April 12, 2026
Documentary features Port Macquarie dancer Conor Bann-Murray Conor at front, auditioning at Brent Street with Arabella Meleo, Savannah Pillay and Jake Sergi. Photo: David Alrich, Perpetual Entertainment.

Documentary features Port Macquarie dancer Conor Bann-Murray

YOUNG dancers dreaming of a career on the global stage are being reminded that no matter where you live, it is possible to make it.

Local talent Conor Bann-Murray is currently appearing in the feature documentary Dance For Your Life, which hit cinemas nationwide on Thursday 2 April.

The film follows 10 of Australia’s most promising young dancers as they compete for a coveted position with an international dance company.

It offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to turn passion into a profession.

Conor explains what it’s like to be a dancer.

“You’re injured one week and then you’re on stage the next week, and then you’re in pain the week after, and then rinse and repeat.

“So, I think that’s just what we signed up for, honestly.

“We love it so much, we’re all crazy.”

Conor joins a line-up of standout performers including breakout star Emily Smith and Max Ostler, who previously appeared on America’s Got Talent.

The documentary captures the dancers’ journey from Australia to London.

Dancers audition for Shapehaus, a new company founded by world-renowned choreographer Dean Lee.

Lee has worked with global music icons including Janet Jackson, Kylie Minogue, The Pussycat Dolls, Shania Twain and The Jacksons.

Under his mentorship, the dancers are pushed physically and emotionally as they navigate intense rehearsals, fierce competition and the pressure of chasing a lifelong dream.

Directed by multi-award-winning filmmaker Luke Cornish, the film offers an intimate look at the realities of the commercial dance world.

The story highlights Brent Street, one of Australia’s leading performing arts studios, which provides the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for dancers like Conor to audition internationally.

By Sis HIGGINS

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