Virtual Studio Member Spotlight: Francesca Rostirolla

I started early with dance classes, ice-skating and gymnastics as a child, they were my first big loves and kept me busy with competitions until high-school. Later on, I progressively gravitated towards dancing again – Salsa first, then Argentine Tango and eventually Ballet.

Dancing is like being in a magical space, where you need no reasons other than the fascination of movement, sound and shape mixing together in the beauty that this art is. It is a great way to stay fit while nourishing your mind, refilling with energy, connecting with yourself and others.
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I am a Ballet regular but thanks to the Virtual Studio, I’ve joined many more classes (so many!) and explored other styles such as Hip Hop and Contemporary. I also now attend Strength and Conditioning, Stretching and the Feel Good Friday classes. Every class has its own flavour and builds on my abilities that benefit other styles.

In a few words “dance, really dance it!” and I can’t count the “aha” moments thanks to the numerous brilliant explanations from the teachers about technique, quality of movement and expression. I very much value their philosophy of working hard within your ability while having fun.

They are a blessing and a wonderful way to keep exercising while working from home during lockdown and hopefully beyond. I enjoy the enthusiasm of my fellow students as well as the encouragement and outstanding support from Sydney Dance Company to keep us dancing. It’s a heart-warming sense of community.

There are practical advantages like no commute, flexibility and even just being able to shower in your own bathroom afterwards. Then there are the perks of actually dancing like nobody’s watching – focusing on your own movements, zero pressure, room for experimentation. After all, the only one judging is your cat! Open dialogue and regular feedback from teachers make Virtual Studio classes very engaging. They work wonders.

Anyone, seasoned dancers or newbies, from those who love the privacy of their rooms to the ones happy to dance on screen. It’s perfect if you are busy or have children. You can join classes in no time from wherever you are. There are even students from outside Sydney.

This is the right time! Worst case? You’ll simply spend one hour of your life dancing, away from the desk or the couch. Your back will be thankful and the cat might be too. Best case, you’ll make dance part of your world. Sydney Dance Company teachers will guide you, making every direction and movement accessible. You’ll be surprised by how far you can go. Dancing is one of the best gifts you can give to yourself, at any age and with any level of physical preparation. It’s an investment in your wellbeing.