Ep 1. Learning to Fly

It is the first episode of the first season of Dance Academy, and it is titled "Learning to Fly." The episode starts by introducing Tara Webster, the series' leading character. She is a fifteen-year-old girl who has always dreamt of becoming a professional ballet dancer. Tara is from the rural part of Australia, and she has been given the opportunity to study at the National Academy of Dance in Sydney.

Tara arrives in Sydney with her mother, excited about the opportunity but also feeling nervous and unsure about her future. Tara meets some of the other students at the academy, including Kat, a confident and ambitious dancer who seems to have already carved out her place in the school's social hierarchy. Tara finds herself drawn to Christian, a boy who seems to be different from the other students and who catches her eye during her first dance lesson.

During class, Tara struggles with the technical aspects of ballet and is singled out by the strict dance teacher Ms. Raine for not performing to her standards. This is the first of many challenges Tara will face throughout the show, as she tries to find her place amongst her peers and realize her dream of becoming a professional dancer.

The episode follows Tara as she navigates her first few weeks at the academy, dealing with competition, insecurities, and the demands of her teachers. She forms friendships with some of the other dancers, such as Ethan, who is kind and supportive, and Sammy, a quirky and lovable member of the group. Tara also has to deal with a difficult roommate, Abigail, who is cold and unfriendly towards her.

Towards the end of the episode, the dancers are given an assignment to choreograph their own dance routine. Tara is initially hesitant but finds inspiration through her interactions with Christian. She realizes that dancing is more than just technical skill, that it is about expressing oneself and connecting with others.

The episode ends with Tara auditioning for the role of the lead in the final end-of-year performance, which will be performed in front of industry professionals. She is nervous but determined to succeed, knowing that this is her chance to prove herself as a worthy dancer and secure her future at the academy.

Overall, "Learning to Fly" sets the stage for the rest of the show, introducing the characters, the setting, and the overall themes of competition, self-discovery, and the pursuit of artistic excellence. It is a compelling first episode that draws the audience in and makes them invested in Tara's journey.