A Professional Dancer’s Guide to Achieving Roles in Multimillion-Dollar Performance

“Training is the bedrock upon which your career is built,” says Hilary Melbourne, a professional dancer with a wealth of experience performing worldwide.

Starting early and building a strong foundation in training, Hilary believes technique is crucial:  “I’ve been dancing since I was about five years old,” she recalls.

“My mom enrolled me in dance classes on weekends and after school. It’s essential to master ballet and other dance forms to develop the versatility and strength required for demanding roles.

“At a young age, I remember learning all of ballet’s technical demands, like perfecting my posture and turnout. The discipline I learned in those early ballet classes laid the foundation for every other dance style I took on. I spent hours practicing the basics—pliés, tendus, and pirouettes—until they became second nature.

“As I progressed, I realized how much ballet training helped me in other styles like jazz and contemporary, giving me the strength and control needed for more advanced choreography. Those early lessons taught me that mastering the fundamentals is key to becoming a well-rounded dancer.

Melbourne’s journey took her through various dance schools, including AP Performers and the prestigious McDonald College in her native Australia, where she honed her skills across different dance styles.

She believes this rigorous training prepared her for high-profile performances like those she has starred in at the Miami Heat games and the Sydney Paralympics.

Melbourne says that beyond technical proficiency, dancers must excel in artistry and interpretation: “Dance is a form of storytelling. To excel in multimillion-dollar performances, dancers must embody characters, convey emotions, and captivate audiences with their interpretations.

‘When I worked with a group of dancers struggling with their turning technique and flexibility. I noticed that many of them were unsure of how to execute pirouettes and turns properly, so I broke down the mechanics of the movements—focusing on posture, spotting, and core strength. I also implemented specific exercises to improve their balance and control.

“Another example is I worked with a group of younger dancers struggling with a complex contemporary routine. By the end of the rehearsal period, they had mastered the routine and were performing with a newfound sense of self-assurance and passion. Seeing that transformation is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching and choreographing.”

Melbourne’s approach to choreography confirms her artistic depth: “Choreography and dance instruction are areas where I’ve been sought after. My ability to teach and choreograph performances has been instrumental in helping others improve their skills and confidence.”

She adds: “I believe it is essential as a choreographer to perfect your choreography. I can bring a choreographer’s story to life as I make it my goal also to perfect their choreography.

“Previously, I worked with a choreographer on a piece that told a deeply personal story of loss and healing. It was important to me to fully understand the emotions behind the choreography, so I spent time with the choreographer discussing the inspiration and the message they wanted to convey. I practised tirelessly to capture every nuance in the movement, ensuring each step reflected the intended emotion.”

Melbourne adds that a commitment to the choreography’s technical and emotional aspects helps her bring a choreographer’s vision to life: “During rehearsals, I would ask for feedback and adjust my performance to ensure it aligned with the vision. By the time we performed, I knew I wasn’t just dancing steps—I was embodying the story and connecting with the audience on a deeper level.”

She says her performances are about executing movements and creating a narrative that resonates with the audience, and she says securing roles in high-profile productions often begins with successful auditions: “Research the production company and understand their artistic vision before you start to prepare your performance,” she advises.

“Then you can tailor your repertoire and performance to align with their aesthetic preferences. When I auditioned for The Sydney Dance Company known for its experimental, innovative style, II spent time researching their past performances, paying close attention to the themes they explored and the type of choreography they favored. I noticed they often worked with raw, emotional movements and a minimalist aesthetic.”

Melbourne adds she used this knowledge to tailor her audition piece to align with their style: “I chose a contemporary routine called Eyes of Fire that emphasized emotional depth and simplicity in movement. This preparation helped me connect with the company’s vision, and I felt that my performance resonated with their artistic approach.”

Melbourne also believes networking within the dance community is equally crucial: “Attending workshops, masterclasses, and industry events provide opportunities to showcase your talent and connect with choreographers and directors,” she suggests.

Melbourne’s career benefited from these connections, leading to roles in various high-profile events and productions.

She took it upon herself to attend masterclasses early on in her career, something Michelle Burgos, a Dance Captain and Dancer with The Most Bad Ones, witnessed firsthand.

She saw Melbourne’s talent when she regularly attended the dance master classes and workshops hosted by The Most Bad Ones.

