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OUR NEW PATRON

Sensis Master • Feb 16, 2021

Shirley Jones OAM

Former Teacher and Soloist with the National Theatre Movement

Former Director & Principal of the Shirlene School of Classical Ballet

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.

Since 1960, Shirley Jones and Shirlene School of Classical Ballet have been a driving force in dance and dance education throughout Victoria. Ms Jones says “I have had the privilege of knowing Rita since she first started classes at Shirlene School of Classical Ballet in 1963. She was a talented, passionate student who displayed strong discipline and high moral character. Her eagerness to fully comprehend the theory and reasoning behind all she did pushed her to the top of her class. Rita was always proud of her early training at Shirlene School of Classical Ballet and I would highly recommend Rita Eicens and Riga Victoria Dance Academy”.

Miss Jones was nominated and awarded the Order of Australia Medal in recognition of her services to Classical Ballet and the dance Community. A recommendation is not given lightly and through this wonderful acknowledgment, all our families are assured of the solid training we give her at RVDA. Miss Jones has retired from her dance school of 60 years and unfortunately during this Covid crisis year forced her hand to close. A heartbreaking decision for her.

Miss Shirley JOnes OAM and William Carse

during their professional careers

The greatest honour is this recommendation from my brilliant mentor and teacher Miss Jones. No matter where we go in life, we always remember and hold dear the ones that influenced our lives. Miss Jones taught me not only to be the best I can be at Classical Ballet, but all life lessons of respect, gratitude, acceptance and determination. Not only was she the consummate advocate of the Cecchetti Method, she cared for all her students beyond anything else. It’s is for this reason I always have upheld that legacy and am truly grateful for all that she has given the greater dance community.


We at RVDA welcome all students that will continue their training with us and know for a fact that what has been a big part of my life with Miss Jones will continue and keep that flame alive. As you take your final reverence this coming week, the curtains may have closed but the performance and journey will always be in our hearts.

 

Thank you Miss Jones.

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