Elianah's ABT Summer Intensive

Hello,

I'm Elianah, I'm 13 years old, and I am on my way to becoming a professional ballet dancer.  I currently dance 20 hours a week, and have had several significant roles in my ballet company, including the honor of being Clara in the Nutcracker and the Silver Fairy in Sleeping Beauty.  I am in the 8th grade, an A student, and a helpful sister to my brother who has special needs.

Part of becoming a professional ballerina is intensive training over the summer.  I auditioned for several company's summer intensive programs, and was honored to be selected for the American Ballet Theater's program in New York.  This is one of the top programs in the country.  Needless to say, I was thrilled!  There are, however, many challenges to overcome in order for me to attend this program.  In addition to the cost of the program and housing,  which is not provided, we must locate a place to stay. It will cost almost $5,000 for the program and housing, plus we will have to travel and eat!! We have already received a kind offer for housing..from a friend we don't even know yet!!  My mother would have to accompany me as my chaperone, and my family would need to make sure that there are people able to take care of my brother while we are away.  I know that there are lots of things that may make this seem impossible, but I am going to do everything I can to make this happen.

My family will help with some of the expenses.  They have done so much for me already, and I know there will be more years of training and expenses ahead.  I hope that in the end I will be able to tell them it all paid of because I will be dancing with a professional company! A friend suggested I try raising some of the money myself through this website.  Many people have been so sweet by asking how to help and support me.  Any amount I can raise will help.  Even if you can't donate any money,  you could help me by sharing my story with your friends and family.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, and understanding how serious I am about becomming a professional dancer.  If I can't make it this year, don't worry...I will keep pursuing my career locally until I can make this happen.