Dance Adjudicator
VIC
Maria Koumis began her dance journey in the heart of Melbourne’s West at the young age of 3. Her Junior years consisted of dance training in Jazz, Classical and Tap, completing examinations under the Commonwealth Society of Teachers of Dancing from Tiny Tots right through to Full Diploma.
Over the years Maria developed a strong passion for Jazz and Contemporary and by completing further training in her intermediate years, this enhanced her strength and confidence as a performer and choreographer.
Maria’s dance journey continued to grow in her senior years, completing full Syllabi in Jazz, Tap, Classical (Intermediate) and Contemporary and has extensive knowledge in theory and practice of World Dance, Neo Classical, Demi Character, Character and Pointe Studies. Maria has competed in various dance eisteddfods around Melbourne and Victoria in all genres and has completed Public Performance Examinations and gained Student Teachers Diplomas. In 2000 Maria gained her Full Teaching Diploma in Theatrical Dance and holds a full CSTD teacher’s membership. Maria also has a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Certificate III in Business.
From age 17, Maria freelanced as a choreographer across schools around Melbourne and in 2001 the decision to create her own school and continue to grow and share her passion became a successful reality. As a Studio Owner, Principal and Teacher of all genres for Examinations, Competitions, VET Dance, Concerts & Cabaret shows, Audition preparation & actioning Maria’s professionalism over the years has been result’s driven and inspiring.
Maria has effectively also arranged and managed her own events, and has worked on and off stage with many entertainers, sound and lighting, music arrangers, photographers and videographers, reception function centers, costuming, hair and makeup and pyrotechnitions. Maria has also scribed at dance eisteddfods in Melbourne.
Maria appreciates the opportunity of working in an industry that allows us to constantly grow, create and share our knowledge too so many.
“Dance has the ability to share your story and read and enjoy somebody else’s”