When families enrol at Gay Wightman School of Ballet, they are joining more than a local dance studio.
They are becoming part of an international network of excellence.
Behind the scenes, our studio is deeply connected to the global dance education community through the Dance Studio Owners Association (DSOA) — the world’s leading organisation for studio leadership and development.
Our Director, Alisa Finney, is not only a long-standing member of DSOA, but a Studio Growth Coach for the prestigious Inner Circle program. In this role, she mentors and coaches thousands of dance studio owners across Australia, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Europe.
Each week, Alisa works with studio directors on leadership, curriculum development, staff training, business systems, studio culture and student development. She presents at international conferences, leads coaching calls and contributes to the strategic growth of studios worldwide.
What does this mean for our families?
It means our studio operates at an international standard.
It means we are constantly learning, refining and improving.
It means your child is training in a school that is not isolated — but globally connected.
Twelve Sister Studios Around the World
Through these professional relationships, Gay Wightman School of Ballet now has twelve sister studios across the USA, Canada, the UK and Europe.
These partnerships offer extraordinary opportunities for our dancers, including:
- International scholarships
- Student exchange programs
- Joint performance opportunities
- Collaborative workshops
- Overseas dance tours
- Cultural immersion experiences
Our dancers have the unique privilege of connecting with students from other countries, broadening their perspectives and forming friendships beyond borders.
For many young dancers, this is life-changing.
To travel.
To perform internationally.
To be welcomed into another studio family across the world.
These are opportunities that extend far beyond weekly classes.
They build independence, confidence and global awareness.
Leadership That Inspires
Alisa’s work with the DSOA Inner Circle has earned the respect of studio owners internationally. Her leadership is grounded not only in artistic excellence, but in integrity, compassion and education.
Studio owners often share how her guidance has transformed their businesses and strengthened their studio cultures.
Heather, a studio owner in the United States, shares:
“Alisa has an extraordinary ability to combine high standards with deep care. Her mentorship has reshaped the way I lead my studio and support my students. She inspires excellence while never losing sight of the human element.”
Christine, a studio CEO writes:
“Working with Alisa has been one of the most impactful experiences of my career. Her insight into curriculum, leadership and culture is exceptional. She leads with strength and warmth, and it shows in the thriving community she has built in Melbourne.”
Angela, a studio owner in the USA, reflects:
“Alisa’s global perspective and commitment to education are remarkable. She challenges us to think bigger, lead better and serve our students at the highest level. Being connected to her studio network is an honour.”
These testimonials reflect not just professional respect, but a shared commitment to raising the standard of dance education worldwide.
What This Means for Your Child
For families at Gay Wightman School of Ballet, these global connections translate into tangible benefits:
A curriculum informed by international best practice.
Teachers who are continually developing and refining their craft.
Access to exchange programs and overseas opportunities.
A culture of excellence shaped by global leadership.
Your child is not simply attending a neighbourhood ballet class.
She is part of a studio recognised and respected internationally.
She is connected to a network that values discipline, artistry and character.
She is learning within a school that contributes to the future of dance education around the world.
A Studio With Both Heritage and Vision
For over six decades, Gay Wightman School of Ballet has been a pillar of the Melbourne dance community. Today, that strong local heritage is paired with an international outlook.
We honour tradition.
We embrace innovation.
We build leaders.
And we open doors.
Being part of our studio means belonging to a community that stretches far beyond Melbourne — one that nurtures not only beautiful dancers, but confident, globally aware young people.
If you are looking for a ballet school that combines local care with international opportunity, we would be honoured to welcome your family into ours.
