Of Tutus and Tenements

Sebastian Gil Miranda

“Every plié and jump they make is a step closer to entering college, or getting their dream job,” says Tuany Nascimento. She's talking about her students, young girls who live, as she does, in Morro do Adeus, one of Rio de Janeiro's most dangerous slums, or favelas. “People get into crime because they don’t have opportunities, but the ballet project gives them a chance not to fall into the wrong kind of life.” Nascimento is a ballerina and rhythmic gymnast whose dream of going professional couldn't be realized because she lacked the funds, so in 2012, she started “Na Ponta dos Pés” to help others like her (story, video): http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/nov/27/brazil-favela-ballet-project-morro-do-adeus?utm_source=esp&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=GU+Today+USA+-+Version+CB&utm_term=140114&subid=15193625&CMP=ema_565b