Welcome to OG Dance Studio, where we celebrate the art of mature jazz and cabaret dancing! Our classes are designed specifically for adults ages 35 and up who are looking to reconnect with the joy of dance and express themselves in a supportive and welcoming community.
Our experienced instructors will guide you through the technical foundations of jazz and cabaret dancing, helping you to build a strong foundation for your dance practice. But don't worry if you're new to dance – our classes are designed for all levels, and no prior dance experience is needed. We'll meet you where you are and help you achieve your goals, whether that's perfecting your technique or simply having fun on the dance floor.
At OG Dance Studio, we believe that dancing is more than just physical movement – it's a form of self-expression that can help you connect with your body, your emotions, and your fellow dancers. Our classes are designed to be fun, engaging, and inclusive, so you can let loose and explore your creativity in a supportive environment.
So if you're ready to step out of your comfort zone, build a strong foundation for your dance practice, and rediscover the joy of dance, our classes are for you.
We love our 'old skool' music, so every class you will find us pumping out some of your favourite tunes from the 80's, 90's and early 2000's.
DAPHNEE DEFONTAINE
Cabaret/Heels Foundations
Meet Daphnee, a passionate dancer and fitness expert who brings the joy of dance to people of all ages. Born in Mauritius, an island country in the Indian Ocean, Daphnee migrated to Australia at the age of 4 and grew up in Sydney. At the age of 6, she discovered her love for dancing and joined the Johnny Young Talent school, where she trained in ballet, jazz, tap and cabaret style for 8 years.
Her talent and dedication led her to perform at many interstate concerts and be one of the main dancers at the Olympic opening ceremony in 2000. Today, Daphnee combines her love of dance with her expertise in fitness to create an innovative approach to exercise that integrates movement, rhythm and fun.
As a fitness instructor, Daphnee understands the benefits of dance for both the mind and body. She sees dance as a motivational and relationship-building activity for groups and communities, and as a way to improve personal wellbeing. Dancing builds confidence, self-love, and offers specific benefits for health, fitness, stress-reduction, and a long life.
Through her unique approach, Daphnee inspires and empowers people of all ages and abilities to discover the joy and benefits of dance. Whether you are looking to improve your fitness, relieve stress, or simply have fun, Daphnee is here to help you reach your goals and unleash your inner dancer.
BARBIE PAYTON
Jazz/Commercial Foundations
Barbie started her dance journey as a child growing up in Los Angeles in the 1980s. Barbie was fortunate enough to learn dancing from the iconic Julie O’Connell and trained at the famous Debbie Reynolds Studios in North Hollywood before moving to Sydney and training at The Dance Centre and Janice Breen Performance Studio in Jazz, Tap, Ballet and Singing. Barbie’s love of Acting also saw her earn a Diploma in Dramatic Arts.
Barbie has worked professionally as both a Dance Teacher and a Performer. Barbie has performed at Disneyland and was a Tap dancer in the Sydney 2000 Olympics opening ceremony, as well as various private and commercial functions.
Barbie has a particular love for traditional Jazz techniques and the history of dance. You can take the girl out of the 90s, but can’t take the 90s out of this girl!
Barbie believes that escaping to dance is what helps her heal, transform and be a better human. Her love for ‘old skool’ music is what drives her passion for dance and strongly believes dance creates emotional connections, self-esteem, focus and self-expression all at the same time.
When not dancing, you will find Barbie designing beautiful spaces around South East Queensland as an Interior Designer. Her natural creative mindset is what helps Barbie’s students feel free to explore the incredible world of dance together.