Highly-Skilled & Competent Dance Instructors in Melbourne

Our Vision

To build self-confidence, unleash artistic expression, and enhance all facets of physical and creative development. Through our dedicated team of skilled instructors, we hope to inspire and nurture a lifelong passion for dance.

Our Goal

To maintain a successful and sustainable community of experienced dancers, well-respected and recognised for their dance excellence, as well as developing the foundation necessary for those who aspire to pursue a career in the performing arts. 

Provide Skills

We provide necessary skillsets for a successful career in the ever-evolving art of ballet and dance. We endeavour to guide and instruct today’s youth, to become successful young adults.

Dance Knowledge

We provide young students with a full spectrum of dance knowledge and technique necessary to attain a professional level. By offering solid methods of technique, students develop a strong foundation in dance while developing self-confidence, discipline and teamwork.

Former Teacher and Soloist with the National Theatre Movement, Former Director & Principal of the Shirlene School of Classical Ballet Est 1963,  Recipient of Order of Australia Medal 2018 for outstanding service to Ballet

Recipient of the Maestro Enrico Cecchetti Diploma, Appointed ISTD Examiner in 1962,

Fellow & Life Member of the ISTD, Member of Cecchetti Ballet Australia & CICB International.

L.C.B.A., (C.I.C.B) (Lon); R.A.D. Solo Seal; Sadler Wells Opera Ballet (Lon); Het Ballet Nationale (Netherlands);

The Royal Winnepeg Ballet; West Aust. Ballet; Principal - The Scottish Ballet; London Festival Ballet;

Senior Soloist: The Australian Ballet; Grad. Dip. of Educ. (Visual & Perf. Arts

Fellow C.B.A-C.I.C.B. (Distinction.) L.C.I.C.B., A.C.I.C.B (Hon), A.I.S.T.D. (M.T.D.B.) (Lon.). Cert.IV (BSZ098) 8 TAA Cert.IV Units. CUA40313 Certificate IV in Dance Teaching & Management.

Holder of the Maestro Enrico Cecchetti Diploma (M.E.C.D.) with Distinction. Life Member Cecchetti International Classical Ballet. Member Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (Lon) Affilate Member Australian Teachers of Dancing. Australian Ballet School Trained, Guest Teacher/ Adjudicator.

Dance is not just a passion, but a way of life for Ms Eicens. She is one of the lucky prodigies to have gained all her Examinations with Honours, her Cecchetti Diploma in one sitting with distinction and all her teaching degrees up to Fellowship with Distinction. Ms Eicens won both the Junior and Senior Medal tests and the Elementary Scholarship in her younger days of training, She was also awarded the Cecchetti Scholarship at the Australian ballet School. Proudly trained by Shirley Jones, one of the former pupils of Madame Lucie saranova. Ms Eicens is one of the lucky few to have had the honor to gain training from a descendant of the Cecchetti tree. "I proudly let people know where my training commenced, treasure and acknowledge with deep gratitude those years that left an indelible mark on my career"

Ms Eicens is well known throughout the dance world, her classes are always full of knowledge, a touch of humor and a deep resonating passion for her love of dance. If you have been lucky to have had Ms Eicens as your teacher or mentor, then you know what dance really is about. 

Associate Diploma C.I.C.B. -C.S.B. , CUA40313 Certificate IV in dance teaching & management, B.Arts (Fine Arts), B.Ed (primary & post primary) Member C.I.C.B, Musical Theatre Director, Choreographer and Artiste.

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Deborah is a founding member of R.V.D.A. commencing in 1980. With over 25 years of classical ballet training with Rita Eicens, plus jazz, modern, tap, contemporary, folkloric while at RVDA, she has become one of the longest standing and loved dance teachers of the Academy. Deborah has been educating children for over twenty years in both the educational sector, dance school and amateur theatre settings. She has a rich background in The Arts beginning dancing at the age of five, being involved at least annually with musical theatre productions since her teens and seizing every opportunity to either perform or support performances artistically.

Her passion for the arts is undeniable and her warmth, genuine concern for her students is evident through their responsiveness and joy shown in her classes. Deborah believes that education is there to enrich and support each individual in achieving their best and should be provided in a secure, nurturing and rigorous learning environment which priorities student wellbeing.

Associate Diploma C.I.C.B. -C.S.B. ,CUA40313 Certificate IV in dance teaching & management. Attained Adv 2 level C.I.C.B. Member C.I.C.B.

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A valued and well respected staff member, Anne’s involvement in dance spans over 35years, commencing her ballet training at the age of 13, firstly with Shirlene School of Classical Ballet then later joining RVDA in 1983 where she was trained in all genres offered at the time; ballet, pointe, modern and jazz.



