Dancer requires sponsorship to realise dream

Dec 2 2010 by Leona Greenan, Hamilton Advertiser

A DANCE student is appealing for sponsorship to help fund a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study the art in the US.

Stacey Jardine, of Blantyre, is a contemporary dance student at Motherwell College and has been given the chance to study at the renowned Merce Cunningham Studios in New York.

The 21-year-old has trained in contemporary dance for the last five years but needs funding of $17,000 (around £10,000) to guarantee a year’s study and accomodation.

However, in order to realise her dream, the former Hamilton Grammar pupil requires sponsorship from a business or other source.

She explained: “To gain entry on to this programme there is an intense selection process. However, due to the partnership with Motherwell College, when I finish this year, I have a guaranteed place on the programme for one year. This is a fantastic opportunity for me and whilst I’ve been working so hard to save and put money by for the America trip, I really do need some help from another source.”

The study period begins in August 2011 and is for one year on the international programme with a further opportunity to continue for another two years on the certificate programme.

Whilst there Stacey, who works part-time in Morrisons, will learn the unique Cunningham technique which challenges a dancer's ability to change direction within the body and in space. She then hopes to teach the technique to young dancers back home.

She added: “The estimated cost for this year is $17,000 (includes tuition fee, $1200 a quarter, living and accommodation) as I will not be eligible to work while in the USA.

“My aim and future goal is to be able to enhance this unique training back in UK and give others the opportunity to experience and learn.

“I would love to complete my training at Cunningham. What an honour and achievement that would be. I would be eternally grateful to anyone who could help with sponsorship.”

Anyone who wishes to help fund Stacey’s trip is asked to please telephone her on 07791 509571 or contact her thorugh email at staceyjardine29@hotmail.co.uk