We bring news that matters to your inbox, to help you stay informed and entertained.
Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Agreement
WELCOME TO THE FAMILY! Please check your email for confirmation from us.
News
The ballet project is run by Project Elimu, a community-driven nonprofit that offers after-school arts education and a safe space to children in Kibera.
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — As the sun sets on the narrow streets of Africa’s largest informal settlement, children hurry to change from daily clothes into pointe shoes and other ballet gear.
Fifteen-year-old Brenda Branice is among the dancers and can’t hide her joy. It’s time for the Christmas performance in Kibera, one of the busiest neighborhoods of Kenya’s capital, Nairobi.
Instead of a stage, there is dust-covered plastic sheeting in an open field. The holidays have come early for residents as more than 100 local ballet students perform. They have been practicing every day after school.
“I am happy to be a ballerina,” Branice said. “I am also happy to entertain my friends.”
Eyeshadow sparkles. A girl’s braided hair swings. Some dancers go barefoot.
The mother of another ballerina, Monica Aoko, smiles as she watches the performance. Hundreds of residents, young and old, have come to the annual holiday event.
“This dance has given me a Christmas mood. Now I know Christmas is here,” Aoko said. She said she’s impressed knowing that when her daughter steps outside their home, she’s engaged in something meaningful.
TheGrio Staff
TheGrio Staff
James L. Gilmore
TheGrio Staff
Monique Judge
TheGrio Staff
TheGrio Staff
Associated Press
The ballet project is run by Project Elimu, a community-driven nonprofit that offers after-school arts education and a safe space to children in Kibera.
“Dance has the ability of triggering resilience, creativity and also calmness in you as an individual,” said founder Michael Wamaya. “I want to use dance for emotional well-being of children here in Kibera.”
Never miss a beat: Get our daily stories straight to your inbox with theGrio’s newsletter.
STREAM FREE
MOVIES, LIFESTYLE
AND NEWS CONTENT
ON OUR NEW APP