2020 Year in Review

by Kristine Elliott

If your year has been anything like ours, you’ll know that things looked a little different than expected. Through it all, Gugulethu Ballet Project has continued to support young dancers from the townships of South Africa.

This summer, instead of attending the American Ballet Theatre summer intensive in New York as planned, Chuma Mathiso and Aphiwe November joined online from South Africa. Thimna Ndwe, Chuma, and Aphiwe were able to partake in the Alonzo King Lines summer session in the same way. Adji Cissoko, a dancer with the Alonzo King Lines company, was so impressed by their performance that she reached out to teach the children in South Africa and continues to hold classes online.

In July, Sikhumbuzo Hlaheni competed in the International Ballet Competition virtually, performing Solar’s variation from La Bayadere and a contemporary solo, Valorious, choreographed by Grant Van Ster. Even with travel restrictions, ballet continues to foster international connections through a shared love of dance.

“The mission of Gugulethu Ballet Project is to bring the art of classical ballet to the children and youth of South African townships. We believe in the power of dance to change lives and transform communities. Through the study of ballet, young dancers learn personal discipline, respect for themselves and others, artistic expression, resilience, and focus. The children, in turn, help to enrich and grow the art form in a long-needed diversified manner. We have seen children grow up, travel far, and return to South Africa to inspire the next generation of young dancers.”

Would you consider making a personally meaningful donation to help us achieve our mission?

During the pandemic, we have adapted to provide flexible support to dancers. Your contribution will go toward:

• Facilitating zoom classes connecting young dancers from South Africa to teachers and intensive training in the US. This can include cell-phone data, electricity, and payment for teachers and coaches.

• Supporting students participating in virtual dance competitions or auditions, including support to film, rehearse, hire a choreographer, and purchase proper attire.

• Support for our partner dance schools in South Africa. These schools perform the daily work of teaching the children and providing them with a safe space to learn.

And if the pandemic allows:

• An annual research and teaching trip to South Africa during which I teach workshops and set repertoire with professional guest teachers, check in with our partner schools to find out their needs, reconnect with former students, and identify young talent.

• Scholarships for South African students to study in the US. These summer study programs result in immense growth, professional connections, and often year-round training opportunities for students.

We thank you for your generosity. You can make your donation online or by mailing a check to Gugulethu Ballet Project at P.O. Box 620465 Woodside, CA 94062.

Ubuntu and warmest regards,

Kristine Elliott

Director, Gugulethu Ballet Project

Building Pride Through Dance