ABOUT
AUSTI.
AUSTI. DANCE & PHYSICAL THEATRE IS A part-time DEVELOPMENTAL program FOR emerging artists aged 17-25 in CONTEMPORARY DANCE and physical theatre
We are committed to fostering the next generation of professional artists.
Our program replicates a professional environment, offering emerging artists valuable industry experience on a local, national and international scale without the need to commit to full-time international and national training programs. We aim to be geographically and financially available to all artists who aspire to great things but are unable to reach the opportunities that are vital to their professional careers. AUSTI offers these artists performance opportunities and experience at an industry level closer to home until they are able to venture further afield.
Our mission for AUSTI. Dance & Physical Theatre is to act as a stepping stone for all dancers looking to enter the professional industry. We build strong, confident performers through passion and commitment giving them the physical and the inner strength required to achieve their dreams in an environment where training, technique, support and encouragement are the key to future sustainability.
Through the endless support and passion for dance shown by our artistic director, Michelle Maxwell and our internationally renowned patron, Maurice Causey, AUSTI. has jumped from strength to strength since its establishment in 2011. An invigorated program was introduced in 2022 to include physical theatre, an essential practice in order to remain progressive and accessible, and equip artists to be audition ready. As our company begins to grow, we look to extend our reach to regional and remote areas to provide that first step for many incredible artists around Australia and the Pacific region.
ABOUT
VALUES
Attitude
Attitude is one of the foundational qualities at AUSTI when it comes to achieving both personal and program goals. All dancers are expected to approach every task, both in and out of the studio, with a growth mindset to ensure that each production presented is continually pushing the boundaries.
Unity
We as individual artists are part of a much bigger creative arts industry. Not only do we need to be united in our common goals and the direction the company is moving in, but we need to be advocates of the wider creative arts industry.
Support
By creating a supportive environment, we encourage company members to feel comfortable to take risks and work on achieving their personal best. We have created a culture that provides opportunities for personal growth, with emotional and mental wellbeing at the forefront of everything we do.
Tenacity
Dancers are required to approach every task with a level of commitment that supersedes. All members are expected to be self-motivated, passionate and independent preparation for all future opportunities.
Integrity
AUSTI encourages positive relationships with guest teachers, local artists and international choreographers. Integrity of both movement and how dancers conduct themselves is of paramount importance to maintain the company’s reputation and authenticity of guest artists’ works.
ABOUT
PEOPLE
Led by Artistic Director Michelle Maxwell, our program replicates a professional environment, offering emerging artists valuable industry experience on a local, national and international level, without the need to commit to full-time international training programs.
