IO, Jakarta – Born from a passion for teaching dancing to everyone, Gigi Art of Dance (GAOD) was established in 2009 as a place to learn, collaborate, and share the art of dancing. GAOD offers a learning environment which is safe and supports the development of student talent, potential, and creativity. What’s unique about GAOD is its class for “Special Needs” children, such as children with Down Syndrome. “This class was set up for children with Down Syndrome,” said GAOD owner Gianti Diadi.
Gianti Diadi or Gigi created the dance class after seeing how it might help special needs children socialize in their everyday life. Dancing was a kind therapy for them. After the class began, it could be seen that dancing had a positive effect on the children. “Seeing their different moods, starting from understanding the moves was a challenge for me,” she said.
So far, the children have not yet participated in any competitions. However, they have often performed recitals on international stages. For instance, not so long ago, they performed in the Agency News Theater Festival in Singapore. “I think they have reached their best potential,” said Gigi.
In preparation for international recitals, both the children and parents audition, as the parents will help support and push the children to train consistently, until the day of the recital.
Independent Observer had a chance to watch Namira, one of the children, train. Her parents were delighted with her development. “She can now be a professional dancer, has income from dancing, is a video clip model, and has walked on the 2019 Jakarta Fashion Week catwalk,” said Namira’s mother proudly.
If you are interested in seeing their performances, they will perform a concert on March 3 in Mall Ciputra, Kuningan, South Jakarta. Don’t miss it! (Mahrayuni)
