The Remarkable Journey of Nigeria's Ballet Boy: From Lagos to Prestigious Dance Academy

Thirteen-year-old Anthony Madu, known as Nigeria's viral ballet dancer, has experienced a dramatic transformation in his life over the past three years. After a video of him dancing in the rain barefoot went viral, Anthony's talent caught the attention of Hollywood actress Viola Davis, who shared the clip on Twitter. This led to Anthony receiving a scholarship at the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School at the American Ballet Theatre. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, his training had to be conducted online. However, Anthony was later given the opportunity to study at Elmhurst Ballet School in Birmingham, which he had previously considered an unattainable dream. Although he initially struggled to adjust to the weather and being away from home, Anthony has settled into his new dance regime and now enjoys the precision of classical ballet. Growing up in an area without dance schools, Anthony taught himself ballet through videos and imitation. While the social stigma around ballet in Africa, particularly for boys, remains a challenge, Anthony's success has inspired other aspiring dancers on the continent. His story will also be showcased in an upcoming Disney documentary called Madu. Anthony's ambitions have caught the attention of Calvin Royal III, an African-American principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, who praised and encouraged him in a recorded message. Anthony's time at Elmhurst has also broadened his horizons academically, allowing him to explore art and other dance styles alongside ballet. Despite the struggles he may face, Anthony remains determined and believes that the journey will be worth it in the end.