Jazz, Hip-Hop, Tap, Ballet, and Contemporary dance

Marguerite Howlett

Marguerite founded The Renaissance School of Dance in Papatoetoe 7 1/2 years ago. She teaches Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Contemporary and Ballet dance styles. She has been dancing herself since she was 3 years old, doing exams, performing and choreographing in various events, including Santa Parades, music videos, jubilees, Auckland Children's Musical Theatre and Manukau Performing Arts. She is also a dance consultant for local primary schools, pre-schools, afterschool care and holiday programs in South Auckland and directs the dance/performing arts program at Papatoetoe North Primary School .

In the last 3 years Marguerite has completed 11 exams in Ballroom, Latin & New Vogue (up to Gold Bar Level), completed her visual arts degree and won 'Young Business Person of the Year 2008' at the Westpac Manukau Business Excellence Awards.

In 2012 Marguerite is continuing her training in advanced ballet and teaching qualifications. She is a member of the City Ballet Company (performing in April). Modern Jive and Zouk dancing.

"I love teaching and sharing my passion with children. I love seeing the students grow in confidence and  educating more people about the positive effects of dance."

Chris Howlett

Chris (or commonly known as 'Aunty Chris' or 'Safety Pin Queen') is Marguerite's Mum.

During the day Chris is the finance officer   at  Sir Keith Park School, a special needs school for Intellectually disabled pupils. It is located in Mangere.  She also runs a very successful  Avon business in the local area. Marguerite’s Dad has a cabinetmaking business ( he laid the beautiful wooden floors at the studios)  and Chris does the financial side  of his business for him.

In the dance school Chris is the accountant, costume creator and is a very supportive business manager.

"The best part of my invovlement in the dance school is being at the studio and chatting with the students. And supporting Marguerite in her dancing and business endevours."

Tiana Tuala

Tiana is currently  year 13 at St Mary's College. She has been dancing for 13 years & started at the age of four. She has learnt tap, Jazz, Hip Hop & Ballet.

Tiana has completed 6 major dance exams in tap and jazz all with High Honours or Distinction!

In 2012 Tiana is ungoing training to become a dance teacher, she is going to sit her Advanced Jazz Exam & Solo Diploma Tap award.

Keelie Parker

Keelie has been dancing for 22 years and has studied most styles of dance including classical ballet, tap, cheerleading, streetdance & cabaret. She has danced with many different schools and teams performing in musical theatre productions, shows & national competitions.

In 2001 she founded her own school in England and has been teaching ever since. Her biggest dancing highlight so far was winning a modern choreography award at the 2007 Dance Grand Prix Worlds in Italy.

Keelie is now studying to sit exams in 5 styles this year and working towards her international dance teaching diploma.

"Dance is a passsion and I feel blessed to be able to pass on my knowledge to others through teaching. Introducing others to the joy of dance is the best careet I can think of!"