Emilee Lusher-Blake.|
Camera IconEmilee Lusher-Blake.| Credit: Supplied/Martin Kennealey d478728

Coolbellup ballet student picked for Youth America Grand Prix

Belinda CiprianoCockburn Gazette

COOLBELLUP teenager Emilee Lusher-Blake (15) is shooting for the stars after being one of two Australian classical ballet students to be selected via video audition to compete at the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) competition final in New York next month.

The Katherine Mantle Performing Arts Academy student hopes the experience will lead her to secure a place at a leading pre-professional school and an invitation to attend the Royal Ballet in London Spring school.

Mum Jolene said her daughter was a dedicated and talented young dancer who was training full-time .

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They are looking for sponsorship given the lack of funding available to those in the arts.

“The expenses involved in attending the YAGP final in New York are a huge financial commitment and something as a family we will struggle to do, especially with such a short turnaround time between acceptance and participation,” Mrs Lusher-Blake said.

“Unfortunately there is very little or no funding available to support students like Emilee to help them with the enormous financial commitment as they prepare for one of the world’s most prestigious ballet competitions.

“Emilee is now looking for support from the wider community and for them to understand the dedication, sacrifices and financial commitment required for these talented young dancers such as herself to achieve excellence in classical ballet and one day achieve the ultimate goal of becoming a professional ballet dancer in a world-renowned company overseas.”

Mrs Lusher-Blake said donations would help with travel-related expenses, competition entry fees, accommodation, classes, coaching and multiple pairs of pointe shoes.

To donate, visit www.|gofundme.com/help-get-emilee-to-yagp-nyc-final.