Business Details
46 Years
experience
Your Trusted Performing Arts School in Newcastle
Elaine Milbourne Performing Arts School (EMPAS) has been nurturing talent in the performing arts since 1980, offering a comprehensive curriculum that spans dance, singing, and theatre. Founded by Elaine Milbourne, the school has evolved from a local dance studio to a renowned institution with state-of-the-art facilities, including four purpose-built studios and a dedicated singing/music room. Our team of specialist instructors, many of whom are former students, bring decades of industry experience and a passion for teaching, ensuring pupils develop technical skill, confidence, and individuality. EMPAS maintains strong ties to the community through performances at local events and festivals, while also preparing students for international stages, as evidenced by our alumni who have performed at Disneyland Paris and Her Majestys Theatre.With a focus on excellence, we guide students through IDTA examinations, achieving consistently high pass rates and numerous accolades at national competitions. Our commitment to personalized development has seen students secure places at prestigious institutions like the English National Ballet School and Urdang Academy. The schools success is reflected in its reputation for fostering both professional careers and a lifelong love of the performing arts.
Services
Ballet
Tap
Modern
Singing
Musical Theatre
Contemporary
Acrobatic Arts
Theatre Craft
Freestyle/Commercial
Limber
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We offer over 40 years of expertise in performing arts education.
- Our faculty includes IDTA-certified instructors and industry professionals.
- We provide state-of-the-art facilities with four dedicated studios.
- We have an enviable success rate in IDTA examinations and competitions.
- Our alumni regularly secure placements at top-tier performing arts institutions.
Associations and certifications
- International Dance Teachers Association (IDTA)
What people say
Excellent success rate
Professional achievements
Fun environment
Expert instructors
Community involvement
Services
Ballet
Ballet classes at EMPAS focus on grace, precision, and foundational techniques essential for mastering dance. Students train in IDTA syllabi from beginner to advanced levels, developing posture, coordination, and performance skills. Our program prepares pupils for examinations and professional careers, with a strong emphasis on discipline and artistry.
Tap
Tap classes teach students to create rhythmic patterns using metal-tapped shoes, emphasizing timing and foot articulation. EMPAS offers IDTA-certified training from prep to advanced levels, fostering creativity and technical proficiency. Students regularly participate in competitions and examinations, achieving high marks and accolades.
Musical Theatre
Musical Theatre combines dance, singing, and acting in a dynamic environment. EMPAS follows the IDTA curriculum, preparing students for stage performances and examinations. Classes focus on character development, vocal technique, and choreography, with opportunities to perform in local and national productions.
Singing
Singing lessons at EMPAS cover vocal technique, performance, and music theory. Private and group sessions are available, tailored to individual goals. Students prepare for IDTA exams, competitions, and professional auditions, with a focus on breath control, pitch accuracy, and expressive delivery.
Acrobatic Arts
Acrobatic Arts classes blend dance with acrobatic moves, emphasizing strength, flexibility, and balance. EMPAS instructors guide students through progressive levels, integrating acro skills into choreography. Classes include warm-up, conditioning, and technique drills to ensure safe and effective training.
People
Elaine Milbourne
Founder & Director
Elaine established EMPAS in 1980, transforming it from a small dance school into a leading performing arts institution. With over 40 years of IDTA membership, she remains committed to excellence in teaching and community engagement.
Amy Nicholson
Teacher & Choreographer
Elaines daughter Amy trained at EMPAS from age 3, achieving advanced qualifications. A qualified IDTA instructor, she teaches and choreographs while managing administrative operations, combining creativity with organisational expertise.
Elena Davidson
Dance Instructor
Elena joined EMPAS at 12, later studying at Renaissance Arts. An IDTA-certified teacher, she specialises in Contemporary Modern Jazz and Theatre Craft, bringing industry experience and award-winning choreography to her classes.
Alex Mitchinson
Guest Choreographer
Alex trained at Laine Theatre Arts before a 12-year career in musical theatre and film. Now a teacher and choreographer, she shares her expertise in lyrical, ballet, and contemporary dance with EMPAS students.
Sofi Johnson
Vocal Coach
Sofi trained from age 3, securing a place at The Urdang Academy. A professional singer, she teaches vocal technique and performance, blending industry insights with practical training to nurture young talent.
Questions
What performing arts disciplines does EMPAS offer?
EMPAS provides training in ballet, tap, modern, theatre craft, freestyle/commercial, contemporary, singing, musical theatre, acrobatic arts, and limber classes.
Are IDTA examinations available at EMPAS?
Yes, EMPAS offers IDTA exams in ballet, modern, theatre craft, tap, freestyle, and musical theatre, with four exam sessions annually.
How can students audition for professional shows?
EMPAS coaches pupils for external auditions, including pantomimes, professional productions, and operatic societies, leveraging industry connections and expertise.
What facilities does EMPAS provide?
The school features four sprung-floor studios, a singing/music room, barres, mirrors, and a refreshment station at Newburn Old Town Hall.
Does EMPAS offer adult or beginner classes?
Yes, classes cater to all ages and abilities, from preschool creative movement to advanced training for professional aspirations.
How does EMPAS support student career development?
EMPAS guides students toward higher education placements, associate programs, and professional opportunities, with alumni working globally in the performing arts.
Reviews (2)
Kathleen Davidson
Dec 08, 2020
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Such an amazing dance school. Elaine Milbourne caters to all ages & abilities, with lots of dance styles to choose from. Every child gets the opportunity of doing shows and competitions - no one is left out. I couldn’t have chosen a better school for my daughter; she loves her EMPAS dance family; we both do.
Gail 'Beaty' Smith
Dec 08, 2020
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A great dance school, can’t recommend it enough! Everyone becomes part of the dance school family. Very supportive & professional.
