Local artist profile: Elise Birthisel

THIS week we chat with our third and final Stage 29 Studios cross-disciplinary dancer, Elise Birthisel, who describes her style as grounded in respect for strong technique, steady progression and the strength required to make difficult movements appear effortless.

What motivated you to take up all of your different dancing pursuits?

My dance journey began in childhood and continued through my teenage years, but everything truly expanded when I discovered pole dancing in Bendigo in 2012.

I began teaching in 2013, paused briefly due to a back injury, and returned in 2014 with a renewed passion – not only for pole, but for dance more broadly.

That same year I began training in aerial hoop, hammock and silks.

In 2019, I started teaching aerial silks at Stage 29 Studios.

Silks challenge my body and my mind; the strength, stamina and problem-solving required make every new skill deeply satisfying.

How would you describe your overall movement/dance style?

I would describe my style as grounded in respect for strong technique, steady progression and the strength required to make difficult movements appear effortless.

I’m drawn to fluid, flowing sequences on silks, especially when spinning, but I also love the drama of dynamic drops that align with powerful music.

Which other dancers inspire you?

The dancers who inspire me most are my fellow instructors at Stage 29 Studios.

Many of them balance teaching, training, full-time work and family life – and they still show up with passion and dedication.

Have you had any particular mentors over your career so far?

My greatest mentors have been my fellow silks instructors.

We constantly share new knowledge, support one another and push each other to improve.

Some of my favourite memories are the long Sunday afternoons spent together in the studio – experimenting with new moves, problem solving transitions and building routines for performances.

The camaraderie we share, and our collective love for aerial, creates a bond that continually drives us forward.

What are some highlights from your pursuits so far?

I’m incredibly proud of the strength and flexibility I’ve developed throughout my aerial journey.

A major highlight has been continuing to dance while pregnant and returning to teaching silks four months postpartum – rebuilding my strength and reconnecting with something I love felt empowering.

Performing at Ulumbarra each year with Stage 29 Studios since 2019 has also given me some of my most cherished memories.

Whether I was dancing, performing on silks or watching my students shine on stage, those moments fill me with pride and joy.

How can people check out your work online?

Stage 29 Studios regularly posts instructor and student content across their website, Facebook and Instagram.

Honestly, nothing compares to seeing our work live – our annual Ulumbarra performances capture the energy and artistry far better than any photo.

Where do you see yourself in a couple of years? What about in ten years?

I know I’ll always be connected to fitness and aerial.

Pushing my body, learning new skills and maintaining my health through movement are central to who I am.

I don’t see myself stepping away from aerial anytime soon – it’s woven into my identity, my wellbeing and my happiness.

What would you say to young regional aspiring dancers who are thinking of pursuing a creative life?

Don’t be afraid to try.

Stepping outside your comfort zone leads to enormous personal growth, and you won’t regret the experience.

The benefits to your body, mind and mental health are profound.

Sometimes joy and passion appear in the most unexpected places – so take the leap.