RIYADH: Saudi Arabian ballet dancer Hala Nagadi, 18, captivates audiences with her unwavering passion and hopes others will be inspired to embrace “this beautiful and expressive art”.
He is currently preparing for the Dubai International Dance Competition 2024, which is scheduled to begin on November 17 and will feature professional and amateur dancers from around the world.
“I became interested in ballet when I was on a journey 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 mesmerizing.”
Halaa Nagadi is currently gearing up for the Dubai International Dance Competition 2024, which is scheduled to begin on November 17, where both professional and amateur dancers will participate. (supplied)
From a young age, Nagadi was fascinated by the beautiful movements and exciting storytelling of ballet and followed 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 art that exists in our country and encourage others to embrace this beautiful and expressive art.”
quickFacts
• Although ballet may not have been a typical path for a young Saudi woman, Nagadi did not give up.
• She immersed herself in the study of ballet, first through online videos and then by searching for local and international training opportunities.
Although ballet may not be a 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 searching for local and international training opportunities.
“Balancing my studies in tourism and event management at King Abdulaziz University and my rigorous ballet training has not been easy,” Nagadi revealed.
“But I remain steadfast in my pursuit, spending four to eight hours every day honing my skills, whether it's in the ballet studio or in the gym, ensuring I'm constantly improving and pushing the boundaries of my profession. I will go ahead.”
However, Nagadi's journey has not been without its challenges. He explained that finding suitable ballet facilities in Saudi Arabia has been a major obstacle, and the provision of specialized equipment has proven to be a constant obstacle.
Undaunted, Nagadi has pursued opportunities abroad, including a summer program in Romania and a ballet performance in Turkey.
“I also took a masterclass for professional dancers from the director of the Royal Ballet in London,” she added.
Nagadi's dedication and passion is not far away. “I have been supported by the Saudi Ministry of Culture, which has provided me with opportunities to showcase my talents at local events, such as the Taif Rose Festival and a theater performance that combines Arabic music with ballet,” he said. let me
As Saudi Arabia's arts and culture scene continues to evolve, ballet talents envision a future where the dance form will flourish and attract audiences from across the kingdom.
“I believe the ballet scene in Saudi Arabia will continue to grow and develop,” he said. More and more people are interested in learning and practicing this art.
Nagadi's unwavering determination not only earned him recognition in the Saudi Arabian artistic community, but 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 challenge social norms, anything is possible.
