Our History

Darwin School of Ballet was originally opened Lily Vita in July 1974.  With our first ballet concert being held in November 1974 at Nightcliff High School (now Nightcliff Middle School).  

From the very beginning Darwin School of Ballet embraced a philosophy of encouraging a love of dance for anyone and everyone!  After Cyclone Tracy Christmas 1974, Lily remembers, “Darwin was destroyed  -  there was no music  -  nothing worked  -  but everyone tried very hard to re-build ballet.  Everyone came to help and with hard work ballet grew from strength to strength through a strong community spirit.” 

From 1975 to 1996 with the beauty of continuation and hard work Lily put hundreds of dancers for their annual Cecchetti ballet examinations.  The school grew in strength and reputation upon Lily’s passion, dedication and hard work.

From 1994 to 1996 Lisa Heath taught and presented dancers for examinations under the tutelage of Lily. 

In 1998, after consultation with Lily, and a promise I would ‘put children for examinations … you must put them for exams … it is the only way to get the standard’.  Lisa continued the traditions and philosophy of Darwin School of Ballet of encouraging a love and enjoyment of dance, with a strong focus on artistry, musicality and technique. 

Darwin School of Ballet continues to value the importance of supporting guest teachers and the employment of local teachers to conduct classes ie. Alfiya Pocock (Ukrainian), Marita Smith (Flamenco) and Cathy Young (contemporary).  We also encourage and assist dancers to develop choreographic skills through Darwin School of Ballet performances.

For more information please visit Facebook https://www.facebook.com/darwinschoolballet/ or website https://www.darwinschoolofballet.com.au/