Help Paige get to the next chapter

Lonehill resident, Paige Innes (16) has been chosen to represent South Africa at the American Dance Awards, which will take place from 8 to 22 July in New York.

Innes said, “My dream has always been to perform, to entertain, to explore creative energy and, more specifically, to dance. For as long as I can remember I have danced, but have danced competitively since the age of eight.”

Clearly passionate about dance, Innes is trained in jazz, modern, show dance and tumbling (an acrobatic style of dance), but is most interested in contemporary, “It is the reason I draw breath and a style I work hard to excel at.”

She explained that her journey has been an exciting one, “This year, I received three ultimate gold certificates [95 to 100 percent] and three special mentions as part of the qualifying rounds for the opportunity to represent South Africa in America. I was fortunate to have also represented South Africa in the World Cup last year and was placed second for jazz and fifth for modern dancing.

“Performing with and against dancers who have worked hard to represent their countries is an incredibly motivating experience,” she said. Innes added that representing South Africa on a stage where dancers from all over the world come to compete would be a dream come true.

“Competing is much more to me than standing on a stage, trusting that someone will recognise the hours of training and commitment which have led up to our being onstage. Competing is about striving to make an impact, creating a lasting moment and memory in the minds of the audience.

“It is also about striving to be better today than I was yesterday. And holding on to the dream that I too will become memorable and outstanding, and that one day I might inspire another little girl to do the same.”

Mugg & Bean Lonehill will host a fundraiser in order to make Innes’ dreams come true as her parents do not have the finances available to send her on this trip.

Belinda Lombard, owner of the restaurant franchise said, “It is vital for her career going forward to get international recognition and exposure.

“I have never met a child that works so hard in order to achieve her goals. She trains an average of 12 hours a week, while maintaining a very impressive average in Grade 11 at Crawford College Lonehill.”

The fundraiser will take place at Mugg & Bean Lonehill on 22 June at 6.30pm. Guests can expect an evening of sherry and soup while being entertained by Lindy McClymont, a team development specialist and speaker. An auction and raffle will also be held. Tickets cost R200 per person and include a goodie bag.

All proceeds from the event will support Innes during her quest to conquer the stages of New York.

Details: Belinda Lombard 011 467 6301; 083 239 5587.

Read more:

Help dancer travel to New York for competition

Beauty pageant finalist cares about recycling

#RockYourBurger rocks Braamfontein