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South
Africa 2007
Keeping
the National Dance flag flying...
The
teachers in South Africa have problems inherent with
the country’s culture and financial situation.
The mixed races, languages and different life styles,
together with a weak exchange rate create difficulties,
which are very hard to overcome.
It
was a great pleasure, therefore, to meet and examine
so many talented children who had been trained with
love and care, enabling them to dance with enjoyment
and confidence.
Above:
Wilcarina Yeates and Annebelle Whahl with their pianist,
Doreen and National Canidates
The
teachers are keeping the National profile alive and
thriving and the children’s work shows evidence
of the skills of the South African teachers.
Amongst
the candidates was a set of Zulu children, taught in
a local township and their sense of rhythm was delightful.
All of the students were beautifully groomed, well prepared
and enthusiastic – a real pleasure to meet.
In
Cape Town I met teacher Jacqui Von Tonder; in Durban,
Minette de Clerke and in Johannesburg Wilcarina Yeates
and Annebelle Wahl. Congratulations for keeping the
National flag flying!
Grateful
thanks go to Delia Sainsbury who was responsible for
organising and co-ordinating the teachers’ examination
requirements. The amount of liaison required is time
consuming so thank you Delia for working so hard on
the ISTD’s behalf for many years.
Congratulations
to all the National students and teachers and many thanks
for making my flying visit so enjoyable. All the care
and support given made me feel so welcome.
Marion Roberts
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