Whanganui Ballet & Dance Academy

The Whanganui Ballet & Dance Academy, located in Whanganui, offers high-quality teaching in a warm and friendly dance environment. The Academy believes in providing up-to-date and informed instruction to ensure the best dance education for its students.

For pre-school children, the Academy offers a curriculum that encourages motor and cognitive development, preparing them for formal dance training after two years of imaginative learning. The Academy utilises syllabi from the two most respected classical training methods in the world, the ISTD (International Society of Teachers of Dancing) and RAD (Royal Academy of Dance).

The ISTD grade syllabus, which has been tried and tested in various countries, provides a solid foundation for young dancers. The training and examination standards of the ISTD are internationally recognised, ensuring that students will be well-prepared for vocational training. The RAD, known as one of the foremost classical training bodies, also offers a rigorous examination process that ensures consistency in marks.

At the Whanganui Ballet & Dance Academy, vocational students have the opportunity to train in both the ISTD and RAD methods. The Academy believes that this dual training approach produces the best results for students. In addition to specialised training, students also have access to body conditioning/pilates classes, private tuition, and open (non-syllabus) classical work.

The Academy also supports diversity in dance training by offering classes in other dance styles such as modern, jazz, and contemporary dance. It believes that exploring different styles is essential in today's competitive dance world.

The Academy is directed by Anna Chandulal, who has a wealth of experience and knowledge in ballet. Anna began her ballet training at a young age and completed all of her classical ballet exams up to the Advanced 2 level. She furthered her training by studying under Julia Barry, a graduate of the Royal Ballet School's teacher training programme. Anna developed a passion for teaching ballet through Julia's guidance and believes in the importance of correct technique and patient correction.

After completing her Master of Arts degree and undergoing part-time study with Julia Barry's teaching programme, Anna decided to focus on teaching. She obtained her RAD teacher's certificate in 1993 and moved to Whanganui, where she began teaching for Mrs. Gwenda Britten in Palmerston North.

The Whanganui Ballet & Dance Academy is dedicated to providing high-quality dance education that prepares students for their future in dance. With its commitment to up-to-date teaching and diverse training opportunities, the Academy aims to inspire and nurture the next generation of dancers.