Natasha Levene

We’re thrilled to introduce Natasha Levene to our team! This is her first year with us, and we couldn’t be more excited to see what she brings to the table. Here’s a little about Natasha’s incredible dance journey.

“I began doing ballet at the age of 3. I wasn’t the best, but I loved it. A few years later, one of my best friends was doing hip hop and jazz at Candy Lane studios with a teacher named Claire. As a 7-year-old, I was sold on the studio’s name alone (though I was disappointed there were no actual lollies ). The energy of hip hop really sealed the deal for me.

When Claire started her own studio, Baxter Dance (now Empire Studios), I began competing. This pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me become more confident. By age 11, I had to choose between ballet and hip hop because my mum was tired of juggling two end-of-year shows. Since I still hadn’t mastered a turnout, I chose hip hop.

I continued to compete and train in styles like contemporary, commercial, lyrical, jazz funk, and heels. Towards the end of my time at Empire, I focused mainly on hip hop, commercial, and heels. Moving to Otago, I auditioned for the Otago Dance Association Performance Troupe and am now in my second year with them. I also dance with ODA, Otago Dancers, and as part of my university degree, and I couldn’t be happier!”

Please join us in welcoming Natasha to the team! We can’t wait to see her shine and inspire us all.