National College of Dance Celebrates 50 Years of Excellence with a STARSTUDDED Reunion Gala.

Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 7:00 PM | Civic Theatre Newcastle

Tickets available via the Civic Theatre Ticket Office or Civic Theatre website.

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The National College of Dance proudly presents its 50th Anniversary Reunion Gala, a celebration of five decades of artistic excellence, community impact, and professional success. This extraordinary evening honours the legacy of the Marie Walton Mahon Dance Academy and the National College of Dance, bringing together former dancers, families and supporters who have shaped the studio’s rich history.

Hosted by Chloe Bayliss, a beloved alumna and star of Doctor Doctor, the evening will feature an extraordinary line-up of performances from both current and former dancers who have graced stages around the globe.

Highlight Performances:

• Sharni Spencer, Principal Artist with The Australian Ballet, will perform the enchanting Sir Peter Wright’s Pas de Deux from The Nutcracker, alongside Jarryd Madden, Senior Artist with The Australian Ballet.

• Stephanie Petersen, a former American Ballet Theatre Artist and alumna, will perform Christopher Wheeldon's breathtaking After the Rain Pas De Deux with Jarryd Madden.

• Zeak Tass, a Moulin Rouge alumnus, will bring his signature flair to the stage.

• Grace Humphris will present a stunning rendition of The Dying Swan.

• Composer Cyrus Meurant’s original piece from Au Revoier Mon Ami

• National College of Dance - Dancers

  
  

Adding to the excitement, over 30 former alumni will unite for a spectacular jazz performance, featuring prominent graduates Veronica Mahon, Claudia Lawson, Courtney Coburn, Kiara Patsan, Sharlene Roberts, Reagan Williams,

Daniel Baker and many more.

With contributions from dance schools led by alumni: Dance North Academy (Adam Blanch) and The Academy Australia (Sara Moore and Natalie Baker).

Opportunities for interviews or rehearsal footage:

Phone interviews available with Brett Morgan at a time convenient to you.

Requests for Artists interviews available via Vicki Brown.

Footage and interviews at National College of Dance Studio:

Wednesday 20th November at 11am

Friday 22nd November at 12.45pm

Sunday 24th November at 11.30am

Wednesday 27th November at 11am

Friday 29th November at 12.45pm

Wednesday 4th December time to be discussed venue: Civic Theatre Newcastle

Performances will have pieces choreographed by:

Brett Morgan OAM

Jake Burden and Emma Burden

Timothy Gordon

Debbie Linnert

Montana Doyle

Zeak Tass

Elise Frawley

Sir Peter Wright

Christopher Wheeldon

A Night of Tributes and Reunions:

The gala will also include messages from esteemed industry leaders, including Graeme Murphy, David McAllister, Stephen Heathcote, and Rebecca Gladstone, reflecting on the studio’s immense contributions to the arts in Australia and beyond.

“This gala is more than a celebration of dance—it’s a celebration of community, artistry, and the countless lives touched by the studio over the last 50 years,” said Brett Morgan OAM, Artistic Director of the National College of Dance.

“We are thrilled to bring together such incredible talent, from principal artists to alumni leading studios across the country. It’s a testament to the legacy of Marie Walton Mahon Dance Academy and National College of Dance and the

generations of dancers we have inspired,” added Marie Walton Mahon OAM, Founder of the Academy.

“For me, returning to Newcastle to celebrate the place where my journey began is truly special. It’s an honour to perform alongside so many extraordinary artists,” shared Stephanie Petersen, former American Ballet Theatre artist and NCD alumna.

A Special Congratulatory Message from Graeme Murphy AO:

“I would like to congratulate the National College of Dance on 50 years of producing wonderful dancers. Starting with Marie, of course, and now with Brett Morgan, who is a great friend and colleague—we worked together at The Australian Ballet and Sydney Dance Company, and what a joy that was. I look at the dancers and see creativity, excellence, and care—all nurtured by an amazing team of teachers with such depth of experience.” – Graeme Murphy AO, Renowned Choreographer

This historic event offers an opportunity for former students, families, and the community to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the profound impact the studio has made over 50 years.

Don’t miss this celebration of artistry, legacy, and community. Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Civic Theatre Newcastle.

Artistic Direction: Brett Morgan OAM

Creative Direction: Jake Burden