WALKING into a space of mirrors and bare walls, the only sign of movement is your own reflection and a silent examiner ready to mark your dancing.
For Keysborough’s 12-year-old Natalie de Niese, this was one of the most nerve-racking experiences of her life, but one that would gain her the prestigious Patricia Kelly Perpetual Award.
The Australian Academy of Theatrical and Ballet Dancing (AATBD) presented Natalie with the prize for undertaking the most exams and receiving the highest marks in her age group across Australia.
Natalie was the first and only candidate presented the award within the AATBD.
“I was really surprised that I got the award,” she said.
“(My school) wants me to do a solo at the end-of-year concert because of it.
“It’s got my name on it and it’s really big … but not that big.”
Natalie dedicates three hours to dancing practice at the Car-Dee Dance Studio in Keysborough each Saturday, working on her jazz, tap, contemporary, hip-hop and neoclassical skills. She dreams of becoming a professional dancer.
“I really like jazz and tap,” she said.
She’s received 14 awards since taking up dancing at the age of four, but this latest accolade is the one she’s most proud of.
When accepting the award during a ceremony in Ringwood, Natalie kissed her dance teacher on the cheek, curtseyed to the large crowd then gave her mum a big hug.
Dancing ability runs in the de Niese family.
Sisters Tayla, 14, Chanelle, 19, and Stephanie, 20, also study at Car-Dee, and Stephanie teaches there part-time.
“I’m very proud of my sister to have won this award,” Stephanie said.
“It’s a huge honour.”
Car-Dee’s end-of-year concert will be held on 16 November at the George Jenkins Theatre at Monash University’s Peninsula Campus. Tickets can be purchased through the studio.
– Michelle Braczkowski
