range of dance styles. A dedicated competitor from a young age, Dee proudly represented South Africa at the IDO Dance World Championships in Europe, competing in Jazz, Modern, and Show Dance.
Alongside her dance career, Dee competed at a high level in Artistic Gymnastics, representing South Africa. Her dual background in both disciplines has shaped her unique approach to movement, performance, and coaching.Growing up on stage, Dee developed a love for musical theatre, going on to choreograph eleven local musicals. A career highlight includes writing, choreographing, and directing three original musical productions. For the past eight years, Dee has been actively training and choreographing solos, duos, and troupes, earning numerous choreography awards and winning titles nationally and internationally, including PACANZ  nominations.

Over the past two years, Dee has worked as the Lead Recreation and Junior Gymnastics Coach at Counties Manukau Gymnastics, while also managing Pulman Dance.

Dee is so excited to be apart of The Academy and work with such talented dancers!

‍