About Us

Rural Dance Schools WA

Rural Dance Schools WA (RDSWA) began in 2011, born from Principal Lani McGeady’s vision to bring high-quality dance training and meaningful performance opportunities to children living throughout the Wheatbelt.

Over the past 14 years, this vision has seen more than 50 end-of-year recitals proudly performed in country towns across the region, giving rural children the chance to experience the joy, confidence, and achievement that comes from performing on stage within their own communities.

RDSWA has delivered workshops in towns such as Mukinbudin and Bencubbin, and now operates ongoing branches in Beverley, Merredin, Quairading, York, Corrigin, Cunderdin, Wongan Hills and Dowerin, with Southern Cross joining the program in 2026.

Every end-of-year performance celebrates every child. All students receive a participation trophy and certificate, with additional awards recognising Outstanding Achievement and Encouragement. Full and partial scholarships are also awarded, allowing selected students to receive formal training at Toodyay Ballet School, free of charge.

Pathways Beyond the Country

Several past scholarship recipients from towns including Quairading, Beverley, Kellerberrin and Merredin have gone on to be accepted into the Australian Ballet Interstate Training Program after undertaking formal training. This program is widely regarded as one of the most elite classical ballet training pathways in Australia.

RDSWA students have also participated in workshops, competitions, and training experiences in Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, New Zealand, and internationally, including classes at Broadway Dance Center in New York.

Our rural students have achieved:

Over 10 Margaret Illmann Awards for Excellence
Numerous WA State Medals
National finals on the Gold Coast
Performance opportunities with WA Ballet and The Australian Ballet in Perth

We are always excited to support new families who wish to embrace the dance opportunities available to talented, dedicated rural students.

Dance for Every Child

Our acrobatics program, offered across all schools, provides fun, strength, and fitness for children of all shapes and sizes. Jazz and hip hop classes give students a vibrant outlet for energy, creativity, and connection — encouraging friendships and confidence through movement.

At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to fostering a love of dance in a safe, supportive, and joyful environment. Through dance, children learn discipline, respect, and structure, while also being encouraged to express their personalities, emotions, and creativity.

Balanced gross-motor development, clear boundaries, and the beauty of music and movement help students feel confident, capable, and inspired.

A Dance Family

Rural Dance Schools WA is proud to be a close-knit dance family of students and parents. We are always welcoming new dancers who love to move, learn, and be part of a positive and encouraging community.

Our Team

Principals
Mrs Lani McGeady (Lic. Dip CBA-CICB)
Diploma of Dance Teaching & Management
Miss Bonnie McGeady – Bachelor of Arts (Dance), WAAPA

Teaching Faculty
Miss Kimberley McKay CBA
Miss Lexie Joubert

Miss Brianna Guest

Miss Jess Bodily

Miss Shaynae Rankins

Office Manager
Mrs Emma Bickley