Meet Our Team

Director's Message

Knowing I can create an environment for students to develop, connect and create is incredibly important to me.

I really believe that our team are of the highest standard. They are dedicated, passionate and always willing to assist.

It is integral that our studio not only facilitates growth but also is a safe space for students to become aspiring performers.

I welcome you to join our community and look forward to sharing with you, the love and joy at ACPA.

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Kim Grant-Taylor

Kim Grant-Taylor

DIRECTOR

Kim Grant-Taylor is the founder and director of the Australian Company of Performing Arts which was established over 20 years ago.

Pep Rigano

Pep

MANAGEMENT

Pep is our marketing and promotions manager at the Australian Company of Performing Arts as well as the school's head hip hop coach.

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Pep has been dancing since the age of 9 and trained in Hip Hop, Funk, Jazz, Tap, Burlesque and Commercial Dance. His persistence has seen him through National titles in competitions such as F.I.S.A.F, School Aerobics and Battlegrounds Australia. Pep, along with his team, were invited to compete in the World Hip Hop titles in Los Angeles in 2005. At the age of 18, he received a scholarship from Andre Fuentes (Britney Spears' Choreographer - Circus Tour 2009), to travel to America and work closely with the world's best international choreographers such as Tony Czar, Kevin Maher, Kyle Hanagami, Andye J and Brian Puspos just to name a few.

Having a strong focus on educating boys in dance, Pep decided to set up the very first all boys hip hop class at ACPA. With only 5 students, within a year, there were 6 classes with well over 130 boys. This specialty class is one of Pep's great passions as he watches the development and growth of boys from 4-16yrs old. In a report to Adelaide Now; Pep says, "I honestly love teaching the boys. Seeing their passion, energy and strength is something I work closely with to cater to a fun, exciting environment that is strong in discipline and always challenging".

Pep also has holds diploma in dance teaching and management through Australian Teachers of Dancing. 

Joshua Taylor

Joshua

TAP & JAZZ

Joshua Taylor, a passionate dancer and dedicated instructor, is a vital part of the ACPA team. 

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His journey in dance began at the age of 5, training in various dance styles and fostering a particular love for Tap, Jazz, and Musical Theatre.

Joshua's commitment to his craft led him to earn his Certificate IV in Dance from the prestigious ACPA Academy. Hungry for more, he relocated to Sydney to further his studies at Ed5 International, one of Australia's leading performing arts institutions.

Even before his graduation from Ed5, Joshua's exceptional talent was recognized. He was offered a lucrative contract with the iconic production, West Side Story. This opportunity saw him touring extensively across Australia, New Zealand, and Germany for over a year, enriching his experience and honing his skills on the global stage.

Upon his return, Joshua joined ACPA as an instructor, bringing a wealth of professional experience to his role. His passion for dance and his eagerness to inspire the next generation make him a significant asset to our academy. Joshua's journey serves as a testament to what can be achieved with dedication, hard work, and a love for the art of dance.

Mark Stefanoff

Mark

HEAD OF MUSICAL THEATRE + VOICE

Mark gained a following after his multiple appearances on 'The Voice' (Australia) leading him to the professional world of Music Theatre.

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Having trained at APO Arts Academy, The Victorian College of the Arts and Broadway Dance Centre, Markhas proven himself as a triple threat. 

During his time on 'The Voice', coach Ricky Martin sent him to New York to meet with his Broadway Agent which opened his eyes to the world he had dreamed of in the arts. Upon his return to Australia, he joined the revival cast of 'Godspell' (Magnormous Proudctions) followed by the Adelaide Fringe Season of 'The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee' as Chip.  

He joined the cast of 'Hairspray, The Arena Spectacular' (Harvest Rain) as Brad before a short Season of 'Rent', and finally the Australian Tour of 'Kinky Boots' where he featured as the Referee Angel. 

He has sung across the world with 'Princess Cruise Lines' as a Guest Entertainer, and was fortunate enough to be in the first cast of 'Universal Studios Singapore's' new show 'TurnTables' as King. More recently Mark toured with Norwegian Cruise Lines as part of the select artist program, and starred as Felecia in Priscilla Queen of the Desert through Italy, France and Spain. 

2022 saw Mark as a vocalist for the wonderful company Burn the Floor, performing around Europe before coming back to home soil. Upon doing so, Mark was the vocal coach and back up singer for Disco Wonderland (Release Creative, and Brisbane Festival) In Disco Wonderland, He also was part of this show for the Adelaide Fringe (2021) Starring Pauline, Timomatic, Philippa Lynas, and Amelia Sanzo. Mark is excited to be one of the vocalists on the upcoming world tour of Burn the Floor in 2024!

Other show credits include: Hello Dolly (revival 2012), Madame Butterfly (State Opera Of South Australia), The Boy From Oz, A Royal Fairytale (Asia Tour), Bat Boy, Honk, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Gondoliers, Oklahoma, Children of Eden, The World Goes Round, Chicago, Spamalot, Kiss Me Kate, High School Musical.

