Old Collegian and recent graduate, Keela Moloney-Smith (2022), was recently accepted to study a Bachelor of Arts (Dance) at Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA).
Keela is only one of 20 to be accepted into the three-year full-time degree which focuses on contemporary dance and regular performance through intensive training and classroom practice. During the course, she will undertake industry placement, short study tours and an international exchange.
Keela has danced for over 10 years, moving between Warrnambool, Ballarat and Melbourne with experience in ballet, jazz, musical theatre, contemporary, lyrical and hip-hop styles at The Academy of Classical Ballet and Yellow Wheel Dance Company.
Keela moved to Clarendon in 2019 as a Dance Scholarship recipient. While in Year 10, she was accepted into Yellow Wheel Contemporary Youth Dance Company and, in 2022, was selected to perform her contemporary solo at the Top Class Dance Exhibition, classifying her as one of the most successful VCE and VET Dance soloists across Victoria in 2021.
“Clarendon has always assisted me in balancing my focus between my dancing and schooling,” said Keela. ““I am so grateful for the opportunities my teachers provided me in the performing arts space.”
Studying at WAAPA has always been a dream of Keela’s, although she had also successfully auditioned for Sydney Dance Company and Brent Street. For Keela, studying at WAAPA will open more opportunities, including the option of an honours year.
Keela treasures the relationships she built with her teachers. Particularly her VCE and VET Dance teacher, Lauren Young, and ensemble choreographer and mentor, Stacey Clarke.
“Lauren and Stacey pushed me to chase my dreams, learn and grow while at school. Without their hard work and support I wouldn’t be the same dancer I am today.”
We are proud of our Old Collegians who follow their heart’s desires and encourage them to stay in touch so that Clarendon can continue to support them in the next stages of their lives.
Please contact alumni@clarendon.vic.edu.au with your update so that we can stay in touch and include your news in future issues of ringaroo.
