Dance Spectrum International Fundraising Gala

Last week’s fundraising gala by Dance Spectrum International (DSI) was a powerful reminder of so much I am grateful for.

• For 30 years, DSI’s founder Sharon Liew had boldly pursued the path of excellence in dance when few took that path. A very strict teacher I notice, who demands quality and discipline from all.
  Sharon later inspired others like Joy, her next-gen leader who similarly chose this path less trodden. Joy’s journey is inspiring too because of her father, a former school principal (now adviser) from MOE, who supported her choice to follow her passion for dance over a conventional academic path. To this day, he is a steadfast presence at DSI events, cheering her on.

• Though not a large school, DSI has always punched above its weight. For nearly two decades, their dancers have generously lent their talent to countless community causes I’ve been involved with in my MP/grassroots/CDC work—from autism awareness, inclusion and the Purple Parade to disability advocacy—bringing grace and artistry to every stage.

• When I took over Jalan Besar CC and hoped to make ballet accessible to our heartland children, Sharon and Joy didn’t hesitate. Last week, I saw the beautiful result: my young residents performing with joy, their parents beaming with pride.

• The dance school trains children of all abilities and backgrounds, from gifted academic classes and from non-mainstream schools; from kids of ministers and other not-so-famous jobs. I saw inclusivity truly in action last week.

I learnt again the value of “just do it” when one knows, in one’s belly, the calling one is purposed for.
For that, I thank everyone involved with DSI – founder to instructors to dancers to volunteers, some of whom are DSI alumni whose daughters now take the stage.