It is one of the most accessible quality adult dance studios in the northern suburbs of Melbourne. At Pointe Nation, ballet classes are held daily. You will be able to find a class that suits you. Speaking with the owner, the building is heritage-listed and used to be a "spothecary" (pharmacy dispensary) in the 1930s. It then transformed into a catering business and then a wedding venue, famously known as Camilla for decades. If you look outside the building, you can still see the name "Camilla" on the side. The change rooms used to serve as a bar area, while the external toilet was once a stable for horses and carriages! The main studio was originally a ballroom, and behind the mirror lies a hidden stage where performances were held. When you're in the main studio, look up to the ceiling where chandeliers used to hang. After being a wedding venue, it was a women-only gym and a martial arts centre. Your soul will connect with the building's history as you enter. Well, we are talking about taking ballet classes, a classical art form. Old souls, indeed.
Currently, Pointe Nation has two dance studios. A large studio for all adult classes and a small studio for pilates and private coaching classes. The studio is purposely renovated so tarkett flooring, wall-mounted barres and mirrors are in both studios.
Classes
Pointe Nation offers a diverse range of classes catering to various skill levels, from foundational to advanced levels. Additionally, they provide specialized classes such as beginner and intermediate pointe classes, catering to those seeking a challenge or professional dancers looking to enhance their skills. At Pointe Nation, some students embark on their ballet journey for the first time, while others, who began ballet as children, return or persist in their adult years. Students are welcome to wear pointe shoes for certain classes, offering a unique opportunity for strengthening and skill development. Furthermore, Pointe Nation conducts Repertoire series periodically, allowing students to delve into choreography from renowned classical ballet productions like Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake, and Alice in Wonderland.
Teaching staff
The ballet classes at Pointe Nation are led by experienced instructors with professional dance training and backgrounds. Among them are notable names like Andy Killian, Cristiano Martiono, Kyle Davey, Maddie Eastoe, and Alex Cameron-Martin, each bringing their own expertise and style to the classes. Students have the opportunity to learn from teachers with diverse focuses, ranging from technique and musicality to artistry and performance. Exploring classes with different instructors can provide valuable insights and experiences tailored to individual preferences and goals. Try them all I would say.
Getting there
Convenient Ample parking is available right outside the studio on Gooch Street and also on High Street. On one side of Gooch Street, there's 1-hour parking before 5 PM, while the other side of the street offers 2-hour parking. Since most evening classes begin after 5 PM, parking shouldn't be an issue if you're coming after work. Additionally, there are no parking limits on Sundays. However, it's always advisable to check the signs upon arrival.
Booking a class
To join a class, you can book online or download their app for easy booking. You can purchase a single class or buy passes. It is the same everywhere; each class becomes cheaper the more classes you purchase in a class pass.
Special mention
If you need a caffeine hit before or after heading to class, pop by Haytch, a cafe right around the corner next to the tram stop.
