The End of an Era

My husband, Martin, has been the power behind Martins balletcenter for over 20 years. He has taught jazz dance to hundreds of pupils over the years. What made his school probably unique (certainly to my knowledge) was the fact that his pupils also included mentally handicapped people. Every two or three years, he would organise a public performance of the school in the town theatre. It was always a great event, with a packed audience. And the pupils always demonstrated a marvellous feeling of accomplishment and joy in their performances – none more so than those who were mentally handicapped.

 

But all good things come to an end. Martin and I move to another part of The Netherlands next year, and so Martins balletcenter here in Gouda must close. The last lessons will be in four weeks time. Yesterday, Martin held a farewell reception for parents and pupils, both new and old. Lots of people turned up, and it was a pleasure to see them. The event was tinged with a little sadness as the school provided the mentally handicapped people in particular with a unique opportunity. Martin, I know, has found it emotionally difficult to bring the school to a close. Nonetheless, all things must end. What he, and his pupils, have achieved will be remembered by those fortunate enough to be able to participate in the experience.

 

I took some photos of the farewell reception – if you are somebody who is one of my Flickr "Friends and Family" contacts, then you can find the photos here.