Emma shows dance and academics work

Ballet is more than just a passion for Bedfordview resident Emma Carrington.

It is a lifelong dream that is on the verge of coming to fruition.

The 16-year-old recently attained first place at the Gauteng Cecchetti Classical Ballet Awards for the Advanced 1 examination.

A joint winner, Emma achieved 96 percent for the examination, obtaining the top mark in Gauteng for this level.

Emma said after completing her matric she wants to pursue a career in dance.

“I also want to qualify as a dance teacher in the future. However, on the advice of my parents I will go to university first and get a degree. I’m into finance so I plan to study accounting,” said the St Andrews School for Girls pupil.

She said ballet is an escape for her as it helps her get through bad days.

Emma said it takes a lot of commitment to excel in dance.

“It’s about learning the steps, focus as well as muscle memory. Balance is everything,” she said.

Her ballet teacher, Dunvegan-based Ms Michèle le Roux said Emma has been enrolled at her school, Michèle le Roux School of Ballet, since she was four years old and has been able to balance her school work as well as her dancing.

“Her academics are just as great and we are very proud of her,” said Ms Le Roux.

In June last year, Emma flew to New York to attend the American Academy of Ballet Summer School for which she had been awarded a scholarship.

She plans to return overseas for more opportunities in dance.

Emma said her parents have supported her at all times.

“They have taught me to always be disciplined. My mother said if there was one thing I was born for it is dance. I am eternally grateful for their support,” said Emma.

In the next five to 10 years, Emma sees herself living either in Cape Town or in the UK.