Business Details
22 Years
experience
Your Premier Dance School in Somerville
Dance Lab is a purpose-built professional dance studio located in Somerville, Victoria, dedicated to nurturing dancers of all ages and skill levels. With over 20 years of experience, we offer a comprehensive range of dance styles including Classical Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip-Hop, Contemporary, and Acrobatics, taught by a team of highly qualified instructors. Our philosophy centres on fostering a safe, fun, and supportive environment where students develop technical proficiency, confidence, and lifelong friendships. We provide structured learning streams such as examination programs, competition troupes, and recreational classes, alongside private tuition and extension opportunities.Our faculty includes industry professionals with certifications from the Southern Federation of Dance and other prestigious institutions, ensuring students receive expert guidance. We prioritise child safety, maintain state-of-the-art facilities, and host annual showcases to celebrate our students' achievements. Our alumni have successfully pursued careers in professional dance, further validating our commitment to excellence in dance education.
Services
Classical Ballet
Jazz
Hip-Hop
Tap
Contemporary
Acrobatics
Preschool Dance
Private Lessons
Birthday Parties
Pilates/Stretch
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of experience in professional dance education.
- Our instructors hold certifications from prestigious institutions like the Southern Federation of Dance.
- We provide structured examination programs and competition opportunities for aspiring dancers.
- Our state-of-the-art facilities include three purpose-built studios with sprung floors.
- We prioritise child safety with all staff holding Working With Children Checks.
Associations and certifications
- Southern Federation of Dance
- Federation Association of Teachers of Dancing
- Pilates Association Australia
Services
Classical Ballet
Classical Ballet forms the foundation of dance training at Dance Lab. Using the Cecchetti method, students develop poise, technical precision, and musicality. This discipline enhances overall dance quality while building strength, flexibility, and artistic expression. Our program prepares dancers for examinations and professional opportunities.
Hip-Hop
Hip-Hop classes focus on high-energy movements rooted in street culture. Students learn dynamic choreography to contemporary music while developing rhythm, coordination, and performance confidence. Classes cater to recreational and competition-level dancers in a fun, inclusive environment.
Acrobatics
Acrobatics combines dance and gymnastic skills to enhance flexibility, strength, and spatial awareness. Following the Acrobatics Arts syllabus, students master controlled tricks and balancing techniques. This class complements all dance styles and is taught by certified instructors.
Private Lessons
Private lessons offer tailored instruction for competition or examination preparation. Students receive individualised feedback to refine technique, choreography, and performance skills. Sessions are available for solo, duo, or trio routines with experienced mentors.
Birthday Parties
Dance Lab hosts themed birthday parties featuring dance games, music, and professional supervision. Packages include venue hire, decorations, and party essentials for up to 30 guests. Available on Fridays and Sundays with flexible booking options.
People
Emily Kheissy
Principal & Director
With 41 years of dance experience, Emily established Dance Lab in 2004. A former professional performer and graduate of The Dance Factory, she specialises in ballet, jazz, and acrobatics. Her students consistently achieve top examination results.
Mistie Fisher
Cecchetti Ballet Teacher
A Licentiate of Cecchetti Ballet and Acrobatics Arts certified instructor, Mistie brings technical expertise and a nurturing approach to her classes for students of all levels.
Taylor Fraser
Dance Instructor
Taylor holds advanced Cecchetti qualifications and specialises in jazz and tap. She combines technical precision with creative choreography to engage young dancers in a supportive environment.
Sarah Schoknecht
Pilates Instructor
A Victorian College of the Arts graduate, Sarah integrates her dance background with Pilates instruction. Her focus on anatomy and movement helps students improve posture, strength, and body awareness.
Meg Howell
Dance Teacher
Meg teaches Cecchetti ballet and jazz, drawing on her advanced examination experience to guide students through technical challenges while fostering artistic expression.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We offer Classical Ballet, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Tap, Contemporary, Acrobatics, and Preschool Dance classes for ages 2+.
Are there performance opportunities?
Yes! We host annual showcases, class displays, and competition troupes to help students build confidence through performance.
Do you have child safety policies?
All staff hold Working With Children Checks, and we maintain a strict child safety policy for student protection.
What are registration fees?
Annual registration costs $25 for single students or $40 for families with two or more dancers.
Can I hire the studio for events?
Yes! We offer birthday party packages with dance themes, venue hire, and professional supervision for up to 30 guests.
Do you offer private lessons?
Private tuition is available for competition routines, examination preparation, and individual skill development with experienced instructors.
Reviews (4)
Rashelle Leahy
Jan 18, 2020
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My 3 girls danced with Dance Lab before we moved up to QLD and they were by far the most supportive, wonderful dance school. They were encouraging to all three of my girls and very patient. Their opportunities they offer are second to none. I cannot recommend them enough!!!!
Margaretha Procter
Jan 15, 2020
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My daughter loves her dance classes. Its amazing to see how her dancing skills has developed. Many thanks to her supportive dance teachers at Dance Lab who have helped her build her resilience and confidence in her passion for dancing.
Jodie Hine
Jan 08, 2020
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Dance lab is the most welcoming, friendly and amazing dance school! My daughter has come leaps and bounds with her confidence as well as her dancing!! Such amazing teachers and community
Julia McCarthy
Nov 16, 2019
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Fabulous dance school run by a mum of three who equally supports dancers with talent and kids who just love to dance.
