Afleveringen

  • Andries Dirks, an artist of Khoi heritage, is deeply committed to portraying Khoi history through his work. Since joining Solo Studios in 2019, he has become a notable figure in the South African art scene. His sculptures are prominently featured at prestigious institutions such as the Iziko Museum in Gardens and the Koena Art Institute in Observatory, Cape Town. Additionally, his art graces numerous households across South Africa and extends its reach to international locations in France, Wales, and England. Dirks' journey into the world of sculpture began in his childhood. Raised by his grandparents on a remote farm, he was the sole child in the area, with no nearby school to attend. The farm's clay became his primary medium, out of which he fashioned life-size 'friends' to play and converse with, sparking his enduring passion for sculpture. Today, Dirks channels this early fascination into a professional career as a ceramic sculptor. He works from his studio, Klipkind, located on Short Street in Riebeek Kasteel. The studio's name, meaning "stone child," is a poignant reclamation of a nickname used to tease him during his youth. Through his art, Dirks continues to honor his heritage and share the rich history of the Khoi people with a global audience. https://solostudios.co.za/andries-dirks/

  • Cristian Cimei, an esteemed Italian conductor, has showcased his talents on some of the world's most prestigious stages. His illustrious career includes performances at renowned venues such as the Boston Opera House, Lincoln Center in New York, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, Capitol Theatre in Sydney, Melbourne Arts Centre, Tokyo Bunka Kaikan, Hyogo Performing Arts Center in Osaka, and Gunpo Culture & Arts Center in Seoul, among others. Throughout his career, Cristian has collaborated with an impressive array of celebrated artists. He has worked alongside legendary tenor Luciano Pavarotti, renowned soprano Mariella Devia, tenor Fabio Armiliato, soprano Kristin Lewis, mezzo-soprano Christin-Marie Hill, violinist Ole Bohn, and distinguished actors Dame Janet Suzman and Simon Callow. His collaborations extend to the realm of composers as well, having partnered with iconic figures such as Ennio Morricone, Eleanor Alberga, and Jim Stephenson. Cristian's exceptional skill and dedication have earned him numerous accolades. He was honored with the prestigious Helen Jones Graduate Endowment for Visual & Performing Arts Fellowship at Texas Tech University. Additionally, he received the 'Goossens Fellowship' and International Merit Award for outstanding performance from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. These awards are a testament to his outstanding contributions to the field of conducting and his unwavering commitment to musical excellence. Currently, Cristian serves as the Music Director and Professor of Opera at the London Performing Academy of Music, where he continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of musicians and conductors. His ongoing dedication to both performance and education highlights his multifaceted contributions to the world of classical music. https://www.lpmam.com/faculty-opera/ https://www.mandy.com/u/cristian-cimei-1/

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  • For Matea Leko, music transcends being merely a composition of beautiful sounds; it is a state of mind that accompanies individuals through both hardships and joyous times, crossing physical and cultural boundaries. A passionate pianist, Matea invites others to share in her musical experiences through her YouTube channel, social media, and live performances across Europe. Matea's musical journey began in Zagreb, where she was born and discovered classical music as a child. She studied at the Academy of Music in Zagreb, performing with the Zagreb Philharmonic and recording for Croatian national television. Her pursuit of musical excellence led her to Vienna's University of Music and Performing Arts, where she continued to refine her skills and explore global musical styles. She recorded her first solo album with an orchestra under the German label ARS Produktion, marking a significant milestone in her career. With over 200 performances across Europe, Matea has played for diverse audiences from Stockholm to Israel. During the global lockdown of 2020, Matea launched the "Musical Stories" project, offering monthly piano recitals on YouTube to uplift listeners. Her project garnered over 2 million viewers. Now based in Cyprus, Matea continues to create and share her music, aiming to bring joy and nurture souls through digital performances until live concerts resume worldwide. https://www.matealeko.eu/ https://www.youtube.com/c/MateaLekoPiano/videos www.instagram.com/matealekopiano

