Kym Degenhart (blue top) surrounded by Bom Funk students. Photo: Supplied.
Queanbeyan-based Bom Funk Dance Studio has been named a finalist in seven categories of the upcoming 2024 Australasian Dance Education Awards (ADEA), which recognises the work of teachers and studio owners across Australia and New Zealand in raising awareness about the art form.
Kym Degenhart took ownership of Bom Funk Dance 10 years ago, during which time the number of students has grown from 80 to 500.
“I was a Cancan dancer at the Moulin Rouge in Paris and did a lot of professional dancing overseas,” she said.
“When I returned to Australia, I wanted to share my expertise and experience and I felt I was ready to do so by running my own studio.”
Bom Funk Dance Studio is a finalist in the 2024 ADEA categories of Australian Dance Studio of the Year, Regional Dance Studio of the Year, Excellence in Customer Service, Excellence in Community Impact and Excellence in Marketing and Brand.
Ms Degenhart herself is nominated for the Excellence in Leadership prize while her employees Zoe Tuckfield and Shekiralea Healy are vying for the title of Studio Dance Teacher of the Year.
“I’m pleased with the recognition as I think we really listen to our dance families and what they are after. We provide a lot of communication … it’s about the customer first for us,” Ms Degenhart said.
In 2023, she won Australian Dance Studio Owner of the Year at the ADEA Awards, while her studio picked up gongs for Excellence in Customer Service and Excellence in Team Culture and was runner-up for Excellence in Community Impact.
“Our past achievements have helped us attract highly skilled staff, foster partnerships, and expand our programs to reach more individuals,” she said.
“Winning awards like these amplify our positive impact, ensuring that our business growth translates into greater community support and engagement.”
Kim Newmaster, Kym Degenhart & Zoe Tuckfield with Bom Funk awards at ADEA 2023. Photo: supplied.
The 41-year-old says the dancing industry has changed considerably over her career. Gone are the days when dancers had to be a certain size, weight or colour.
“It’s not just about push-push-push. It’s learning about your body. We say that dancing is for every body … there’s a lot more opportunity and inclusivity, for teaching for different sizes and appreciating mental health,” she said.
While the industry took a real hit during the pandemic, Ms Degenhart says they’re now back on track.
“After COVID, we took a big risk by opening a second venue, fully equipped with everything our local dance community could need, including our own theatre. This has allowed us to continue offering the best opportunities, whether dancers are pursuing a career or a hobby,” she said.
“We boost the local economy by supporting and partnering with small businesses and creating employment opportunities for local artists, teachers, and professional dancers.”
The winners of the 2024 Australasian Dance Education Awards will be announced on Saturday, 26 October, at the Bangarra Dance Theatre in Sydney.
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