There’s change afoot at FitBarre Noosa as the beloved teacher Angelika Burroughs takes an extended break to support her daughter, Grace Burroughs, who is about to embark on the next exciting chapter of her performing arts journey.
Grace, a graduate of Good Shepherd Lutheran College in Noosa, has long dreamt of a career in musical theatre – and now, that dream is becoming a reality.
She has secured offers from an impressive six universities in London to study a BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre, a remarkable achievement that reflects both her talent and years of dedication.
Grace said, “Each time I opened an acceptance email, it was a moment of pure joy and disbelief.
“To be accepted into not just one, but six amazing musical theatre programs felt like a dream unfolding step by step. It was overwhelming in the best possible way, and I felt incredibly grateful and encouraged with each new offer.
“As for the future, my biggest hope is to perform in musicals on the West End and one day, Broadway.
“I want to build a lifelong career doing what I love – telling stories through song, dance, and acting. Musical theatre is where I feel most alive, and I can’t imagine doing anything else.”
She will begin her studies later this year, and her mother, Angelika, will be by her side to help her settle into life in the UK.
Angelika is a much-loved figure in the Noosa dance and fitness community.
Born in Kiev, Ukraine, she began her career as a professional ballerina before moving to Australia. Soon after arriving, she began teaching Ballet and Character Dance at the University of Adelaide’s Department of Dance and later founded her own Russian School of Ballet.
Over the years, Angelika has contributed immensely to the performing arts scenes in both Australia and New Zealand.
She led the Ukrainian Ensemble “Kashtan” in Adelaide, taught throughout local dance schools, and was later appointed Principal Ballet Teacher at the New Zealand Ballet Academy.
Her work also extended to choreography and coaching with the New Zealand National Rhythmic Gymnastics team, Australian National Elite Gymnastics Team where she combined her Russian heritage with a passion for cultivating new talent.
Craving a sea change and a new lifestyle, Angelika and her family moved to Noosa where she used to teach at a number of quality dance schools across the region.
In recent years, Angelika has brought her wealth of experience to FitBarre, inspiring and uplifting clients of all ages with her grace, knowledge, and unique teaching style.
While her presence will be missed, the Noosa community is thrilled for both Angelika and Grace as they take this next step together.
Happily, Angelika plans to return to teaching at FitBarre in early 2026, bringing with her new stories and experiences from abroad.
Stepping in to lead classes during Angelika’s time away is Meg Newton, a highly accomplished dancer whose own journey has taken her from regional Australia to some of the most prestigious ballet institutions in the world.
Meg began dancing at just three years old in Northeast Victoria at Projection Dance School, Wodonga.
Her early talent was evident – she became a finalist and scholarship recipient at the Alana Haines Australasian Awards and competed in the Youth America Grand Prix finals in New York in 2016.
As a dedicated student, she was also part of The Australian Ballet School’s ITP programme and received full-time offers from internationally renowned ballet schools such as Hamburg Ballet School, John Cranko School, and Académie Princess Grace.
At 15, Meg made the life-changing move to London to study at The Royal Ballet Upper School, where she trained with some of the world’s top ballet professionals and performed alongside The Royal Ballet and Birmingham Royal Ballet.
Following her graduation in 2023, Meg accepted a contract with Orlando Ballet II in the United States.
Unfortunately, an injury brought her back to Australia, but it has also opened a new door for Meg to share her extraordinary knowledge and experience with the next generation of dancers and performers.
Since returning home, she has found a new purpose in teaching and mentoring, and the team at FitBarre is excited to welcome her.
With a legacy of excellence passed on from Angelika and the fresh energy and international experience Meg brings, FitBarre remains at the forefront of dance-inspired fitness and artistic development in Noosa.
For more information or to book a class, visit fitbarre.com.au