  • Andrei’s journey with the Demidov Technique has been intensive, involving extensive work under Professor Malaev-Babel’s guidance in London, Moscow, and Florida over the past seven years. This deep immersion led him to establish Demidov Studio London, the UK branch of the International Demidov Association, with the support of Professor Malaev-Babel as curator. Beyond his work in the UK, Andrei has held significant roles internationally. In Australia, he was the artistic director of Vis a Vis Theatre in Sydney. In London, he directed Waving Not Drowning Theatre and the Wrestling the Angel polyphonic singing group. Currently, he is the director of the Tribe Theatre Collective, whose inaugural production, Dostoyevsky's "Crime and Punishment," was entirely developed using the Demidov Technique and performed at The Cockpit Theatre in 2019. Andrei’s commitment to the Demidov Technique extends to his role as Director of the DSL LAB, a research space at Demidov Studio London. Here, he conducts classes and works with select actors dedicated to delving deeper into this innovative acting methodology. His profound impact on the acting community is marked by his dedication to nurturing the actor’s creativity and freedom through the nuanced Demidov approach. https://andreibiziorek.com/ https://demidovstudiolondon.uk/

  • Gerrit Scheepers embarked on his musical journey during his time as a student at Pretoria University in South Africa. His passion for choral music was ignited by Johann van der Sandt, the renowned conductor of the university choir. Gerrit's initial experience in choir conducting came when he was thrust into the role unexpectedly, conducting the choir for the first time. This experience marked the beginning of his deep commitment to mastering the art of choir conducting. With unwavering dedication, Gerrit seized every opportunity to expand his knowledge and refine his skills in this field. Gerrit's dedication and hard work culminated in his founding of the Armonia Chamber Singers, an adult mixed chamber chorus based in Pretoria, South Africa. Under his leadership, the group has gained recognition for its artistic excellence and innovative performances. Gerrit has also taken on the role as Director of Choirs and Assistant Professor of Music at the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology. This prestigious appointment is a testament to his expertise and accomplishments in the field of choral music. Gerrit's academic journey is equally impressive; he completed a Bachelor of Music degree at Pretoria University, which laid the foundation for his advanced studies. He then earned a Master of Music degree from Missouri State University, where he had the privilege of studying choral conducting with Cameron LaBarr. His academic pursuit reached its pinnacle with a doctorate in choral conducting from the University of Washington, where he studied under the guidance of esteemed conductors Geoffrey Boers and Giselle Wyers. Gerrit's influence extends beyond academia. He has been sought after as a guest conductor and clinician, working with high schools and festivals across the United States, Europe, and South Africa. His international experience has enriched his understanding of diverse choral traditions and practices, making him a versatile and dynamic conductor. Throughout his career, Gerrit has demonstrated a relentless commitment to choral excellence, inspiring countless students and choristers with his passion and expertise. His journey from a university student in South Africa to an esteemed conductor and educator in the United States underscores his dedication to the transformative power of choral music.

  • Kristi Steyn is a talented young singer and songwriter from South Africa who has been passionate about music from a very young age. She began writing songs early in her life, cultivating a deep love for the art form that continues to grow. Kristi enjoys being part of a band because it allows for collaboration with other musicians, which she finds both enriching and beneficial. She also appreciates engaging with fellow singers in the alternative Afrikaans music genre, the same genre in which she both performs and composes. Kristi believes that Afrikaans music is uniquely expressive, offering a distinct sound and style that resonates deeply with her. Inspired by some of the great artists in this genre, she takes pride in singing in her native language, Afrikaans. Live performances are particularly special to Kristi, as she treasures the connection she can create with her audience. Her mature perspective on her career and life itself is truly admirable. Kristi Steyn is undeniably a remarkable artist, and her dedication and talent continue to inspire those around her. https://www.youtube.com/@UCTKa67UR7nryoGRGHoD-duQ

