Tess Howieson

Tess Howieson is a highly respected dance educator and adjudicator whose career spans Australia, the UK, and the USA. Currently Dance Coordinator at Seton Catholic College in Perth, Tess has pioneered innovative pathways for young dancers, including Western Australia’s first in-school Certificate IV in Dance and a Dance Teaching Apprenticeship. She has also taught at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), served as Dance Director at Stagedoor Manor in New York, and worked as Head Creative with the British Theatre Academy in London. Tess is deeply committed to equity in the arts, helping students from all backgrounds access professional training and opportunities.

Adjudicating Experience

Tess has adjudicated at numerous state and international competitions, bringing her professional expertise and a balanced, encouraging approach. These include:

• Finley Awards for School and Community Theatre

• The Forbes Eisteddfod (2025)

• Elite Dance State Dance Expo (2023, 2024)

• Elevate Dance Expo (2024)

• WA Dance Expo (2022)

• Dance Quest International (2021)

• Starlight Festival of Dance (2021)

• Express Dance Challenge (2021)

• Country Dance Challenge (2021)

• Supreme Dance Experience (2021)

• Get the Beat (WA & Asia, 2020)

Her adjudication is known for blending technical feedback with artistic insight, ensuring dancers at every level feel supported to grow.

Education and Training

Tess holds a Bachelor of Education, a Bachelor of Arts (Dance), and is completing a Master of Higher Education. She also completed full-time dance training at The Ministry of Dance in Melbourne, along with professional accreditations in assessment and training.

Performance & Industry Links

Alongside her teaching and adjudication, Tess has choreographed world premieres, built partnerships with pro-am theatre companies, and led international arts immersions, including a cultural exchange teaching dance to orphans in Thailand.

Why Choose Tess?

Organisers seeking an adjudicator who combines international perspective, rigorous technical knowledge, and a student-centered philosophy will find Tess a dedicated, professional choice. She is passionate about providing fair, constructive, and inspiring feedback that celebrates artistry while pushing dancers to achieve their best.