Biography: Melanie McNamara

Ballet

Melanie McNamara is a Fellow member and registered teacher of The British Association of Teachers of Dancing (B.A.T.D.), in all disciplines of dance (Ballet, Tap, Jazz & Stage). She owned and operated her own award winning dance studio for 17 years, in Ottawa, ON; and has been training students at the professional, competitive and recreational levels. Her ballet background includes training in The Royal Academy of Dancing (R.A.D.), Checcehetti Syllabus (at the Quinte Ballet School, Belleville, Ontario), as well as in The B.A.T.D.

Melanie’s many years of training has won her and her students numerous awards and scholarships, at competitions throughout Canada and the United States. As well, she has had several students accepted to The Royal Winnipeg Ballet School and Quinte Ballet School. She has choreographed special dance performances for various showcases and events in the National Capital Region, and has been presented with several special recognition awards from the Mayor of Ottawa for her contributions.

Melanie’s passion for teaching dance motivates her to continue to update her knowledge on the latest teaching techniques by actively participating in training courses, in Canada and the United States. Since 2006 she has been studying with Paula Morgan (Los Angeles, CA), learning and incorporating Paula’s unique teaching techniques, which has further enhanced the development of her students. Melanie has judged for many organizations and competitions in Ontario, and loves to share her enthusiasm and passion for dance with competitors and understands and appreciates the dedication and commitment of teachers, parents and students.