PROUDLY FAMILY-run since
1991.
Centrestage Performing Arts School is a family-run institution based in East Brunswick, Melbourne, offering exceptional training in dance, acting, musical theatre and performance. Established in 1991, the school has become a cornerstone of the local arts community, valued not only for its high-quality teaching but for its welcoming culture, structured learning environment, and long-standing commitment to student well-being.
The school offers weekly classes in jazz, ballet, tap, contemporary, hip-hop, screen and stage acting, musical theatre, and private singing coaching. With students ranging from early learners to pre-professionals, Centrestage offers a clear pathway for growth—from foundational technique to advanced performance training. Its approach is built on care, clarity, and consistency, with a focus on helping students build confidence, resilience, and creative identity.
Centrestage is also home to SHOWFIT, a two-year full-time training course designed to prepare emerging performers for professional careers in musical theatre and screen. Combining technical rigour with real-world industry exposure, SHOWFIT offers intensive instruction, performance opportunities, and mentorship from leading figures in Australian theatre. Many graduates have gone on to appear in major stage productions, touring musicals, and national television.
Leanne White, co-founder of Centrestage, brings over 40 years of experience spanning performance, choreography, direction, and education. She danced professionally for more than two decades in productions such as Evita, Oklahoma, Cats (as original Dance Captain), Song and Dance (Adam Award nominee), and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Her television credits include The Don Lane Show, The Mike Walsh Show, and the AFI Awards. She went on to serve as Resident Director of Cats across Asia and Australia, and as Resident Choreographer on Sunset Boulevard. Further credits include The Boy From Oz (Associate Choreographer), Saturday Night Fever (casting consultant), Happy Days – The Arena Mega Musical, Mack and Mabel (The Production Company), and Putting It Together at Chapel Off Chapel.
Leanne’s experience underpins the culture of Centrestage—one that values both artistic excellence and personal development. She has also assembled a team of outstanding educators, many of whom continue to work at the highest levels of the industry. Her leadership ensures that every student is met with encouragement, integrity, and a clear framework for success.
Over the past 30 years, Centrestage has helped thousands of young people find their voice through the performing arts. Whether students attend weekly classes or commit to the full-time SHOWFIT program, they leave with more than just technique—they leave with confidence, direction, and a strong sense of self.