Music Lessons
One-on-one tuition with qualified tutors. Each student follows an individualised program tailored to their goals.
- Singing & vocals
- Piano & keyboard
- Guitar & drums
- Woodwind & brass
Our Programs
Three disciplines. One creative home.
From a child’s first piano lesson to a senior student preparing for the stage, every program is built around individual growth and shared community.
Dance Classes
Group classes capped at 15 students so technique gets the attention it deserves. Students grouped by age and stage.
- Jazz & funk
- Hip hop
- Ballet
- Contemporary
Drama
Junior, Intermediate and Senior classes led by industry professionals. Voice, movement, improvisation and play building.
- Voice & movement
- Improvisation
- Characterisation
- Script writing & play building
250+
Students & Growing
“Empowering creative minds across the Illawarra since 2004.”
Thirroul · NSW
Our Story
A creative home for the South Coast.
The Academy of Music Dance Drama was established in 2004 by Ruth and Barney Ellevsen. In 2018, Brett and Maree Lucas took the reins — bringing experience in Performing Arts and Early Childhood Education and a deep commitment to community.
Brett holds a performance degree from the Victoria College of the Arts and an MBA focused on social impact. Before running the Academy he performed with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, the State Orchestra of Victoria, the Australian Ballet, and the Australian Opera.
Established 2004
Founded by Ruth and Barney Ellevsen — performing arts educators with deep South Coast roots.
Led by Brett & Maree Lucas
Since 2018, the academy has grown from 75 to over 250 students under their leadership.
Anita's Theatre Complex
Home base in Thirroul, around 15 minutes from Wollongong CBD.
Largest in the Illawarra
The largest privately owned performing arts academy in the region.
Performance & Pathways
Stages our students have stood on.
Performance is part of the journey. Whatever your goal, the Academy creates real opportunities to step onto a stage and share what you’ve been working on.
Annual Public Production
Every student plays a part in our annual main-stage production — an end-of-year celebration of the work and growth of the Academy.
Showcase Concerts
Regular Showcase Concerts give students of every level a friendly stage to perform in front of family and friends.
Local Eisteddfods
Students compete and perform across the South Coast eisteddfod circuit, and at the Thirroul Seaside & Arts Festival.
Schools Spectacular & AMEB
Pathways into the NSW Department of Education's Southern Stars and Schools Spectacular, plus AMEB examinations.
Term enrolments open now
Try a class before you commit.
Trial lessons are the easiest way to find the right fit. Call us, send an email, or fill in the enquiry form and we’ll line up a time that suits.