Although a late starter to dance, her love of classical ballet saw her pursue over 20 years of training with RVDA. She was one of the first RVDA student to gain her Cecchetti Advanced 2 certificate (1997) and teaching status; Associate (1992), Associate Diploma (1999).

She has danced in lead roles in “The little Matchgirl” and “The Little Mermaid” as well as many ballet classics such as Prelude from “Les Sylphide”, Peasant Pas de Deux from “Giselle”, Pas de Trois from “Paquita”, Canary Fairy & Silver Fairy from “The Sleeping Beauty”.

A fully registered member of Cecchetti Ballet of Australia, Anne now teaches for many dance schools in Melbourne and has been teaching for over 25 years. She enjoys instilling in her students the purity and elegance of ballet technique, sharing her knowledge, and thrives on her students’ progress and growth through their dancing. Anne loves teaching at RVDA for the individual nurturing care it gives to all its students, within a supportive family friendly atmosphere.

Graduate Kelly Aykers Dance, Bachelor Social Sciences (Social Work) 

Kristin has been a member of the Academy since 2002. She commenced at the Academy together with her older sister and both girls, reaching exceptional levels in all examinations. Training under the watchful eye and guidance of Ms Eicens both sisters formed a deep devotion to safe dance practices and wellbeing of the body and mind. Kristin is a passionate young dancer and teacher with over 16 years of training and experience. Kristin has a degree in Youth Work and has a love for working with children. She is one of our favourite junior school teachers, with a warm, friendly and caring nature.

She teaches kids classes in multiple styles and has taught at other studios across Melbourne. Kristin has experience in a variety of dance styles and still seeks to further her knowledge. Kristin is also a recent graduate of the Kelly Aykers full-time dance course and undertaking associate studies for Cecchetti Classical.

Dance Teacher, Performer, Diploma in Dance (Elite Performance), Certificate IV Dance Teaching and Management- Cert 1, 2, and 3 of Early Childhood Education and Care

I started training at the age of four at Attitudes Dance Studio. I have trained in many genres of dance including tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, ballet, hip hop and musical theatre. I have competed in competitions as both a soloist and a troupe member and have performed in many fundraisers, concerts and cabarets. Throughout my training I completed my RAD Grade 1 to 8 ballet exams. In secondary school, I studied and completed VCE dance and decided to continue my studies and training at Jason Coleman’s Ministry of Dance as a full time student.

At the end of 2020, I received a Diploma in Dance (Elite Performance) and Cert 4 in Dance Teaching and Management. Ministry of Dance has given me many opportunities and new experiences such as performing on Australia’s Got Talent 2019 and on the Grand Final Footy Show. I also got to perform at the 2019 Grand Prix and Melbourne’s White Night Event. I have a big passion for teaching children and have had lots of experience teaching at primary schools for work experience and end of year concerts. I have completed my Cert 1, 2, and 3 of Early Childhood Education and Care while studying at school. I have developed many teaching skills through assistant teaching and substitute teaching with other schools. I have had the joy of teaching for about 3 years now and I enjoy seeing the excitement and delight from students and teaching and mentoring them with new and different skills. I look forward to sharing my knowledge and experience with the students throughout the rest of the year

Associate Diploma C.I.C.B. -C.S.B. , Attained Adv 2 level C.I.C.B. Bachelor Arts Contemporary dance, Member C.I.C.B

Alice is a founding member of the Academy, having her dance life begin with R.V.D.A from the age of 5. She is well versed in the operations of the Academy and has been a loyal staff member. Alice is an honours dancer as well as a methodical and artistic teacher. 

Alice's credentials include degrees in couture fashion, costume designing and contemporary arts and dance. As well as being an accomplished dancer, Alice is a very talented artist with a flair for drawing and painting. Alice has performed and toured with "Caravan Of Love" the comical theatre production.  She has performed at Melbourne Fringe Festival, Comedy Week, and Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Alice is a beautiful strong dancer in the genres of classical, contemporary and jazz. She is a well-loved and valued member of R.V.D.A and continues to bring much joy to the classes she takes.

Originally from Sydney, Matt is celebrating over a decade of dance and is excited to make his debut in Melbourne.

Throughout his time as a teacher, Matt has taught, choreographed and assisted with creation for over 50 schools around the Sydney, Newcastle and Illawarra regions along with crediting stages for several nightclubs, entertainment for corporate events, charities, entertained crowds for sporting teams.

