Passion, Determination, and Community: The Driving Forces Behind Nicole Wells’ Success
Interview by Chris Duncan
Nicole Wells, the dynamic force behind some of Australia’s most talented dancers, has carved out a unique path in the dance world. Her journey began with a passion for movement at a young age, evolving into a professional career that took her across the globe. “I started dancing from a very young age,” Nicole recalls, “and that naturally progressed into dancing professionally.” After two transformative years working in Las Vegas, she returned to Australia, where a new calling emerged: teaching. “The fulfillment I got from seeing my students improve… I knew in that moment that I wanted to do this forever,” she shares.
Nicole’s teaching quickly expanded into what would become Dance Force, an institute that has trained dancers who now perform around the world in major productions, from West End musicals to iconic shows like Cirque du Soleil. Yet for Nicole, it’s not just about technical training. She has built a nurturing environment where dancers are encouraged to push boundaries and support each other. “I wanted to create something where dancers weren’t just learning, but they were part of a family that could help them fulfill their dreams,” she explains. 
Owning and directing Dance Force comes with challenges, but Nicole is clear on what she defines as success—both for herself and for her dancers. “If you are happy in what you do, you are successful,” she says with conviction. For her students, however, success also comes with expectations. “I expect them to have incredible work ethic and be kind and respectful people. These qualities, combined with their talent, will ensure they can turn their dreams into a reality.” Nicole leads by example, constantly pushing boundaries and taking chances. “I never want to get bored or complacent,” she admits, and her drive extends beyond herself—she’s motivated to inspire her students and her own children to take every opportunity life presents. “If I take a chance and it opens doors for both myself and the students I’m mentoring, then it motivates me to want it again.”
One of the defining aspects of Nicole’s career has been her international judging experience. From competitions in Thailand to the USA, her exposure to global talent has provided invaluable insights. “It’s so rewarding to be able to help dancers keep pushing toward their dreams,” she says. These experiences not only enrich Nicole as an educator but also allow her to gauge the global standard for her own students. “It helps me understand how the dancers I’m training compare, and where we may need to concentrate to ensure they are at the highest level.”
Her students, without a doubt, have reached incredible heights. Nicole beams with pride when discussing their achievements. “We have dancers performing all over the world—JLo, Bebe Rexha, Paris Hilton, Harry Potter on West End, Moulin Rouge Paris, Magic Mike Live in Las Vegas, Cirque du Soleil, Royal Caribbean… and the list goes on.” For Nicole, the most rewarding part is that her students remain connected through what she describes as the “Dance Force family.” Even after their training ends, they continue to support one another on their professional journeys. “There’s nothing better than knowing you played a part in someone living their dream,” she says. Whether they’re performing with artists like Jennifer Lopez or dancing in renowned productions like Moulin Rouge Paris, Nicole’s dancers are making their mark on the industry. But it’s the sense of community that Nicole finds most rewarding. “The Dance Force family we have created extends long after training finishes,” she says, highlighting the strong bonds that continue beyond the studio.
In addition to her work in Australia, Nicole has made a significant impact teaching and choreographing in the USA. “Working in the USA has been so motivating for me,” she reflects. The opportunity to teach at prestigious studios like Broadway Dance Center and choreograph for major events has been both personally fulfilling and beneficial for her students, many of whom have gone on to secure international opportunities. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to see how these experiences benefit both myself and my dancers.”
A true highlight of Nicole’s career is her role as producer and choreographer for the Dance Force National Tour. “Deciding to do the tour at the start was a huge risk,” she admits, but one that has paid off immensely. “Every year, I want to step it up and keep improving the show so that audiences know they are going to experience a quality performance.” Nicole’s commitment to excellence is always top of mind, particularly when she knows agents and employers are in the audience. “I’m always trying to give dancers the chance to showcase their talent at its finest, to give them the best chance to book their next dream job.”
Nicole’s dedication to providing her students with world-class training was showcased when they succeeded at the prestigious Radix National Dance Championships in the USA. “It was such an incredible moment,” she recalls, “especially seeing them perform on an international stage.” “It reassures me that the training I am providing allows them to be competitive on that level.” Nicole beamed with pride as Asha Lee won the elite protege title and Will Dyson ranked in the top two soloists in the senior category. Both dancers were signed with Bloc, one of the leading performing arts agencies in the USA, further solidifying the global opportunities Dance Force provides.
Looking toward the future, Nicole’s aspirations are clear: she’s committed to continuous learning and taking on new challenges. “I never want to stop learning or trying new things,” she says, her excitement evident. While she is immensely proud of all she has achieved, Nicole is always looking forward to what’s next—for both herself and the dancers she mentors.
Nicole Wells’ passion for dance is undeniable, but it’s her dedication to nurturing talent and building a supportive community that truly sets her apart. She continues to inspire dancers not only to chase their dreams but to build meaningful careers that span the globe. Nicole embodies the spirit of passion and determination that defines the Australian dance community. From humble beginnings as a young dancer to becoming a globally recognized educator, choreographer, and mentor, her journey is a testament to following one’s passion and trusting the process.
