Celebrating 30 years of excellence, Newcastle Dance Academy (NDA) is one of the region’s leading training institutions for classical and contemporary dance.

Founded in Newcastle, by Tracy Caldwell-Ostermann and Roxanne McCourtie-Tagaroulias, NDA has built a reputation for delivering elite-level training in a supportive and inspiring environment. With a strong focus on classical ballet as its foundation, the Academy provides students with the technical skill, performance experience, and artistic development required to pursue professional careers in the performing arts.

Over three decades, NDA has proudly developed 40 alumni who have progressed into professional dance careers across the globe. Graduates have joined internationally recognised ballet companies, the famous Moulin Rouge, performed on cruise lines, appeared in major productions, and studied at prestigious full-time institutions in Australia and overseas.

Beyond professional pathways, NDA is equally proud of its broader impact- fostering confident, disciplined, and creative individuals who succeed across a wide range of industries.

With a passionate team of industry professionals and a commitment to nurturing every student’s potential, Newcastle Dance Academy continues to be a place where talent is discovered, excellence is cultivated, and lifelong love of dance is inspired.

In this milestone 30th year, Newcastle Dance Academy is proud to present two original works at the Newcastle Music Festival, held at the iconic Newcastle Conservatorium of Music. Choreographed by Jessica Miller, Points on Jazz and Carnival of the Animals highlight the breadth of our training – where classical foundations meet creativity, and technique evolves into artistry. These performances celebrate not only the talent of our students, but the legacy of a studio dedicated to inspiring generations through dance.

“Celebrating 30 years of inspiring, nurturing, and achieving through dance.”

AT THE FESTIVAL