OUR TEACHERS
JUSTINE GARCIA - director
Justine began her dance training at the age of 4 studying RAD classical ballet, jazz and tap before moving on to focus heavily on contemporary dance at a tertiary level, and musical theatre as a teacher and choreographer. She studied under some of Melbourne’s leading contemporary dance artists at Deakin university and co-created many original shows, one which premiered at the Melbourne Fringe Festival in 2008.
Justine choreographed Kyneton Theatre Company's original Musical, Wintersong, that premiered in June 2019 at the Bluestone Theatre.
In 2018 she performed in Sprout Theatre Company’s sold out season of Mary Poppins as a lead ensemble member and the Dance Captain. Her first time back on the stage as a performer in almost 10 years was an absolute thrill.
Although a passionate dancer, her other love from a young age was teaching. A fully qualified and Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) registered educator, Justine has spent more than 12 years working as a secondary teacher in government, Independent and Catholic schools. She choreographed nine musicals, including the Music Theatre Guild Bruce award winning, world school’s premiere of ‘The Boy from Oz’, numerous Rock Eisteddfods, Cabaret performances and solo works for her students. A passionate pastoral care teacher and believer in the power of positive relationships for effective learning, Justine understands that students, of any age, learn best when they feel liked, respected and can trust the teacher in the room.
In 2020 Justine commenced a new role teaching dance from years 7-12 at Assumption College Kilmore. She has passionately led and grown the dance department to a thriving and vibrant community within the college.
Justine and her family have lived in the Macedon Ranges for 11 years and are lovers of the fresh air, wide open spaces, the community, and excellent availability of quality coffee. Her 7-year-old son dances daily, often demanding a ‘dance party’ right before bedtime, and sings musical theatre tunes like a pro.