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KUCHING, Aug 2: In a display of unity and talent, Persatuan Perpaduan Seni Tari Kuching or Unity Dance Association Kuching, a newly incorporated dance association, orchestrated a three-day intensive ballet workshop titled ‘NURTURIFY: Nurture-Intensify’ from July 28 to 30 which attracted participants from various dance schools across the city.
The workshop was led by the distinguished Julian Gan from the Grand Rapids Ballet company in the United States, which is Michigan’s only professional ballet company, according to a media release yesterday (Aug 1).
The event not only nurtured a sense of togetherness amongst local young dancers but also showcased the burgeoning artistic brilliance thriving within the community.
At the heart of the association’s mission to cultivate young talents in the realm of dance lies the belief that dance transcends boundaries and unites spirits through artistic expression. From graceful arabesques to intricate footwork, each young participant infused their unique persona onto the dance floor, showcasing the vibrant diversity inherent in the dance community under the instructor’s steadfast guidance.
“It is my wish that ballet can become more popular and accepted in Sarawak,” the association’s president Layna Chan said, while emphasising how the association’s objective aligns with the Sarawak Premier’s Vision 2030, which aims for a stable and expanding performing arts environment that has a beneficial impact on society and supports economic stability.
Beyond training and refinement, the workshop also aimed to create long-lasting relationships among dance schools. Over the course of the three days, participants engaged in collaborative and interactive activities, enabling them to network and learn from each other.
With an emphasis on cultivating future connections and knowledge exchange, dance schools will be able to mutually support and encourage one another within a nurturing framework.
“The association strives to provide a unique platform for students to explore their passion for dance and develop their skills. This is not limited to just classical ballet but other dance genres such as contemporary, hip hop, traditional, and folk dance, to name a few.
“We hope to get the chance to use the stage when the new Sarawak Performing Arts Centre is ready. I am hoping that the performances at the new Sarawak Performing Arts Centre would include various dance genres.
“It is our aim to bring together all the many dance organisations and schools in Kuching, under one roof to focus on raising the bar for dance locally and achieving internationally accepted standards,” Chan added.
According to the press release, the transformative impact of this ballet workshop on its young participants was palpable as the event concluded. Parents, teachers, and observers alike were deeply impressed by the growth and charisma exhibited by the young dancers.
The culmination of this intensive workshop featured a performance where participants showcased their newly acquired skills. This workshop not only enhanced their technical prowess but also instilled qualities such as discipline, tenacity, and passion that will extend beyond the dance floor.
“In the future, we plan to organise many events of various dance genres, and truly hope that more dance organisations and schools would join us,” Chan said.
For more information about Persatuan Perpaduan Seni Tari and its activities, please contact 016-888 6506 or 012-895 6896. — DayakDaily
