RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's 18-year-old dancer Halaa Nagadi captivates 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 Dubai International Dance Competition 2024 which will start on November 17 where professional and unique dancers from all over the world will participate.
“I became interested in dance when I was looking for a form of dance that resonated with me,” Nagadi told Arab News. “The way the ballet dancer was able to convey powerful emotions and narratives with her body was simply mesmerizing.”
Halaa Nagadi is currently preparing for the Dubai International Dance Competition 2024 which will start on November 17 where professional and amateur dancers will participate. (given)
From a young age, Nagadi was fascinated by the beautiful movements and narrative of ballet, and she pursued her dream with determination.
“One of my biggest goals is to represent Saudi Arabia on the international stage of ballet,” Nagadi said. “I want to showcase the talent and art that exists in our country, and inspire others to embrace this beautiful and expressive art form.”
fastingABOUT
• Although dancing may not be a common practice for Saudi Arabian women, Nagadi is undaunted.
• He immersed himself in theater studies, first through online videos and then by finding local and international training.
Although dancing may not be a traditional way for a Saudi Arabian woman, Nagadi is undaunted. She immersed herself in theater studies, first through online videos and then by finding local and international training.
“Balancing my studies in tourism and event management at King Abdulaziz University with my rigorous ballet training was not easy,” says Nagadi.
“But I remained steadfast in my pursuit, spending four to eight hours a day improving my skills, both in the ballet studio and the gym, making sure I improve and push the limits of my work.”
But Nagadi's journey was not without problems. Finding a suitable ballet studio in Saudi Arabia was a big hurdle, and finding the right equipment proved to be an ongoing obstacle, he explained.
Undeterred, Nagadi sought opportunities abroad, including a summer program in Romania and ballet opportunities in Turkey.
“I also took master classes for professional dancers from the director of the Royal Ballet in London,” she added.
Nagadi's dedication and passion did not go unnoticed locally. “I received the support of the Saudi Ministry of Culture, which gave me the opportunity to show my talent at local events, such as the Taif Rose Festival and a theater performance that combined Arabic music with dance,” he said.
As Saudi Arabia's arts and culture scene continues to develop, ballet talent looks to a future where the dance form will flourish and attract audiences across the Kingdom.
“I believe that the ballet scene in Saudi Arabia will continue to grow and develop,” he said. “More and more people are becoming interested in learning and practicing this art form.”
Nagadi's unwavering determination has not only won 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 is a reminder that with hard work, dedication and a willingness to defy social norms, anything is possible.