Mark is excited to be head of Musical Theatre + Voice at the Australian Company of Performing Arts

Abby Rutter

Abby

JAZZ, HIP HOP + HEELS

Abby Rutter is a passionate and dedicated dance instructor at ACPA, teaching a variety of classes including Dancestar - Pre-School, Champion Hip Hop Crews, Jazz Troupes and Heels Class.

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Abby's love for dance began at the age of 10 when she first started her training at ACPA. Her commitment to the art led her to complete a Certificate IV at the ACPA Academy.

Seeking further growth and development, Abby moved to Sydney, where she completed a two-year performance degree at Ed5 International, a renowned performing arts institution. In addition to her dance qualifications, Abby is also a certified Pilates Instructor. This unique combination of skills allows her to incorporate elements of strength, flexibility, and body awareness into her dance teachings.

Abby's teaching philosophy centers around nurturing the passion for dance in her students. She believes the best part of her job is encouraging new students and watching their love for dance grow. With Abby's expertise and infectious enthusiasm, her students are guided and motivated to reach their full potential.

Andi

Andi

RECEPTION

Andi joined the team at ACPA in 2020. She comes from a customer service background having worked in banking and fashion retail for a combined total of 20+years.

Read More About Andi

Andi’s involvement with ACPA began over 10 years ago as a dance mum when her daughter Abby first joined the company in her journey as a professional dancer. Andi’s love and support for the business has led her into the position she holds today.

She is passionate about customer service and ensuring every member and family feels welcome and enjoy their time at ACPA. 

Lara

Lara

KIDS HIP HOP/DANCESTAR

Lara has been dancing since the age of four and has trained in styles such as Hip Hop, Jazz, Commercial, Contemporary and Tap.

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Lara has competed and performed in a variety of different competitions since a young age. She has been involved with a range of performances that include musicals, school performances, showcases and fundraising events. Although being on stage is one of her favourite things, she finds nothing more rewarding than watching her students shine on stage.

Lara’s passion for teaching led her into a Bachelor of Primary Education, allowing her to turn her passion into a career. She enjoys nothing more than sharing her love and knowledge of dance with her students here at ACPA. Lara loves being involved in such a hardworking, supportive and fun environment. Her goal is to be a supportive, loving and creative teacher for all students as they are constantly inspiring her to be the best teacher she can be.

Jess Goldfinch

Jess

CONTEMPORARY

Jessica Goldfinch (Statton) is a local independent Artist who has been working in the arts for the past 12 years.

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Graduating from a bachelor of dance performance at Adelaide Centre for the Arts in 2004, Jessica’s career has included professional performances with independent artists Katrina Lazzaroff, Aidan Kane Munn, guest artist for Elizabeth Cameron Dalman’s company, Mirrimu , as well as numerous performances with State Opera SA.

Further studies in a Master of Teaching from Uni SA in 2010 saw Jessica focus her skills in dance education, teaching at over 60 primary and high schools throughout Adelaide and regional South Australia, the UK and Thailand, as well as tutoring for private dance schools, professional companies, and contracts through Ausdance SA’s Artist in schools’ program and Adelaide Festival Centre’s CentrEd program.

Jessica’s teaching experience has ranged from beginners to advanced level in genres of contemporary dance technique, composition and choreography, ballet, hip-hop and body conditioning. Jessica has been a teacher and moderator for SACE dance and has sat on the panel for Carlclew Youth Arts ‘Artist in residence’ grants.

More recently Jessica has been working at the University of South Australia and Flinders University as a tutor in the school of education for Arts and Health and Physical Education programs as well as teaching for ACPA school, SACE dance and Full time course as their primary contemporary tutor.

Tiana

Tiana

HIP HOP

Tiana is a dynamic and dedicated dance professional, who has been honing her skills at ACPA since she was seven.

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Her training encompasses a wide array of dance styles including Jazz, Ballet, Hip Hop, Tap, and Musical Theatre, making her a versatile performer and instructor.

With a particular passion for Hip Hop, Tiana is an emerging teacher in the field, bringing an infectious enthusiasm that inspires her students. She cherishes the opportunity to guide young dancers on their journey, fostering their talent and nurturing their love for dance.

Tiana's commitment extends beyond teaching; she is eager to shape the next generation of Hip Hop dancers, instilling in them the same fervor and dedication that she embodies. Her ultimate aspiration is to perform alongside the world's most renowned artists on international stages. With her unwavering passion, determination, and talent, there's no doubt that Tiana is well on her way to achieving this dream.

Hamish Skene

Hamish

BOYS CLASS + ACRO

Hamish is a dynamic and passionate dancer who has been dancing since the age of three.

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He began his dance journey in the all-boys class at the ACPA and has since trained in a variety of styles, including Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Hip Hop, and Musical Theatre.

Recently crowned the National Champion at the Get the Beat competition in the Open Hip Hop Division, Hamish's talent and dedication are evident. He thrives on sharing his love for dance, a passion he first discovered in the boys' classes at ACPA, and now enjoys passing on to the next generation as a young and aspiring teacher.

