Anthony Madu, who lives in Lagos, Nigeria, won the hearts of people around the world when the video of him dancing on a rain-soaked street was shared online.
In the video posted by his dance teacher, Madu is seen leaping and pirouetting without shoes in the street of his hometown.
Reminds me of the beauty of my people. We create, soar, can imagine, have unleashed passion, and love….despite the brutal obstacles that have been put in front of us! Our people can fly!!! ❤ pic.twitter.com/LNyWD2ZoU0
— Viola Davis (@violadavis) June 24, 2020
After seeing Madu’s incredible performance, actress Cynthia Erivo, connected the young dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, who offered him a scholarship to study ballet in New York.
“They’re in Nigeria. I happen to be Nigerian as well. And I was like, this felt like a kismet moment,” the actress told NBC News.
“I think it’s extremely important because I think boys are not encouraged to do this incredibly hard craft that actually encourages strength and stamina and beauty.”
When asked why he enjoys ballet, Madu said, “It makes me feel strong and happy when I’m dancing.”
“I see my future like that I’m going to be a professional dancer when I grow up.”
The video has been shared by over a million people and Madu’s dance school Leap of Dance Academy in Nigeria has received a flood of donations.
The academy’s founder, Daniel Ajala Owoseni, said the funds will be used to further promote ballet in Nigeria.
“I saw the need to bring a form of art that shows discipline, dedication and commitment,” he told the Washington Post.
“Students who are able to learn all of these can … transfer (them) into other spheres of their lives.”