Burgos recalls: “During one of our rehearsals, Hilary demonstrated a dance technique that others were unfamiliar with. She took the time to thoroughly explain it to everyone, ensuring all questions were answered.

“Her ability to connect music with movement and expression is outstanding; every time she dances, she tells a compelling story.’

Burgos understands the dedication it takes to be part of a group like The Most Bad Ones; a testament to Melbourne’s passion and expertise: “Preparing for rehearsals and masterclasses, especially those that are out of state or involve large groups can be a challenge.

“Ensuring everything is set up properly and on time is essential for a smooth rehearsal process, but it can be very time consuming and stressful. Hilary consistently went above and beyond by arriving early and to assist with the setup of our studio and equipment. Veterans normally do this, but she always takes the initiative to help!”

Burgos adds that before a demanding rehearsal, Hilary also organized the space, set up the sound system, and ensured that all necessary equipment was ready to go: “Her approach allowed the rehearsal to begin smoothly and on time, significantly reducing stress for everyone involved,” she says.

“Her reliability in these situations has been invaluable, enabling us to focus more on our work than logistical issues.

Burgos reveals: “Hilary’s actions and work ethic consistently demonstrate these values. From enriching the dance community with cultural diversity to inspiring the next generation of dancers to elevate the standard of dance performance and education, Hilary’s passion is an important asset.

“Someone with her expertise is an invaluable asset to the arts and culture scene, contributing to dance’s ongoing growth and evolution.”

But it isn’t just about attitude and dedication. Melbourne says maintaining peak physical condition through proper nutrition, cross-training, and injury prevention strategies is vital:  “Your body is your instrument. Nurturing it with care and diligence ensures longevity and consistent performance excellence. I have knowledge in this as I received my Cert IV in Dance which included learning all about the body and nutrition.

“Rigorous training schedules can take a toll on the body, so prioritizing health is crucial to maintaining longevity in such a competitive industry.”

She adds: “A balanced diet rich in lean proteins, whole grains, and an array of fruits and vegetables is key. Dancers should fuel their bodies with nutrient-dense foods that promote muscle recovery, maintain energy levels, and support overall health. Staying hydrated is equally important to prevent fatigue and injury.”

Melbourne also insists rest is just as important as training:  “Dancers need to ensure they are getting enough sleep to allow their muscles to repair and their bodies to rejuvenate.”

She also advocates for active recovery, suggesting stretching, yoga, and foam rolling as effective ways to relieve tension and prevent injury: “Strength training is essential for building core stability and strengthening muscles, which enhances performance and reduces the risk of injury”, Melbourne says.

“Cross-training activities like swimming or Pilates are also great for improving flexibility and endurance.”

Melbourne also believes mindset is everything when you’re aiming for the top: Mental health plays a significant role in a dancer’s overall performance, and practices like meditation and mindfulness can help maintain emotional balance amid intense pressure. It’s also important not to hesitate to seek professional mental health support if needed.”

She adds that adaptability and versatility are key in the dynamic world of dance: “From classical ballet to contemporary interpretations, dancers must embrace a wide range of styles,” Melbourne advises.

“Be open to learning new techniques and collaborating with choreographers to expand your repertoire.”

Melbourne’s extensive training and performance experience across various styles have made her a versatile performer: “My passion and drive define my approach. I’ve worked hard to develop skills and techniques, starting from a place of limited natural ability and growing into a versatile dancer across various styles, especially commercial jazz and lyrical contemporary.”

However, as Melbourne can testify, the journey to securing roles in multimillion-dollar performances is fraught with challenges: “Rejection is part of the process,” she acknowledges.

“Stay resilient, learn from setbacks, and use them as opportunities for growth.” Her own experiences of overcoming nerves and perfecting routines have taught her the value of perseverance.

Melbourne’s illustrious career is a testament to the rewards of dedication and artistic commitment. Her performances have spanned prestigious events like the NBA Miami Heat, the Sydney Paralympics, and international tours. “Each role and performance has shaped my artistic evolution,” Melbourne reflects.

“Performing a lead role in a contemporary piece required me to dive deeply into the character’s emotional journey, pushing me to refine my interpretative skills and express complex feelings through movement. This experience taught me how to balance technical precision with emotional depth, enhancing my ability to convey stories through dance.

“Similarly, taking on a more abstract role in an experimental performance challenged me to think outside the box and explore new ways of movement and expression. It broadened my artistic perspective and encouraged me to incorporate unconventional techniques and styles into my repertoire.”