Professionally Matt has played the role of creating and performing for artists from around the globe including UK artist Luciana, American drag star Adore Delano and Australian artists such as AVALONIA and Kid Mac. With a very solid Certificate IV in both performing arts and dance Matt inspires and encourages creative adolescences to chase their dreams. 

We are excited to see our Advanced Jazz dancers flourish under his strong work ethic and creativity. We are so lucky to have his expertise to pass on.

Member of Musical Theatre at A.M.E.B, Bachelor of Arts/Business. NIDA Music Theatre essentials. Melbourne Improv Conspiracy Comedy Level 1. Lisa-Marie Parker Vocal Studios

Alexandra began her dance training at Riga Victoria Dance Academy in 1999 and went on to perform in “The Wizard of Oz” and “Jekyll and Hyde” towards the end of her high school years. Alexandra decided to focus on singing and began to take private vocal lessons specialising in musical comedy/theatre repertoire. 

Alexandra is currently studying with Musical Theatre performer and three-time Green Room award nominee Lisa Marie Parker (Cats, Blood Brothers) and performed in Parker’s showcase “Hear My Song” at the MC Showroom in 2017. Alongside Alexandra’s singing training, she is also studying a Bachelor of Arts (Design/Theatre) and Business.

Alexandra displays a vast versatility of musical comedy and has been writing cabarets and arranging tribute/impersonation acts which will be workshopped with leading music theatre performer and director of cabaret showcases Melissa Langton. A passionate lover of classic musicals, she embodies the style and grace of the golden era of musicals and cinema. Most recently she was asked to be a guest performer in a cabaret production and arranged a “My Fair Lady” medley at the Darebin Arts Centre.

She is also furthering her training with sketch comedy at Melbourne’s leading comedy school Melbourne Improv Conspiracy and takes part in performances at the school's Comedy Theatre. Alexandra is looking forward to sharing her passion for musical comedy, singing and theatre with RVDA students and help them reach their full potential. 

We are thrilled to have Harleigh as one of our elite teachers. Harleigh is a popular well-seasoned performer and dancer. She is currently in demand for many dance jobs, which keeps her on the road and busy but  graciously accepted to be one of our teachers for RVDA students. Welcome to our dance family.

I began my dance journey in 2003 with Dance Discovery. I trained in tap, jazz, ballet, contemporary, hip-hop and acrobatics. I completed both my RAD ballet and A.T.O.D Jazz, Tap and Ballet exams . I started training with Kelly Aykers Full Time Dance in 2019 where I received a Certificate IV in Dance. I have had opportunities to perform at multiple events around Melbourne including performing at Santa’s Magical Kingdom, Crown Casino, Skechers Store opening events and VFL Grand Final Eve Luncheons. I have been a Melbourne Aces and Geelong Korea cheerleader for two seasons with the Australian Baseball League which was an amazing performance experience. In 2020 I was lucky enough to be chosen to be in the ‘Storm Street Crew’ for their performances in the Melbourne Storms NRL season.

We are thrilled to have Elvic join us as a guest and interim teacher for our Hip Hop classes 

Elvic started dancing at the age of 15, having been put into a dance class at high school accidentally and after a few weeks, loved it. After school, Elvic would be teaching himself basic Hip Hop fundamentals via Youtube by watching his greatest dance inspirations such as Michael Jackson, Jabbawockeez, Mike Song and Phillip Chbeeb as well as movies such as Step Up.

After four years of being a self-taught dancer, Elvic decided to pursue a career in dance and decided to audition at Jason Coleman’s Ministry of Dance in 2014 under the guidance of Etienne Khoo, Phil Haddad, Adrian Ricks, Kim Adams and Vince Calingsan. In 2015, Elvic represented Australia in the World Championships of Performing Arts in California, coming home with three gold medals and two silver medals in Dance and being a Grand Finalist for Modelling.

After graduating in 2015 with a Diploma of Elite Dance Performance, Cert IV of Dance Teaching and Management and a Cert IV in Personal Training, Elvic has been travelling all around Victoria, teaching Hip Hop in both rural and urban areas.



In 2017, Elvic worked overseas at an outdoor camp in America, North Carolina after gaining a position to teach in their dance department, choreographing their musical the Lion King. Aside from teaching, he had the privilege to take part in mini dance intensives at the Broadway Dance Centre in New York, Millennium Dance Complex and Movement Lifestyles in Los Angeles. Elvic still continues to perform around Melbourne to this day, having performed at Crown Casino for the Nerf Launch, Bourke St Christmas Parade and for the NRL Melbourne Storm Hip Hop Crew.

