Help Clinton Dance His Dream

Twelve-year old Clinton Shumba from Pietermaritzburg, danced one step closer to his dream when he recently won a fifty percent scholarship to attend the American Academy of Ballet Summer School in New York in July 2024. Clinton studies ballet with Joyann Goddard in the GracePointe School of Dance. He has already been selected three times to perform in annual KZN Midlands Youth Ballet productions choreographed by Robin Van Wyk. Clinton danced in "Peter Pan" and "Coppelia", and will now take the solo role of the Magic Carpet in "Aladdin". Clinton's aptitude for dance and charisma on stage deserves his community's generous support as he raises a target of R85 000 to travel with his teacher to the summer school in July this year.

 

Clinton's ballet journey started one afternoon in 2021 when Joyann Goddard observed him copying the steps from the back of the studio. He was 9 years old. When asked if he would like to join the class, his aptitude was immediately evident. In the following weeks, Joyann noticed how he arrived 30 minutes early for every lesson, to practise with the children in the previous lesson. Clinton also put extra effort into stretching exercises which are so important to develop strong ballet technique.

 

Since he began, Clinton has won two gold medals from the American Academy of Ballet - one with distinction. He also won a ballet tuition bursary from the KZN Midlands Youth Ballet Company for "most promising dancer" of 2023.

 

Funds raised for the AAB Summer School in New York will be used to cover the balance of Clinton's tuition, air fares, visas, ballet kit, meals, and some pocket money.(His teacher's attendance at the summer school is covered by volunteering on the summer school staff.)

 

By attending the summer school, Clinton will be coached by world class teachers from countries like France, Brazil, Argentina,the UK, Russia, and the US. He will also interact with dancers from all over the world.

 

To be given the best chance at success,Clinton needs to be seen by the larger world dance community.The exposure and experience he gets at the summer school will help Clinton dance his way toward his goal of a career in dance.

 

It will be a privilege for him to represent South Africa at the most prestigious international summer school in the United States.

 

Your donation to help Clinton make his dream a reality will be gratefully received. All donations will be paid into a dedicated account.

 

In anticipation,

Joyann Goddard for Team Clinton