A Passion for Dance, A Space for All
From the moment Emma Lovell could move, she was dancing. As a child, her mother would watch her twirl on tiptoes before she could even walk, captivated by the rhythm and movement that seemed ingrained in her very being. That innate love for dance led her on a lifelong journey – one that has now brought her to Whitianga with a mission to share the joy of movement with the community.
“Some people believe they can’t dance, and I want to eradicate that belief,” Emma says. “Dancing is for everyone. It’s about joy, self-expression, and connection.”
Her passion was sparked at just four years old when her mother, despite having to work hard to afford it, enrolled her in dance classes. She trained in ballet, tap, jazz, and cabaret throughout her youth, finding a home in the studio where she could fully express her dramatic and flamboyant nature. At ten years old, she saw a professional ballet for the first time – Cinderella at the Royal Albert Hall in London. From the hush of the audience before the music began to the sweeping movement of the dancers, Emma was mesmerised. At that moment, she knew she wanted to bring that kind of magic to life.
“I had a perfectly choreographed plan – dance every day, work hard, perform at the Royal Albert Hall, and bring joy to people’s hearts,” Emma recalls. “But life has its own choreography, and in 2007, my path led me to Whitianga, where I fell in love with its magic – and with my wonderful Kiwi husband, Blair.”
Now, Emma is leaping straight to step four of her plan: bringing joy through dance. With the launch of The Alternative Dance Collective (The ADC), she hopes to create an inclusive space where people of all ages can experience the magic of movement.
The Alternative Dance Collective isn’t just a dance school – it’s a movement dedicated to wellness, creativity, and self-expression. The studio will offer classes for all ages, from babies bouncing in wraps with their parents to seniors finding strength and balance through movement. Styles include ballet, tap, hip-hop, contemporary, cabaret, burlesque, tribal fusion, and more. The ADC will also host collective practitioners offering Kundalini yoga, belly dance, massage therapy, and other holistic practices.
“Dancing is more than just exercise – it’s therapy, self-discovery, and a connection to something ancient,” Emma explains. “Since the first drumbeat, humans have responded to rhythm. It’s in our DNA. Whether you’re tapping your foot to a song without even realising it or expressing deep emotions through movement, dance is an intrinsic part of who we are.”
For Emma, dance helped her overcome shyness, build confidence, and develop valuable skills that extend beyond the dance floor. Now, she wants to share that gift with Whitianga.
“We have something for everyone – whether you’re looking to perform, improve fitness, find a creative outlet, or just have fun,” Emma says. “Come dance with us and experience the joy, balance, and freedom that movement brings.”
The Alternative Dance Collective is here to inspire, uplift, and create a space where everyone – no matter their age, ability, or background – feels welcome.
To learn more, get in touch with Emma at 021 076 9953 or [email protected]. Follow The ADC on Facebook and Instagram for updates, class schedules, and more.
Come move with us – your dance journey starts here!
Coromind: Coromandel’s Collaborative Magazine
Help us take Coromind Magazine to new heights by becoming a member. Click here
Change the Weather for Your Business: Advertise with Us.
Advertise your business in the whole Hauraki Coromandel in the coolest Coromandel Art Magazine, from Waihi Beach/Paeroa /Thames up to the Great Barrier Island.
Advertise Smarter, Not Harder: Get in Touch
