National Tap Dance Day proved irresistible for ELLEN KALAJA, who took her camera to the preparations for the big day, and the joyful final performances.

Entering the studio: Ellie is a tap dancing teacher at Glamour Puss Studios. The studio stands out as a bright burst of pink in an otherwise bleak St Kilda street. Tonight Ellie’s class will be practicing for an upcoming performance for National Tap Dance Day.

Class begins: Ellie has been teaching dance for five years, and teaches both child and adult classes. Ellie herself has been a dancer for seventeen years, and is trained in a variety of styles. Tonight Ellie is teaching an adult class of beginners.

Moment of celebration: Ellie always feels a sense of pride when a student finally perfects a move that they have been practicing for weeks. For Ellie, “focusing on the students, their technique, and their achievements” are her primary goals during classes.

Break time: Teaching several hour-long classes each night can be tiring, but Ellie says that “the time usually goes by so quickly.” As Ellie waits for her next class to begin, she practises some steps of her own.

Preparations: On National Tap Dance Day, Ellie gets in costume, and applies her makeup in preparation to dance along with her students. “As a teacher, my main focus today is giving motivation,” says Ellie. “For those beginners or kids who might be unsure, I'm their confidence booster and reminder of the results they've achieved.”

The day begins: The dancing starts outside Luna Park, before the dancers make their way to the Acland Street Plaza to continue dancing. “It’s a great opportunity for all of my classes to see each other’s performances,” Ellie says.

Shoes on display: Ellie dances along with her students. The performances will go on for two hours.

Group performance: According to Ellie the best part of National Tap Dance Day is the enjoyment she sees from each of her students. “Yes, it's important to work hard during class and learn, but having fun and enjoying the day is always the highlight. It brings back motivation to those who might have lost some along the way, from the youngest to the oldest students.”