RIYADH: Saudi Arabian ballet dancer Hala Nagadi, 18, continues to captivate 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 2024 Dubai International Dance Competition, which begins on November 17 and will feature professional and amateur dancers from around the world.
“I became interested in ballet through my journey of finding a dance form that really resonated with me,” Nagadi told Arab News. “I was fascinated by the way ballet dancers could convey such powerful emotions and stories through their bodies.”
Hala Nagadi is currently preparing for the 2024 Dubai International Dance Competition, which will feature professional and amateur dancers, starting on November 17. (Courtesy)
Nagadi has been fascinated by the graceful movements and emotional storytelling of ballet since childhood, and she has pursued her dreams with unwavering determination.
“One of my biggest goals is to represent Saudi Arabia on the international ballet stage,” said Nagadi. “I want to showcase the talent and artistry that exists in our country and inspire others to embrace this beautiful and expressive art form.”
fastnoodles
• Ballet may not have been the typical path for a young woman in Saudi Arabia, but Nagadi was undaunted.
• She first studied ballet through online videos, and then devoted herself to studying ballet by seeking training opportunities both domestically and internationally.
Although ballet may not have been the typical path for a young Saudi Arabian woman, Nagadi was undaunted. She devoted herself to studying ballet, first through online videos and then by seeking out local and international training opportunities.
“Studying Tourism and Event Management at King Abdulaziz University while also pursuing rigorous ballet training was not an easy task,” Nagadi revealed.
“But I consistently spent four to eight hours a day in the ballet studio or at the gym to hone my skills, pushing the boundaries of my craft and constantly evolving.”
But Nagadi’s journey has not been without its challenges. Finding suitable ballet facilities in Saudi Arabia has been a major hurdle, and procuring special equipment has proven to be a constant obstacle, she explained.
Undaunted, Nagadi pursued opportunities abroad, including a summer program in Romania and a ballet performance opportunity in Turkey.
“I also took a masterclass for professional dancers from the principal of the Royal Ballet in London,” she added.
Nagadi's dedication and passion did not go unnoticed locally. “I received support from the Saudi Ministry of Culture, who gave me the opportunity to showcase my talents at local events such as the Taif Rose Festival and a theatrical performance that combines Arabic music and ballet,” she said.
As Saudi Arabia’s arts and culture continue to evolve, ballet talent envisions a future where the dance form thrives and attracts 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 becoming interested in learning and practicing this art form.”
Nagadi's unwavering determination has not only earned her recognition in Saudi Arabia's art scene, but has also inspired a new generation of young people to explore the world of ballet.
Her story is a reminder that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and the willingness to challenge societal norms.
