Dance For Peace 2009, which took place on Saturday, October 3rd was a magnificent success. Two shows, a matinee and an evening performance took place at the Playhouse Theatre, Whitstable in Kent, UK and more than 160 people came along. The dancers, aged from four to 24 entertained the audiences with ballet, contemporary, street, jazz, Spanish and tap. The standard was outstanding and included a bit of breakdancing as well as singing and excerpts from Cinderella and the musical Fame - a real mixture. The dancers and their teachers were so wonderful to give up their time to raise funds for the students of Trust Sulha. Money was raised through ticket sales, programme sales, a raffle and donations at the end of the show.
We don't know how much we have raised yet, but we'll let you know...
As always, Trust Sulha founder and Dance For Peace creator Marnie Summerfield Smith started rehearsals with an explanation for the young performers about why young Afghans live as refugees in Pakistan and why they need our help to get an education.There was a fantastic atmosphere of generosity and comraderie all day and everyone said, "Can't wait until next year!" Definitely! Roll on Dance For Peace 2010.
As you may know, Dance For Peace was extremely lucky to have photojournalist Justin Sutcliffe as a guest to speak at both shows. As a winner of World Press Photo, it is more than accurate to describe Justin as one of the world's best photographers. He showed a series of images of the Afghanistan we don't normally get to see. And they were truly stunning. The audience was transfixed as well as fascinated by his knowledge. Thanks again to Justin for giving up his time Visit his website to see some of them and keep an eye for future exhibitions.
And as a little bonus to the dancers, we had photographer David Vango there to capture rehearsals. But during the performances, David was video-recording the shows. Fortunately Justin Sutcliffe was backstage throughout to capture some truly beautiful moments, both on stage and off. Trust Sulha can't wait to see those images and will be finding a way for the dancers to see them too.
A great day for everyone, but most importantly a day that raised funds for the Trust Sulha students who work so hard and deserve all the help we can give them.