A group of local ballet dancers have earned some notable accolades.
Thirty students between the ages of five and 16 took part in last December's Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) exams. Each and every one of them received gold or silver-level awards.
These youngsters are: Nana Matsunaga, Moka Higashi, Olivia Boehmer, Sophie Parrett, Layla Perry, Zadie Oughtred, Mei-Lin Redenbach, Arielle Wollf, Dylan Ryan, Nilarose Mansouri, Stella Martin, Poppy McCaig, Lela Riddlington, Sakura Fukaya, Freyja Graebling, Oliva Rangel, Miyabi Ueno, Rae Blumes, Drew Blumes, Sophia Wallace, Lucy Wallace, Aislinn Richters, Sophia Emm, Ruby McCaig, Sarah Berka, Ella Scrase, Laura Hallisey, Maddy Tully, Camille Barth and Olivia Persson.
Most have been practicing under the tutelage of Jane Herrlich and her Dance with Jane outfit since 2019.
According to Herrlich, the RAD is one of the world’s most prestigious ballet organizations known for its structured training syllabus and internationally recognized testing. These exams assess a dancer’s technique, musicality, performing skills and overall artistry.
Earning a gold or silver award in these exams is a significant achievement, as it demonstrates a high level of proficiency and commitment to one's craft. These accolades can open doors to further training, scholarships, and professional opportunities in the dance world, as well as extra credits for post-secondary education.
"I am incredibly proud of each individual student, not just for their achievements but for the dedication, passion, and perseverance they bring to every class," Herrlich said. "Seeing them grow in confidence, strength, and artistry is what makes teaching so rewarding.
"Thank you to the parents for giving them the opportunity to dance and all the practices at home. All their hard work truly inspires me, and I am so grateful to pass on my love of dance to them."
Herrlich's own passion for dance began at a young age, as is the case for her pupils. She grew up attending her mother's dance school and was "surrounded by music and movement from the very start." Upon graduating from high school, the Brit attended Preston Dance College in her home nation where she studied a variety of genres, including tap, modern and ballet.
She holds a Certificate of Ballet Teaching Studies from the RAD in addition to her Tap and Modern Diploma with another noteworthy organization, the Imperial Society of Dance.
Next, Herrlich became a professional dancer who taught her craft overseas, an experience she greatly enjoyed. Whistler welcomed her approximately six years ago and she taught skiing, as many locals do, but dance remained her true love.
Herrlich founded Dance with Jane in September 2022, which she describes as "a space for children and adolescents to learn different dance styles, perform, and take part in examinations." Her students range from three to 18 years old and normally train at the Maury Young Arts Centre.
"I am thrilled to share my love of dance with the next generation," remarked Herrlich.
Some of Herrlich's crew linked up with the Pemberton Dance Studio, Mountain Movement Dance Collective and Coastal City Ballet for a 2023 rendition of The Nutcracker in the Maury Young. Dance With Jane's next production will run May 29 and 30: Alice in Wonderland.
