La Vive has been at home in Port Macquarie since 1985

Founded by Elizabeth Polson-Galloway as La Vive Classique Academy of Dance, the school very quickly became a leader in dance education in the Port Macquarie Area. 

2016 has been an exciting year for La Vive, a shift in name, from La Vive Classique Academy of Dance to La Vive Studios mirrors our shift in direction. While we will continue to offer industry leading dance education, we have added singing, acting and music lessons to our busy studio timetable. We look forward to offering even more students the ability to learn in a safe and nurturing environment, right in the heart of Port Macquarie. 

Elizabeth Polson-Galloway

ARAD RAD RTS Diploma of Dance (Distinction), Cert IV in Training and Assessment 

Elizabeth both founder and original owner of our studio formerly known as ‘La Vive Classique Academy of Dance’ is renowned for her vital and on going support, high quality professionalism and training within the Hastings and Mid North Coast area. This year sees Elizabeth entering into the 36th year of the Academy and sending ballerinas for their Royal Academy of Dance Examinations. Elizabeth still loves to teach the children are her inspiration. Elizabeth started her dance training with Wendy Burke at the Taree School of Classical Ballet, she then continued on to full- time dance training at Sydney City Ballet with Tanya Pearson and John Byrne. During her student days, Elizabeth nurtured her love of teaching dance, working part time at Mrs Pearson’s school and Glen Street Academy of Dance at Belrose. By 1985, Elizabeth was running a dance school at Harbord and teaching at Randwick under the guidance of Tanya Pearson and John Byrne. Elizabeth decided to return to her home region, as at that time there were no ballet or dance classes available in Wauchope or Laurieton. So with the encouragement of local parents she opened schools in the Manning and Hastings area – La Vive Classique Academy of Dance was born.

Since then the Academy has grown in leaps and bounds. In 1995, Elizabeth opened the Hastings Dance Centre, at Port Macquarie, a purpose built facility for dance training and special flooring for ballet, tap and jazz. Our other branch operating at present is at Lake Cathie. The Hastings Dance Centre shop is stockist of leading brands of dancewear; Bloch, Energetiks, Capezio, Sansha and Martins tutus.

To further enhance her teaching registration Elizabeth completed the Diploma of Dance in 1996 majoring in history of dance and anatomy. She has completed Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, studied Pilates Fletcher Technique and regularly attends courses and conferences to keep updated with the trends.

Elizabeth has taught thousands of students over the years, and many of her students have gone on to have successful careers in the performing arts industry both in Australia and overseas. Elizabeth is aware that not every student is interested in making a career in dance. Some students are looking for fun and fitness. The timetable is carefully devised to ensure that every individual’s ability can be nurtured. Elizabeth is very supportive of the local community and takes every opportunity to be involved in district and community events. Each year we have many performances at the glasshouse for children to experience a professional theatre environment. In 2009 & 2011 we produced the full length ballet The Nutcracker with guest artists from the Australian Ballet Company. 

Elizabeth Seiger

Liz is the Principal of La Vive Studios and is highly regarded for her teaching and technical coaching with over 12 years of industry experience and training. This year sees Liz entering her 2nd year as Studio Owner and Principal of one of Port Macquarie’s pillar’s in Performing Arts. La Vive Studios established over 36 years ago, offers a safe and nurturing space with the highest level of Dance, Singing, Acting and Music training. Liz’s passions derive from the love and faith she holds within teaching and mentoring her students and school to establish strong, unique individuals to make our world a little more colourful and magical!

From a young child, just as her students, Liz had always dreamt of a life full of art and studied all styles of dance from a young age. In addition to studying BBO Ballet exams, Liz also completed Dance & Drama for her HSC. In 2010 at the age of 16 years old she made her musical debut many of her credits range from Miss Saigon, The Full Monty, Cabaret, Mary Poppins, Wonder Women, and many other smaller independent theatre productions. Learning and developing her vocal abilities throughout her endeavours as well as attending classical singing and music training.

Liz went on to be awarded several memorial awards for her dedication to live Theatre and the Arts, one of which gave her a scholarship to travel and study Theatre and Film in Los Angeles in 2014. Liz gained experience and knowledge about all aspects of performance as she worked as a professional dancer, choreographer alongside industry professionals and Oscar award nominated directors in Australia and abroad.  

