Mrs Ruby Kavanagh
Founder's Message
Dance has always been at important part of my life. From twirling around the house as a little child to any music I could hear, to stepping into my first ballet class with an inspiring teacher who instilled in me the perfect balance of technique, creativity, and the joy of performing arts.
My teaching journey began over forty years ago as a student teacher, and it’s from those humble beginnings that Kavanagh Dance was born—a place where children can embrace my love for music and movement while having fun as they learn. Our mission is to equip them with skills that go beyond dancing—confidence, self-motivation, and discipline—values that not only shape great dancers but also successful, well-rounded individuals.
Then To Now:
A Vibrant Journey
A Glimpse Through The Years
1970s
Kavanagh Dance School Was Established
Kavanagh Dance™ [KD] was started in 1972 and has been growing and nurturing very young children in the field of dance.
1990s
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Bringing C.S.T.D Syllabus to Singapore
KD was one of the early pioneers to bring in C.S.T.D. based dance syllabi to Singapore, laying a significant foundation in dance education and elevating the standard of performing arts education, particularly in ballet.
Supporting Dance Curriculum In MOE Schools
Appointed Dance Education Partner at CHIJ OLN since 1992, we have continuously executed dance curricula such as the Programme for Active Learning (PAL) and Dance CCA.
Mrs. Kavanagh was the Performing Arts Coordinator for Raffles Girls' Secondary School for 25 years. Since then, KD has been deeply involved in dance education programmes across Primary, Secondary, and International schools, successfully choreographing and winning multiple competitions at the Singapore Youth Festival, as well as for a variety of gala performances.
​KD has partnered with schools like CHIJ, MGS, Ahmad Ibrahim Sec, St. Margaret's, St. Nicholas Girls', Jiemin Pri, Horizon Pri, Yio Chu Kang Sec, and Deyi Sec, from coaching SYF Dance Competition to Dance CCA.
Training Early Childhood Educators In Dance
KD has been a partner for Dance, Music & Movement for the People’s Community Foundation (PCF) Training Centre, CSTD Professional Development Courses for Dance Teachers, held in conjunction with the Ministry of Education (MOE), Co-Curricular Activities (CCA) branch.
Courses for Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) and National Arts Council (NAC) are also offered.
Engaging in Public Dance Performances
KD's first participation in Singapore's Chingay Parade took place in 1997, with a whimsical performance based on the theme "Alice in Wonderland." This marked a creative milestone for our dance school, as we brought Lewis Carroll’s fantastical world to life on the streets of Singapore.
The performance featured popular characters such as Alice, the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts, and the White Rabbit, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Chingay’s multicultural celebration!
2000s
Bringing Joy To The Community
We have brought dance to life in the community through our active participation in events and local initiatives, as well as collaborations with various organization — spreading joy and making positive impact with every dance performance.
For example, KD had performed at the Breast Cancer Foundation's fundraising event, graced by then-Prime Minister Mr. Goh Chok Tong.
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KD had performed at the Breast Cancer Foundation's fundraising event, graced by then-Prime Minister Mr. Goh Chok Tong.
Ms Heather Meldrum with Kavanagh Dance student, Foo En Rui
Pioneering CSTD Modern Jazz, Tap, and Musical Theatre
In the early 2000s, KD became the first in Singapore to introduce the CSTD syllabi for Modern Jazz, Tap, and Musical Theatre.
These additions provided a comprehensive curriculum, enhancing students' technical skills and creative expression. KD's pioneering efforts significantly contributed to the diversity and growth of dance education in Singapore.
Presenting At Early Childhood Convention for Creative Movement
In 2013, KD was first invited as a Speaker-Trainer at the Early Childhood Convention, focusing on how creative movement supports motor skills, self-expression, and cognitive growth in young children. This highlighted the school’s leadership in promoting the benefits of dance in early childhood development.
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In 2015, invited to choreographed for the Opening Performance at ECCC2015.
Recent Years
Accredited as a SSG-Programme Training Partner for ECDA Course
In 2017, KD became an accredited SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) Programme Training Partner for the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) course. This enabled the school to provide specialized training programs, equipping educators to incorporate creative movement and dance into early childhood curricula, fostering children's holistic development.
"Together for our Future" - PCF Family Day 2019
KD was honored to choreograph a dynamic performance for the PAP Community Foundation's Family Day, celebrating family unity, community spirit, and Singapore’s bright future. Using light boxes to depict a futuristic vision of Singapore, KD crafted an engaging performance that was accessible and enjoyable for all ages. The choreography fostered a sense of togetherness, celebration and strength, inspiring hope and excitement for the next generation.
Started First Overseas Branch in Cambodia - Phnom Penh
In that same year, KD established its first international branch in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, extending its high standards of dance education to a new community and promoting dance beyond Singapore.
At the same time, KD initiated a pilot program with CSTD to integrate classical ballet training into the Faculty of Dance curriculum at the Royal University of Fine Arts (RUFA). This unique partnership with RUFA creates global opportunities for dedicated graduates and acts as a significant equalizer, offering artistic and employment prospects while enhancing social mobility.
