The National Dance Foundation of Bermuda (NDFB) and the Bermuda Ballet Association (BBA) have amalgamated. The decision was taken at a special general meeting of the BBA last month when members voted to dissolve and join the NDFB.

"Over the course of the past year, we have realised that the mission of the National Dance Foundation and the mission of the Bermuda Ballet Association are essentially the same," BBA president Sal Hodgson said. "We are both non-profit organisations dedicated to raising the standard of excellence in dance through world-class training."

As a part of the amalgamation, over 40 years of local dance history will be donated to the Bermuda Archives.

In welcoming the union of the two organisations, chairman of the NDFB Don Kramer said the Foundation's board recognises that it represents an historic moment in Bermuda's performing arts history.

"The Bermuda Ballet Association is the Island's oldest dance organisation, and can rightfully claim to be one of the most prestigious. It was formed in 1962 by Madame Patricia Gray, MBE with the support of Madame Ana Roje, and since that time hundreds, if not thousands, of students have reaped the benefit of their vision, and the Association's unwavering dedication to dance. The National Dance Foundation is acquiring a rich history of which we are most proud.

"We are acquiring not only a legacy of dance excellence, but also a well-established awards programme which includes Bermuda Ballet Association commemorative scholarships and the Patricia Calnan Scholarship.

"These awards join the scholarships that have been established by Catherine Zeta-Jones and the Ministry of Community Affairs and Sport, and will enable students who might not be able to afford dance tuition to participate in the world-class training."

Mrs. Hodgson already sits on the NDFB board as owner of the Somerset School of Dance. Mrs. Sallie Singleton, who heads the BBA scholarship committee, has also joined the NDFB board, and will chair its newly-formed Scholarship Committee.

Mrs. Hodgson confirmed that all historical material from the Bermuda Ballet Association, including films, tapes, and programmes from past performances, are to be given to the Bermuda National Archives to be properly catalogued and archived. This project will be paid for by funds raised by the Association.

"The history of dance in Bermuda is an impressive one that forms a meaningful part of the island's culture," she said. "It should never be lost, and we are delighted to be able to entrust this important project to the professional staff at the Archives."

The NDFB, a non-profit organisation registered with the Bermuda Charities Commission and a company limited by guaranty, is dedicated to the development of exceptional dancers and choreographers in Bermuda.