RIYADH: Saudi dancer Halaa Nagadi, 18, is captivating audiences with her unwavering passion and hopes others will be inspired to “embrace this beautiful and expressive art form”.
She is currently preparing for the 2024 Dubai International Dance Competition, which will start on November 17 and will be attended by professional and amateur dancers from all over the world.
“I became interested in ballet when I was traveling to find a dance form that really resonated with me,” Nagadi told Arab News. “The way ballet dancers could convey such powerful emotions and narratives through their bodies was simply captivating.”
Halaa Nagadi is currently preparing for the 2024 Dubai International Dance Competition, which will start on November 17 and will be attended by professional and amateur dancers. (Supplied)
From an early age, Nagadi was fascinated by the graceful movements and emotional storytelling of ballet and pursued her dream with determination.
“One of my biggest goals is to represent Saudi Arabia on the international ballet stage,” Nagadi said. “I want to showcase the talent and artistry that exists in our country and inspire others to embrace this beautiful and expressive art form.”
FASTFACTS
• Although ballet was not the typical path for a young Saudi woman, Nagadi was not deterred.
• She immersed herself in the study of ballet, first through online videos and then by seeking out local and international training opportunities.
Although ballet was not a typical path for a young Saudi woman, Nagadi was undaunted. She immersed herself in ballet study, first through online videos and then by seeking out local and international training opportunities.
“Juggling my studies in tourism and event management at King Abdulaziz University with my rigorous ballet training was no easy task,” Nagadi revealed.
“But I remained steadfast in my goal, dedicating four to eight hours a day to honing my skills, both in the ballet studio and in the gym, ensuring that I was constantly improving and pushing the limits of my art.”
Nagadi’s journey has not been without its challenges, however. Finding suitable ballet facilities in Saudi Arabia has been a significant obstacle, and sourcing specialized equipment is proving to be an ongoing obstacle, she said.
Undaunted, Nagadi sought opportunities abroad, including a summer program in Romania and a chance to perform in a classical dance show in Turkey.
“I also attended a masterclass for professional dancers held by the director of the Royal Ballet in London,” she added.
Nagadi’s dedication and passion have not gone unnoticed locally. “I have received support from the Saudi Ministry of Culture, which has given me the opportunity to showcase my talents at local events, such as the Taif Rose Festival and a theater show that fused Arabic music with ballet,” he said.
As Saudi Arabia’s arts and cultural scene continues to evolve, ballet talent envisions a future where the dance form thrives and draws audiences from across the Kingdom.
“I think the ballet scene in Saudi Arabia will continue to grow and develop,” she said. “More and more people are becoming interested in learning and practicing this art form.”
Nagadi’s unwavering determination has not only earned her recognition within the Saudi Arabian artistic community, but has also inspired a new generation of young people to explore the world of ballet.
Her story reminds us that with hard work, dedication, and a willingness to challenge social norms, anything is possible.
