A Chilliwackian is launching herself into an exciting summer of dance development.
Hannah Bateman, a 16 year old Sardis secondary school student and long-time student of Project Dance Chilliwack, has begun training at the world-renowned Joffrey Ballet School in Los Angeles.
She is there on scholarship to study Jazz Fusion.
“Jazz Fusion trains dancers in a rigorous program that includes ballet and pointe in the mornings followed by a variety of dance styles in the afternoon,” explained Project Dance owner/president Amanda Quinton.
Bateman continues training in the evennings, learning choreography for a final showcase.
The teenager is fresh off winning a Provincial Senior Stage award at the Performing Arts B.C. Provincial Dance Festival in Victoria (May 29-June 2),
“We continue to be proud of Hannah for so many reasons,” Quinton said. “Winning the Provincial Senior Stage award, over 20 festivals were represented and it was the best of the best.”
A petite girl, Bateman doesn’t have the long limbs typical of most successful dancers. But this has never held her back, thanks to her work ethic.
“Whether she is at practice or on stage, Hannah works so hard every time,” Quinton said. “She is just beautiful to teach and watch.”
When she returns from Joffrey, Bateman will keep a busy schedule, training at Project Dance, the Harbour Dance Centre (Vancouver) and the Move Dance Company (Vancouver).
In August, Bateman will travel to Calgary for Camp Protégé, a five-day intensive program led by some of the most inspiring and knowledgeable mentors in the dance industry.
“I just love to dance, and to have these opportunities to train with these incredible teachers and mentors, this summer will be so amazing,” she said. “I am learning so much and I am appreciative of every minute.”
