I'm OLiA!

Aka The Ballet Educator for adults.

I help adult ballet students unhide their inner ballerina, by teaching them my proven, science-based C.O.R.E curriculum.

10 +

YEARS TEACHING BALLET

250 +

HAPPY BALLET STUDENTS

1

MASTERS’ DEGREE IN DANCE

2

DIPLOMAS IN DANCE EDUCATION

AduLTS IN BaLLET CAN TRANSFoRM 🧚🏼‍♀️

I am the science-focused ballet educator who is teaching adult students online following a thorough and proven ballet curriculum.

Ballet technique is a concoction of skills which can be learnt by those who are ready to dedicate themselves to it. Body type, age, and talent have little to nothing to do with performance.

I took my first ballet lesson when I was five, and I still feel equally mesmerised every time I immerse myself in this art. I’ve always felt called to help others along their ballet journey.

After being qualified with two Diplomas in Dance Education and a Masters’ degree in Dance and teaching dozens of students on and off line, I deeply understand anatomy, growth, and pedagogy. My experience has given me enough knowledge to develop my C.O.R.E. (Centre Outline Rotation Experience) framework.

This helps me guide my students in order for them to develop their overall alignment, technique, and musicality until they uncover the ballerina they are hiding inside.

I've always been scared of the pain insecurity involved in pointe technique, and that fear made me reluctant to overcome the barrier that pointe shoes represent, although it's one of the most beautiful things about ballet obviously. But Olia's class taught me to overcome that barrier, and to not only achieve substantial improvement, but also actually enjoy what I loved, yet feared so much. Her exercises have strengthened my feet, improved my arches, and taken away that clumsy look of the steps that's so frustrating when you begin pointe work.

I liked how clear you are with your explanations! So many teeny details in correct posture. I deeply appreciate the thoroughness you use to explain the mechanics of the body! I just this morning re-did the third lesson/exercise of your Posture mini-course. My motto right now is that I don't have to be extreme, just consistent. And this video perfectly supports this. So, I've bookmarked this video for future viewings!

In love with ballet since I was 3!

Since age 3, I longed for ballet lessons, but the local studio required children aged five and above. Every graceful dancer en pointe and every ballet performance I witnessed, courtesy of my mother’s frequent visits to the theatre, filled me with a profound sense of wonder and awe. 😲

To this day, the memories of my very first ballet class remain vivid in my mind. Bursting with excitement, I could hardly believe that my moment had finally come!

Since then, ballet has bestowed upon me the gifts of discipline and perseverance, but most importantly the pure bliss of self-expression through the fluidity of movement.

As a ballet instructor, I seek to inspire my students just as I was inspired on that momentous first day.

To Ballet and Beyond...

I’ve been trained in various dance styles, including Modern Theatre, Modern Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, and Musical Theatre. I’ve even dipped my toes in Hip Hop and Flamenco at some point (really not my thing… 😆).

I’m qualified to teach Modern Theatre and Tap. In fact, I taught 🩰 ballet, 🎶 modern, and 🎩 tap for many years, and I have entered a lot of students in dance exams in all of these styles. None of them have ever scored anything less than a Merit.

Musical Theatre is definitely my second biggest love! 💫 The reason why I have devoted myself completely to teaching ballet, specifically to adults, is because it has always been my absolute favourite. I know that my finest teaching skills shine when teaching ballet, and working with adults brings me immense joy.

SOME MOrE LoVE FROM MY STuDENTS

[Olia’s] supportive, knowledgeable, and brings a lot of passion to her work. I’m delighted to share that I placed second in the beginner solo section and credit Olia with helping make it happen!

Kimberly Wilson

Working with Olia is one of the best decisions I’ve made on my ballet journey. She has given me tools and tips that have improved my confidence and performance. […] Having Olia as a mentor is the last piece of the puzzle that will help any dancer achieve their goals. Every dancer can benefit from her wealth of knowledge, technical experience, and psychology of ballet. […] She is the Ballet Bestie you never knew you needed but always wanted. 💗

Stephanie Hickerty

HErE'S A FuN FACT ABoUT ME!

Out of all my passions, there’s one that holds a special place in my heart, even surpassing my love for ballet—the animal kingdom! 🐾 The unconditional love that dogs give humans never ceases to amaze me, and the unique quirks of my feline friends always bring a smile to my face. 🐶

Spending time with animals has been an incredible learning experience for me. They’ve taught me valuable life lessons that I carry with me every day:

💞 Animals have shown me that it’s never awkward to express your feelings. Whether it’s wagging their tails or purring with contentment, they effortlessly communicate their emotions, reminding me of the importance of genuine self-expression.

🐱 They’ve also taught me the significance of setting boundaries and choosing solitude when needed. Just like cats who gracefully retreat to their own space, it’s essential to honour our personal boundaries and embrace moments of solitude for self-care and reflection.

🐈 Having pets has taught me the importance of playtime, regardless of age. Watching their playful antics and engaging in interactive sessions has reminded me to prioritise joy and embrace my inner child, even as an adult.

🐩 When it comes to fear or anxiety, animals have shown me the power of seeking comfort in the presence of loved ones. Whether it’s a warm hug or cuddling with a furry companion, these simple acts can provide a sense of security and reassurance during challenging times.

Asking me if I’m a cat or dog person is an impossible question to answer—I simply can’t choose! 🐕🐈‍⬛

HErE ARE SOME - MORE - FuN FACTS ABoUT ME!

I am an island girl, and nothing fulfils me more than sitting in the sun ☀️ by the sea. 🌊🧜🏼‍♀️

I originally come from a small but magical Greek island in the Aegean sea, called Serifos. Look it up!

In my spare time, you’ll find me learning about the Universe. 🪐

Nothing fascinates me more than learning about the Cosmos we’re part of. 💫

I could live my life just by quoting F.R.I.E.N.D.S.! 🗽

In case you’re wondering, I am a Monica. I KNOW!

MY INSiGHTS IN YOUR INBoX

A sip of ballet motivation in your inbox.

The Ballet Blend is more than a newsletter. And it’s dedicated to adult ballerinas only.

What to expect:

Tips on ballet technique
Articles on historical aspects of ballet
Explaining ballet terminology
Ideas of cross training
Short exercises and tutorials to help certain ballet aspects such as turnout strengthening, complicated ballet steps and more
Lists of useful resources like books, tools and websites
Fun downloadable surprises
Ballet playlists

I've been working with Olia both within [a group class] and also her private lessons. We have been developing my skills so much both in the classes and in our private lessons, and I'm so grateful for all the help that she has given me over the past few months. [...] Also in private lessons, Olia makes sure to have a plan every single day.

Thanks to Olia and her wide spectrum of technique and countless variations, I could improve more in [four months] than in four years of class. The most valuable aspect for me is that Olia offers to all problems – as huge, as they might seem – perfect, fast and individual solutions.