DAVID CAMM- SYDNEY
I recently had the privilege of teaching at SDS Griffith and I was blown away. This studio makes sure the students are getting the same training and opportunities as city students. The balance of elite vocational performing arts tuition and a warm family environment are met spectacularly.
I was particularly impressed with how hard each and every student works, and how professional the older students are. I can confidently say this studio is preparing dancers for work in the industry.
I would recommend this studio to anyone and for kids of all ages who want to dance for fun or for prospects of a professional career.
I was particularly impressed with how hard each and every student works, and how professional the older students are. I can confidently say this studio is preparing dancers for work in the industry.
I would recommend this studio to anyone and for kids of all ages who want to dance for fun or for prospects of a professional career.
ALEX KELLY -GRIFFITH/SYDNEY
Dancing at SDS has been one of the most life-changing and amazing experiences that I have had the pleasure of being a part of. I have met some of my best friends through being a part of Shannon’s team, and my memories there will forever be held dear in my heart, regardless of where I am in life. I began dancing there just for fun, as SDS was the newest studio in town, and also the first studio to offer an acrobatics class. To my luck, I snagged the very last spot in the class, and I cannot imagine what my life would’ve been like had I been too late. Fast forward seven years later, and dance had become my whole life, spending six days a week at the studio, not including competitions and performances. It truly was the work of Ms Shannon and the faculty at the studio that ignited a passion for performing that I never knew was inside of me.
Never did I once think in my life that I would be sent to the Joffrey Ballet School in NYC or dancing on the streets of Disneyland! Not only was it buckets of fun, but it also provided me, along with many other students, a foundation for progressing further into a professional setting, even in worlds outside of dance. Growing up in a country town, it is very difficult to break into the industry due to our regional location and thus, our lack of connection to working, well known professionals, teachers and choreographers. Ms Shannon’s extensive background and experience in dance has allowed her to bring new life and opportunities to dancers in Griffith, and to open our eyes to a variety of pathways and contacts (such as Britney Spears backup dancers!!) to further our dance education, which is a luxury that Griffith performers rarely, if at all, got to indulge in prior to SDS opening up. Not to mention our other wonderful teachers such as Ms Cathy Pianca, who was able to make me love ballet (which is a very difficult task!) and nurture and push each student to their fullest potential, passing down her own passion for dance. Evidently, Ms Shannon is always able to provide the best training for each style, regardless of whether it is herself or another member of faculty teaching. Aside from just the dancing, SDS provided me with a home away from home, genuinely. Any sadness or frustration was left at the door due to how exciting and loving the environment at that studio is. Ms Shannon and her wonderful team always provided a safe space to be myself and show off my strengths, as well as a shoulder/shoulders to cry on whenever I was vulnerable and needed support.
Every time I visit Griffith, the studio is always near to the top of my list for people to see, as it brings me with so much joy just thinking about all of the tear-jerking and wonderful memories that I experienced there. Ups and downs are just a given in life. Friends, people and love are constantly coming and going. Dance is consistent. Dance is forever. Thanks to Ms Shannon, SDS will definitely be a huge part of my forever.
Never did I once think in my life that I would be sent to the Joffrey Ballet School in NYC or dancing on the streets of Disneyland! Not only was it buckets of fun, but it also provided me, along with many other students, a foundation for progressing further into a professional setting, even in worlds outside of dance. Growing up in a country town, it is very difficult to break into the industry due to our regional location and thus, our lack of connection to working, well known professionals, teachers and choreographers. Ms Shannon’s extensive background and experience in dance has allowed her to bring new life and opportunities to dancers in Griffith, and to open our eyes to a variety of pathways and contacts (such as Britney Spears backup dancers!!) to further our dance education, which is a luxury that Griffith performers rarely, if at all, got to indulge in prior to SDS opening up. Not to mention our other wonderful teachers such as Ms Cathy Pianca, who was able to make me love ballet (which is a very difficult task!) and nurture and push each student to their fullest potential, passing down her own passion for dance. Evidently, Ms Shannon is always able to provide the best training for each style, regardless of whether it is herself or another member of faculty teaching. Aside from just the dancing, SDS provided me with a home away from home, genuinely. Any sadness or frustration was left at the door due to how exciting and loving the environment at that studio is. Ms Shannon and her wonderful team always provided a safe space to be myself and show off my strengths, as well as a shoulder/shoulders to cry on whenever I was vulnerable and needed support.
Every time I visit Griffith, the studio is always near to the top of my list for people to see, as it brings me with so much joy just thinking about all of the tear-jerking and wonderful memories that I experienced there. Ups and downs are just a given in life. Friends, people and love are constantly coming and going. Dance is consistent. Dance is forever. Thanks to Ms Shannon, SDS will definitely be a huge part of my forever.
LARA SALVESTRO - GRIFFITH/SYDNEY
SDS Griffith was a home away from home for me during my schooling years. It was an integral part of my life, a place where my passion for dance truly blossomed. Under Shannon's guidance, I've had the privilege of experiencing a diverse range of dance styles, making me a versatile performer.
