An iconic Illawarra dance institution is preparing to mark a significant milestone, with Miss Zoe's School of Dance gearing up for its 20th anniversary in 2026. Founded by principal Zoe McCarthy, the studio has grown from humble beginnings to become a cornerstone of the local community, teaching the art of dance to thousands of children across the region.
Two Decades of Community and Inclusivity
The journey began in 2006 when the school first opened its doors at the Coniston Community Centre. Reflecting on the impending anniversary, Zoe McCarthy expressed profound excitement and gratitude. "It's one we've been thinking about for a while, and we're just really excited to have got here because of all the beautiful community that we've created," she said.
McCarthy credits the school's longevity to its inclusive model, which has been warmly embraced by Illawarra families. "Our dance school is an inclusive model, and I think the fact that we've been going for a couple of decades now shows that the people of the Illawarra embrace that and value it," she explained. The profound impact is evident in the emotional connections formed, with McCarthy now teaching the children of her original students.
From Tiny Toddlers to Adulthood: A Full-Circle Moment
One of the most poignant aspects of the studio's longevity has been witnessing generations pass through its doors. McCarthy admits the experience can be initially startling but ultimately deeply special. "It is honestly shock and horror at the fact that it is happening, but oh my gosh, it's so special," she shared.
"When I think about things like that, I do often get emotional about it because it's just amazing that they've come through the studio, and it's obviously made a meaningful impact," McCarthy added. She marvels at seeing students who started as "tiny, tiny, little toddlers" now entering adulthood and turning 21, a testament to the school's enduring presence in their lives.
Expansion and a Grand Celebration for 2026
To commemorate its 20th year, the studio is planning significant growth and a major celebratory event. The school, which already operates from three locations in Wollongong, Kiama, and Coledale, is expanding into a fourth area.
New classes will be launched at the Sprout Hub in Calderwood and at Tullimbar Public School. McCarthy identified these rapidly growing communities as ideal for expansion, noting a lack of local activities for children. "They've got to travel a little bit to other things, and so I thought it was the perfect location for us to expand into, and we hope to grow as the area grows," she said.
The anniversary year will culminate in the studio's "biggest concert ever" in late November or early December 2026. In a historic first, all students from every Miss Zoe's location will perform together in a single spectacular show.
"We're going to do a journey through 20 years of Miss Zoe's School of Dance, and we're going to redo routines right back from when I first opened in 2006, all the way through," McCarthy revealed. This combined performance promises to be a powerful retrospective of the school's legacy and its central role in the cultural fabric of the Illawarra.
