Our Premier Faculty
At Global Artsphere Institute of Performing Arts (GAPA), our faculty is comprised of a diverse group of experienced professionals accomplished in their respective fields and deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of artists. Each faculty member brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective, creating an inspiring and inclusive learning environment. Our vision is to empower students to explore their artistic potential, instil a deep appreciation for the arts, and cultivate the skills needed to excel in the ever-evolving world of performing arts. We aim to foster creativity, innovation, and artistic excellence, ensuring our students are well-equipped to pursue their passions and make meaningful contributions to the global arts community.
Emma Body
Head of Dance Director
Margot Fonteyn, and GAPA Dance Director
Emma recently returned to Australia after spending two years as the Director of the Lower School at the Margot Fonteyn Academy of Ballet in Arizona, USA. There, she worked alongside Artistic Director Ken Ludden and Associate Artistic Director Rainer Krenstetter to implement an integrated arts curriculum and establish the Academy's world headquarters. Now in Melbourne, Emma offers the Academy Method locally. Trained by Ken Ludden, she holds an International Training Certification in Pedagogy, an Associate Diploma in Classical Ballet Teaching, a Diploma in Anatomy, and a Royal Academy of Dance teacher registration—Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. With 30 years of global teaching and professional experience, Emma has collaborated with artists and faculty at institutions such as the Baldovin Ballet, National Theatre of Croatia, Stefania Pigato and The Bridge Contemporary in Italy, Riga Spring in Latvia, and the New Zealand School of Dance. In May 2023, she received the Fonteyn Centenary Award for her contributions to fine arts education.
Jennifer Fleenor-O’Brien
Head of Dance Director
GAPA Dance Director and Artistic Director of .UNLID.DANCE Theatre
Jennifer Fleenor-O’Brien is an accomplished American teacher, choreographer, and performer who recently relocated to Melbourne, Australia, from Dublin, Ireland. Her career began in New York City, collaborating with renowned artists like Michael Foley and Lynn Simonson. In Dublin, she was a principal collaborator with CoisCéim Dance Theatre and worked on large-scale events and film projects with Miramax Films. Jennifer has been a distinguished lecturer at institutions such as the University of Melbourne Victorian College of the Arts, the National Ballet School Melbourne, Trinity College Dublin, and the American College Dublin. She has also guest lectured at institutions like the University of South Florida, The Ohio State University, Alvin Ailey American Dance Center, and the Professional Dance Center in Tokyo. Currently leading ".UNLID.DANCE," she aims to cultivate well-rounded artists. Jennifer holds first-class honours degrees from the University of Illinois and the University of Melbourne, including Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.
Lee Harrison
Executive Director
Lee Harrison is a distinguished figure in the arts, community development, and business, and she is renowned for her exemplary executive leadership. With a robust background in both disciplines, Lee has seamlessly integrated her passion for the arts with her acumen in business management, driving innovative growth and sustainability within arts organisations. Her strategic vision and dynamic approach have led to the successful execution of numerous high-profile projects, enhancing the visibility and impact of the arts in the community. Lee’s commitment to fostering creativity and exceptional organisational skills have made her a pivotal leader in transforming the cultural landscape while ensuring the financial viability and strategic development of the institutions she oversees. Her leadership style, characterised by collaboration, inclusivity, and a forward-thinking mindset, continues to inspire and shape the future of the arts industry.
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Classical Ballet - Fonteyn Method
Teacher Emma Body
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Modern Contemporary Dance
Teacher Jennifer Fleenor-O'Brien
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Character and World Dance
Teacher
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Fine Arts coordinator
Musical Arts, Dramatic Arts, Visual Arts, Scholarly Arts
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High Performance Sport Scientist
Program Developer - Mollie Harrison
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Dance Physician
Dr Jason Lam
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Head Psychologist
Student mental well-being and performance coach support
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Client and customer service manager
Administration, Enrolments and Student Exchange Coordinator. Lee Harrison
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Uniform
Supplier and advisor for student uniforms
