Suellen De Villiers

LOWER SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

Suellen’s career is as diverse as it is distinguished. With a wealth of experience both in the boardroom and under the spotlight, she has navigated the worlds of dance and medicine with equal passion and dedication. Whether guiding dancers toward successful careers or supporting surgeons in the operating room, Suellen approaches every challenge with unwavering commitment.

Born in South Africa, Suellen began her dance journey at the tender age of three. She graduated as a Dance Major from the National School of the Arts in South Africa, where she completed all graded and vocational RAD exams under the tutelage of Ms. Reina Berman and Ms. Joyce Myroff, both esteemed RAD examiners. Her education was comprehensive, encompassing Anatomy, Dance Kinesiology, Ballet History, and Music Appreciation.

Her training extended to working with PACT Ballet under Nicola Middlemist, where she gained an appreciation for a mixed repertoire. After participating in a Rotary Exchange program in Argentina, Suellen was inspired to follow in her mother’s footsteps, earning her RAD Teaching Certification with distinction in 1995, guided by Ms. Jaqueline Wells. This experience ignited her passion for teaching.

With over two decades of experience in ballet (RAD, Vaganova), contemporary, and Spanish dance, Suellen has made significant contributions to the dance communities in South Africa and the Asia Pacific region. She has mentored students at all levels, fostering their love and skill for dance within a nurturing environment. Her choreographies have earned acclaim on both national and international stages, including the Asian Grand Prix, Get the Beat, and YAGP. Many of her students have gone on to join prestigious international ballet schools and professional ballet and Spanish dance companies. Additionally, Suellen is a mentor and tutor for RAD Teaching Studies and has successfully guided many dancers to become accomplished teachers.

Suellen joined the Colrado Ballet  Academy faculty in 2020 after relocating to Colorado with her family. She was recently promoted to Lower School Principal as well as has coached students for YAGP at both regional and nationals. In 2021, she joined Colorado Ballet as the Rehearsal Director for Academy students in company productions. She has played a pivotal role in staging Academy students in all major company productions, including "The Nutcracker," "The Wizard of Oz," "Cinderella," "Jekyll and Hyde," and "Coppélia." Suellen’s greatest joy lies in watching her students shine on stage and captivate audiences across Colorado.