  • As a teenager, Fraser was inspired by the documentaries of the British and Irish Lions created by Stamp. This inspiration led him to start making films about his own rugby team during his university years. It was during this time that Fraser discovered his passion for filmmaking, which soon became a central focus of his career. His dedication and talent in this field allowed him to produce content for renowned brands such as IKEA, MoĂ«t Hennessy, and Celtic Football Club. In 2022, Fraser joined the Stamp team and took on the role of leading their account with Octopus Group. In this position, he plays a crucial role in delivering our cutting-edge in-house offerings. Fraser's academic background includes degrees in both English Literature and Marketing, equipping him with a unique blend of skills. His profound understanding of storytelling and marketing strategies enhances the quality and impact of the films he directs, making him an invaluable asset to our creative team. For Fraser, passion projects are the ultimate avenue for creative growth, learning, and experimentation. So, when he was offered the opportunity to direct an interview for the Springboks' sequel documentary, he was thrilled. This documentary follows the compelling story of the South Africa men's rugby squad that won the World Cup. https://fraserharrop.com/ https://stamp.productions/fraserharrop

  • Every year that goes by marks a new chapter in the journey of Kennedy Junior Muntanga, a dynamic dancer and choreographer originally from Zambia. With each passing year, his passion for dance deepens, and his artistic vision evolves. Born and raised in Zambia, Kennedy moved to Leeds, UK, at the age of seven. It was here that his love for movement blossomed, fueled by a strong connection to the legendary Michael Jackson. As a child, Kennedy would choreograph short dances and host friendly competitions with his sister and friends, reflecting the early influence of his African heritage on his dance. Kennedy's dedication to his craft led him to the prestigious Rambert School, where he graduated in Ballet and Contemporary Dance in July 2019. His education at Rambert provided him with a robust foundation in both classical and modern techniques, which he further developed through diverse professional experiences. Over the years, Kennedy has performed with several acclaimed dance companies, including the Akram Khan Company, Phoenix Dance Theatre, Humanhood, and others. He has also collaborated with renowned choreographers such as Robert Cohan CBE, Michael Keegan-Dolan, Alesandra Seutin, and Raman Schlemmer. These opportunities allowed him to refine his skills and expand his creative horizons, shaping him into a versatile and innovative artist. As time goes by, Kennedy's focus has shifted towards choreography and leadership within the dance community. He is now the Artistic Director of Kennedy Muntanga Dance Theatre, where he creates and stages original works that resonate with audiences and reflect his unique cultural perspective. In addition, he leads Trinity Laban’s Youth Dance Company, mentoring young dancers and fostering their growth. Each year, Kennedy's journey is marked by new achievements and milestones. His story is one of continuous growth, driven by an enduring love for dance and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of his art. Through his work, Kennedy continues to inspire and influence the dance world, leaving a lasting impact with every passing year. https://www.kmdancetheatre.com/

  • Sarai Vangelli de Cresci is a talented young composer from Italy who studies composition at the University of Music and Performing Arts Graz, known for its excellence in artistic and academic education. Her passion for film composition is unmistakable, and her background in piano studies gives her a distinct advantage in this field. Sarai attributes much of her artistic development to her parents, who encouraged her to explore a wide range of activities during her childhood. Their unwavering support and artistic encouragement have been instrumental in helping her pursue her dreams. In addition to her musical pursuits, Sarai has a long-standing love for botanicals, which continues to inspire her work. She often finds that the natural beauty and complexity of plants influence her compositions. Sarai firmly believes that film music should not only enhance the narrative but also possess the strength to stand alone as an independent piece of art. Her unique perspective and diverse inspirations contribute to her evolving artistry, setting her apart in the world of film music composition.

