PLETTENBERG BAY - Three passionate young Plettenberg Bay dancers will be heading to Mauritius later this year after not only earning South African colours for their dancing skills, but also securing a spot to compete on an international stage.

Plett Dance Academy dancers Belinda Ashley Hart, Gabriella Kennedy and Tait Solomon recently earned South African colours for modern dance and acrobatic dance - a style of dance that combines classical dance techniques with acrobatic elements.

This achievement earned the trio an invitation to take part in the International Fine Arts Association (IFAA) competition in Mauritius in September this year.

The girls are currently trying to raise funds to make their dream of competing on an international stage come true. They need to cover their own travel expenses and fees.

Tait Solomon's passion for dance developed at a very young age. With a solid foundation in ballet, she later transitioned to acrobatic and modern dance in 2020, and has not looked back since.

The 12-year-old's dedication and love for dance continues to grow. Above and beyond her skills as a dancer, Tait is also an avid karate enthusiast.

She recently earned her brown belt with stripes, showcasing her commitment and hard work.

The discipline and balance she's gained from karate have significantly enhanced her flexibility and strength, making her an even more formidable dancer.

"Tait possesses incredible natural talent, and her progress is nothing short of remarkable. Each year, she reaches new heights, leaving us in awe of her potential and determination. With your support, we can help Tait take the next big step in her dance journey," the Plett Dance Academy team said.

They added that the experience would not only broaden her horizons but also provide her with invaluable exposure and learning opportunities.

Gabriella Kennedy, a talented 12-year-old dancer from Plettenberg Bay, also made it to the competition in Mauritius. She began her ballet journey at the age of 6 under the expert guidance of Tracy Roman at Tracy-Ann's School of Ballet.

By the age of 9, she expanded her dance repertoire to include modern/jazz and acrobatics with Belinda van Tonder from Plett Dance Academy.

Gabriella's dedication and talent quickly became evident and in 2021, she participated in the Garden Route Eisteddfod, winning a special award for improvisation and securing the overall Under-11 championship division title at just 9 years old.

The following year, she received a special award for her modern solo, and in 2023, she earned another special award for a duet performance.

Her achievements continued to grow as she competed in the IFAA trials in 2023. "Gabriella's exceptional performance earned her national colours in modern/jazz dance, a special award for 'sassy dancing,' and an invitation to participate in the national overall trials," the Plett Dance Academy team said.

In ballet, she has consistently achieved distinctions in numerous exams.

Her hard work was further recognised in April this year when she received a silver medal with distinction at the American Academy of Ballet Performance Awards.

"Her love for dancing shines through every time she steps onto the stage," the academy team said.

Belinda Ashley Hart (15) discovered her passion for dance at the age of 9. "Her love for expressing emotions through music and movement has only grown stronger over the years," the team said.

Belinda's dedication and hard work have earned her numerous awards and South African colours.

Her dream is to coach future dancers and pursue her studies at an art school.

"Brave and determined, nothing holds Belinda back from mastering incredible acrobatic tricks in her acro dance routines."

To support the young dancers to make their way to Mauritius in September, e-mail getustomauritius@gmail.com. Local restaurant Barrington's will be lending a hand by hosting a fundraiser for the trip on Saturday 27 July. The event has been dubbed "Burger & Boogie" and will include an array of local entertainment as well as a silent auction and raffle draw on the night.

Tickets are available for purchase on Barrington's' website and the girls' Facebook page Get Us To Mauritius.

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