My name is Annarella Sanchez, and I have dedicated my entire life to dance and to teaching. The Conservatory I founded in Leiria is not just a physical space. It is a place where, every day, children and young people come to work, dream, build discipline, and grow both as dancers and as individuals.

Unfortunately, the recent storm that hit Leiria caused severe damage to our Conservatory.

Strong winds tore off roof tiles, heavy rain entered the building, and the most serious damage was to the roof. The roof is a continuous structure running across seven studios, and at this moment four of those studios are severely damaged and completely exposed, with no safe conditions to operate. A large portion of the ceiling collapsed in Studios 7, 5, 4, and 3. Without the roof repaired, we cannot hold classes, rehearse, or open our doors.

Repairing the roof urgently is absolutely critical because, while these studios remain exposed, the damage continues to grow. Water is now affecting the floating floors and linoleum, which are essential and specialized surfaces for dance. If we do not act quickly, these floors will suffer even more damage, significantly increasing the overall cost and complexity of the repairs.

In addition to the roof, there has also been damage to air conditioning systems, sound equipment, and other essential materials due to water infiltration. Even so, our top priority is to repair the roof as quickly as possible, to ensure safety for all students and to prevent further destruction of the space.

This Conservatory represents many years of work, dedication, and love for dance. Here, we have trained dancers, guided children from their very first steps to the stage, and built confidence, discipline, and lifelong values. For many students and families, this Conservatory is a second home.

At this moment, I need help to restore what was damaged and to protect this project that means so much to me and to so many families.

All funds raised will be used for:

• Urgent roof repairs.

• Preventing further damage to the floating floors and linoleum.

• Restoring studios affected by water damage.

• Repairing or replacing essential equipment where possible.

I am committed to sharing updates throughout the process and to being fully transparent about how all donations are used.

If you are able to contribute, any amount will make a difference. If donating is not possible, sharing this campaign is already a tremendous help.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for helping our Conservatory reopen its doors and for standing with our students during this very difficult time.

With gratitude,

Annarella Sanchez