About Us

Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere. Albert Einstein

The Academy of Music Dance & Drama was established in 2004 by experienced performing arts educators Ruth and Barney Ellevsen. Over time this time, they established a culture of educational excellence and community spirit in the form of offering talented educators and opportunities for young and old in the Illawarra area. 2018 brings a new era where Brett and Maree Lucas, also being experienced educators in Performing Arts and Early Childhood Education, continues to offer the highest quality delivery of music and drama education for all children and adults who want to extend and develop their creative journeys.

‘If I were not a physicist, I would probably be a musician. I often think of music. I live my daydreams in music. I see my life in terms of music.’ Albert Einstein

A message from Brett and Maree (Maxi):

“We are privileged to be able to continue the genuine passion for music and drama that Ruth and Barney have achieved in their vision and focus over the years. We understand the importance and benefits of a music and drama education and focus on seeing students flourish and grow into wonderful, talented individuals who go on to share their skills within the community and abroad. We continue the work to lead a motivated professional team of tutors with significant qualifications and industry experience to offer any student the opportunity to grow in their desire to attain what they set out to achieve. Every child has an innate musical capacity. This is true of dance and drama also. If we are not tapping in and finding ways to develop that innate ability, we’re not doing our job as performing arts educators. We are experienced in preparing students for auditions, casting calls, HSC performance programs, AMEB Music exams, Eisteddfods, talent quests, Musicals…the list is endless.

As parents ourselves we understand the importance of teaching the fundamentals correctly to children at the earliest age. The medical and social benefits are apparent and we also understand that parents want their children to be taught by people who are qualified and passionate about what they do. We do not believe in being elitist and encourage everyone to be involved in different Academy activities benefiting to reach their full potential, be it weekly lessons or performance events. We are able to develop and equip students with industry skills or simply develop in students a love and appreciation of the arts. The team at The Academy of Music Dance & Drama strive to deliver a variety of lesson types that cater to individual needs and budgets.

This provides our clients with the option to choose the learning format which suits them best. We look forward to talking to you to discuss your needs.