The Power of Ballet Scholarships for Dancers of Faith
Ballet is a captivating art form that converges grace, discipline, and creativity. For a believer, this art form is not only artistic expression, but conveys the power of God’s beauty and compassion. However, the training to accomplish such a task takes an investment of time, energy, and money. Ballet scholarships are crucial in continuing to raise up believer artists who are motivated to share their faith through dance.
Stewarding Gifts
Ballet scholarships offer a platform for young dancers to nurture and use their unique talents. By combining top-tier training with artistic development, these scholarships enable dancers to realize their fullest potential and to steward their gifts well.
“They gave me the opportunity to attend summer programs to further advance my training that I wouldn’t have been able to afford otherwise.”
Lorianne Roberston
Cultivating Community
People are wired to thrive in community. Ballet scholarships create not just skilled dancers, but help create a supportive community for these dancers. These environments encourage discussions about faith, fostering artistic and spiritual growth.
"While in the Summer Intensive program, I felt that I was given so many opportunities to grow as a dancer and in my faith. The space you have created at Ballet 5:8 is truly a uniquely beautiful environment that I felt blessed to be a part of. There have been very few spaces that I have danced in where I didn’t feel that my body was the determinative factor for how I was viewed and treated, but while at Ballet 5:8 I never felt that my size played a role in how I was treated. Overall, it was just such a transformative experience for me in many ways, and I just wanted to express my gratitude for being able to participate in the program."
Madeline Marchese
Transcendent Artistry
Ballet can communicate the divine nature of God through motion and narrative. Ballet scholarships help allow dancers to convey deep truth via their performances. The performances become a vessel to share profound messages, inspiring meaningful reflection from the audiences.
Serving through Dance
Ballet scholarship recipients use their talents to uplift others, whether through free-to-the-public outreach performances or workshops for the less privileged. By doing so, they embody Christ's teachings and can tangibly see the impact of their talents beyond the stage.
“Scholarships throughout my training allowed me to pursue a career in dance. Without that financial support I don’t believe that dance would have become anything more than a hobby.”
Sam Opsal