Exciting times lie ahead for the National Dance Theatre of Bermuda, thanks to an ambitious makeover plan unveiled yesterday by its newly-appointed chairman, Donald Kramer.

Announcing that the organisation will now function under the name of the National Dance Foundation of Bermuda (NDFB), with the National Dance Theatre of Bermuda as its performing arm, Mr. Kramer revealed an extensive revamp.

Plans include the launching of a $1.2 million fund-raising campaign; the appointment a full-time executive director and office assistant; and the establishment of a world-class international summer dance institute in collaboration with the renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Center.

In his new role as chairman of the NDFB, Mr. Kramer said the purpose of the makeover was "to seek to nurture the talents of exceptional Bermudian dancers and choreographers".

Citing the growth of professional dance worldwide, he spoke of the range of opportunities which have arisen for talented performers wishing to pursue careers in dance.

"I am pleased to note that dance is now among the most popular activities of Bermuda's youth," he said. "Between ten and 15 percent of all students studying dance right now in Bermuda have the natural talent to become professional dancers, choreographers and teachers. We are convinced that if these dancers are encouraged and guided in their development they will succeed, and in so doing help to put Bermuda more visibly on the world stage."

In support of its mission statement is "to encourage and support dance in Bermuda by helping dancers and choreographers to develop their full potential", the Foundation will fund and develop programmes and activities which include training opportunities for exceptional local dancers; master classes with other world-class talent; and workshops on all aspects of dance.

An international summer dance institute is already on the cards for next summer at a venue still to be confirmed. It will be open to exceptional dancers from Bermuda and abroad, and the programme will be in partnership with the Alvin Ailey School, whose director, Denise Jefferson, was present at yesterday's announcement. Entry will be by audition, and there will be a fee, although financial assistance will be given to those who need it on a case by case basis. The maximum number of students attending will be determined by space limitations.

Mr. Kramer stressed that the NDFB was not another dance school, nor would it be competing with local dance schools. Instead, its mission was to provide an avenue whereby exceptional dancers and choreographers could develop to their full potential.

The National Dance Theatre of Bermuda - the performing arm of the NDFB - will continue to mount public performances.

To help plan and run its programmes, the Foundation will be advertising shortly for a full time executive director and office assistant. It will also launch a $1.2 million fund-raising campaign, details of which will be announced in due course.

"We are determined to run the programme in a way that is pragmatic, accountable and stable," the new chairman said. "We are here for the long haul."

The NDFB will also strengthen its relationship with the Bermuda College, and align its efforts to its initiatives. Speaking on behalf of the College, its chairman, Senator Raymond Tannock, pledged full support for the plan.

"We are very excited," he said. "We love the idea of furthering the needs and benefits of our young people, and we are committed to student success at all levels, including dance."

Stating that the work of the Foundation would have far-reaching effects beyond Bermuda, Mr. Kramer said, "I believe that the Dance Foundation will make an important contribution to the health and well-being of the Island, and will encourage Bermudian dancers to show the world beyond any doubt (our shores) what artistic talent this country has to offer."

Mr. Kramer, who is the vice-chairman of global insurance giant ACE Limited, has worked in Bermuda for over a decade and owns a home here. He said that serving as chairman of the NDFB would give him a welcome opportunity to contribute to the development of local artistic excellence.

"I have long appreciated the industry, creativity and hospitality of the people of Bermuda," he said. "I am proud to have a home here, and it is my pleasure to be able to serve the community in any way I can. Here is a wonderful chance to contribute to the next generation."