Melissa Riseberry .M.B.B.O (Distinction Level) Director/Principal.

 

Melissa established "Reflections Academy of Dance" in 2003 after emigrating to Australia from the UK.  Melissa's dance background originates from the UK where she trained to dance at "The Jill Clewes Academy of Performing Arts", with the privilege of being taught by experienced and talented UK teachers and professionals, in many different genres of dance.  Melissa thanks, "Miss Jill" for her invaluable teaching and mentoring skills whilst growing up in the dance industry, she is a proud loyal graduated student of the Academy.

 

After moving to Perth, Australia. Melissa's first teaching and performing position was held at "Vogue Entertainment". Working under Leanna and Marina Del Basso.  Marina is now the Artistic Director and Founder of the "Australian Performing Arts Network". Melissa enjoyed and valued her time teaching and performing when moving to Australia for "Vogue Entertainment", including performing at corporate functions and tv telethon appearances.  From a young age though Melissa's passion was to be a dance school Principal. Inspired by her UK teacher's she decided to move on and open her own studio.

 

Melissa first gained teaching qualifications in the UK, after being a member of the British Ballet Organization for years in the UK, then joined the Australian branch, meeting new talented and experienced teacher's and examiner's.  After completing all the UK Tap Syllabus before moving to Australia, Melissa was asked to teach at "BBO's Dance Week" in Sydney and did so for many year's.  Melissa is committed to continuous training in dance, and after many of her students showing interest in becoming teacher's in the future decided to complete a "Diploma in Dance Teaching, Classical Ballet" gaining National Framework Qualifications 500/3691/9 at "Distinction Level".   Melissa is grateful to the BBO for this refreshing and invaluable experience.  Melissa has experience teaching in many different environments, including advanced students, school students, beginners and has held many freelance teaching positions before dedicating her time to Reflections.

 

"Reflections Academy of Dance" is Melissa's dream and passion in life and is thrilled to be passing on not only valuable dance experience but also valuable life lessons to children of this generation, as every child deserves "The Gift of Confidence".