  • Gabriela Tollman, originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, is a distinguished graduate of UCLA's theater and film department. She has an impressive portfolio, having directed over ten short films that have been showcased at film festivals around the globe. Her works have not only won numerous awards but have also been featured on HBO, highlighting her significant impact in the industry. Among her notable achievements, Gabriela wrote, directed, co-produced, and acted in THE LAST GUNSHOT. This film was featured in over 25 festivals and earned the prestigious International Cinematographer's Guild Award, leading to a screening at the Cannes Film Festival. Another of her acclaimed works is BIRTH OF INDUSTRY, a film that she wrote and directed. This project won the Los Angeles Short Film Grant, supported by Kodak, Panavision, and Filmmakers Alliance. BIRTH OF INDUSTRY was showcased in over 20 festivals and received the John Williams Award for Visual Excellence at the Cleveland Film Festival. Additionally, her film YOU TURNED BACK AND HELD MY HAND gained significant recognition, screening at numerous festivals, including the Sundance Film Festival, and earning widespread acclaim. Gabriela's first feature film, SOMEBODY'S MOTHER, was released theatrically in October 2017 to enthusiastic reviews. The Los Angeles Times praised the film, stating, "Somebody's Mother tackles a terrible loss and its aftermath with knowing empathy." This compelling feature is now available for streaming on Amazon Prime, iTunes, and Google Play. Continuing her journey in filmmaking, Gabriela recently completed the short film LOVELY and is set to direct the award-winning screenplay titled APART. Her body of work continues to grow, cementing her reputation as a talented and visionary filmmaker. https://www.gabrielatollman.com/

  • Howard Nightingall was born in London and trained at the Academy of Live and Recorded Arts. He now resides in Vienna, Austria, where he works in film, television, and theatre as an actor, and has also gained acclaim as an award-winning voice actor. In theatre, Nightingall has taken on a range of compelling roles. His notable performances include Larry in "Closer" at the Ensemble Theatre, Stephen Hawking in "Hawking's Dream" at both Teatro Technis and dietheater KĂŒnstlerhaus, Frederic in "The Pirates of Penzance" at the Volksoper, and Frosch in "Die Fledermaus" at the Wienerkonzerthaus. He has also lent his voice to the character Zach Shapiro in "Jackpot" at Theater in der Josefstadt and portrayed The Grand Inquisitor under the direction of Peter Brook at the Landestheater St. Pölten. For Vienna’s International Theatre, his roles include Sergius Saranoff in "Arms and the Man," Horatio in "Hamlet," Sergeant Trotter in "The Mousetrap," Jimmy Porter in "Look Back in Anger," and Joe Pitt in "Angels in America." Nightingall's extensive work with Vienna’s English Theatre includes playing The Young Man in the world premiĂšre of "Three Tall Women," directed by Edward Albee, and Malcolm in "Bedroom Farce." His other significant roles there include The Surly Man in "Lettice and Lovage" with Rue McClanahan, William Humphries in "84 Charing Cross Road," Ross in the European premiĂšre of "The Goat," Barnette Lloyd in "Crimes of the Heart," William Taylor in "Donkeys’ Years," Dr. Alfred Feldmann in "Duet for One," Michel Vallon in "God of Carnage," James Dodd in "Time Stands Still," Stephen in "Chickenshit" (which also played Off-Broadway in New York), Ulysses in "Annapurna," Serge in "Art," and Torvald in "A Doll’s House Part 2." In addition to his stage work, Nightingall has an impressive list of film credits. He played Julius McDoom in "The Pilgrim Factor," The Director in "The Rehearsal," Frederic in "MA2412," William Harold in "Nous Nous Sommes Tant HaĂŻs" alongside Sarah Biasini, the Doctor in "The Strange Case of Wilhelm Reich" with Klaus Maria Brandauer, the British Ambassador in "Das Sacher," Captain Arthur Snagge in "Der Verrat des Kaisers," and Rupert Sebacious-Smythe in Amazon’s "Tuesday Afternoon Kitchen." He voiced Zoomzeman in the animated feature "Moonbound," played Sir Duncan Berrycloth in "Die Toten von Salzburg," and most recently, portrayed a journalist in "The Regime" with Kate Winslet for HBO. Howard Nightingall's extensive and versatile career across multiple mediums and countries highlights his significant contributions to the performing arts.

