International dancer gives youngsters reason to smile
Television personality and international dancer Emma Scholtz will put Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) youngsters through their paces in a Covidfriendly dance workshop at the Savoy Theatre in Adcockvale on Saturday.
Scholtz, a regular on SABC3’s Morning Expresso show, will present the DanceFit workshop for three age groups — six to nine, 10 to 13, and 13 and older.
“We are so excited to announce the city’s first Covidfriendly dance event for 2021,” Savoy publicist Monica Hewitson said.
“We have designed a jampacked schedule for all dance genres — ballet, tap, modern, contemporary, hip hop — to enjoy”
Scholtz lives in Cape Town but is staying in Nelson Mandela Bay for about a year.
“I have recently moved here as my husband, Izak, has been transferred for work,” she said.
The qualified dance tea cher, fitness expert and nutritionist shared how her career developed.
“My training has been intensive and goal-focused, which has instilled discipline and drive in me from a very young age, and I have carried that through to all aspects of my life,” Scholtz said.
“I was always taught to focus on the journey of becoming an artist and really appreciating my health and wellbeing.”
She said despite the global coronavirus pandemic dimming the light on public performances, she hoped young dancers would stay focused on their everyday technical training and skill building.
“Dance is an art form that takes consistent work, fierce determination and a selfless spirit.
“Even through social distancing and studios closing, I hope dancers have still fuelled their passion and set new goals for themselves,” Scholtz said.
Hewitson said the workshop would adhere to all Covid-19 safety protocols.
“We are limited to a certain number of dancers per class due to safety regulations,” she said.
“We will be checking temperatures before entering for everyone’s safety, and please bring along your masks or buffs for waiting periods.
“A sweat towel and your personal hand-sanitiser is compulsory.”
Hewitson said Scholtz’s parents, Cape Town dance studio owners Karen and Johan Jooste, were well-known to the Gqeberha dance fraternity from past events in the city.
As such, Emma grew up immersed in dance, and later studied musical theatre, dance and singing after leaving school.
She has danced all the across the globe, including in a world tour in The Phantom of the Opera.
Hewitson said in addition to featuring in TV commercials and modelling campaigns, Scholtz had choreographed for the International Ballet Competition in Cape Town, Eisteddfods and competitions.
The classes will incorporate fitness, body conditioning, choreography, nutrition and dance.