Resiliently Navigated Through the COVID Years
KD swiftly adapted by launching its first online CSTD Modern Jazz and ballet classes in 2020, allowing students to continue their dance education from home. The school also created online dance tutorials, providing valuable resources for independent practice.
In 2021, KD implemented online CSTD exams, enabling students to demonstrate their progress remotely. The school also participated in the CSTD DigiComp 2020, a virtual competition that allowed dancers to showcase their talents on a global stage.
Performing For Digital Chingay 2021
KD had the honour of contributing to the Digital Chingay in 2021, adapting its vibrant performances for an online audience amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Transitioning from the traditional live street parade to a virtual format, we infused our signature creativity and energy into the production, ensuring that the essence of Chingay’s multicultural celebration was preserved.
KD Dance Recital 2023:
Celebrating 50th Year of Dance Education with a Magical Disney-Themed Recital
In 2023, KD proudly celebrated 50 years of dance education with a spectacular dance recital themed around Disney World. This milestone event was a vibrant showcase of talent, creativity, and nostalgia, featuring performances inspired by beloved Disney characters and stories.
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This celebration not only marked Kavanagh Dance’s rich history but also highlighted the joy and magic that dance brings to both performers and spectators alike.
KD's Teaching Faculty
Our teachers are carefully selected for their ability to connect with children and come from diverse dance backgrounds. This includes Ms. Chan and Ms. Gloria, both of whom have devoted many years to early childhood development, teaching beautiful techniques, and nurturing a love for dance in younger students. While each of our teachers brings a unique set of skills, their strengths complement each other, creating a well-rounded learning environment.
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We also proudly include several former students as student teachers, allowing them to share their own learning experiences from Kavanagh Dance with the younger generation. In addition to being trained in the CSTD majors syllabus, our senior students benefit from teachers worldwide, enabling them to explore various styles of classical ballet and grow into true artists, not just performers of set work. We emphasize proper teaching accreditation to ensure the highest standards in dance education.
Ms Gloria Soh
Principal - Teacher
Head of School Operations
Ms. Gloria's love for dance ignited at the age of seven, leading her to a lifelong dedication to both dance and education. She started her formal training in Chinese dance under the Beijing Dance Academy Syllabi and has wealth of experience in Contemporary, Ballet, and Modern Jazz styles. Her teaching philosophy fosters a warm and supportive environment, allowing young dancers to flourish bolstered by her solid pedagogical background. With a Specialist Certificate in Preschool Arts Education from SEED Institute and training in Dance Pedagogy from LASALLE College of the Arts, along with certifications in MOE Pedagogical Skills and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), Gloria crafts engaging and supportive learning experiences for all her students.
As a certified teacher with the Commonwealth Society of Teachers of Dancing (Australia), Ms. Gloria brings over 15 years of teaching experience, dedicated to nurturing each child's unique talents and instilling a passion for dance. Throughout her career, she has created specialized programs for children, including foundational and competitive dance teams, demonstrating her commitment to meaningful and engaging dance experiences. Gloria's enthusiasm and expertise make her a cherished mentor and an inspiring educator who celebrates the joy of movement and the growth of every student.
Ms Chan
Principal - Teacher
Head of Ballet
Ms. Chan is a skilled dance instructor with over 20 years of experience, specializing in Tiny Tots Theatrical Dance and Classical Ballet. She holds a Teaching Diploma from the Commonwealth Society of Teachers of Dancing (CSTD) in Australia and has advanced training in Modern Jazz from LASALLE College of the Arts.
As Head of Teachers for the Tiny Tots and Ballet Dance Programmes at Kavanagh Dance Centres, Ms. Chan has taught students from 2.5 years old to adults, mentored teachers, and served as an adjudicator for various dance programs. Her passion lies in inspiring young dancers through creative choreography and safe dance practices.
KD Management
Ms Claire Chiam
Senior - Teacher
Head of Performance Troupe
Ms. Claire is a dedicated dance instructor with over a decade of experience in Modern Jazz and Classical Ballet. A full-time instructor at Kavanagh Dance since 2016, she emphasizes safe dance practices and brings a strong foundation in both dance and music, having completed multiple piano grades.
Alongside her dance career, Ms. Claire holds a BSc in Business Management from the University of Birmingham. Known for her innovative choreography, she creates a nurturing environment for dancers of all ages and skill levels.
Ms Vanessa Pee
Teacher
Head of Lyrical & Contemporary
Starting dance at the age of 3, Ms. Vanessa has trained in various styles, including Classical Ballet, Lyrical, Contemporary, and Modern Jazz, under the Commonwealth Society of Teachers of Dancing (Australia) and the Royal Academy of Dance. She has choreographed and performed in multiple dance productions.
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As an educator, Ms. Vanessa’s deepest joy comes from seeing her students grow not only as dancers but as individuals. She believes that every human comes first before the dancer, prioritizing personal growth over results. She focuses on nurturing creativity and artistry in a supportive environment, encouraging dancers to develop their skills while becoming well-rounded individuals.