  • Hannon Bothma was fascinated by beauty and fashion from a young age. He used to accompany his mother to Ophelia’s Hair Salon where he would sit cross-legged on the floor, mesmerized by the transformations women underwent after sitting under the cocoon hair dryers. Hannon's dream, from a young age had been a career in the fashion world. To break into the industry, Hannon offered his services as a makeup artist and hairstylist for free to the Cape Argus and various magazines, provided they credited him. At 25, he opened his first salon in Sea Point. Hannon furthered his education at Cape Technical College, studying hairdressing and cosmetology while also apprenticing. He honed his skills by offering his services at events and training with cosmetic houses in South Africa and Belgium. Today, Hannon Bothma co-owns the HANNON brand. He is a familiar face on television and in major fashion magazines and has been interviewed numerous times on national radio. Known for his ability to transform any woman into a stunning beauty in minutes, Hannon has become a celebrated figure in the beauty industry. As a TV presenter, Hannon hosts makeover shows to large audiences, where he entertains, educates, and motivates women about beauty and their societal roles. His extensive knowledge of the cosmetic industry is evident in his work. Dedicated to giving back, Hannon presents image workshops and makeover shows to various charity organizations across South Africa on a weekly basis. https://hannon.co.za

  • Baritone Georg Klimbacher's illustrious career has taken him to some of the most prestigious venues in the world. His performances have graced the stages of Vienna's Musikverein and Konzerthaus, the Schubertiade Schwarzenberg, the Elbphilharmonie Hamburg, the Philharmonie Luxemburg, the Auditorium Maurice-Ravel in Lyon, the Theater an der Wien, the Grazer Oper, the Teatro Olimpico in Vicenza, the Holywell Music Room in Oxford, the International Lied Festival Zeist, and the Auditorio Nacional de MĂșsica in Madrid. Klimbacher has collaborated with renowned pianists such as Sir AndrĂĄs Schiff, Graham Johnson, David Lutz, and Breda Zakotnik. He has also worked under the batons of distinguished conductors like Nikolaus Harnoncourt, Sascha Goetzel, Gottfried Rabl, Martin Haselböck, Walter KobĂ©ra, and Dennis Russell Davies. His performances have been accompanied by esteemed orchestras, including the Orchestre National de Lyon, Cappella Andrea Barca, Concentus Musicus Wien, ORF Radio-Symphonieorchester Wien, and the Orchester Wiener Akademie. His debut album, #talesoflove, was critically acclaimed and earned him the Bank Austria Art Award. In 2015, he triumphed at the Petyrek-Lang Foundation’s song competition. Demonstrating his versatility and dedication to his art, Klimbacher recently collaborated with Naxos to record a collection of Scottish and German Beethoven songs. On stage, Klimbacher has brought to life a variety of roles, including Guglielmo in "CosĂŹ fan tutte," Schaunard in "La BohĂšme," Belcore in "L’elisir d’amore," Papageno in "Die Zauberflöte," and Dr. Falke in "Die Fledermaus." His interpretations of these characters have been praised for their depth and nuance. Klimbacher's formal training began at Vienna’s University of Music and Performing Arts and continued at the University of Arts in Graz. He has further honed his vocal skills under the guidance of esteemed mentors Uta Schwabe and Dale Fundling. His continuous pursuit of excellence and his commitment to his craft have firmly established him as a prominent figure in the world of classical music. https://georgklimbacher.com/

