COLTON Craig, recipient of a NSW Ballet Society Scholarship for 2026, first discovered dance when he was three years old.
He began training at Port Macquarie Performing Arts (PMPA) at the age of five and remained with the studio until he was accepted into The Australian Ballet School at age 14 in 2023.
The NSW Ballet Society, in announcing Colton’s scholarship, said, “We look forward to Colton’s exciting journey.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Colton said he is excited about “the higher intensity of training and the opportunity to be able to do more performance.”
Stacey Morgan, Principal at PMPA, said she is incredibly proud of Colton and believes he is destined for great things.
“Colton was always very gifted and we could see that from the moment he walked through the doors at the age of five.
”He has a fierce determination to get things right and an incredible work ethic.”
Colton uses the PMPA studio to practise whenever he is home in Port Macquarie.
He also enjoys catching up with his teachers and friends there.
Colton’s mother, Broni Craig, said, “Colton knows he is in the right place.
”He loves coming home but he is always itching to get back into his routine, learning and fitness.
”Colton has found his people and he loves the challenge.”
Colton took the move in his stride, despite relocating at a young age so far from home and family.
The Ballet Society scholarship helps to cover tuition fees and living costs.
“I wouldn’t be here without the support of my community,” said Colton.
“Moving to Melbourne at 14 was a big step and I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped me follow my dream of attending The Australian Ballet School.
I hope to make Port Macquarie proud as I continue my journey.”
Port Macquarie dancers are flourishing on the national ballet stage.
Sixteen-year-old Milly Platt (Extreme Dance) and 13-year-old Billy Scott (PMPA) have also joined Colton at The Australian Ballet School this year.
Local schools continue to demonstrate a strong dance tradition.
Colton and Billy attended St Columba Anglican School, while Milly attended MacKillop College.
Colton is set to graduate in 2027, and the community hopes to see him performing with a ballet company somewhere in the world.
By Pauline CAIN
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