Ascend Pre-Professional Dance

For dancers ready to take their training further.

There is still time to explore extension training opportunities for 2026, and Ascend Pre-Professional Dance may be the pathway your dancer is looking for.

Designed for dedicated dancers wanting to refine their technique, artistry and performance skills in a focused and inspiring environment.

Junior – 8–10 years
Pre-Teen – 11–13 years
Senior – 14–18 years

✨ Every Friday 8.45am - 3.30pm
✨ An intensive pre-professional training program
📩 Enquire to learn more about the Ascend program.

Elite training starts here. Our Ascend Pre Professional Dance program develops dedicated dancers aged 8-18 through comprehensive technique, conditioning, and professional mentorship. Where talent rises and technique thrives ✨

We're currently running trial days and invite you, or the dancer in your life to join us!

Matt working with our Senior dancers ✨

Welcome to the Ascend Team Mr Matt! 💫

Matt Lawler is a dancer and independent artist with a Bachelor of Arts (Dance) from The Western Australia Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA).

He began his training in various commercial styles from the age of 7 to 21 at KGGDS in Perth. In 2024 he graduated from WAAPA, training under Sue Peacock, Justin Rutzou, Kynan Hughes and many other expert artists focusing on contemporary and ballet techniques. During his time at WAAPA he performed works choreographed by Isabella Stone, Deanne Butterworth and Natalie Allen and was features as a soloist in Lee Searles work FACT MATTER in 2024. He has danced for Carmelo Entertainment in Perth performing for the Olympic Farwell and 2024 St Johns Ball. During his final year of study in 2024 Matt was flown into the Northern Territory to work with the incredible young people from SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre in their 2024 and 2025 restaging of TIME.

During 2025 Matt was incredibly fortunate to receive funding from the WA State government to partake in a 2-week international secondment with Trisha Brown Dance Company in New York. During this secondment Matt joined the company as they worked to devise a new work choreographed through collaboration with Australian choreographer Lee Searle.

We loved welcoming back Kate from to Ascend, where she educated our dancers on the vital role of calcium, Vitamin D, and iron in supporting their growth and development.

We were equally thrilled to have Ellen from join us, who delivered an incredible specialised conditioning class focused on building strength and preventing injury.

These educational opportunities are key to helping our dancers build the foundation they need for long, healthy careers in dance 💫

Miss Sarah has been working hard with our Junior pre-pro students to help them achieve their big goals! 💫