Meet the graduate: Megan Schoonderbeek

Studied: Transit Dance Performing Arts, Melbourne
Now: Production cast dancer on Saga's Spirit of Adventure (cruise ship)

What is the main overall lesson you learnt?

I have so many wonderful memories of my two years at Transit Dance, but the performance aspect has to be one of my favourites. Unlike many other dance schools, we had the opportunity to perform a different show every single term. Therefore, during my studies, we showcased eight different shows, my favourite of which was either Flash!, choreographed by Kim Adam, or our musical theatre numbers choreographed by Michael Ralph in Living in the 70’s. We also had the privilege of creating two “on film” productions, and I was fortunate enough to be chosen as the lead feature in Jump, directed by Yvette Lee. Working with such incredible and inspiring choreographers to create these pieces was definitely the biggest highlight of my full-time training and they’re memories I’ll cherish forever.

What was one of the main life lessons you learnt through your full-time studies?

That life begins outside your comfort zone! Before studying at Transit Dance there were many things I never thought I could achieve, I didn’t believe I had it in me. Fear held me back, and not just from dance opportunities but in other areas of life too. Transit pushed me out of that comfort zone more times than I could count, and I am so grateful for that, as it allowed me to prove to myself that I’m capable of anything I set my mind to. This belief has opened many doors for me and I’m beyond excited to see what the future holds.

@meganschoond @transitdance @transitdancepa

This interview is included in the 2023 Full-Time Studies Guide in the July/August/September print issue of Dance Australia. Print is for keeps. Buy your copy at your favourite retail outlet or on-line here or subscribe here.