Melbourne says every role, whether it demands intense technical skill or creative exploration, has contributed to her growth as a dancer and artist: “Each performance has not only expanded my abilities but also deepened my understanding of how to connect with audiences and express the full range of human experience through dance.

“I am grateful for the opportunities to collaborate with visionary choreographers and inspire audiences worldwide including highly respected artists such as Pitbull.”

Her achievements include leading roles in iconic productions and accolades for choreographic innovation. “Receiving recognition for artistic excellence reaffirms the impact of dance on cultural and societal narratives,” Melbourne affirms.

She has also won ‘Dancer of the Year Finalist’ and ‘Top 10 Soloist’ at Showcase twice and accolades at the Hollywood Bound, including Solo Champion.

David Nunez is the head coach for the FIU Dazzlers at Florida International University and has witnessed Melbourne’s dedication to her craft. He started working with her as an international student when she came to the college.

He recalls: “Hilary auditioned for the dance team through a virtual audition right in the heart of COVID. I remember as a fun fact, she joked that she rode a kangaroo to school every day. I knew she was joking, but some other girls initially believed it! That was her icebreaker, and it set the tone for her.

“One of the great things about Hilary is her worldliness. Coming from another part of the globe gave her a unique perspective to bring to our team. Florida International University is an international school, and while we have a lot of local talent, Hilary brought something different, especially with her Chinese-Australian background. Her cultural attributes added diversity to the team, which was valuable, especially at an international university like ours.”

Melbourne is detail-oriented, and Nunez says: “She is a great asset. She was always on top of her game, picked up choreography quickly, and applied corrections immediately. Unlike some students who might resist new ways of doing things, Hilary was always adaptable. This led to her being selected to attend the Pro Action Cheer and Dance Convention in Las Vegas after her first year, which was a significant milestone. She was dedicated to the team, participating in many appearances and charity events, such as the Special Olympics, where she was always willing to help out.”

Daniel Mitan is a professor in the Theatre Department at Florida International University in Miami, Florida. Melbourne was a theatre major at the college.

He taught her stage combat and she became a teaching assistant. He reveals Melbourne was very coordinated and picked up techniques quickly: “ Accuracy is an important component of safety, which is vital to a Stage Combat class and she excelled. She is also brave, plucky, friendly, intelligent, dedicated, hardworking, charismatic, and easy to work with.  My favorite students are the ones who are eager to learn, and that is one of my favorite things about Hilary.”

He adds: “In nineteen years of teaching, I can still remember some of my All-Time favorite Stage Combat scenes, including Hilary’s.  I had the brilliant idea of leaning into Hilary’s Australian heritage.  I asked her to perform a gender-swapped scene from Thor: Ragnarok.  The character of Thor is not Australian, but Thor is so synonymous with Chris Hemsworth at this point. Anyway, the scene was absolutely amazing!  Not only did Hilary nail the role of Thor in a way that would’ve made Hemsworth proud, but her performance elevated her partner as well.”

Melbourne says she remains committed to pushing artistic boundaries and fostering the next generation of dancers: “I aspire to choreograph original works that challenge convention and resonate with global audiences,” she shares.

Her future endeavors include collaborative projects that explore intersectional themes and promote inclusivity in dance, which includes Pitbull.

As for her legacy, Melbourne hopes to inspire aspiring dancers to pursue their dreams with passion and perseverance: “Dance is a transformative art form that transcends boundaries and unites communities,” she concludes.

“My journey is a testament to the power of dedication, creativity, and the enduring beauty of dance. From those early days in a small dance class, where every step felt like a new adventure, to overcoming challenges and pushing my limits in larger, more competitive environments, every part of this journey has been driven by a deep love for the art form.

“I’ve faced setbacks and long hours of practice, but each challenge taught me valuable lessons and fueled my passion even more. The process of continually improving, experimenting with new styles, and expressing emotions through movement has been incredibly fulfilling. Every performance and achievement has reinforced how dance can transform hard work and creativity into something truly beautiful.

“I feel immense pride in how far I’ve come and gratitude for the support and opportunities that have shaped my path. Dance is not just a part of my life; it’s a reflection of my dedication and a source of endless inspiration and joy. I believe that with this dedication and passion, I will continue to be amazing at what I do and can’t wait to see what the future holds in dance. I’m excited to explore new possibilities and push the boundaries of my craft.”