top of page

Our Teachers

Mum+head+and+shoulder_edited.jpg

Leigh Elliot A(Dip)CSA-CICB (Cert IV)

Principal of Dare 2 Dance

​

Miss Leigh began her dance training at the age of five in Durban, South Africa under the guidance of Kerry Barends. 



Miss Leigh completed all of her Cecchetti method ballet examinations before pursuing a professional career in dancing spanning over seven years. 

​

After completion of her teachers exams in Cecchetti ballet as well as Imperial modern, Miss Leigh opened her own dance studio in South Africa known as 'Leigh Tomich School of Dance'. She ran this highly successful studio for over 13 years before immigrating to Australia with her young family in 1996. 



Dare 2 Dance was first opened by MIss Leigh in 1997, commencing with just 20 students. Today, Dare 2 Dance continues to grow from strength strength and has over 260 students pursuing their love for dance and following in the footsteps of previous students who have forged successful international dancing careers. 

Headshot - Sarah.jpg

Sarah Chislett A(Dip)CSA-CICB (Cert IV) & Bachelor of Education

​

Miss Sarah began teaching 2013 at Dare 2 Dance after completing her Cecchetti Ballet Associate Diploma & her Bachelor of Education. Having been a part of the Dare 2 Dance community since the early years, Miss Sarah had the privilege of learning from the exceptional Leigh Elliot, whose mentorship has greatly influenced their teaching philosophy.In addition to teaching,

 

Miss Sarah has ventured into the world of choreography and artistic direction, receiving nominations for Best Choreography in Saint Stephen College's Musical Productions, including Grease, Seussical Jnr, and Mamma Mia. 

 

IMG_1526.jpg

Natalie Keevers Cert IV in Dance & Fitness / Professional Dancer

​

Natalie Keevers is a dynamic and versatile teacher, aerialist, dancer, and entertainer with over 15 years of professional experience in the performing arts industry. Her career has taken her around the globe, performing in a variety of prestigious venues and productions. Natalie is passionate about sharing her extensive knowledge and inspiring the next generation of performers through her teaching.

Career Highlights:

  • International and Local Performances: Natalie has worked with renowned production companies, showcasing her skills across multiple continents.

    • Sunway Lagoon, Malaysia: Performed with Angelis Productions in a series of world-class entertainment events.

    • Ocean Park, Hong Kong: Captivated audiences as part of a dynamic cast of performers.

    • Jupiters Casino, Gold Coast: Featured in spectacular productions that highlighted her versatility as a dancer and aerialist.

    • Aerial Angels, China: Delivered awe-inspiring aerial performances for captivated audiences.

  • Cruise Line Entertainment: Natalie was a production cast dancer for Norwegian Cruise Lines, where she performed high-energy, theatrical shows while traveling the seas.

  • The Pink Flamingo Spiegelclub, Broadbeach: Performed as a lead dancer and aerialist since 2020, contributing to the club’s vibrant, show-stopping productions.

  • Dance Captain and Choreographer, The Pink Flamingo, Brisbane: Currently performing and choreographing as Dance Captain, where she leads and inspires the next level of breathtaking performances.

 

With a career spanning diverse genres and styles, Natalie brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her students. Her dedication to the performing arts and her ability to inspire passion and growth make her a valued mentor and educator. Whether on stage or in the studio, Natalie’s enthusiasm and experience leave a lasting impression.

​

Screenshot 2024-12-01 at 5.05_edited.jpg

Matt Geronimi Cert IV in Dance / Professional Dancer

​

Matt Geronimi began his dance journey at the age of 8, quickly rising to become Australian Junior Champion for Ballroom and Latin and a World Representative for Junior World Latin. Trained in various styles, including jazz, tap, hip hop, contemporary, and ballet, Matt has built an extraordinary career with countless achievements.

Career Highlights:

  • Early Achievements: Australian Junior Champion and World Representative by 16.

  • Prestigious Performances:

    • Danced in the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games Opening and Closing Ceremonies.

    • Top 10 finalist on So You Think You Can Dance.

    • Principal dancer for Happy Feet 1 & 2 and The X Factor (2010).

    • Featured dancer in Lady Gaga’s Sydney Monster Ball.

    • Performer and assistant in The Illusionists, touring globally.

  • Collaborations: Worked with choreographers Jason Coleman, Jason Gilkinson, and Wade Robson.

  • Stage Roles: Dance Captain and Assistant Choreographer for Bonnie Lythgoe’s Cinderella and The Adventures of Peter Pan and Tinkerbell.

With extensive experience and a passion for teaching, Matt is an invaluable part of our team, inspiring dancers to reach their full potential.

