

Renee Burke-Hughes, one of Herald Sun's best regional dance teacher's in Victoria
HOTSHOTS PERFORMANCE DANCE TEAM
DIRECTOR | RENEE BURKE-HUGHES
MELBOURNE | GEELONG | BELLARINE PENINSULA | SUNRAYSIA
Dane Alexander, 15 SUNRAYSIA
Dane began his dance journey at the age of six when he was first enrolled in his school’s dance program. It was there that he met Miss Renee Burke, who became a key mentor in his development as a dancer. Under her guidance, Dane discovered a deep passion for movement and performance. In 2020, he joined the Hotshots Performance Dance Team, where he continues to train and perform under Miss Renee’s mentorship, further developing his technique, confidence, and artistry.
Dane has travelled to Melbourne on three separate occasions to participate in the Transit Dance Creative Project—an intensive experience that challenges dancers to learn and perform a 20-minute routine over just four days. Each time, he has received high praise from both mentors and audience members for his strong stage presence, fast learning, and expressive performance.
More recently, Dane has expanded his creative expression by beginning piano and vocal training with Natalija Havralenko, Vincent Music Academy. Although he has only been singing for 2 years, he has already shown strong potential and commitment to developing his voice as another avenue for performance. Achieving very pleasing results at this year’s eisteddfod.
Over the years, Dane has also showcased his acting abilities through involvement in various school productions. These experiences have helped shape him into a confident, expressive, and multi-talented performer.
Now excelling in dance, singing, and acting, Dane continues to grow as a passionate and versatile artist, always striving to develop his craft and share his love for the performing arts.
Dane has now also picked up piano lessons.....there is no stopping him!
Dane’s dream is to build a future in the performing arts—bringing together his passions for dance, singing, music and acting into a lifelong career. and sharing his love for the stage with audiences everywhere.
He has been accepted into three prestigious Performing Arts Schools in Melbourne (Patrick's School of Art, Rowville Performing Arts School and Transit) and must now decide which he will choose to continue on his exciting journey in 2027.
Past Productions
2020 Harry Potter (Harry), 2021
2021 Moulin Rouge (Harry Zieglar), The Polar Express (Train Conductor)
2022 The Grinch (Grinch), Fantastic Beasts (Newt Scamander)
2023 Spooktacular (Jack Skullington)
2024 Wonka (Willy Wonka)
2025 Danenberg Classical Ballet Scholarship, $500
Mildura Eisteddfod 1st x 2, 2nd, HM
2024 Red Cliffs Lions Jazz Scholarship, $500
Mildura Eisteddfod
2023 Lead Role "Jack Skellington" in Spooktacular, HPDT
Mildura Eisteddfod
2022 Red Cliffs Lions Jazz Scholarship, $500
Lead Role "Grinch" in The Grinch, HPDT
Mildura Eisteddfod
2021 Lead Role "Train Conductor" in Polar Express, HPDT
Lead Role "Harry Ziegler" in Moulin Rouge, HPDT
Mildura Eisteddfod
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