Meet our team
RACHAEL REYNOLDS
Owner, Street, Lyrical & Musical Theatre Teacher & Choreographer
Meet Rachael, the heart and soul behind Rachael Reynolds School of Dance. Rachael's lifelong passion for dance began at the tender age of four and has blossomed into a remarkable journey of artistry, mentorship, and community-building.
With a diverse array of qualifications in the arts and fitness industry, Rachael's expertise and commitment to dance education shine brightly. She boasts over fifteen years of experience in teaching the art of dance. But her true fulfillment came in 2018 when she realized her dream by launching Rachael Reynolds School of Dance.
This dance school isn't just a place to learn; it's a vibrant community that welcomes dancers of all ages and abilities. To her students, Rachael is more than an instructor; she's a mentor, a trusted confidant, and a friend. Her passion is creating an environment where students can confidently express their authentic selves, fostering not only dance skills but also self-assuredness.
At the core of Rachael's school is her own personality, energy, and profound passion for the arts. Her choreography and teaching inspire more than 300 students each week, embodying her dedication to the world of dance.
But Rachael's influence doesn't stop there. She's also a co-owner of 'May Talent,' a dynamic talent agency catering to young performers aged six and above. For more information about this exciting venture, visit maytalent.com.
Among Rachael's numerous qualifications, her most prestigious is a first-class degree in Musical Theatre from the University of Chichester.
Rachael Reynolds is not just an educator; she's a creative force, a mentor, and a champion of authenticity in the world of dance. Join her at Rachael Reynolds School of Dance, and let the rhythm of your heart find its perfect beat under her guidance.
WHAT THE STUDENTS SAY…
MELISSA VESZI-GAWANAS
Musical Theatre, Tap, Street, Lyrical Teacher & Vocal Coach
We were thrilled to welcome Melissa to our team in January 2021, and she has quickly become an integral part of our Musical Theatre and Dance classes. Her arrival was met with immediate admiration from our students, drawn to her warm, kind nature and infectious energy.
Melissa's journey in the world of dance and performing arts began at the tender age of three when her mother enrolled her in ballet classes. What started as a ballet venture soon evolved into a multifaceted passion, encompassing ballet, jazz, tap, musical theatre, lyrical, and street dance. Her dedication and talent led her to compete in various dance competitions throughout Canada, where she earned numerous medals and scholarships.
Graduating with honors from the Theatre Arts Program at Grant MacEwan University in Edmonton, Canada, Melissa's commitment to the arts has been unwavering. Her journey has taken her across both the United Kingdom and Canada, gracing the stage in a variety of musicals, including standout roles like Sheriff Donna in 'Out There,' Rosalie in 'West Side Story,' Chiffon in 'Little Shop of Horrors,' Rosie in 'Bye Bye Birdie,' Belle in 'Beauty and The Beast,' and even as the Deena Jones understudy in the Canadian tour of 'Dreamgirls.' Melissa has also lent her powerful vocals as a soloist for the West Side Story Suite with the National Ballet of Canada.
Beyond the stage, Melissa's talents extend to the world of film and television, with guest appearances in various shows, all showcased on her IMDB profile. And if you're a fan of music, you can find her work under the recording artist name, HunnyB, on popular music streaming platforms.
Melissa's extensive experience and profound knowledge of the performing industry make her the perfect mentor, teacher, and role model for our students. Her dynamic background, paired with her exceptional warmth and energy, creates a nurturing and inspiring environment for those she teaches. Melissa is not just a performer; she's a guiding star in the world of musical theatre and dance. Join us and experience her transformative influence today.
WHAT THE STUDENTS SAY…
LUCY SPURGIN
Street & Lyrical Teacher
Meet Lucy, a dedicated dance enthusiast who has been immersed in the world of dance since the young age of six, right here at the dance school that would later evolve into the renowned Rachael Reynolds School of Dance. Her unwavering passion and innate talent for dance have made her an admired figure, particularly among our youngest students, making her the ideal role model for the classes she teaches.
In 2023, Lucy completed a two-year internship under the mentorship of Rachael Reynolds herself, an experience that paved the way for her to become a full-time teacher at our dance school. Lucy's expertise shines in street and lyrical dance, although she remains committed to honing her skills across various dance styles, including musical theatre and tap. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of hard work and dedication, inspiring all who witness her artistry.
