Madison Cronin - Professional Dancer

I danced at The Macdonald School of Dance under the incredible tuition of Amy Macdonald-Te Huki for 11 years from the age of 4. I consider every minute I spent in those studios as absolutely vital moments which gave me the means to craft my Classical Ballet career. Not only did I flourish in the fun, inspirational and caring environment the school, and its teachers creates, but I was constantly challenged and encouraged in my dancing every step of the way. Amy has an infectious passion and knows how to bring the spark out of everyone. She makes you want to work hard. I couldn’t have wished for a better role model to teach me what dedication and determination are, and what it means to push yourself. She is so patient and kind, which is exactly why her students are always able to reach their full potential. I still look up to her to this day. The knowledge, wisdom and pure skill she has in every genre of dance meant that during my time there my dancing improved beyond measure and I attribute all the foundations of my success to her. The continuous support I have received from MSOD since moving overseas to keep pursuing my dancing dreams has meant the world to me. MSOD are a family and will always be dear in my heart. I could not recommend a place more highly to anyone who wants to experience all the dance-world has to offer.

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Laura Walters - Journalist

I danced with Amy Macdonald-Te Huki for more than a decade, and later worked for her as a teacher. During that time, Amy taught me about dance (ballet, jazz, contemporary, tap and hip hop), but she also taught me about performance, hard work and discipline. The school always had a friendly, family atmosphere, where everyone was welcomed and encouraged, regardless of their skill level. Amy has an eye for detail and whether you want to let go and have fun, pursue a passion, or work towards a career, she’s got you covered. During my time dancing with Amy, the school was like my second family. I can’t recommend Origin Studios highly enough.

 

Ashleigh Karena - Pilates Instructor

The Macdonald School of Dance currently known as Origin Studios was where my journey and love for dance began. The dance school was a place which became my second home and was the supportive foundation I needed to have the courage to pursue my goals as a professional dancer. Leaving the school I went on to dance internationally, but I made lifelong friendships there that supported me throughout my career. I look back at my time there with only fond memories and a little nostalgia. Amy promotes a strong commitment, love, creativity and excellence through all dance forms and passes this on to all of her pupils. It’s a school that has become a hub for the arts and more importantly, a family.

 

Natalie Crawford

I danced with Amy for nearly fourteen years and I will be forever grateful for the discipline and structure that dance brought to my life. Amy is an incredibly passionate teacher who loves what she does and always strives to make classes fun and inclusive for all students. Being a part of this school was really like being a part of a community and family, I will always remember my time spent in the studio fondly.

 

Luke Cooper - Professional Dancer

It’s safe to say I would not be dancing with the Royal New Zealand Ballet Company without the outstanding formative training from Amy Macdonald-Te Huki. Her understanding of technique and musicality, and attention to detail, paired with her ability to draw the best out of every student and allow them to think for themselves makes her studio an exciting place to be for any budding ballerina or danseur. I would highly recommend any parent to enrol their child/children with Origin Studios.

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Faye Dolding - Performer

I first started dancing with Miss Joan Irvine from 2004-2007. In 2008 after Miss Irvine retired I began to train with Miss Amy Macdonald where I continued my RAD Ballet and picked up ISTD & NZAMD Tap, and Contemporary Dance. I have successfully completed and passed RAD Grade 8 Ballet, RAD Intermediate Ballet, ISTD Advanced 2 Tap, NZAMD Level 9 Tap and NZAMD Level 3 Contemporary. Miss Macdonald was the one who suggested I study full-time abroad. In 2016, I moved to Melbourne, Australia where I studied at APO Arts Academy / Dance World Studios. After four years, I now have a Diploma in Musical Theatre and an Advanced Diploma of Art. All the blood, sweat and tears, the hours of practising and my parents constantly taking me everywhere, finally paid off. I have now signed my first professional contract and on January 18th 2020, I moved to Osaka where I now work for Universal Studios Japan. None of this would have been possible without Miss Macdonald believing in me and pushing me. I have made countless friendships, been involved with eight productions, five summer schools and many showcases whilst training with her. Thank you Miss Macdonald for seeing my ability and helping to make a small town girl’s dreams come true.