Virtual Studio Member Spotlight: Alex Rigby

I have done a few dance classes over the years across various styles including contemporary, jazz, hip-hop and a little stint of salsa while I was in university. When the COVID-19 restrictions were put in place, I hadn’t danced for a while and I was keen to find a program I could do at home. After a quick Google search, I discovered that Sydney Dance Company were running classes and decided to give it a shot. I really enjoy that the classes are live on Zoom and that you can get real-time feedback, ask questions and even put in song requests.

I dance for a few reasons; music is a huge part of my life and I love how it makes me feel when I combine it with movement. I also love that dance is a great form of exercise. I’ve never been very coordinated at sports so dance is a much better option for me.

Outside the Virtual Studio I’m a piano teacher, musician and newly graduated music therapist. I love finding ways to use music and movement every day. I also attend an aerial silks class and love incorporating moves into routines in the air.

I have attended Jazz, Hip Hop, JFH, Lyrical, Contemporary, Ballet, Feel Good Friday, Latin Funk, Stretch and Conditioning classes, all at the beginner level. On my list to try is the Tap, Theatre Jazz and Yoga classes and my future goal is to eventually make my way up to an intermediate level.

• 

• 

Every teacher has contributed to my confidence in some way and I’ve loved all the pearls of wisdom I’ve been gathering, but the best piece of advice I’ve received in the Virtual Studio is ‘be confident, comfortable and find a way to make the dance express you’.  

I love the flexible class options, the challenges in each style and all of the different routines, but most of all I love the support of all of the teachers. Every time I join a new class, I find a new favourite teacher!

I live in Newcastle so getting to the Ultimo studio regularly is not really an option but the Virtual Studio means I can still attend lots of dance classes. I love the ease of the Sydney Dance Company app and the huge range of dance styles offered at varying class times. The early morning and late-night time slots mean that I can always fit in a class, even when I have a busy schedule during the day. Plus, I love that there’s no travel time, no parking and I can control the temperature of my room and have water and sometimes even snacks on hand.

DO IT! I’ve gained so much confidence by participating in the Virtual Studio. The teachers are lovely and you can always start with the camera off while you get the hang of it, although I personally find it more rewarding with my camera on so I that I can receive the valuable feedback.