RIYADH: 18-year-old Saudi ballerina Hala Nakadi is captivating audiences with her relentless determination and hopes others will be inspired to “embrace this beautiful and expressive art form”.
She is now preparing for the Dubai International Dance Competition 2024, which will kick off on November 17, and will feature professional and amateur dancers from around the world.
“I became interested in ballet when I set out to find a dance form that really suited my needs,” Nagadi told Arab News. “The way ballet dancers can convey powerful emotions and stories through their bodies is very appealing.”
Hala Nagadi is currently preparing for the 2024 Dubai International Dance Competition, which will kick off on November 17, and will feature both professional and amateur dancers (information provided).
Since she was a child, Nakadi has been fascinated by the graceful movements and evocative storytelling of ballet, and she has pursued her dreams with determination.
“One of my ultimate goals is to represent Saudi Arabia on the international ballet stage,” Nagadi said. “I want to showcase the artistic talent and ability that our country has and inspire others to embrace this beautiful and emotional art form.”
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Although ballet may not be a common path for young Saudi women, Nagadi is not discouraged.
• She devoted herself to ballet, initially taking online video lessons, then looking for opportunities to train both locally and internationally.
While ballet may not be the typical path for young Saudi women, Nagadi has been relentless. She has been dedicated to learning ballet, starting with online video lessons and then seeking out training opportunities both locally and internationally.
“Balancing my studies in tourism and event management at King Abdulaziz University with my intensive ballet training was not easy,” Nagadi reveals.
“But I remain committed to my efforts, spending four to eight hours a day honing my craft, whether it’s at the ballet studio or the gym, to ensure that I continue to develop and expand the boundaries of my craft.”
However, Nagadi’s journey was not without its challenges. Finding a suitable ballet venue in Saudi Arabia was a major hurdle, and sourcing specialist equipment was a constant obstacle, she explains.
Nagadi was relentless and sought out opportunities abroad, including a summer program in Romania and a chance to perform ballet in Turkey.
“I also took a master class for professional dancers from the headmaster of the Royal Ballet in London,” she added.
Nagadi’s dedication and commitment have been recognized 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 theatre production that combines Arabic music with ballet,” she says.
As Saudi Arabia’s arts and cultural scene continues to develop, ballet talent envisions a future where the dance form will flourish and attract audiences from across the Kingdom.
“I believe that the ballet industry 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 relentless commitment has not only earned her recognition within the Saudi Arabian arts community, but has also inspired a new generation to explore the world of ballet.
Her story is a reminder that with hard work, dedication and a willingness to challenge societal norms, anything is possible.