Hamish's ambition extends beyond teaching. He dreams of performing on the world stage and has taken steps towards this goal by joining the ACPA Academy in year 10 to further advance his skills. In addition to his commitment to dance, Hamish also has a strong affinity for local theatre. He often takes on leadership roles such as dance captain in musicals and choreographs innovative pieces for the stage.

With his dedication, talent, and passion, Hamish is not just a promising dancer and teacher, but also a driving force in shaping the future of dance

Natasha

Natasha

JAZZ, ACRO + LYRICAL

Natasha is a vibrant and accomplished dancer with a passion for spreading the joy of dance to aspiring students.

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Her dance journey began at the tender age of 3, and since then, she has immersed herself in various dance styles, including ballet, pointe, lyrical, contemporary, acro, tap, hip hop, and jazz. With a Cert 3 in Dance and a multitude of achievements under her belt, Natasha is a well-rounded dancer and instructor.

Throughout her dance career, Natasha has excelled in her training, earning accolades such as the Leadership Award at the ACPA Mid Year Showcase in 2024. She has also completed Borovansky Ballet Exams and Jazz exams with ATOD, showcasing her dedication and commitment to her craft.

What sets Natasha apart is her genuine enthusiasm for teaching, as she finds immense fulfillment in helping her students realize their dreams and achieve their goals. She firmly believes that dance goes beyond the technical aspects and sees it as a transformative experience that empowers individuals both on and off the dance floor. 

Jessica Gerace

Jessica

HIP HOP

Jessica's dance journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. From captivating performances at local competitions to earning the highest scores in national dance events, she has made her mark on the dance community.

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The opportunity to learn from industry professionals at dance camps has further fueled her passion for dance, allowing her to continuously elevate her skills and explore new movement pathways. Dance is not just a hobby for Jessica—it's a way of life.

Her ultimate aspiration is to become a professional dancer and inspire others as a dance teacher. Witnessing her students achieve their goals and overcome challenges is what brings her the greatest joy and fulfillment.

Jessica is excited to develop the students at ACPA and can't wait be a part of their journey.

Shayla Matthews

Shayla

LYRICAL + COMMERCIAL

We are delighted to introduce Shayla Matthews as a vibrant addition to the ACPA Studio Faculty. Shayla brings a wealth of dance expertise and performance experience, making her a perfect fit to educate students about the industry.

Read More About Shayla

Shayla's dance journey began with training in various styles at DWL Event Dance in Victor Harbor. Shayla has competed in many national dance competitions, achieving high as both a soloist and a group competition member. She continued to refine her skills at GWB Studios and through programs such as the Australian Dance Theatre in Adelaide, SA (2021-2022). Additionally, Shayla has performed at esteemed companies and shows such as The Dream Creative in Sydney and Singapore and Locreado Dance Company in Adelaide (2019-2022), as well as at events such as the opening routines for Adelaide Crows and Adelaide Strikers.

In 2023, Shayla moved to the Sunshine Coast to dance and study full-time at DanceForce, where she gained elite-level training in preparation for the professional dance industry.

Her achievements also include contributions to TV and film, with upcoming credits in Disney's "Zombies 4," where she worked as a dancer under the guidance of renowned directors and choreographers.

Since 2019, Shayla has demonstrated her skills in choreography, with her unique and creative routines winning solos and groups at regional and state levels, inspiring many upcoming dancers.

We are excited for Shayla Matthews to bring her passion, experience, and knowledge to ACPA studios. Her blend of technical excellence, artistic expression, and professional experience will undoubtedly inspire and empower our students.

Anna Rybakova

Anna

BALLET + PBT TRAINING

With over 15 years of professional experience, Anna has cultivated a rich and diverse career as a dance artist. 

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She has performed with prestigious dance companies across Ukraine, South Korea, Greece, and Germany, and gained invaluable international experience working on cruise ships, collaborating with a variety of inspiring choreographers.

Anna holds a Master’s degree in Choreography from Ukraine, where she also completed her ballet training under the Vaganova syllabus.

Before relocating to Australia, Anna successfully managed her own ballet studio in Ukraine, nurturing young talent and sharing her love of dance. Her multifaceted background combines technical excellence, creative insight, and a global perspective, making her a dynamic contributor to the world of dance

Natalia Catalano

Natalia

JUNIOR SCHOOL TEACHER

Natalia is a dedicated and passionate member of our team, who finds immense joy in sharing her knowledge and inspiring her students.

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Natalia is in her final year a part of the ACPA Academy, our performing arts high school that specialises in training upcoming stars and helping them follow their dreams to be a professional performer.

Natalia's enthusiasm is contagious, and she takes pride in watching her students grow, learn, and achieve new heights. Being part of a national champion team in hip hop and receiving the Standout Dancer Award has only fuelled Natalia's drive and passion for dance even further. She is thrilled to be part of the talented and determined young dancers at ACPA and looks forward to witnessing their growth and success.