IMG_1525.jpg

Nickolas Mills Fulltime Training 

​

Nickolas Mills brings a wealth of experience to the Dare 2 Dance family. With over 13 years of dance expertise, Nick has cultivated a dynamic career, blending professional performance with teaching. Recently completing a dance contract with Norwegian Cruise Lines, Nick now shares his passion and knowledge with our young dancers, inspiring them to reach new heights.

Currently, Nick is choreographing and performing at Dreamworld Australia, showcasing his skills across various styles and productions. His ongoing work includes dancing, suit character performances for DreamWorks, and scare acting for Sudden Impact Productions, demonstrating his versatility and dedication to the craft.

Career Highlights:

  • Norwegian Cruise Lines: Production Cast Dancer (2018)

  • Dreamworld Australia:

    • Dancer (Jazz, Commercial Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap) (2016–present)

    • Suit Character Performer (DreamWorks) (2016–present)

    • Scare Actor (Sudden Impact Productions) (2016–present)

  • Dance Teacher:

    • A.B. Patterson College (2017–2018)

    • Showbiz Express Circus and Dance (2016–2017)

  • Full-Time Dance Training: Ikin Dance Australia (2017)

  • E.B. Games 20th Anniversary Gala Dinner: Dancer (2017)

  • Red Boot Hoot (Ronald McDonald Foundation): Performer (2014–2016)

Nick’s vibrant energy, professional experience, and passion for performance make him an invaluable part of our teaching faculty. We are thrilled to have him inspire and guide the next generation of dancers at Dare 2 Dance.

4E0DD33D-E77F-4BA6-A5BD-0D8FD45D0DB8_1_201_a.jpeg

Cara Vey Professional Dancer / Cert IV Dance Teaching & Management

Cara’s dance journey began in 2008 when she joined Dare 2 Dance as a 5-year-old Prep student. She continued her training through D2D until graduating Year 12 at Saint Stephen’s College, mastering a variety of styles, including Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Tap, Hip-Hop, Cheer, Aerobics, Lyrical, and competitive performance troupes. After graduation, Cara remained a cherished part of the D2D family, sharing her passion and talent as a teacher, inspiring the next generation of dancers.

Her Achievements Include:

  • Cert III Fitness

  • Cecchetti Ballet Exams: Grade 6 and Intermediate, both with Honours

  • ATOD Contemporary Exams: Levels 5 and 6, both with Honours with Distinction

  • Queensland Ballet Summer School Program (2018)

  • Disneyland Performances and Workshops: 2016 and 2018

  • Promotional Work: Sanctuary Cove Boat Show, Torrens Luxury Collection (2021)

  • AFL Grand Final Dancer (2020)

  • The Pink Flamingo Performance Charity Event: Contemporary solo

  • Podium Dancer: The YOT Club, The MET, Lunar Electric, Arcade Nightclub

  • Backup Dancer for The Jungle Giants

Professional Career Highlights:

  • Palazzo Mannheim, Germany: Cara’s first overseas professional contract saw her performing in Germany, a milestone in her career.

  • Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines: Currently living her dream, Cara is performing and traveling the world, blending her love of dance and adventure.

We are so proud of Cara’s achievements and can’t wait to welcome her back to the studio. She will return to share her worldly knowledge and experiences, inspiring our students with her incredible journey and dedication to the art of dance.

thumbnail_Caitlin Headshot 3.jpg

Caitlin Miller Part-time Training, Cert III, Bachelor of Business

​

Miss Caitlin’s dance journey began at just three years old at a small studio on the Gold Coast, where she trained in all styles and completed her RAD Ballet Exams from Primary to Advanced 2. With over 15 years of dance experience, she combines her technical expertise and passion for teaching to inspire and guide the next generation of dancers.

Education Highlights:

  • Dance Force (2016–2017): Part-time training and completion of Certificate III in Assistant Dance Teaching.

  • Academy Dance Studios (2015–2018): Advanced technical training and solo competition experience.

  • Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business alongside her teaching career..

Performance Highlights:

  • Brisbane City Christmas Parade (2019): Performed in public events with leadership and adaptability.

  • Broadbeach Christmas Carols and local Basketball Games: Showcased versatility in various community performances.

Qualifications & Achievements:

  • Certificate III in Assistant Dance Teaching

  • Distinction in RAD Ballet Exams (Primary–Advanced 2)

  • Junior Advanced Tapatak Oz: 98%

  • 2nd Runner-Up at Brisbane Performing Arts Challenge (2017 & 2018)

 

Miss Caitlin’s rich background in performance and education, paired with her commitment to fostering a love for dance, makes her an invaluable part of the Dare 2 Dance faculty. We are thrilled to have her inspiring our students!

bottom of page