This loving & nurturing studio provided me with the framework needed to survive the dance world & the outside world. Shannon’s expertise & global associates in the dance industry makes her studio a cut about the rest in the Riverina.
Shannon has provided SDS Griffith with various guest teacher to help us expand our dance experience horizons. I truly believe that Shannon’s commitment to her students’ growth what what sets her apart. Along with interstate competitions, we also attended dance trips within Australia & even travelled over to the United States of America to dance with the best. It was during these trips that I felt the happiest & was fortunate enough to create my favourite lifetime memories. The friendships I have made during my time at SDS Griffith are some of my strongest. I admire the ‘family like’ culture that I was included in. The culture that is encompassed within this studio is certainly a feeling that I miss. It was because of Shannon’s guidance, friendship, support & expertise that I have been fortunate enough to expand my dance horizons.
SDS Griffith has provided me with a platform to grow & share my talents. During 2022 (my first year out of SDS) I moved to Sydney to enhance my career & experience a new life of learning. During this, I have appeared in various National television commercials - some include Smith Chips AU & My Kitchen Rules. Additionally, I performed alongside Jimmy Barnes at the NRL Grand-final in 2022 & Finally, achieved a lifelong goal of mine to become an NRL Cheerleader during 2023.
It was because of Shannon & the facility at SDS Griffith that I was motivated & supported enough to be able to accomplish such great achievements. But beyond the dance itself, SDS cultivates a fun, positive, and supportive environment. Here, you not only become the best dancer you can be but also forge lifelong friendships and create cherished memories. Shannon's Dance Studio is more than just a dance school; it's a transformative experience that will change your life for the better.
This loving & nurturing studio provided me with the framework needed to survive the dance world & the outside world. Shannon’s expertise & global associates in the dance industry makes her studio a cut about the rest in the Riverina.
Shannon has provided SDS Griffith with various guest teacher to help us expand our dance experience horizons. I truly believe that Shannon’s commitment to her students’ growth what what sets her apart. Along with interstate competitions, we also attended dance trips within Australia & even travelled over to the United States of America to dance with the best. It was during these trips that I felt the happiest & was fortunate enough to create my favourite lifetime memories. The friendships I have made during my time at SDS Griffith are some of my strongest. I admire the ‘family like’ culture that I was included in. The culture that is encompassed within this studio is certainly a feeling that I miss. It was because of Shannon’s guidance, friendship, support & expertise that I have been fortunate enough to expand my dance horizons.
SDS Griffith has provided me with a platform to grow & share my talents. During 2022 (my first year out of SDS) I moved to Sydney to enhance my career & experience a new life of learning. During this, I have appeared in various National television commercials - some include Smith Chips AU & My Kitchen Rules. Additionally, I performed alongside Jimmy Barnes at the NRL Grand-final in 2022 & Finally, achieved a lifelong goal of mine to become an NRL Cheerleader during 2023.
It was because of Shannon & the facility at SDS Griffith that I was motivated & supported enough to be able to accomplish such great achievements. But beyond the dance itself, SDS cultivates a fun, positive, and supportive environment. Here, you not only become the best dancer you can be but also forge lifelong friendships and create cherished memories. Shannon's Dance Studio is more than just a dance school; it's a transformative experience that will change your life for the better.
KIARA CROMACK - GRIFFITH
Dancing at SDS was my savior and a life-changing experience that I was apart of. Shannon would always take me in under her wing if something ever went wrong outside of dance, she was like a 2nd Mum to me who’s shoulder you could cry on and talk about my problems to. No words could express how lucky we are to have her by our sides.
I remember walking into CWA hall when Shannon first opened the dance studio. Ever since then SDS has been a big part of my life even till now and Shannon has come a long way. The friendships I have made during my time at SDS Griffith are my strongest and are part of my family, I would call sisters.
Shannon has provided and still provides so many opportunities for us and the students. She has so many good connections in the dance industry. She has provided SDS with numerous guest teachers to help expand our dance horizons. Shannon is always able to provide the best training for each style. When I started, I only liked hip hop then Shannon pushed me to believe in myself and made me take every single class. If it wasn’t for Shannon, I wouldn’t have become the dancer I was. Unfortunately, I had to take a step back as I injured my hip but Shannon has always told me I’m always welcome back and just opens her arms with big love. I have so many highlights from my time at SDS. Going to competitions, going away for workshops and concerts. Mucking around in class all laughing together. Teaching the juniors Jazz & Acro and helping assist George in Hip-hop.
There are too many highlights that make me laugh. SDS is a fun, positive, family-like, and supportive environment where you will laugh, learn, create friendships and be apart of the best team. Thankyou Shannon for being such an amazing role model and just being you. Thankyou for the journey and guidance through all these years! The studio just keeps going up doing better things every year. Everyone is so grateful for you! SDS will be in my heart forever!
