Sylvani Starchild-St. Clair

2015 Dance Scholarship Recipient

Sylvani's passion for ballet ignited at a young age when she saw "The Nutcracker" and was captivated by the Sugar Plum Fairy. Encouraged by her family, she began ballet lessons, and her love for dancing blossomed. Sylvani sees ballet as a form of love and commitment, comparing it to a boyfriend or even a marriage. She finds joy in dancing and believes in its power to convey messages and touch people's souls. Despite financial challenges in her family, with her mother being the sole provider and her sisters facing health issues, Sylvani is determined to pursue her dream of becoming a professional dancer.

Dreaming of dancing with the Joffrey Ballet Company, where her teacher once performed, Sylvani aspires to join their ranks. Although she was accepted through a video audition last year, she decided to postpone her participation due to the higher costs involved. With the support of the Anthony Quinn Foundation she will be in Joffrey's intensive program and is grateful for the opportunity to study with them.

Sylvani's dedication to ballet and her belief in its transformative power drive her desire to pursue her dreams. Despite financial obstacles, she remains resilient and with the AQF support she can continue her journey in the world of dance.