By Phila-Nathi Mapisa
Prestige School of Dance has reached a major milestone, with its students achieving outstanding results at the recent Friendly City Dance Festival. The school’s owner and director, Nicole Joka, shared her pride and enthusiasm with Grocott’s Mail.
Established in 2018, Prestige School of Dance has made significant strides in the local dance community. With a diverse range of dance genres, including ballet, contemporary, modern, tap, and hip-hop, the school has become a hub for talented young dancers.
“We’re thrilled to have achieved five gold medals, one silver medal, and four bronze medals, as well as two trophies,” Joka exclaimed. “Our students’ dedication and hard work have truly paid off.”
The students’ experience at the festival was nothing short of amazing. “I love being on stage, so I enjoy every minute,” said Mihlali Ngqinzi, one of the students who participated. Kuhle Sinama added, “It felt like the beginning to all my dreams.”
Joka attributes her students’ success to their passion, discipline and comradery. “The artist is nothing without the gift, but the gift is nothing without the work,” she quoted, emphasizing the importance of nurturing talent with hard work and training.
Looking ahead, Prestige School of Dance is preparing for the Nelson Mandela Bay Dance Festival in August, followed by their year-end showcase and examinations. Long-term, they aim to put dance in Makhanda and the Eastern Cape on the map, contributing to the arts education and performing arts sector.
