Our Story
Our Philosophy
Welcome to Arts Theatre of Dance, your local dance school nestled near the beautiful beaches of Burleigh Waters, Gold Coast. We pride ourselves being a small, friendly community where long-term connections flourish among our dance family. Our dedicated and inspired teachers are here to guide dancers of all ages through a diverse range of styles, ensuring a nurturing and professional environment for everyone.
Join us and discover the joy of dance in a warm and inviting atmosphere!
Our Founder
Carolyn Coulson
Starting dance at age three, the passion for performance, costumes, and competition led to a career in teaching. After working at various studios in Melbourne, including Fred Astaire’s and teaching ballroom and jazz, a move to Sydney expanded her experience. She later moved to a small country town, where she met Colin Shooter, who helped her become an examiner with the Federation of Teachers of Dance (FATD).
In 1986, she opened her own dance school, Alpine Dancerama, which grew to over 200 students. She ran classes in nearby towns and took students to compete in Melbourne and Sydney. In 1991, seeking a warmer climate, she moved to Queensland, where she opened new schools in Miami and Currumbin.
In 2003, she expanded her business further by purchasing a dance shop, balancing shop ownership with teaching. Over the years, she also became skilled in costume design, creating a well-rounded presence in the local dance community. Known as the ultimate dance mum, she has cared for hundreds of students across the Gold Coast over the years, leaving behind a lifelong legacy in the dance world.
