our staff
Sandra Blackmore
Inspiring dancers for over 25 years Sandra teaches classical ballet firmly rooted in the tradition of Enrico Cecchetti while incorporating current techniques and new developments from the international community. Drawing from her studies in contemporary dance, anatomy, history along with a variety of classical dance styles Sandra teaches with a broad and dynamic perspective. A performer herself for many years, she encourages a rhythmic, energetic use of space and with a strong sense of performance.
Sandra holds Licentiate level qualification from the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing, Cecchetti Society Faculty. She also holds the Cecchetti Advanced 2 exam along with the ISTD’s Certificate of applied Anatomy and Physiology. Sandra studied in Toronto for several years where she attended the Lois Smith School of Dance/George Brown College, Joan Kohal Studio of Ballet as well as summer seminars at the National Ballet School and York University.
Returning to the province she established her own studio. Also in demand as a guest teacher and private coach, she has entered dance teachers for their qualifying exam as well as Primary through to Advanced 2 level examinations.
As a performer and choreographer Sandra has worked with Newfoundland Dance Theatre Young Dancers Company, Neighbourhood Dance Works, Kittiwake Dance Theatre, Sound Symposium, Festival of New Dance and the Labrador Creative Arts Festival.
Sandra has been honoured with grants for both creation and professional development from the Newfoundland and Labrador Arts Council. Other agencies, including the City of St. John’s and the Margaret Saul Scholarship, have assisted Sandra’s continued professional development that has taken her to Toronto, Ottawa, Winnipeg, Victoria, Vancouver, Canada and New York City, U.S.A.
Sandra was appointed to the Newfoundland and Labrador Arts Council in 1998 and served as both dance representative and Chairperson. She was appointed the Cecchetti Society of Canada’s first Newfoundland representative and in 1996 was elected to the National Council. Since its formation Sandra has been a member of the Dance Teachers Association of Newfoundland.