Born in Ontario, Canada, and migrating to Australia as a child, Leslie trained in Classical Ballet, (including The Royal Academy of Dance Syllabus gaining her Advanced Examination), Contemporary Dance, Jazz, National Character Dance and Acting classes while a student in Australia under Joan and Monica Halliday at The Halliday Dance Art Studios in Sydney.

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Leslie had an international performing career prior to returning to Australia. She performed in diverse areas of dance and performance roles in Canada and Italy. This included Mirvish Productions; The role of ‘Mama Bear’ on pointe, in the production of ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’ Toronto Canada, and ‘The Good Luck Theatre Company, a UK production company, inviting Leslie to perform in the play ‘Animal Farm’ after witnessing her performances in Canada in the pantomime. This was Mask work as an actor in the roles of ‘Molly’ ‘Muriel’ and ‘Mr. Jones’. Rehearsing in London and touring Italy.

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During her six years in Canada and Europe she performed with Folk Ballet Theatre in Toronto. Worked with freelance choreographers on various projects in Canada, and with Canadian choreographer Trudi Moffat touring to Arizona USA. These opportunities created diverse experiences within Contemporary Dance, Classical Ballet, and Character Dance styles. While performing Leslie continually trained in Canada and then Pineapple Dance Studios, London, UK. She also undertook classes with The Culburg Ballet Company in Sweden.

In Australia she has performed with Opera Australia in ‘Les Huguenots’ as a dancer and witnessed the artistry of Diva Dame Joan Sutherland in this production. Leslie also performed in Yamashiro Japan, Cabaret Style Jazz dancing, under choreographer Virginia Ferris.

 

Leslie has been teaching for over 20 years, beginning her teaching career at The Hammond School in Chester UK, teaching Jazz. A Registered Teacher of The Royal Academy of Dance and holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. She is also a Registered Teacher with Dance for Parkinson’s Australia. Within her diverse teaching experiences Leslie has supported students achieving professional dance and performing careers. She has taught as a guest teacher for scholarships and workshops and continues to contract to Vocational Dance Studios as well as part time Dance Studios. Many of her students have achieved positions in international schools and companies as well as within Australia. Hybrid work opportunities enable Leslie to support students in various areas of dance including open classes, technique coaching, repertoire, and choreography of both Classical and Contemporary Dance, Choreographic techniques, Dance History and Appreciation and Safe Dance practices.

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Leslie also enjoys learning Guitar and is in a Classical Guitar Ensemble.

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"I always knew I wanted to teach and choreograph dance and after a performing career I am privileged to support individuals and Dance Organisations that share their journeys with me. As a teacher and choreographer, I aim to facilitate the achievement of high artistic standards and learning outcomes for the individual dance student and emerging professional artist. Most importantly my aim is to instil a high level of confidence in individuals, whilst striving to help them pursue their ambitions in the world of dance.”

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