A young dancer of the Art of Motion dance studio based in Boskruin, wowed the judges at the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP), America’s largest student ballet and contemporary dance scholarship competition. Leroy Mokgatle (14) competed at the Lincoln Centre’s David H. Koch Theatre, in New York City on 9 April. History was made when for the first time ever, a South African competitor was placed in the classical finals.
Mokgatle came third in the junior men’s category and was humbled by the privilege provided to him through his sponsors and the honour of being recognised at such a prestigious event.
As a result of Mokgtle’s remarkable achievement, he has received scholarship offers from both the Houston Ballet Academy and the Harid Conservatory Ballet School, Florida in the United States of America. He has also been chosen to represent South Africa in Korea at the Seoul International Dance Competition, in July.
Sayward Harris the Art of Motion’s dance director, said the YAGP has been an incredible experience for herself and her students. “The opportunity to network, exchange ideas and share experiences was unlimited. We took back a wealth of knowledge to South Africa and are eager to share what we learned with our fellow dancers.”
Catch these world class performers when they dance in I Dance Productions performance of Kaleidoscope at the Joburg Theatre on 18 May. I Dance Productions is a sister company of Art of Motion, giving young talent an opportunity to perform on a professional stage in front of an appreciative audience. There is only one performance therefore people are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment. Multi award winning resident choreographer Angelique Harris said, “Kaleidoscope promises to exceed all expectations.”
Details: www.artofmotionsa.co.za, Jo’burg Theatre 0861 670 670.
