Adelaide’s oldest Ballet School.
Studio Arts Ballet has a rich history and a bright future centering on the school’s ethos - anyone can dance.
Our teachers.
Annisa Carstensen is an experienced dancer and has a special connection with her dance students, bringing out the best in each one. She is a Registered Teacher, and when she’s not dancing she’s teaching English and Psychology to senior students. Annisa has a Senior First Aid Certificate and Working with Children Check.
Alexi Tuckey has been dancing since she was a child and, like Annisa, completed Royal Academy of Dance examinations. Alexi loves ballet and loves to share her passion with the students. When not in the studio, Alexi provides media and communications advice to her special clients. She also has a Senior First Aid Certificate and Working with Children Check.
We pride ourselves with providing a Child Safe Environment and have a Child Safe Policy and Staff Guidelines.
Our timeline.
1932
South Australian dance pioneer Joanna Priest O.B.E opened her first dance school. Whilst a popular school for children to learn all forms of dance, it also provided training for renowned artists, Stephen Baynes and Kenneth Rowell.
1939
Priest established the ballet company, The South Australian Ballet Club, with Lynette Tuck as Principal Ballerina. Lyn danced the title roles in the original ballets, ‘The Nymph and the Nobleman’ and ‘The Listeners’.
1959-66
Christine Sears began her full time dance training at the Studio Theatre on Wellington Square. Chris starred in many ballets including Cecil Bates’ 'Requiem’ and ‘The Shepherdess and the Chimney Sweep’ which was created especially for her.
1997
Priest remained Principal of the ballet school until her eightieth year. Chris and Lyn were invited to take over the school when Priest passed away. They continued to provide a nurturing and creative dance environment for all students.
1986-88
Alexi and Annisa start ballet classes at The Studio Arts Centre, a purpose built studio behind Priest’s house on Childers Street, North Adelaide. They were taught by Chris, Lyn and various other teachers, and completed ballet examinations.
2008
Upon Chris’ retirement, she offered the school to Alexi and Annisa. With over 50 years of dance experience between them, they were well equipped to take over the reins at the Tynte Street studio.
2012
The school celebrated 80 years of dance with an exhibition of costumes and props at Carclew House during the SA History Festival. Annisa and Alexi completed the Ausdance Skill Set, a nationally accredited training program for safe dance practice.
2021
Studio Arts Ballet moved to its new home, The Refectory, on the beautiful grounds of the Australian Lutheran College on Jeffcott Street. The school also welcomed Caitlin Driscoll, pianist and Honours Graduate, who plays for the children’s classes.