Hi! Thank you for taking time to read my story! My name is Ella, and I am 16 years old. I have been studying dance since I was three. It is a huge part of my life! Dancing gives me confidence, a way to express my emotions, and a chance to be part of a team. I have fallen in love with ballet. I want to continue dancing in college and to have a career as a professional ballerina. Nothing makes me happier than training in the studio and performing on stage!

I am very excited to have been accepted into the Charlotte Ballet’s Summer Intensive program! I will spend five weeks in an environment where I can continue to be challenged, hone my dance skills, and pursue my passion. However, I need your help to make this dream a reality!

Through auditions, I was accepted at three different summer ballet programs. I chose Charlotte Ballet because their intensive is renowned for its rigorous schedule, diverse classes, and world renowned faculty. For five weeks, pre-professional students are encouraged to refine their strength in classical ballet technique while exploring new movements. A full day of rehearsals, training, and classes will challenge dancers six days per week. The instructors are deeply invested in the growth of each dancer, and provide personalized attention and mentorship throughout the program. The intensive offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes ballet, pointe, pas de deux (partnering), ballet variations, modern, jazz, yoga, conditioning, contemporary ballet, musical theater, and faculty lectures. I will also get to demonstrate what I learned over the summer in a recital at the end of the session.

I am very excited about this invaluable training opportunity, but I am also worried about the financial commitment. I earned a scholarship of 15% off tuition, but I am responsible for the remainder of the tuition, as well as room and board, and travel expenses to North Carolina. The cost break down for the intensive includes:

To secure my spot in the program, I have made a $1,000 down payment. I contributed money that I saved from babysitting, house sitting, my birthday, and Christmas for the deposit. My parents helped me with the rest. It is difficult for me to hold a job outside of my busy school and rehearsal schedule. I dedicate over twenty-five hours a week to dance classes and rehearsals, while also excelling academically. I am proud to maintain over a 4.0 GPA while taking honors and college courses. I am also actively involved in band, choir, and art. My parents have saved money for my summer training, but not enough to cover all expenses. Your sponsorship will allow me to pursue my passion for dance and it will alleviate the financial stress on my family!

I am deeply grateful for your kindness and support! Your contribution, no matter what size, will make a significant difference in my life and my pursuit of a career in dance. Thank you for believing in me and helping me to achieve my goals and dreams!

Sincerely,

Ella McMurtrie