THE outstanding performance, teaching and community work of some of the State’s premier dancers were highlighted at last week’s WA Dance Awards with some local performers taking top honours.
Mt Lawley resident Reyes de Lara, who retired recently after 28 years at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, won the award for outstanding achievement in teaching for her dedication to dance education.
Fellow Mt Lawley dancers Rachel Ogle and Sete Tele won the award for outstanding achievement in regional or community dance. The pair were recognised for their work with young dancers who have physical and intellectual disabilities, and for various outreach projects in the Pilbara and other remote communities through the Michael Leslie Foundation.
WA Ballet dancer Joseph Simons from Menora was named the emerging artist of the year. The WAAPA-trained performer graduated last year and was snapped up by the company and danced in all its 2009 season performances.