Taylor dances into SA Performing Arts Centre place

Thu 11th May 2017

Taylor Fennell (15) will take up her place at the SA Performing Arts Centre in Newcastle from September 2017 thanks to an award from The Realising Dreams Foundation.

In March Taylor applied to the charity as a last ditch attempt to secure the funds she needed to take up the place she’d successfully auditioned for.

The school had reduced their fees in recognition of the family’s financial situation. And while the family could find half of the cost, they were desperate for someone to step in and offer a lifeline to meet the outstanding amount.

Her dance teacher, Barbara Hunter of Hunter Theatre Arts explained; “In my years of running a dance school, I haven’t come across a talent like Taylor. I danced professionally so know from experience that being talented just isn’t good enough sometimes. I believe that Taylor has that extra something needed to succeed. But to take the next step she needs to study at a vocational school that can give her the specialist skills and industry contacts she needs.”

Taylor’s commitment to her dance was tested after she fell seriously ill from Chrons & Colitis. She fought through her recovery to manage her condition driven by her determination to continue dancing.

Taylor has performed in professional pantomimes and has danced in the Scottish Ballet’s production of Hansel and Gretel. She also regularly teaches and inspires younger dancers at her local dance school.

Taylor said: “When I was ill, all I could think about was getting back on the stage and performing. I have dreamed of having the chance to study somewhere like the SA Performing Arts Centre. I could hardly believe when they offered me a place after my audition. It was within touching distance but still financially out of reach for me and my family.

“I am overwhelmed by the news that, along with help from my family, The Realising Dreams Foundation are going to make this place a reality. I can’t wait to get started!”

The Realising Dreams Foundation will provide payments to the SA Performing Arts Centre over the three year course to cover the shortfall needed for Taylor’s place.

Taylor takes up her place at SA Performing Arts this September