THE nation's best dancers will shine on stage in Australia's major dance festival this year.
Held next month, the event brings together more than 6000 talented dancers, the best choreographers and instructors.
From contemporary to hip-hop, ballet to Bollywood, moves will impress at the grand showcase.
Expect some of the best dance pieces from schools across Australia, soaring in unison on September 11-13 at Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre.
The festival is in its sixth year.
Star choreographers include Sarah Boulter, Marko Panzic, Jason Coleman, Kelly Abbey and dancers from television shows Dancing With The Stars, So You Think You Can Dance and international music videos.
Among the skilled performers are Sutherland Shire dancers Rob McLean and Lucy Doherty, and St George dancer Alice Robinson.
Lucy, a professional dancer and contemporary choreographer from Cronulla, appeared on So You Think You Can Dance last year.
Contemporary dancer Alice, 21, of Rockdale, has danced in several productions including Opera Australia's Aida.
This is her fourth year in the festival, but this year is the first time teaching.
"It's so incredible because it brings people from all over the country together — people who aren't exposed to choreography opportunities," she said.
"Every year it's been a re-evaluation of where I'm at with my dance, and this year I'm one of the workshop teachers."
Cronulla hip-hop dancer Rob McLean, 24, will perform in a few shows at the festival.
After training in Melbourne and the US, he had the opportunity to work with choreographers and bolster his skills.
"I never did dance full-time — just open classes," he said.
He said the festival was his favourite event on the dance calendar.
"It's the biggest hub weekend for dance," he said.
"It's such a great community event."
Details: australiandancefestival.com.au