Rhiarn began her dance training at Riga Victoria Dance Academy in 2005 and has trained in all genres including: Cecchetti Ballet, Jazz, I.S.T.D. Modern Theatre, hip hop, contemporary, acro, Tap and commercial. Rhiarn has danced a wide variety of roles in annual performances including a sensational performance as the "Scarecrow" in Journey to Oz. Rhiarn has been described as a talented and dedicated dancer with much to offer in her passion of dance to her students.

Rhiarn has successfully completed Cecchetti and I.S.T.D examinations from Junior levels up to Major. She has also successfullly completed Certificate 2 in dance at Northern college of Arts and Technology, and currently studying the Certificate 4 in Dance at Kelly Aykers Fulltime Dance Program.

Rhiarn is a passionate and committed dancer, well liked amongst her fellow dancers and students. Rhiarn is now looking forward to passing on her love of dance to her students.

Associate C.I.C.B. -C.S.B. ,CUA40313 Certificate IV in dance teaching & management, Attained Adv 2 level C.I.C.B. Member C.I.C.B.

Senior teacher and well-respected staff member, Amanda started taking dancing lessons in 1990 at the Terri-Maree School of Dance in Ballarat. Her family moved to Melbourne at the end of that year and in 1991 she commenced at Riga Victoria Dance Academy, where she has attended lessons ever since. Amanda is a formidable technician in Classical Dance and her ability to instil a solid foundation of theory and technique in her students is a gift in itself.

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Over the years, she has taken classes in ballet, modern and jazz. In 2010, she passed her Advanced 2 Classical exam, which signalled the completion of the Major Cecchetti exams. In 2008 Amanda passed her Associate exam, becoming a qualified teacher of the Cecchetti method. She focuses on the teaching of the middle grades, building their technique and increasing their theoretical knowledge of ballet.

Amanda is currently take a well earned break from dance as she prepares for her wedding and future plans . we look forward to welcoming her on the occasion to relief teach.

Attained Adv 2 Modern Theatre (I.S.T.D.)

Loredana began at Riga Victoria Dance Academy in 1993 in creative movement classes. She then went on study ballet and modern, and later jazz, contemporary, hip hop and pointe. She received honours in all modern contemporary examinations from primary to advanced levels.

Throughout primary school and high school Loredana was heavily involved in all theatre and dance productions. During her high school years at Santa Maria College she was in the choreography team for all productions, and head choreographer for inter house dance competitions. Loredana chose to study dance in year 12 VCE, where she excelled in both written and performance exams. She was awarded the distance education excellence award for achieving the highest score. 

Loredana started assisting at RVDA at the age of 18, and then began teaching her own jazz and hip hop classes at 21.



Apart from being at RVDA, Loredana has choreographed external productions such as the 2014 production of “Little Shop of Horrors” for the SBOC Arts theatre group. Loredana also dances at music events…and in her room.

A.C.B.A. (C.I.C.B.) Dip., Adv 2 (C.I.C.B.), Adv 2 (M.T.D.B.) I.S.T.D

Member Cecchetti International Classical Ballet, guest teacher, choreographer and cover, Vilija began her training as a young child of four with Riga Victoria Dance Academy. She excelled in Ceccehetti Classical Ballet and also, I.S.T.D (Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing) modern theatre and jazz. Vilija has danced many lead roles over the years with the most memorable being Odette in Swan Lake. Vilija has been returning as our regular Guest Teacher over the past few years and we love having her whenever she is able to take time away from her daily work commitments. Vilija is a passionate and caring teacher on all levels. 

Emma has been with the Riga Victoria Dance Academy since the age of 6 years old. She is passionate about her dance and specialises in hip hop and jazz. Throughout her years with RVDA,  her love of dance has continued to grow and grow, leading her to take part in school productions. Her love of dance and theatre was the main factor in her decision to study and complete a Bachelor of Entertainment Business Management. Emma is one of our newest members on staff and assists in the Junior school classes.

The Academy is a government recognised training school for teaching degrees. It is with pride that over the 38 years of operation we have trained over 15 Associates in Cecchetti Ballet and modern theatre. Training always starts with senior students helping out in junior classes under the guidance of the class teacher. Being mentored for at least 3 years in a class environment, then progressing to take a small class of there own and relief teaching. Professional development and courses including attending seminars is a vital part to furthering their abilites.

Students wishing to be more involved to begin learning the required methods of teaching young dancers may become an assistant in classes. It is a great way to learn more and increase their own knowledge by being mentored by the class teacher.

The teachers assistant takes instruction from the class teacher on how to help students that may need a little more guidance in their class environment.