A Mitchells Plain primary school now has its very own music and dance studio, thanks to an organisation in Europe.
Tafelsig Primary School’s 60-member choir caught the eyes of donors when they performed at the Baxter Theatre and V&A Waterfront.
The school, which is assisted by an after-school programme called Run4Schools, was selected to receive an undisclosed amount of money to open a music and dance studio, funded by Philipse & Co Investment Managers from the Netherlands.
The official opening took place on Wednesday where 15 choir members showcased their talent in a classroom which has been converted into a studio.
Video: Tracey Adams/African News Agency/ANA
Old furniture, including chairs and desks, were removed to make way for laminated flooring, large mirrors and a storage room which has been fitted with reinforced iron and steel for safety. The walls were painted in bright colours.
Choir master Ricardo Solomons says at a later stage instruments like drums, guitars and a piano will be bought.
“The school has 1 152 children and 60 of them
volunteered to be part of the choir,” Ricardo explains.
“They are a special bunch who are willing to dedicate their time and we are excited and thrilled for this opportunity.
“This room is our safe haven because outside you find violence and drugs on every street corner. But in here the children find peace and happiness.”
GIFT: Edzard van Citters represents Dutch funders. Photo: Tracey Adams/African News Agency/ANA
Grade 7 pupil, Michaela Locke, 12, gave an outstanding singing performance with Katy Perry’s hit song Roar.
She says the studio will help realise her dreams of becoming a world-class diva.
“I feel like I am free when I am here. When I sing, I feel like I can do anything my heart desires,” she says.
Run4 Schools founder Leslie Pangemanan and Edzard van Citters, the director of Philipse & Co Investment Managers, say they are overjoyed at the result.
“I am thrilled because this is what we wanted in the end; a safe haven where children can do music
and dance and be safe,” says Leslie.
genevieve.serra@inl.co.za