Yesterday we were at a birthday party for a NINETY year old! This lady is the founder of the ballet studio where I have been dancing–well, doing the old lady version of ballet–for what, 15, 20 years now. She continues to teach, and I see her in the studio often. More than 300 people crowded into the studio to celebrate in her honor, including famous alumni of the school (Julie Kent, Susan Jaffe). There were speeches, there were messages read from distant friends (one from Baryshnikov!), there were charming dances by the winsome young students, and then two of the young men who had just danced for us wheeled over a huge cake all ablaze with pink candles and we sang her happy birthday, while the genial chairman of the board played accompaniment on the grand piano. She was so happy and delighted!
The one thing everyone said is how loving Tensia is and has always been.
And indeed, all the students I see are cheery souls, who no doubt have as many sorrows as other young people, but who have been given a remarkable gift–a safe harbor, with a solid education in dance, and what at least seems to me respect for their fellow man. Of course the boys tease each other, and no doubt the girls gossip and fight, as girls do, but I have never yet come across any signs of rancour or tears. A pleasant place to be, whether young or old, and that is because of Tensia Fonseca. So, happy 90th, Tensia! And may there be many more!
Hope
http://www.marylandyouthballet.org/