  • Her career continued to flourish, and in 2023, Brigitte's outstanding performance earned her the coveted "Best Actress" award at the International Cannes Critics’ Society (ICCS) festival in Cannes. This accolade highlighted her versatility and skill as an actress, solidifying her reputation on the international stage. Currently, Brigitte divides her time between Florence and Budapest, where she is immersed in the creation of her new film, "One Wonderful Day." This project sees her collaborating with some of the most esteemed artists in the industry, promising a cinematic experience that is both profound and visually stunning. Brigitte's artistic philosophy is deeply reflective and encompassing. She views the human body as a canvas, art in its purest form. To her, the interplay of light and shadow, the nuances of love, and the profound silence and enveloping darkness are all integral elements of art. She believes that art is not confined to traditional mediums but is omnipresent, with the world itself serving as a vast reservoir of inspiration. For Brigitte, every moment and every experience can be a source of creative energy, waiting to be transformed into artistic expression.

  • Paul Jenkins boasts a career spanning over 44 years in jazz music, composition, arranging, production, and education. He embarked on formal training at the age of 10 as a chorister and later pursued trumpet studies and composition at the London College of Music. His diverse musical background allowed him to excel in various styles, collaborating with jazz, pop, and world music artists. Paul is known for his jazz compositions and his own ensemble, The Paul Jenkins Quartet, which performed at esteemed London venues. He also founded JEMWA, a band blending Western and African music styles. His involvement in the world music scene includes collaborations with Iranian musicians, showcasing a fusion of jazz and Iranian folk music. Venturing into commercial music, Paul founded Third Eye Music Productions Ltd, producing a wide range of musical projects for artists and companies. His contributions to musical theater are notable, with arrangements and original scores for productions like "Inner City Jam" and "White Folks - A Musical Fable." Paul's creativity extends to film, theater, and dance, with commissions for scores and compositions for various productions globally. He co-founded the UK's premier Jazz Theatre Company, Body of People (BOP) Jazz Theatre, creating original productions performed internationally. As a music educator, Paul has developed jazz programs and ensembles, nurturing young talent. He continues to teach jazz composition, performance, and music technology worldwide. In addition to his professional endeavors, Paul co-authored "The Essential Guide to Jazz Dance," offering insight into jazz dance history and practice. He also spearheaded the Jazz Theatre Arts UK (JTAUK) network, advocating for UK jazz theatre arts and artists. Jenkins' dedication to education and mentorship underscores his commitment to shaping the next generation of musicians. https://www.bop.org.uk/directors

  • Consolata Maria Ikeh, Choir Director, is a second-year student at the Pontifical Institute of Sacred Music in Rome, specializing in Choir Direction and Composition. Additionally, she is enrolled part-time at the Pontifical Institute of St. Anselmo, where she pursues studies in Liturgy. Consolata Maria is also deeply committed to directing choirs in Nigeria, recognizing the profound benefits that participation in choir brings to individuals of all ages. As a teacher, she has shared her passion for music with young children, leveraging the myriad advantages of music in educational settings. Consolata Maria emphasizes the significance of singing within Nigerian communities, illustrating how it fosters unity and joy. Furthermore, she serves as the Choir Director in Rome for a Nigerian choir predominantly composed of young people from the Nigerian Catholic community. Their vibrant African melodies, carefully prepared for the occasion, brought delight to the Ecumenical Prayer Vigil at the Vatican. Even beyond physical borders, Consolata Maria continues her teaching endeavors online, serving as an exemplary figure who utilizes her singing talent to enrich the lives of those around her.

