Help dancers show off talent in competition

The group from the Jodie Jackson Dance Centre.

A group of Grassy Park dancers are making all the right moves and have landed a spot in an international competition to show off their skills.

The group of 17 dancers from the Jodie Jackson Dance Centre have qualified to take part in the Dance Star World Dance Masters which will be held in Croatia in May.

More than 5 000 competitors from 30 countries around the world will be taking part in the competition.

Although the dancers are excited to attend the competition, some may not be able to because of financial constraints as the amount needed for the trip is nearly R30 000 each.

This includes accommodation and entry fees, flights, visas, passports, insurance as well as meals and spending money.

Founder and dance teacher Jody Jackson from Grassy Park said this would be a good opportunity for the children to gain knowledge and for many it will be their first trip abroad.

“For these kids to be able to perform on an international stage would be an experience they will never forget. These kids are so talented and I am confident that they will represent South Africa well if they’re given the opportunity.

“An opportunity like this will open up their minds to a whole new world and this is very important for children, especially ones who come from previously disadvantaged communities where drugs, teenage pregnancy and gangsterism are rife,” said Ms Jackson.

“I know this opportunity
would mean the world to these pupils and a little help in any
way would go a long way for
them to reach their dream,” she said.

Dance pupil Tiffany Jacobs, 16, who has been part of the dance school since its inception six years ago, is honoured to take part in the competition.

“I’m so excited because we’ve been given an opportunity to show off our talents and represent our country. My hope is that we raise enough funds for all of us to go as it would mean the world to us because we worked hard to get through to the competition. It would be devastating if we weren’t able to go,” said Tiffany.

Her grandmother and legal guardian, Tammy Jacobs, said their financial situation is making it difficult to pay for the trip and although they’re raising funds through various events, she worries that it won’t be enough.

“I’m a single foster mother to three children and I can’t afford to pay for her trip because I depend on money that I get for foster care. It is her dream to go to Croatia so I’m hoping that we will raise enough funds to get her there because dancing is her life and this has been one of
her biggest dreams,” said Ms Jacobs.

Another pupil Kayla Fredericks, 13, said they are fortunate to go through to the competi-
tion.

“Dancing helps us express our feelings through movement. We enjoy what we do and we hope we can get the help we need to take part in the competition,” she
said.

Her mother Wendy Fredericks said monetary donations are
welcome and she encouraged people to attend their funct-
ions.

“Any help, even if it’s attending our fundraising events would
help immensely,” said Ms Fredericks.

If you would like to help call Jodie Jackson on 082 632 5142
or visit the centre’s Facebook page.