This is an extremely well-made documentary that focuses on several young people who have competed for ballet prizes and scholarships. Their stories are interwoven with scenes of their homes lives, practice sessions, and competitions. These young men and women come from different backgrounds and range in age from 7-18. What unites them all is their passion for the ballet.
Throughout the film I kept thinking and, actually saying at loud, look at what these young people are putting themselves through. Look at what they have achieved. Of course, the parents of these committed young people support what they are doing. Their encouragement and sacrifices enable these future ballet stars to achieve so much and at such young ages.
Two stories stood out for me. One involved a young man from Colombia. His only contact with his family was by telephone. He missed them a great deal. His father told him to keep on trying; never to give up. Eventually, he realizes his dream and receives a full scholarship to the Royal Ballet.
A young refugee from Africa, whose parents were both killed, is brought to the US by her adopted family. She dreamed of the ballet in the orphanage where she was placed after her family was slaughtered. In the US many told her that blacks don’t really succeed in ballet because of their physical makeup. In spite of all the factors against her, including a physical injury during her try-out, she was chosen for a scholarship with the American Ballet Theatre.
This is a film about those who have a dream and never give up.