Returning home to Australia, saw Liz taking a backseat to the limelight to growing into a new phase of creation. Adding more choreography, directing, script writing and solo live performance credits within community Theatre and local events to compliment her dedication and passion, Liz took to teaching master classes and mentoring in many schools up and down the mid north coast. 

Our Teachers are supported by our wonderful admin staff.

La Vive's home is in our specially designed studio in the Port Macquarie Industrial area. 

Our four studios are purpose built with sprung floors, full length mirrors & ballet bars. Our studio is also home to The Hastings Dance Centre where all dancing essentials can be purchased, the La Vive Cafe where students can refuel before they dance & it is equiped with wifi so that homework can be completed in between warmups and classes. 

Our Port Macquarie Studio has plenty of parking and the foyer is always full of sociable parents and students. Feel free to drop by, there is always someone available to show you around. 

La Vive in Lake Cathie

On Wednesdays, La Vive holds a select amount of classes in the Lake Cathie Community Hall. You can view our timetable here, and if you feel one of these classes in Lake Cathie is right for you, please don't hesitate to contact us. 

Lake Cathie Community Hall, Mullaway Rd, Lake Cathie

Madeleine Bailey, LVS Alumni

I first began dancing at La Vive Classique when I was five years old. Over the thirteen years I have spent at La Vive I have learnt over 60 solos, 94 groups, and 11 duos/trios, totalling 165 dances in jazz, classical ballet, modern, contemporary, character, tap and even Scottish dance styles. I will always cherish the many memories and special friends I have made over the years at La Vive, and I will especially miss the freedom and confidence awarded to me by dance. I hope to remember my roots as a dancer as I continue my scholastic journey. 

Tiegan Rockliff, LVS Alumni

Firstly, I would like to thank everyone for the warm and friendly way in which I was welcomed into the La Vive family. To all my teachers, both past and present, a very special thank you for your help, guidance and support that you have all given to me. In my 10 years of dancing I have been so lucky to have made so many beautiful and lasting friendships that I will always keep close to my heart and I take away with me so many special memories. Thank you all so much for being such a special part of my life. I will miss you all so much. 

Chayanne Harihi

Just two small words that mean so much, ‘thank you’, to you and your team of dedicated dance professionals/choreographers for all your work and dedication in front of and behind the scenes. 

What a wonderful insight into what dance is about and as a first time dance mum, I can honestly say that my daughter, Miss Claudia Byrne, is enjoying every moment of it and dance has become a big part of her week. She now wants to join the Matilda group.

We look forward to more performances, fun, and hairspray, make up and costumes in the future and highly recommend La Vive Classique.

Bethany Cook

The teachers are so kind and friendly. They do a wonderful job and make you feel welcome.

Wendy Stewart

LVC is an inclusive dance school that caters for all Skill and commitment levels with a design your own approach and a well thought out timetable specially tailored to senior students taking into account school dance commitments ,study and part time work.

THANK YOU For all the wonderful opportunities you have given us over the past 13yrs.

Kate McCarron

I have just started my 4 and 8 year old with La Vive and I am thrilled with their care and dedication to the children. Highly experienced teachers who are also very down to earth.

I am so excited to be able to take advantage of the adults barre class - conveniently timed to coincide with my 4 year olds dance class to give busy mums the opportunity to get moving too! The class was great fun and good for any skill level regardless of experience. A good work out and Jacqui is a fabulous teacher who makes the experience fun. I felt great after, albeit with some well worked out legs! Thank you Jacqui and the La Vive team for welcoming us to your centre!

Sarah Caltabiano

As a previous student of La Vive Classique Academy of Dance I feel blessed to have been given guidance and knowledge from all the teachers. La Vive able to provide me with multiple performance and workshop opportunities ranging from group and solo competitions to the professional end of year concerts that are always held at the most sought after venue in the area. La Vive welcomes students of all ages and abilities and inspires them to create an incredible career in dance.

Bella Kanturek

I have just secured my first contract as a dancer! Without your training and guidance I would not be where I am today. Thank you! 

Scott Alaban

Friendly and helpful teachers. They are there to help and push you.

Are you ready to enrol your child at La Vive Studios?