Dawn began learning ballet in 1943 in Dunedin at the age of five. Thanks to her tremendous self-discipline, natural talent and passion for dance, by 18 she was a member of the Royal Academy of Dance and touring the country. Dawn recalls life with the ballet company in 1958, of being billeted with strangers, performing in rural country halls as well as city venues, and the perils of travelling in a Kombi van. At twenty years old, Dawn began her overseas experience in Sydney, performing in a variety of shows while continuing to train in ballet and modern dance, and then continuing on to London. After some years raising her family in Auckland, Dawn moved back south, settling in Alexandra. She taught dance all around Central Otago for 20 years and will always be remembered by her pupils as someone who strove for excellence.
Interviewer: Raylene Fastier
Interview Dates:
November 2022
Dawn Russell in 'Alice in Wonderland' (1958)
Dawn Russell dancing with Paul Genet (Founder of NZ Ballet Company - 1958)
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