Perth's Gilkisons Dance Studio closes after 95 years
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 30 Oct, 02:39 · Archive
Gilkisons Dance Studio in Perth, established in 1931, has closed after nearly a century of operation.
Gilkisons Dance Studio on Murray Street in Perth has closed its doors after operating for 95 years. The studio was established by Sam Gilkison in 1931 and served generations of West Australians seeking dance lessons, partners, confidence or simply a sense of belonging. It hosted nervous beginners, wedding couples, world champions, fancy dress balls, discos and raves.
For international dance star Jason Gilkison, his grandfather's grandson, the closure was deeply personal. Jason and his dance partner Peta Roby began their partnership at the studio 53 years ago with their first jive. In an emotional social media post on Tuesday, Jason described waking with a heavy heart as the family business prepared to close for the final time. He wrote: 'My heart is a little heavy this morning. Established 95 years ago by my beautiful Grandad Sam, this Perth institution has seen family, friends, nervous beginners, wedding couples, discos, raves and everything in between, countless students from all over the planet, teachers, world champions.'
Former students paid tribute to the studio's impact on their lives. They recalled Saturday junior classes, private lessons, medal examinations and fancy dress balls that punctuated their school years. Some travelled from nearby Two Rocks for jazz classes, while others spent hours watching Jason and Peta practise. One former student wrote: 'This studio changed my life.'
How it is being reported
- Extraordinary chapter comes to a close as Perth’s iconic Gilkisons Dance Studio closes after 95 yearsGenerations of West Australians made memories on its dance floor. Now an emotional farewell marks the end of a remarkable Perth family legacy.Perth Now · 30 Oct, 02:23
- Extraordinary chapter comes to a close as Perth’s iconic Gilkisons Dance Studio closes after 95 yearsGenerations of West Australians made memories on its dance floor. Now an emotional farewell marks the end of a remarkable Perth family legacy.The West Australian · 30 Oct, 02:23
In this story: Jason Gilkison · Sam Gilkison · Peta Roby · Gilkisons Dance Studio · Perth · Murray Street · Two Rocks
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