Ballerinas of all sizes show their skills

From pint-sized dancers showing off their "point - hop" to more experienced ballerinas pirouetting across the stage, all types of ballet will be on show this Saturday when the students of the Diann Jeffares Theatre Dance School present "Music, Song, Dance" at St Mary's Diocesan School.

The performance is a chance for parents, family and the wider community to see what the students have been learning, says Diann Jeffares who has choreographed the entire show with feedback from the students themselves.

"As well as the ballet pieces, we have our modern jazz and musical theatre students showcasing their work as well." Diann says the range of pieces being performed on the day all work together to create "an entertaining afternoon".

Having danced herself "since before I was five," Diann's love of dance has been shared with thousands of students though the years as she has taught dance since she was just 14.

"I can't imagine not teaching dance, it has always been such a big part of my life," she says, adding that every student she teaches inspires her in some way.

"From seeing the little ones first master their very first dance, to watching the older ones practice tirelessly perfecting their performances, it really is a wonderful thing to be involved in."

Diann's students have all achieved great success in their exams this year, she adds.

"Which just shows you how hard they all work, those exam results are thanks to their determination and commitment."

For ten-year-old dancer Savannah Clement, performing on stage is always "good fun". Savannah has been dancing for five years and says she enjoys all aspects of it.

"I love wearing the tutus and seeing everyone else perform as well." She isn't nervous about the upcoming production she adds, "because I know the steps, I know I have been practicing so it isn't new or frightening at all".

Diann encourages people to come along to the performance this weekend, "it is always good to have a good-sized audience to clap and encourage the students, some of the younger ones have never been on a stage before so it is all new to them".

Diann says all profits from the show will be donated to St Mary's Diocesan School.

"Music, Song, Dance" presented by the Diann Jeffares Theatre Dance School. Saturday, September 19. St Mary's Diocesan School.

1pm start.

Adults $10, children $5, pay at the door please (cash only).