ABOUT US
ABOUT US
Welcome to the Rince Academy of Irish Dance - where passion meets tradition! Learn from the best in the industry as Riverdance stars Natasia Petracic & Bobby Hodges guide your child’s dance journey through creativity, confidence and community. Whether you're an aspiring Irish dancer ready to shine or a parent seeking dynamic growth for your child, the Rince Academy has a place for you.
Founded in 2023, the Rince Academy strives to inspire the next generation of Irish dancers right here in Sydney. Our fun and energetic classes take your child on a journey of rhythmic expression, cultural immersion and personal achievement.
Harnessing over 25 years of experience at the top of the Irish dance industry, our dedicated team possesses the skills and passion to nurture each child's potential with every step they take. Through the values of teamwork, discipline, and friendship, we aim to create not only skilled dancers but also well-rounded individuals who are prepared to succeed both on and off the dance floor.
THE RINCE ACADEMY TEAM
Natasia Petracic
Australian-born, Natasia began dancing at the age of 3. She trained in all styles with a strong focus on Classical Ballet and Irish Dance. Throughout her dancing career Natasia obtained 7 National Irish dance titles whilst training as a Ballerina with the Australian Ballet School.
This all led her to be chosen as an original cast member of Heartbeat of Home (2013) to then join the cast of the world phenomenon, Riverdance (2014). Since then, Natasia has performed as a Principal Dancer in both shows on the worlds most prestigious stages, including the West End.
Natasia has also co-choreographed and co-directed her own show “Romeo & Juliet” which toured through out China in 2018. In 2020 Natasia combined her extensive training, professional experience and Pilates accreditation to create her own dance inspired fitness company Barre Motion.
She continues to work with dancers worldwide to help them achieve their personal dancer goals.
“My mission is to inspire, educate and encourage the next generation of dancers to find their passion within this unique dance form”.
Bobby Hodges
Aged six, Bobby began taking Irish Dance classes in his hometown Bristol, England. After an illustrious competitive career, winning 10 World titles with his school, he was recruited to join the cast of Lord of the Dance (2008) where he performed the leading role for 4 years before linking up with the winners of Sky 1's Got To Dance - Prodijig.
In 2013, Bobby was cast as the principal lead in Heartbeat of Home a new show from the producers of Riverdance. He was then invited to join the company of Riverdance (2014) as a principal lead dancer. Bobby continued touring worldwide until 2022 leading both shows on and off the stage as Dance Captain and Principal Dancer.
Career highlights include performing for Pope Francis in Croke Park to over 80,000 people, leading a West End run and starring as the Principal Dancer in the Riverdance 25th Anniversary Gala Performance released in cinemas worldwide. Bobby continued his professional development by managing, co-directing and co-choreographing his own production of Romeo &
Juliet which toured throughout China (2018).
Bobby has recently teamed up with ‘Got Game’ teaching movement and dance in Primary Schools throughout Sydney.
“My goal is to share my knowledge, experience and love of Irish dance to build a community for future dancers where they can be empowered to reach their full potential”.
