The Dance Domain is New Zealand's oldest and largest ballet school exclusively for adult dancers, located in Auckland. With a mission to inspire people from all backgrounds to fall in love with ballet, the school aims to challenge individuals, have fun, and help them achieve their fitness goals through dance.
The founder and head instructor, Ione Barczak, brings a wealth of experience to the school. Since 1979, Ione has taught movers of all kinds, ranging from aspiring dancers to amateurs. She has taught and choreographed at various prestigious locations, including City Dance, North Harbour Gym, Diocesan School, and Northcote College. Ione studied Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, and Tap at renowned institutions such as STAGIUM, UNIC, Joffrey Ballet School, Broadway Dance Centre, and Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance.
Ione emphasises modern versions of the Vaganova Technique, utilising the methods of masters Finis Jhung and David Howard from New York City Ballet and American Ballet Theatre. Known for her enthusiasm and patience, Ione encourages dancers of all levels to enjoy the movement while preserving the essential qualities that make Ballet amazing.
Emily Chang, another experienced instructor at The Dance Domain, discovered her passion for ballet as an adult beginner after a 25-year hiatus from dance. Emily specifically enjoys teaching adults who are either new to ballet or rediscovering it after an extended break. She provides fundamental ballet basics and builds on them step by step, understanding the unique needs of adult learners. Emily's lessons aim to help her students reach their full ballet potential while having fun.
Julie Sandilands, a life-long dancer who has performed around the world, believes that ballet isn't just for children and teens; the best type of ballet is adult ballet. She finds great pleasure in teaching and sharing her love of ballet with others. Julie started The Dance Domain to address the difficulty adults face in finding high-quality ballet classes. As an exclusive adult ballet school, The Dance Domain offers expert teachers and classes for all levels throughout the week, providing a place where adult dancers can pursue their ballet passion.
The Dance Domain offers a range of classes and membership options to cater to different needs. Whether individuals prefer unlimited classes per week, two classes per week, or one class per week, there is a membership option to suit everyone. Additionally, there are packages available for specific numbers of classes, including 10-class sets and private classes. The school aims to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for adults to explore their love for ballet.
For those interested in starting their ballet journey or continuing their dance practise, The Dance Domain invites them to enrol in classes today. By joining the school, individuals can experience the joy of ballet while improving their physical fitness and overall well-being.