RIYADH: 18-year-old ballet dancer Halaa Nagadi from Saudi Arabia captivates audiences with her unwavering passion and hopes that others will be inspired to “embrace this beautiful and expressive art form.”
She is currently preparing for the Dubai International Dance Competition 2024, which begins on November 17 and will feature professional and amateur dancers from around the world.
“I became interested in ballet when I was looking for a dance form that really spoke to me,” Nagadi told Arab News. “The way ballet dancers could convey such powerful emotions and stories through their bodies was simply fascinating.”
Halaa Nagadi is currently preparing for the Dubai International Dance Competition 2024, which begins on November 17 and will feature professional and amateur dancers. (Supplied)
From a young age, Nagadi was fascinated by the graceful movements and emotional nature of ballet and pursued her dream with determination.
“One of my biggest goals is to represent Saudi Arabia on the international ballet stage,” said Nagadi. “I want to showcase our country's talent and artistry and inspire others to embrace this beautiful and expressive art form.”
FASTFACTS
• Although ballet was not the typical path for a young woman from Saudi Arabia, Nagadi did not let that deter her.
• She immersed herself in her ballet studies, first through online videos and then by seeking out local and international training opportunities.
Although ballet wasn't necessarily the typical path for a young woman from Saudi Arabia, Nagadi was undeterred and immersed herself in her ballet studies, first through online videos and then by seeking out local and international training opportunities.
“Combining my studies in tourism and event management at King Abdulaziz University with my demanding ballet training was no easy task,” revealed Nagadi.
“But I have stayed true to my goal and spend four to eight hours a day honing my skills, whether in the ballet studio or the gym, to ensure I am constantly improving and pushing the boundaries of my craft.”
However, Nagadi's path has not been without challenges. Finding suitable ballet facilities in Saudi Arabia was a major hurdle, and acquiring special equipment was also a constant obstacle, she explained.
Undaunted, Nagadi sought opportunities abroad, including a summer program in Romania and the chance to perform a ballet in Turkey.
“I also attended a master class for professional dancers with the director of the Royal Ballet in London,” she added.
Nagadi's commitment and passion have not gone unnoticed locally. “I have received support from the Saudi Ministry of Culture, which has given me the opportunity to showcase my talent at local events, such as the Taif Rose Festival and a theater performance that combined Arabic music with ballet,” she said.
As Saudi Arabia's arts and culture scene continues to evolve, the ballet talent foresees a future where this dance form will flourish and attract audiences from across the Kingdom.
“I believe that the ballet scene in Saudi Arabia will continue to grow and develop,” she said. “More and more people are interested in learning and practicing this art form.”
Nagadi's unwavering determination has not only earned her recognition within the Saudi Arabian arts scene, but has also inspired a new generation of young people to discover the world of ballet.
Her story reminds us that with hard work, dedication and a willingness to challenge societal norms, anything is possible.