GEORGETTE DE PAOLI - GRIFFITH
SDS is the place to be. Dance has always been a huge part of my life and I always looked forward to going to class at SDS. I remember walking into that CWA hall when you first opened Shannon! You have come so far in such a small time. Shannon is a quality teacher, her experience and expertise in all styles allowed me to become a well rounded performer, not to mention her original and dynamic choreography lit up any stage we were performing on. Shannon provides many opportunities for her students to expand their horizons. She is well connected throughout the dance industry and provides many opportunities for her students to dance and learn from the country’s and worlds best. I have many highlights from my time at SDS, simply just showing up to class, the competitions, conventions and end of year concerts. However, special mention goes out to our amazing trip to the USA where we got to dance at some awesome reputable schools such as Millenium Dance Complex, ALDC LA and PULSE dance convention.
If you wish to go down the path of a professional career, Shannon and her faculty’s expertise will get you there but you have to work hard for it. With preparation, I was fortunate enough to attended full time dance - a year full of excitement, challenge and growth, the best year of my life. If you simply just love to dance, SDS has a fun, positive and supportive environment where you will learn many life skills and most importantly create friendships for life. Thank you Shannon for your guidance through all of these years, I’m grateful I can still help out at the studio. Congratulations to you for the amazing growth and reputable studio you have nurtured
If you wish to go down the path of a professional career, Shannon and her faculty’s expertise will get you there but you have to work hard for it. With preparation, I was fortunate enough to attended full time dance - a year full of excitement, challenge and growth, the best year of my life. If you simply just love to dance, SDS has a fun, positive and supportive environment where you will learn many life skills and most importantly create friendships for life. Thank you Shannon for your guidance through all of these years, I’m grateful I can still help out at the studio. Congratulations to you for the amazing growth and reputable studio you have nurtured
TANYA SASSI-BAIA KUWAIT
Shannon is one of the most inspiring teachers you will ever meet. She will work you hard, there will be giggles and chatter vs. sweat and tears, but most importantly, professional results. She doesn't just focus on the class as a whole, but she will analyse your own personal strengths and weaknesses and push you to be ...your best. After being trained by Shannon for a good 2 years, I couldn't believe how much I had learnt in such a small amount of time. I will always cherish the time I had with Shannon as she gave me the confidence I needed in order to pursue my dreams and stay true to myself.
NICKI BAKER-BAIA KUWAIT
I had the honour and privilege in working with Shannon when she was our Dance Director at the British Academy of International Arts (Kuwait). The students loved her and her dance choreography was incredible! She produced stunning award winning shows and was the epitome of style. Shannon has the talent and dedication required to mould and shape the dance world anywhere she goes. Wishing you all the very best and I'm sure your new dance studio will be nothing short of awe inspiring! Best of luck!
CHARITY SEMBALERUS-BAIA KUWAIT
I worked alongside Shannon in Kuwait and I'd do it again in a heartbeat! She is extremely dedicated, knowledgeable, and very much in touch with what is healthy and unhealthy in the dance world. She is an inspiration and I loved dancing with her. In the future when I come to visit her in Griffith, the first place I will go to is her dance studio to take a class.
HOLLY SHROPSHIRE-BAIA KUWAIT
One of the reasons I pursued dancing was because of Shannon. She will believe in you 100% and try to get the best dancer out of you. She never gave up on me and pushed me to the maximum to improve my dancing, I shall never be able to thank her enough for all she has done for me. Not only is Shannon a great dance teacher, but her routines are incredible. I can still remember her choreography today and she has been able to create some of my favourite dances. She’s such a hard worker and a fantastic dancer with huge amounts of energy. If I was ever in Australia, I would be taking some classes for sure! Wishing you all the best Shannon!
OLIVIA MAREE IPPOLITI-GRIFFITH/SYDNEY
Shannon was one of my dance teachers for a long time. She is determined, motivated and so energetic in all the classes that she teaches. She not only makes every class fun but works you hard and pushes you to work to the best of your abilities. Chookas Shan I know you'll do great!
ALEXANDRA DOICINOVA-SYDNEY
Miss Shannon is definitely one of a kind! And one of the most talented dance teachers, who always influenced me to follow my dreams, her performing arts background is immaculate from teaching at some of the leading performing arts organisations of Australia to guiding her students through various dancing techniques to reach their best ability! It has been more than 15 years since Shannon became my dance teacher and we have still kept in contact. So happy to hear you are teaching again and wish l lived in Griffith so l could Dance with you again!
JESSICA SERGI-SYDNEY/GRIFFITH
Shannon was my dance teacher for 6 years. She is a hardworking teacher who aims to help her students on a individual level to become the best dancers they can be. Her focus goes beyond teaching technique and discipline as she also shows her students through example the importance of having love and passion for dance. Goodluck Shannon, you will do amazing things!
JANE DENNY- SYDNEY/LEETON
I've known Shannon, danced with her and competed against her (in our younger days). I have since invited her to do workshops with my High School dance classes in Sydney. She is always energetic, passionate, motivated and very, very talented. Chookas to you Shannon.
JEAN ROSE TRINIDAD THEOBALD-GRIFFITH
Our wedding dance was Fanta-bulous because of Shannon, who would have thought we could dance Charleston, quick step and waltz all because of her!!! She is amazing!