What’s happening?
In November 2024, Dance Express Mackay, a cherished dance school in North Mackay, Queensland, will mark its 20th anniversary.
Founded by Karen Bishop in 2005 with the motto “Where Achieving is FUN,” the school has grown to become a beloved institution for aspiring dancers, fostering both dance skills and personal growth.
To celebrate, Bishop has some secret surprises in store, ensuring the milestone is memorable.
Why it Matters
Dance Express Mackay has significantly impacted the community, providing a welcoming and supportive environment for young dancers.
Founder Karen Bishop’s teaching philosophy has fostered a school that prioritises development in confidence, creativity, and life skills beyond dance.
Parents and families praise Dance Express for creating a space where students feel at home and part of a “village,” supporting their emotional and physical development as they build friendships and life skills.
By the Numbers
– 340 students: Dance Express currently enrols 340 students, which Bishop calls the school’s “sweet spot” for balancing growth and personal connection.
– 20 years of operation: Founded in 2005, the school has achieved two decades of teaching, training, and community involvement.
– 18 months onwards: Classes are available for children from 18 months through to senior levels, with instruction in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, acrobatics, and more.
Zoom In
Karen Bishop’s dance journey began in her youth, with early training under Mackay’s Lynette Denny and further study at the Victorian College of the Arts.
Returning to Mackay after four years in Victoria, Bishop taught at Theatre Arts Mackay for 19 years before establishing Dance Express.
She credits her mother, Lucy, for enabling her dance career, saying, “After 50 years in the industry, I have my mum to thank for working three jobs to finance my dreams.”
The school’s nurturing environment has made it a cornerstone of the community, attracting loyal families like Joanne Gillespie’s, whose granddaughter has attended since she was 18 months old. Gillespie, who lives over 3,500 km away, notes the school has become part of her family’s “village,” saying the teachers “build relationships and know each and every child.”
Zoom Out
Beyond technical dance training, Bishop is devoted to fostering a love for dance that students carry with them, whether they pursue professional careers or not.
“The steps we teach are a vessel for the lessons that will carry students through life,” she explains, noting moments of pure joy when “a student skipped for the first time last week” or when “laughter in the courtyard” came from teenagers disconnected from electronic devices.
Local Impact
Known for its community engagement, Dance Express participates actively in local events, and the Mackay Dance Festival, which Bishop helps organise, attracts dancers from across Queensland.
As a Life Member of the Mackay Eisteddfod, Bishop has further solidified her commitment to supporting the arts locally.
“Some people joke that Dance Express would perform at the opening of an envelope,” she laughs, highlighting her school’s passion for bringing dance to every corner of the community.
What to Look for Next
With its end-of-year concert and 20th anniversary on the horizon, Dance Express Mackay promises a celebration of past successes and future achievements.
Parent Sarah Readman captures the sentiment of the community: “Karen’s favourite saying to the kids is ‘Happy Days’ and it has truly been happy days for us.”
Bishop is proud of the school’s legacy and is looking forward to seeing her students shine, continuing a legacy of joy, discipline, and a true love of dance.
