Advancing Ophelia's Dance Career w/ AAB

Ophelia has been studying dance for 13 years, at a local dance studio. She has had many principle roles over the years in her studios productions, and been given awards of excellence. Ever since she was little she has wanted to dance. At the age of 2 before she was enrolled in classes, she cried at her uncle's own performances that she wanted to be on stage. She started classes the next year at The Ballet Center where she currently studies.

"Dance, especially ballet provides a discipline like no other. It gives you a center to focus your energy and push away personal issues. The studio is a place where you can focus on yourself, and just feel the music. Once the music starts you have to let go of rigid technique, and blossom into an artist." - Ophelia Fernandes

Ophelia has attended other month long summer intensives in the past, but now hopes to go above and beyond and further her experience. Now 15, she hopes to go out of state to attend the American Academy of Ballet's annual summer intensive. This 5 week intensive is held in the dance building of Purchase College in upstate New York. The dancers stay on the campus of Purchase College, just a short walk from the studios. The dance facilities on campus hold nine air-conditioned studios, all for use during the intensive. Because of AAB's distinguished faculty, there is not only classical ballet offered, but also Jazz, Spanish Dance, and Modern. Alumni from this summer program have been accepted to The Royal Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, The Bolshoi Ballet, Boston Ballet, The Norwegian Ballet, and many more. Each year AAB holds an international audition tour, and after auditioning in Boston MA, Ophelia has been accepted. The only thing holding her back is the issue of finance.


By attending this intensive, Ophelia's progress in technique would grow immensely by working in the studio for 6+ hours 5-6 days per week . This intensive helps strength building, as well as over all skill in technique such as turns, petite and grande allegro (small and big jumps/leaps), and adagio (slow combinations focusing on extension). Not only would her technique improve but her over all stage presence and knowledge would expand and grow. American Academy of Ballet is know for their challenging but nurturing environment, which helps each student grow into a mature dancer and artist.
The funds raised will go to tuition, leotard uniform expenses, traveling, and multiple pairs of pointe shoes needed.
We are extremely grateful for whatever amount you can contribute to Ophelia's dream. Thank you for taking the time to read this, and visit this page!!

Please take a moment to read through The American Academy of Ballet's brochure to further your knowledge of their program Ophelia hopes to experience.

http://american-academy-of-ballet.com/download/2014/Summer_School_2014_Brochure.pdf