Nakita De Souza-Plaatjies had the pleasure of attending the Sleeping Beauty Reimagined Gala Event, hosted by the Toynbee Dance Academy, and she was truly captivated by the evening’s magic.
Set in the historic Tramways Building in Gqeberha, the event promised a preview of the academy’s upcoming ballet production and an inspiring look into their mission to uplift young dancers from disadvantaged backgrounds.
From the moment guests stepped into the venue, the atmosphere was enchanting. Welcomed by graceful ballerinas, attendees were treated to the vibrant sounds of a live saxophonist, setting the perfect tone for the evening. A delightful spread of snacks and drinks was available, creating a warm and inviting ambience for all.
A Glimpse into Toynbee’s Legacy
The evening opened with a presentation from Ariana Bailey, the principal of Toynbee Dance Academy, who gave us insight into the academy’s rich history. Founded in 1985 by local dance icon Gwen-Mary Wells, the academy began in Helenvale, Port Elizabeth, and has been a pillar for the community ever since.
Toynbee’s story is one of resilience and dedication, with a deep commitment to nurturing young talent, particularly those from the Northern Areas who face socio-economic challenges. The academy charges no tuition fees and instead relies on fundraising and donations to keep the doors open to these aspiring dancers.
A Behind-the-Scenes Experience
One of the most engaging parts of the evening was the interactive stations set up for the guests. These stations provided an intimate look into the artistry behind the production of Sleeping Beauty Reimagined. We witnessed makeup artists and hairstylists at work, a costume designer meticulously crafting a tutu in real-time, and even a painter, Muneeb Wassim, creating a stunning piece of art that was later auctioned off in support of the academy.
It wasn’t just about the technical aspects of the production, though; the real heart of the evening came when we were shown a preview of the Sleeping Beauty Ballet itself. Watching the dancers on stage, performing beautifully choreographed sequences, I felt deeply moved. The sheer elegance of the movement and the emotion behind the story brought me to the verge of tears. It was a powerful reminder of the transformative nature of the arts.
A Cause Worth Supporting
Bailey spoke passionately about Toynbee’s collaboration with schools in the Northern Areas, emphasising the academy’s role in providing a safe space for young dancers who might otherwise never have the opportunity to explore their talents. By offering them a theatre experience and a creative outlet, the academy strives to open doors to a brighter future.
“The purpose of this gala event was to share our vision and create a community of friendship between people in the name of dance,” Bailey said. “We wanted our guests to see more than just the pretty tutus and pointe shoes on stage. We wanted them to know Toynbee’s story, understand the discipline, and the reason behind our production.”
Through partnerships and fundraising efforts, Toynbee is not only producing a ballet—it is uplifting an entire community, showing learners that there is more to life than the challenges they face daily.
Looking Forward to December
The gala was just a taste of what’s to come when Sleeping Beauty Reimagined takes centre stage at the Feather Market Centre from 17-19 December. If the preview was anything to go by, the full performance promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
If you are looking to support this fantastic cause, consider donating to the academy, which continues to provide life-changing opportunities for the youth in Gqeberha’s northern areas. You can contribute to their efforts through the following details:
Banking Details:
- First National Bank
- Cheque Account
- Account Number: 630 989 228 34
Let’s support the arts and ensure that Toynbee Dance Academy continues to inspire and uplift the next generation of dancers.
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