Dam Ditty Doo (DDD) Art Connection will soon host community-based classes in the field of performing and visual arts in Westdene.
DDD is a non-profit organisation founded in Germany, in 2003.
With the help of many internationally recognised artists, DDD has supported youth from different cultures, nationalities and socio-economic backgrounds.
The aim of this initiative, according to founder of Dam Ditty Doo South Africa Ginger Wenskey, is to facilitate the growth of the youth according to their different talents and abilities, and to introduce them to the world of visual and performing arts.
Through DDD, children developed an array of performances under the motive ‘talents for tolerance’, which spreads the message that people from different cultures are able to come together to create a phenomenal show, encouraging an exchange of talent and prestige without compromising one’s own identity.
These children became role models of a united front among different origins, despite the prior judgments of the inferiority of different cultures and discriminatory attitudes, according to Wensky.
Wensky explained that these classes benefit the community in more than one way.
“This project is not only about bringing arts closer to the youth, but to teach them discipline, how to eat and live healthy and to open their eyes toward other cultures; and that with their talent and hard work they can achieve anything they desire,” she said.
“Working together will bring a better future for all of us. A world with leaders and people that go for what they want,” Wensky added.
Benefits of partaking in performing arts, courtesy of www.danceteachers.org:
- Increasing your daily exercise to making new friends with shared interests. Some of the benefits of increased exercise are reduced stress levels, improved relaxation, stronger bones and muscles and help to control body weight.
- Performative art is not only that of increased exercise, but the participation in an art form, which is routed in technique, and giving the opportunity for a creative outlet.
- The skills developed in dance can also be valuable and transferable, and can be applied to any career path.
- The confidence gained through achievements in dance helps to build social skills, increase self-esteem and the ability to communicate well in a group.
Classes will officially start on 5 November at the Westdene Recreation Centre. The DDD welcomes all the youth to join in the fun.
