About us ...
Alison Patterson (IDTA Licentiate Ballet, Associate Freestyle, Licentiate Modern. Registered IDTA and NZAMD dance teacher)
Alison has always had a deep love of dance. She began lessons at the age of 9, learning ballet, jazz, and tap and competed at local competitions. She has performed in many local theatre productions as both a dancer and a choreographer and has over 30 years teaching experience.
As well as passing on her love to dance to those attending her dance studio - Alison has also trained students who are now professionals. Foremost is Reece Riddick who is the only 'kiwi' to perform at Moulin Rouge, Paris (3 solos) and also Elly Bisson - a star performer at The Dust Palace, Auckland.
‘Alison’s Studio of Dance’ was established in New Plymouth in 1992. Alison has successfully passed her IDTA (International Dance Teachers’ Association) teaching exams in ballet, freestyle and modern, as well as her NZAMD (New Zealand Association of Modern Dance) in jazz. Her latest professional achievement is an appointment as an IDTA New Zealand examiner.
Alison believes that, ‘dance is for everyone, from little ones to adults – so let’s get dancing!’
Selene Patterson
Selene started dancing at at the age of 3. She has trained in ballet, jazz and tap - gaining Advanced 2 Ballet and Advanced 2 Jazz. She has assisted with classes at the studio since the age of 12 and performed in dancing competitions from age 5. Selene has recently returned from university where she gained her Bachelor of Arts Classical Studies with First Class Honours. She was also awarded Victoria's University's highest honour - Medal for Academic Excellence. Selene's latest achievement is gaining her Bachelor of Education degree and is now qualified to teach Dance at NCEA level. Selene tutors our tap class and Advanced 2 Jazz - as well as private coaching for competition solos.
Enya Perry
“I have been dancing since the age of 5 with Alison’s Studio of Dance. Throughout these years I have put all my love and energy into ballet and contemporary. In 2019 I began further expanding my dance knowledge and experience at The University of Auckland through studying a Bachelor of Dance Studies. The Bachelor of Dance studies has provided me with vast knowledge around many topics including; choreography, safe dance practice, dance education, contemporary dance, dance history, and base knowledge of many, many other dance styles. My dance teaching style stems from a theoretical standpoint of mental health.”
Enya is excited to be tutoring senior hip hop classes this year as well as continuing studying for her Bachelor of Dance Studies.
Student Trainee Teachers
Several of our wonderful Trainee Student Teachers assist with or tutor some of our younger classes - passing on their love of dance as well as being inspiring role models for our students.
All of the teachers at Alison’s Studio of Dance have a passion for dance and love to pass on that passion. We focus on teaching good technique and the joy of dance, building self-esteem and confidence along with hard work, co-operation, patience and focus in a creative and rewarding environment.
Facilities
We have two beautiful studios equipped with full-length mirrors and barres, as well as an excellent waiting room and changing area for the students.