We are delighted to have Lucy as a cherished member of our team, where her talent and commitment continue to enrich the dance education we offer. Moreover, Lucy extends her expertise to offer one-on-one dance classes, catering to students who prefer a more individualized and focused learning experience. These personalized sessions have quickly gained popularity among our students, providing a quieter environment for skill refinement.
Lucy is more than just a dancer; she's an embodiment of dedication, passion, and a living testament to the rewards of unwavering commitment to one's craft. Join us at Rachael Reynolds School of Dance and let Lucy's inspiring journey and teaching guide you toward your own dance aspirations.
WHAT THE STUDENTS SAY…
MOLLY ARNOLD
Street & Musical Theatre Teacher
Meet Molly, a dedicated and experienced dance instructor with over 18 years of performance experience. She holds a 3-year diploma in Performance and Musical Theatre from PPA, showcasing her commitment to the arts. Molly’s dance journey began at the young age of 4, and now, having trained and grown through the school as a student herself, she has come full circle to teach the next generation of performers.
Specializing in **Musical Theatre** and **Street Dance**, Molly brings energy, enthusiasm, and a positive atmosphere to every class. Known for her infectious sense of humor and upbeat teaching style, Molly creates a fun and engaging environment where students feel supported and motivated. Her ability to combine technical skills with an encouraging attitude makes her a favorite among students.
Whether you’re looking to refine your skills or are just starting out, Molly’s classes offer a welcoming space for all aspiring performers to thrive. Join Molly for an exciting and laughter-filled learning experience!
WHAT THE STUDENTS SAY…
MIA WATMORE
Mini Musical Theatre Teacher / Teaching Assistant
Introducing Mia, a shining star who has been part of the Rachael Reynolds community since it began in 2018. Mia is an integral member of our mini musical theatre teaching team, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of our school.
Having recently completed her studies in performing arts at Reigate College, Mia is now set to embark on a promising professional journey. She's carving her path as a fitness instructor, dance teacher, and a captivating performer in her own right. Mia's dance prowess and exquisite vocal talents are matched by her warm and inviting personality, creating the perfect atmosphere for our mini musical theatre classes, designed especially for our younger students.
Beyond her role in musical theatre, Mia's expertise extends to other classes, where she imparts her invaluable experience and guidance to our students. Her versatile skills and dedication make her a remarkable addition to our team.
Join us at Rachael Reynolds School of Dance, and experience the talent and warmth of Mia. As a mentor, teacher, and performer, Mia is an asset to our school, and we're excited to have her on board as we continue to nurture the next generation of performers.
WHAT THE STUDENTS SAY…
ALISON ANSELL
Assistant Manager
Meet Alison, the irreplaceable cornerstone of our dance school. She's not just a "woman of all trades"; she's the nurturing force that makes our school a home away from home. Alison's multifaceted role spans from administration to teaching assistance, encompassing everything in between. She's the creative genius behind our captivating showcase costumes, often crafting them from scratch, ensuring our students shine on stage.
As the first friendly face students encounter upon walking through our doors and the last warm presence they bid farewell to, Alison is the heart and soul of our dance school. She's not only a source of information and guidance but also a welcoming confidante, ready to lend a listening ear and support in any way possible. To many, she's affectionately known as our "dance school Mum," a title she wears proudly. Interestingly, Alison also holds the familial bond of being the mother of our school's owner, Rachael, which truly makes her an indispensable part of our extended dance family.
Alison's qualifications speak to her dedication and expertise. With an NVQ3 in Childcare & Education, she brings a wealth of experience to our school, having worked with children for over 25 years. Her background is not just a testament to her competence but also a testament to her enduring commitment to nurturing the potential of young talents.
At the Rachael Reynolds School of Dance, Alison's warm and caring presence is an essential element of the nurturing environment we offer. Whether you're a student or a parent, Alison is there to make every step of your dance journey enjoyable and reassuring. Join us, and experience the unwavering support and expertise of our beloved Alison as she continues to enrich the lives of our students and their families.