Toowoomba autistic girl Zali Klein selected for A&A Ballet Chicago dance academy program
The parents of a young autistic girl who has been selected to dance at a prestigious international school have shared how their daughter went from having chronic social anxiety to performing in front of hundreds.
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From the moment Zali Klein popped on her first pair of dancing shoes, the young autistic girl finally felt like she had found her place in the world.
Her parents, Josh and Jessica Klein, decided to enrol their daughter at the JE Dancehouse studio five years ago after they were encouraged by family friends.
However, the couple admit they never imagined just how life-changing the art of dance would be for Zali, who also struggles with chronic anxiety.
“When she’s on stage it brings a tear to my eye because you see this kid who really struggles, but she’s found her place in the world – dance is her solace,” Mr Klein said.
“As soon as she walks past the curtain and onto the stage, she transforms into a different child … suddenly she’s confident and her presence on stage blows my mind.
“Autism is something that touches a lot of people who struggle to navigate their way through mainstream society, but we try to teach Zali she is different – not less.”
The nine-year-old girl who only started competing last year, was offered a place in an intensive two-week program at two prestigious ballet schools in the US.
Zali ultimately chose to attend the A&A Ballet dance academy in Chicago, where she will receive private and group lessons in ballet, contemporary and character dance.
Set to fly over on July 21, the aspiring dancer will be taught by industry leaders and beside other students from across the globe.
“This will be Zali’s first time on a plane and out of the country so she’s very excited,” Mrs Klein said.
“For a kid from Toowoomba, it’s a phenomenal and a once in a lifetime experience.”
Both parents said they were incredibly grateful for Zali’s dance studio and teacher Jameille Eugarde for providing their daughter with an inclusive place to flourish and be herself.
“We’re acutely aware there’s a lot of discrimination in the world and a lot of people see an autism diagnosis and don’t want to give that child a chance,” Mr Klein said.
“At first we could barely get her out of the car but with the support of Jameille, Zali has fallen in love with dance and we basically live at the studio.”
The large family of seven who live on a single income have now launched a fundraiser to help get Zali to Chicago.
“With the rising cost of living, we understand how hard it is to make ends meet, but this is the kind of opportunity you just can’t put a price on,” Mr Klein said.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the community’s support because it means so much more for Zali than what meets the eye.”
After previously wanting to be a doctor, Zali now hopes to become a professional ballerina.
The Klein family hopes to raise $15,000 through the fundraiser. To donate visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-zali-achieve-her-dance-dreams
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Originally published as Toowoomba autistic girl Zali Klein selected for A&A Ballet Chicago dance academy program
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