  • Goran Bugaric oversees the operations of Vienna's tiniest couture house, epitomizing an unwavering dedication to design and craftsmanship. His entrepreneurial journey commenced in 2012, marking the inception of his venture. Nestled within the arches of Vienna's subway, adjacent to GumpendorfergĂŒrtel, his atelier finds its abode in the "SchnittBogen." Renowned for his avant-garde collections, Bugaric has showcased his creations on prestigious runways in New York, Paris, and Vienna. With an ethos rooted in sustainability, Bugaric predominantly utilizes deadstock materials—residual fabrics repurposed from other sources. His production philosophy is centered on a meticulous approach, ensuring that each garment is meticulously crafted under his personal supervision. Adopting a made-to-order model, garments come to life in his studio only upon receiving an order, minimizing waste and promoting sustainability. Moreover, the remnants of fabrics find new life in upcycling initiatives, perpetuating a cycle of resourcefulness and eco-consciousness. Bugaric's creative vision transcends mere aesthetics; it is a beacon of inspiration. He fervently believes in fashion's transformative power to foster inclusivity and understanding. His ultimate aspiration is to cultivate a microcosm where openness, progressiveness, liberalism, sustainability, and warmth converge. Within this realm, every individual is not just acknowledged but genuinely understood—a testament to Bugaric's unwavering commitment to his mission, fueled by boundless passion. https://bugaric.com/about

  • Ross Freddie Ray, the Director of International Development, is a distinguished British choreographer whose ballets have captivated audiences worldwide.At just 28 years old, Ross boasts an impressive portfolio comprising 24 original choreographies, ranging from solo and pas de deux performances to full-length ballet productions. His choreographic masterpieces have graced stages in 15 countries, spanning 31 cities and enchanting audiences in 39 theaters worldwide. Ross's flair extends to the realm of dance film, where he has choreographed five productions, accumulating over 6 million views online. Beyond his choreographic prowess, Ross Freddie Ray is a respected International Producer and Artistic Director, collaborating with various arts and cultural organizations globally. In 2023 alone, Ross brought eight distinct ballet projects to life on both stage and screen. Looking ahead, in 2024, Ross is set to unveil ten new ballet projects, further enriching the international dance landscape. https://www.rossfreddieray.com/

  • Julius and Julius, known as Coverrun, have been captivating audiences since 2015 with their distinctive blend of house music and electrifying performances. Driven by their passion to unite people through music and creativity, they have graced both national and international stages, including Donauinselfest, Lake Festival, Formula 1 Austrian GP, and Austria Goes Zrče in Croatia, as well as numerous clubs across Europe. Having supported renowned artists like Timmy Trumpet, Steve Aoki, Parov Stelar, Lost Frequencies, and Hugel, they have solidified their presence in the music scene. In 2020, they established Minted Records, aiming to revolutionize the relationship between artists and fans, ensuring mutual benefit. Their hit singles "VOY" and "Miezekatze" have garnered international acclaim and extensive radio airplay, further elevating their profile. Their innovative spirit led them to venture into the realm of digital art, pioneering the hosting of an NFT exhibition in collaboration with emerging art star John Petschinger at the Tabakfabrik in Linz, Austria, in 2022. https://www.coverrun.com/

  • Against the backdrop of humble beginnings in Ajangbadi, Lagos, Daniel's dedication to bringing ballet to his community shines through. His journey from self-taught dancer to founder of a thriving ballet school demonstrates the power of passion and determination. What strikes me most is Ajala's commitment to providing opportunities for young dancers who may not have access to traditional ballet training. By offering free instruction and seeking donations for dance wear, he's breaking down barriers and opening doors for aspiring dancers in Nigeria. It's heartening to see how his efforts have not only transformed the lives of his students but also garnered support from influential figures in the ballet world. The challenges Ajala faced in introducing ballet to Ajangbadi highlight the importance of cultural understanding and perseverance. Overcoming skepticism and misconceptions about ballet, he's been able to showcase the discipline and value of dance education. His story serves as a reminder of the transformative power of the arts and the impact they can have on communities. As Leap of Dance Academy continues to grow and thrive, I have no doubt that it will continue to inspire countless others, both in Nigeria and beyond. Ajala's vision and dedication are truly commendable, and I'm excited to see the impact his school will have on the world of dance in the years to come.