ABOUT US
From first steps to elite performance, explore Irish dance training for every level
Welcome to the Rince Academy of Irish Dance - where passion meets tradition. Train with the best in the industry as Riverdance stars Natasia Petracic & Bobby Hodges guide dancers on a journey built on creativity, confidence, and community. From first steps to elite performance, we offer Irish dance training for every level. Whether you’re an aspiring dancer ready to shine or a parent seeking a supportive, dynamic environment for your child to grow, 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 successfully 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 world's most prestigious stages, including the West End. Natasia has also co-choreographed and co-directed her own show “Romeo & Juliet” which toured throughout China in 2018.
Natasia is a certified Classical Ballet Teacher with the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD), Irish Dance Teacher (TCRG) and Pilates Coach. She has combined her extensive training, professional experience and accreditations to create her own dance inspired fitness company Barre Motion. Natasia works with dancers at Rince Academy and 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
Bobby Hodges began Irish dancing at the age of six in Bristol, England. He went on to achieve an exceptional competitive career, winning major titles including multiple Great Britain, British National and All Ireland Titles as well 10 World Championship titles with his school before transitioning to professional performance at the highest level.
In 2008, Bobby was cast in Lord of the Dance, performing lead roles for four years. He later joined Prodijig before being selected as Principal Lead in Heartbeat of Home in 2013. In 2014, he joined Riverdance as a Principal Dancer, touring internationally until 2022. During this time, he also served as Dance Captain, taking on leadership roles both on and off the stage.
Career highlights include performing for Pope Francis at Croke Park in front of over 80,000 people, leading a West End season, and starring as Principal Dancer in the Riverdance 25th Anniversary Gala, released in cinemas worldwide. Bobby also expanded into creative leadership by managing, co-directing, and co-choreographing his own production of Romeo & Juliet, which toured throughout China in 2018.
Alongside performing, Bobby has established himself as a highly respected teacher. He is a certified Irish Dance Teacher (TCRG) with CLRG, a Riverdance Summer School instructor, and has taught movement and dance in primary schools across Sydney through Got Game.
"My goal is to provide world-class Irish dance training in an environment that supports confidence, discipline, and long-term growth, giving young dancers the foundations to reach their full potential both on and off the stage."
