Hannah Stannard graduated from the International Ballet Academy, Christchurch, in 2003 with a diploma in dance performance. She spent time in New York on scholarship, and after graduating, worked for five years with Footnote Dance performing, teaching, choreographing, and touring around NZ and abroad. Company collaborations included work with WOW (World of Wearable Arts), Capital E, and Fuse Circus. She had the privilege to work with renowned dancers, choreographers and musicians such as Jeremy Nelson, Malia Johnston, Deirdre Tarrant, Eden Mulholland, Erynne Mulholland, and Halina Wolyncewicz. After working with the company she enjoyed various creative ventures and collaborations. She co-directed, choreographed, and performed Heart and Legs as part of the Wellington Fringe Festival. As she embarked on her studies in art history and philosophy, she also founded the Victoria University dance club, with focus on using dance to express and emphasise political, social and spiritual concerns. Hannah spent two years in Japan working as head English conversation teacher for Tokyo Kids Club. After returning to NZ, she graduated from Auckland University, continued with studies in theology, and began MakeWings dance school. Hannah has had the pleasure of writing for Theatreview since 2014, and enjoys capturing live performance in words and helping each work find and make its mark.