From her first PSD concert dancing to Mickey Mouse Clubhouse to performing professionally with Disney Cruise Line almost 20 years later, Olivia Gard’s story is a very special part of PSD’s 65-year history.
Olivia shares her journey from growing up at PSD to full-time training, performing alongside Katy Perry at the AFL Grand Final and navigating the auditions, setbacks and determination that eventually led to her dream Disney contract.
Now beginning her professional career, Olivia reflects on the people, opportunities and PSD community that helped shape the dancer – and person – she is today.

For almost four decades, Liza Grande has been woven into the fabric of Peninsula School of Dance. From cheering on her younger brother in the 1980s, to raising three children through the school, and now inspiring the next generation as our Musical Theatre teacher and Musical Director, Liza’s story is one of family, creativity and community.

For almost four decades, Liza Grande has been woven into the fabric of Peninsula School of Dance. From cheering on her younger brother in the 1980s, to raising three children through the school, and now inspiring the next generation as our Musical Theatre teacher and Musical Director, Liza’s story is one of family, creativity and community.

From the ballet studio to the cutting edge of medical research, Dr. Sophie Armstrong’s remarkable journey is a powerful reminder that the confidence, resilience and curiosity nurtured through dance can shape extraordinary futures.

From Ballet Classes to Australia’s Biggest Stages – For Harrison (Harry) Croft, PSD was not only his happy place growing up but set him up perfectly for his career as a lighting designer and technician.

Discover Jasmine Gregory’s journey from young student to respected teacher at Peninsula School of Dance. As part of our 65th anniversary series, The Stories of Our Studio, her story reflects the lasting impact of dance, community and connection.

Sophie Gould danced and taught at PSD from age 4 until she moved to Melbourne for study in 2020. Did you know that her mother, Alison, also danced at the school? Let’s hear from this mother-and-daughter duo.

Vivienne Pearson sits down for our next 60th Anniversary Alumni interview with superstar choreographer and producer, Jason Coleman! Read about his inspiring story below as we look at his life from his first steps in Rosebud to performing in cities all over the world.

Effie Papoulias has over three decades of experience teaching Cecchetti ballet. She did her first class with Sandra Allan in 1976. This is her story of a life filled with ballet that took her from student to Cecchetti State Organiser.