Dancers take their talent to the next level

Gallery

GEORGE NEWS - Those who missed out on the sterling performances of local dance schools last weekend in Dance Mosaic - Dancing for Dogs have good reason to cry. Five dance schools and the York High Dance Department showcased the best of their best in four fantastic shows last Friday and Saturday, 19 and 20 November, at the George Arts Theatre.

Combining her love for animals and dance, Abbi Geldenhuys of Abbi Geldenhuys Academy of Ballet initiated Dance Mosaic - Dancing for Dogs as a fundraiser to the benefit of animals in need. This year marks the fourth of its kind.

Photo gallery: Dancers take their talent to the next level for a good cause

A total of R22 000 was raised for the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) in George, to help rebuild their crematorium which burned to the ground earlier this year. Moira Gibbs of the PDSA expressed their heartfelt gratitude for this gesture.

Geldenhuys said it is important to teach the youth about community involvement. "We are all passionate about dancing. What better way to show others you care than to use your talent for the greater good? It is such a privilege to have the support of all the different dance schools. It is good to know that our combined efforts can make such a difference."

In formation: acro dancers of Rhythmical Seeds during their breathtaking performance.

Dancers of the following schools participated in the event: Abbi Geldenhuys Academy of Ballet, Rhythmical Seeds, York High Dance Department, Marlise's School of Spanish Dance, Leanne Heysteck's Ballet Babes and Siya's Gumboot Boys. Dance styles included ballet, hip hop, contemporary, jazz, Spanish and gumboot dancing.

Abbi Geldenhuys in performance with her senior students.

Two dancers of Marlise's School of Spanish Dance, Nelia Schmidt and her daughter Lia Schmidt (9), in tune with the rhythm of the music. Photos: Michelle Pienaar