Performance is more than getting the steps right

Many dancers and singers train hard, develop strong technique and learn choreography well yet still feel unsure, disconnected or are underwhelming when they step on stage.

In a competition environment, you might recognise feedback like:

• “I’d like to see more connection to the music.”
• “You have great technique, but I want more.”
• “Bring a little extra to the performance.”

This feedback can feel confusing. What is the “extra” and how do you find it?

Performance Support Mentoring exists to help bridge that gap.

To help you interpret that feedback, I can walk beside you while you discover your performance.

I’m Chonnie, a performer and educator with over three decades of live performance experience across singing, drama, improvisation, radio and the performing arts. I’ve spent years on stage learning what it truly takes to connect with music, manage nerves, tell a story and perform with authenticity rather than imitation.

These are strengths I use to support dancers and singers to move beyond simply executing choreography or vocal technique, and towards performances that feel grounded, expressive and personal.

I work along side the performer, offering guidance, perspective and support as they discover how they inhabit their performance. 

Performance support mentoring is a one-on-one service designed to complement a performer’s existing training.

It is not a lesson, rehearsal or critique. It is a collaborative space where performers are supported to explore:

• connection
• intention
• expression
• confidence
• presence

The focus is not on changing what you do but on deepening how you do it.

Performance support mentoring may include work on:

• Connection to Music
  Exploring phrasing, dynamics and emotional tone so movement or voice feels connected rather than counted.
• Character & Storytelling
  Discovering who the performer is within the piece and what story they are telling, even in abstract work.
• Performance Presence
  Building confidence, grounding and stage awareness so performers feel calm, present and open when performing.
• Authentic Expression
  Encouraging truthful facial expression and emotional engagement without forcing or “putting on” performance.
• Mindset & Nerves
  Supporting performers to manage anxiety, pressure and self-doubt before and during performance.

Sessions are tailored to the individual performer and their goals, whether they are preparing a solo, working towards competition, or simply wanting to grow in confidence and expression.

I do not:

• Teach or correct dance or vocal technique
• Choreograph or re-choreograph anyone’s work
• Critique or override choreography
• Replace dance teachers, vocal tutors or choreographers
• Judge or assess performances

This service is designed to work in parallel with existing training, offering an additional layer of support focused purely on performance, connection and confidence.

Performance support mentoring is well suited to:

• dancers and singers of all ages
• performers who are technically capable but feel disconnected on stage
• students receiving feedback such as “I want more” or“connect with the song”
• performers preparing solos or featured work
• young people navigating nerves or performance pressure
• dancers and singers wanting to develop individuality and presence

• 60-minute one-on-one sessions
• Available in person or online
• Suitable for dancers and singers
• Sessions are collaborative, supportive and tailored

Online sessions are particularly effective for character work, musical interpretation, confidence building and performance mindset support.

• $70 per 60-minute session (introductory rate)

Packages

• Single Session – $70
• 3-Session Package – $195
• 5-Session Package – $325

Packages must be prepaid and are valid for 12 months. Custom packages are available by request.

Travel
In-person sessions outside the Canberra/Yass region will incur a travel fee. Travel costs are confirmed at the time of booking.  Group bookings of individual one-on-one sessions are welcome.

If you’re unsure whether performance support mentoring is the right fit, you’re welcome to reach out for an initial conversation.

There is no pressure to commit to multiple sessions as sometimes one session is enough to unlock a new perspective.

Enquiries are welcome.  Email me at allstagespa@gmail.com or call me on 0414 415 772.

Performance isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection, courage and presence.  You don’t have to find that on your own.

I can walk beside you while you discover your performance.