This July, Over the Moon Studio invites young dancers to step into a world of colour, creativity and connection for its much-loved annual Winter School, running from Monday to Wednesday, July 7 to 9.
Over the Moon has long been a cherished part of the Castlemaine community – a yoga and dance learning space with a focus on wellbeing, imagination and the joy of movement.
Originally founded by the esteemed educator, Edna Reinhardt, and now under the co-directorship of Marlena Raymond and Michelle Young, the studio is a place where community members of all ages grow not only as dancers, but as creative, confident and compassionate individuals.
The 2025 Winter School is for children aged 3.5 to 12 years, offering a playful and immersive experience across one, two or all three days.
With age-specific groups and classes in creative dance and yoga, musical theatre, drama, music, junior ballet, jazz and lantern-making, each day is a carefully curated experience for the body, heart and mind.
A highlight of Winter School is its intergenerational aspect: local teens will be leading the way at Winter School. These teen dancers are part of Over the Moon’s long-standing class assistant program, a leadership program where older dancers receive mentorship from teaching staff in their support of younger dancers. This mentorship model fosters a vibrant studio culture of leadership, strengthening peer bonds and creating a powerful sense of continuity – where the older dancers lead by example, younger dancers find inspiration in those who are a few steps ahead, and dancers of all ages feel valued, connected and inspired.
This year brings something especially enchanting – lantern making! Guided by guest artists Iona Julian-Walters and Opal (of Naarm/Melbourne-based company Golden Scissor Puppets), students will craft their own glowing creations, culminating in a magical lantern walk through the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens on the evening of Wednesday July 9. Families and friends are warmly invited to join the procession – the more the merrier, and don’t forget your singing voice!
The teaching team this year includes a vibrant blend of familiar and new faces. Desiree Osborne joins as Over the Moon’s very first drama teacher, with over 30 years of teaching experience in the performing arts. Amber Riches will lead dynamic dance classes, bringing her passion for inclusivity. Joyful, Orff Schulwerk music classes will be run by co-director Marlena Raymond – you will be singing these songs all evening in the lantern walk, and beyond! And of course, founder Edna Reinhardt will be teaching her renowned yoga and creative dance classes.
Whether your child is trying dance for the first time or staying connected to their creativity over the school holidays, Winter School offers a joyful, screen-free space to move, make and imagine – all while staying connected with peers.
Pricing starts from $40, with discounts available for multi-day bookings.
Bookings are now open at www.overthemoonstudio.com. Be quick – places will fill fast for this much-anticipated community offering!
