It’s not every day that you get invited to be a guest at an international ballet workshop and competition, so I was thrilled to accept and attend the 39th International Meeting of Academies for the Teaching of Ballet, hosted by the National Ballet School of Cuba. This prestigious event brought together teachers and students from many Central and South American countries, and even a few from North America and Europe. Over the course of seven days, the event featured a range of workshop classes for students, a teacher certification course, captivating performances, and an intense competition segment. The students, ranging in age from 8 to 19 years, displayed incredible dedication and talent, making the experience profoundly inspiring. I learned a great deal about the resilience and passion of both the students and the instructors during this time.
In addition to observing classes and attending performances, another significant aspect of my second visit to the school was delivering much-needed supplies for the students. These included leotards, ballet shoes, and makeup for performances, all of which are essential for their training and presentations. The teachers expressed immense gratitude for the rolls of Marley Tape, used on the special dance floors, as it replaced the old, torn, and hazardous existing tape. The older students were particularly thankful for the everyday essentials that are very difficult to obtain in Cuba—hairpins, toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors, pain relievers, and cold medicines. Their appreciation was heartwarming and underscored the profound impact that these supplies have on their ability to continue their rigorous training. Next time, I’ll bring band-aids, physio tape, more anti-inflammatory meds, and more lipsticks to further support their needs. It was a valuable lesson in understanding the difference even small items can make.
The really big challenge is getting Pointe shoes for the young women. There are no dance supply stores in Cuba, and the cost of shoes which can wear out quickly is extremely prohibitive—at approximately $150 per pair, the average Cuban worker would have to save their entire monthly paychecks for six months. This creates a significant barrier for aspiring ballerinas, as Pointe shoes are essential for their training and performances. Shipping supplies to Cuba is restricted from the US and unreliable from other countries, making this issue even more challenging. Individual students’ families occasionally find a way to source and deliver these shoes from abroad, but a sustainable solution has yet to be found. Trifecta Arts is searching for donors and partners to explore options and find a way to lessen this impediment to their training.
Reflecting on these challenges makes us realize how fortunate we are not to face such economic struggles. Simple items that we take for granted are luxuries for these students, whose passion for ballet drives them to overcome immense obstacles. The ongoing need for donations to Trifecta Arts, a nonprofit organization, is crucial in supporting these dedicated and hardworking students. Contributions help provide them with the necessary supplies to continue their education and training, enabling them to thrive in their artistic endeavors despite the economic hardships they face. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of these young dancers, ensuring they have the resources they need to pursue their dreams. The lessons I’ve learned from this experience are a testament to the power of generosity and support.
Click here to Donate Now!
