Cathy-Lea Smith is a highly respected dance educator, studio director and performing arts specialist with over 35 years of experience teaching in schools and dance studios across Victoria.
A true quadruple-threat performer, Cathy is an accomplished dancer, singer, actor and musician. In 1990, she took over a small studio in Mulgrave and, following a move to Narre Warren in 1993, established Cathy-Lea Studios. Since then, she has inspired and trained thousands of students throughout South-East Melbourne, many of whom now work professionally around the world as dancers, singers, actors, educators and studio owners.
Cathy is deeply committed to developing confident, well-rounded performers and helping each student achieve their personal best. She is renowned for her strong technical foundation, artistic vision and nurturing approach to elite training. Her students consistently achieve outstanding results, earning awards, scholarships and professional opportunities each year.
Beyond the studio, Cathy has made a significant contribution to dance education at a state level. In 2021, she worked with Ausdance Victoria, the peak body for dance in the state, managing the delivery of VET Dance programs in schools and studios across Victoria. She has also played a key role in curriculum development as a course writer for Dance Training Organisation (RTO 45789).
From 2009 to 2014, Cathy led a successful community campaign to establish a specialist school in the Casey-Cardinia region, resulting in the opening of Officer Specialist School. For her volunteer work on this project, she was awarded a Holt Australia Day Award.
Cathy trained in Cecchetti Classical Ballet to Licentiate level under Rosslyn Charlesworth OAM and has studied extensively in theatrical and commercial dance styles. She is a qualified secondary school teacher of Drama and Music and holds multiple tertiary qualifications across education, performing arts, leadership and communication.
Cathy believes that “Dance teaching is about developing passion, training technique and inspiring artistry.” Her goal is to ignite a spark in every student, empowering them to fulfil their potential and grow into confident performers — and people — ready to shine.