According to a study by The Australian Industry Group, rising prices in the June quarter of 2024, especially in clothing and footwear, continue to add pressure on families. For parents with children in dance school, these increases are a particular challenge. But here’s a story to inspire…
Arabella Meleo’s journey from a small rural town to a rising star in the dance world is nothing short of inspiring. Growing up in a place with little technology, Arabella found her stage outdoors, performing for anyone who would watch. Even without the traditional resources or infrastructure that many aspiring dancers have, she always found a way to express herself through dance.
Her mother enrolled her in a dance class that was led by “a lady who ran classes in the local hall,” as Arabella fondly recalls. It was a once-a-week class on Monday nights, and for young Arabella, it was the highlight of her week. Her love for dance was evident even then, and though the opportunities were limited, Arabella made the most of them.
When she was seven, Arabella visited her grandmother in Sydney, where her world expanded. She participated in the Sydney Dance Company’s holiday workshops. “I showed up in my leotard from ALDI,” she remembers with a smile, feeling a little out of place among the polished kids in their sleek jazz shoes and specialized dance gear. This was her first glimpse into how big and competitive the dance scene was in Sydney, and it opened her eyes to new possibilities.
At age ten, Arabella’s family moved to Sydney, and she joined a dance school on the Northern Beaches, where she began competitive dancing. Still wearing her trusty ALDI leotards, she was fascinated by the other kids who wore bike shorts and tank tops. "How cool was that!" she thought.
Even though the school later closed, the owner, who had recognized Arabella’s raw talent, encouraged her mother to enroll her at Brent Street, one of Sydney’s premier dance schools. For Arabella, the excitement of dancing never faded, and this was where her love for the art form deepened. She realized that this wasn’t just a hobby—it was her calling.
Arabella’s passion for performing was undeniable. At just thirteen, she also began acting classes at Brent Street on Sundays, adding another layer to her artistic journey. By age fourteen, she was part of the Dance PTP (Professional Training Program) at Brent Street, practically living there, attending classes seven days a week.
During this time, Arabella’s parents couldn’t afford the trendy dance outfits that the other kids wore, which sometimes led to teasing. She recalls wearing baggy pants and a leopard-print leotard from ALDI, wishing she could look as “cool” as the others in their stylish dance gear. “That’s what makes a dancer—the cool clothes,” she once joked.
But despite the setbacks, Arabella’s talent and determination never wavered. She went from being a "Back Row Betty" to shining in the spotlight. Her hard work, resilience, and love for dance carried her through, and today, Arabella is a rising star in the dance world. As a brand ambassador for Upstage clothing, she now gets to wear the coolest outfits, proving that what truly makes a dancer is their passion, not just their clothes.
Arabella’s journey from a small-town girl to a successful dancer shows that no matter where you start, with dedication and drive, you can make it to the top. And as she continues to inspire others, she remains grounded, always remembering her humble beginnings and the lessons they taught her. From the outdoor stages of her hometown to the world of professional dance, Arabella’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion.