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Large Matching Grant Announced for Unique Peekskill Ballet Academy
Kathryn E. May of High Falls, NY has announce her offer of a matching grant of $110,000 to the Margot Fonteyn Academy of Ballet in Peekskill.
"I don't know what came over me," states May. "When I learned about the ballet theatre projects I was so swept up in the inspiration and enthusiasm, I just had to do something to help make it happen."
While the school is becoming known to locals for offering first-rate dance instruction, what many are unaware of is its prestigious beginnings and the philanthropic plans to come.
The is the first and only dance academy to carry the name of renowned ballerina Dame Margot Fonteyn. In addition to being an internationally known prima ballerina and one time president of the Royal Academy of Dancing, Dame Fonteyn also received great acclaim for her work with famed dancer Rudolf Nureyev during the 60s and 70s. Through Founder and Director, Ken Ludden's close association with Dame Fonteyn, both as a protégé and later as a friend, the idea for the academy was developed. Built on Dame Fonteyn's belief that young artists should be exposed and instructed in divergent fields of the arts in order to develop a deeper understanding of their artistic endeavors, she and Ken Ludden worked together to develop the diverse and in-depth curriculum of the academy.
The creation of the academy was made possible by the nonprofit organization, the National Arts Group. Created by Ludden in 1978, the group raises funds needed for arts education, performance and public awareness programs. Through the group's efforts Ludden was able to realize his and Fonteyn's dream of a fine arts institution which gives underserved youth and promising artists the opportunity to grow through the arts and develop their talents regardless of their financial means.
As May says, "The first $220,000 will just be a beginning. In order to create the international caliber Academy that Ken has planned, we will need to raise millions. We'll all need to get involved and help it grow. What a gift this is for our beautiful Hudson Valley!"
May and Ludden hope that May's generosity will inspire others to help The Margot Fonteyn Academy with its plans for the future. As Ludden points out "whether you're making a donation, or taking classes, or getting involved in the productions being a part of this adventure will touch everyone in a magical way. I know it has for me."
For more information or to help in matching the donation, please contact ken@fonteynacademy.org or Staci Smith 917-345-5157.
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