NAPA News - Week 5, Term 2, 2025
FROM THE DIRECTOR
It’s FOOTLOOSE tech and production week! If you see me looking a little frazzled around the studio, send me strength as I head into a super busy week of tech rehearsals and our first weekend of performances. I hope everyone has booked their tickets, because once word of mouth spreads about this talented cast and amazing production, tickets will fly out the door!
QUICK REMINDERS
ABSENTEEISM - DON’T FORGET TO USE YOUR PARENT PORTAL TO LOG ANY ABSENTEEISM, NOT EMAIL
WINTER UNIFORMS NOW CLOSED OFF FOR FIRST ROUND ORDERS
T-SHIRTS HAVE ARRIVED - SEE KIMBERLEY AT RECEPTION
NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
MILLION DREAMS CHARITY GALA
Some of our NAPA Performance Teams will be performing at the Million Dreams Charity Gala in September and we had our first rehearsal last weekend. It was a very different environment for our cherubs, as they watched the models learn how to work the runway and saw a completely different side of the entertainment industry.
For performing arts students, gaining real-world experience through events and gigs like this is crucial because it prepares them for the practical demands of a professional career. These opportunities offer a chance to connect with diverse audiences, adapt to unpredictable settings, and collaborate with professionals across various disciplines. These experiences build confidence, resilience, and versatility—qualities that are essential in the dynamic world of the arts. Performing in authentic environments also helps students understand the business side of the industry, including networking, self-promotion, and time management, giving them a more comprehensive and realistic foundation for success beyond the classroom.
Good luck to all the cherubs involved, as they continue to prepare for this event. All proceeds will go to Destiny Rescue, an amazing charity.
EYES TO THE FLOOR - SENIOR TREAD THE BOARDS
Our Senior Tread the Boards class production is fast approaching! The students have embraced the verbatim style, the themes and content with sensitivity and confidence. It has been wonderful to watch the young actors truly maturing through this.
With only 5 rehearsals remaining attendance is really important as this is such an ensemble driven piece and we are now at the stage of running the show.
NB Eyes to the Floor does come with a trigger warning due to its exploration of themes of institutional abuse and is not recommended for audiences under 15.
Tickets will go on sale soon, so keep an eye out for this in upcoming newsletters
NAPA DANCE CONCERT 2025
We are still finalising ideas for our 2025 Dance Concert theme. We will begin preparations for this in term 3, so if you have any fun ideas, please share them with Miss Kim! In past years we have done concerts themed around classic stories such as - Alice in Wonderland, Frozen, The Labyrinth, Narnia, Peter Pan, Inside Out and Matilda. What do you think we should do this year???
WEllbeing
Stay Injury-Free in the Cooler Months
As the temperature drops, your body needs a little extra care — especially if you're dancing, singing, or training regularly. Cooler weather can increase muscle tightness and joint stiffness, which raises the risk of strain or injury.
Warm Up with Purpose
In cold weather, your warm-up matters more than ever. Don’t rush it!
Arrive early and start moving gradually — think dynamic stretching, joint mobilisation, and gentle cardio to raise your core temperature.
Use layers: Keep your muscles warm with long sleeves, leggings, and warm-up gear, especially before and after class.
Don’t skip your cool down — this helps reduce muscle tightness and aids recovery.
Injury Rates Are on the Rise
A local dance physiotherapist recently posted about a sharp increase in performance-related injuries at the moment, a trend we’ve also noticed, particularly among young dancers pushing through pain or skipping recovery. With busy schedules, cool weather, and intense rehearsals, performers are more vulnerable than usual.
Take this as a reminder to slow down, listen to your body, and never ignore the signs of strain or fatigue. Pushing through pain can lead to longer setbacks later.
When Injury Happens: Be Proactive, Not Passive
Injuries are frustrating, but how you handle them makes all the difference in your recovery and long-term career.
Sitting Out Isn’t a Solution
Taking yourself out of class without follow-up might reduce immediate pain, but it won’t fix the root of the problem. Without proper rehab, injuries often come back worse — or become chronic.
Get Professional Guidance
Speak to a physiotherapist, sports doctor, or dance medicine specialist as soon as possible.
Follow a structured rehab plan — one that may include rest and active recovery exercises.
Keep communication open with your teachers or coaches. They can help modify movements and keep you engaged safely.
Take Care Between Classes (and During Holidays)
Your body doesn’t turn off when class ends — and it still needs your care during breaks.
Avoid staying sedentary for long periods. Gentle stretching, walking, or cross-training (like Pilates or yoga) can keep your body mobile and strong between classes or over holidays.
Stay mindful of what you’re eating and drinking — fuel your body with nourishing foods, hydration, and adequate sleep. Your energy and recovery depend on it.
Don’t fall into a “pause and restart” rhythm with your body. Consistency in movement and care is what prevents injuries and keeps you performance-ready.
Your body is your instrument — treat it with the same care you give your craft.
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
ALANA ANDREWS
DANCE SPECIALIST AND MINI COORDINATOR
CLASSES — MINI TECH, MINI TAP, MINI BALLET, JUNIOR BALLET CLASSES, COLLEGE FITNESS AND BALLET, PRIVATE DANCE TUITION
Alana Andrews’ journey through the performing arts is nothing short of extraordinary. Her roots lie in classical ballet, with a Degree in Dance from QUT, certification as a COMDANCE instructor, and the ability to teach the prestigious RAD syllabus. But her career quickly blossomed far beyond the barre.
Alana’s early years were shaped by two of the country’s most respected mentors — Harold Collins of Queensland Ballet and contemporary visionary Leigh Warren. Under their guidance, Alana carved out a vibrant performance career, taking to stages across Australia in musical theatre, before becoming a crowd favourite at Movie World on the Gold Coast, where she performed for over a decade.
Her love of teaching thrived alongside her performance work. Alana taught tap at the Conservatory in Brisbane, led the full-time course at DLDC, and offered private ballet technique classes to dancers of all levels. But her journey didn’t stop at the studio door.
When the opportunity arose to travel to Namibia as the personal trainer to Mad Max 4 producer Doug Mitchell, Alana leapt at the challenge. There, she taught ballet to German-speaking students and uncovered a hidden passion for powerlifting — a passion that saw her smash five Australian records and even claim a world record in her weight class!
Back home, Alana's adventurous spirit found new form in the unlikeliest of places — as Queensland’s only female show shearer, performing live at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary! Whether it’s sheep shearing or stage sharing, Alana brings charisma, commitment, and a fearless energy to everything she does.
When she’s not in the studio, you’ll find her out in the community, working with local schools or emceeing events for Gold Coast City Council that promote road safety and pet care. Alana’s dedication to education and community engagement makes her an inspiring force for young performers — empowering the next generation with discipline, strength, and heart.
We’re proud to have Alana as part of our team, where she continues to uplift, energise, and ignite passion in every dancer she teaches.
PERFORMANCE TIPS
Be a Lifelong Learner
In the world of musical theatre, dance, and singing, the journey never really ends — and that's one of the most exciting parts of this career.
Even the most successful performers in Broadway, film, or concert stages continue to train, grow, and refine their craft. Why? Because staying curious and open to learning keeps your performances fresh, your skills sharp, and your passion alive.
Here’s how you can embrace the mindset of lifelong learning:
Stay Curious, Stay Inspired
Every time you step into a class, rehearsal, or audition, approach it with the mindset: What can I learn here?
Watch interviews, masterclasses, and performances by people you admire.
Read scripts, playbills, biographies, and books about theatre history and vocal health.
Explore beyond what you already know — try watching ballets, operas, or international musicals to broaden your perspective.
Success comes from curiosity, not just talent.
Train Beyond Your Strengths
It’s easy to stay in your comfort zone, but the best performers are the most versatile ones.
If you’re a strong dancer, invest time in acting and voice training.
If singing is your strength, take movement and dance classes.
If acting comes naturally, work on your vocal and physical expression.
Growth happens when you challenge yourself — don’t be afraid to be a beginner in something new.
Study Other Performers
Great artists are great observers. Watch theatre and film not just for enjoyment, but as a student of the craft.
Study body language, facial expression, timing, vocal tone, and physicality.
Ask: Why does this moment work? What choices is the actor making?
Watch performers of different styles and backgrounds to understand how broad the art form truly is.
Inspiration is everywhere — if you’re paying attention.
Keep a Creative Journal
Track your journey. Reflect on rehearsals, auditions, feedback, and your personal breakthroughs.
Write down goals, insights, and things you want to improve.
Use it as a space to sketch characters, brainstorm scenes, or collect inspiring quotes.
This helps you stay connected to your progress — and reminds you how far you’ve come.
Ask Questions and Seek Feedback
The performers who grow the fastest are the ones who are open to learning from others.
Don’t be afraid to ask your teachers or directors for advice.
Welcome constructive criticism — it’s not a personal attack, it’s a professional gift.
Be humble. Confidence is important, but teachability is essential.
Feedback is fuel. Let it push you forward.
Embrace the Long Game
Your journey as a performer isn’t a race — it’s a lifelong process of discovery.
Celebrate small wins: a clearer belt, a new role, a callback, a personal breakthrough.
Understand that “failure” is just part of the process. Every setback is a setup for growth.
Keep learning, even when you’re working professionally. Your artistry never stops evolving.
Your journey as a performer isn’t a race — it’s a lifelong process of discovery.
There’s no single path to success in the arts, and that’s what makes it so beautiful. Some careers begin onstage and end in the director’s chair. Others start with chorus roles and grow into starring leads. Some take detours into teaching, choreography, writing, or even international touring.
The pure diversity of paths your journey may take is vast — and every step, whether it’s a lead role or an ensemble moment, contributes to the artist you are becoming.
There is no “right” timeline. There is only growth, persistence, and passion.
