Moira Brock wins award

ALF DOVE AWARD

Moira Brock, the founder of Basildon’s La Danse Fantastique was awarded the
Alf Dove Award at a ceremony held at the Towngate Theatre last night
presented by the Mayor of Basildon Cllr Don Morris.

Moira is the Principal and Founder of La Danse Fantastique, which was
created to provide education in the performing arts for all students
regardless of ability. With her talented team Moira teaches ballet, modern,
tap, musical theatre, drama and singing to children of all ages and mixed
abilities.

The Deputy Mayor Cllr Danny Lawrence nominated Moira for the award and
said,

‘Moira has worked tirelessly with her team to make La Danse Fantastique a
terrific project across the Borough. Her dream was to open up the world of
music and dance to all young people, including those with physical
problems, sensory impairments or learning difficulties. It was the first
school of its type in the area to welcome children with special needs. Now
well established, the carefully structured school is run by capable,
qualified staff able to provide classes in all the arts, thereby providing
students with the tools they need to reach their goals and achieve their
dreams.

I am particularly proud to be asked to be one of La Danse Fantastique’s
patrons, and Moira is an inspiration worthy of this award.’

At La Danse Fantastique every student is encouraged and guided through the
nationally accredited dancing and performing examinations. Since its
creation in 1994 the school has grown and now has students of all ages and
abilities. They have students with no additional needs, students with Downs
Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Dyspraxia, Tourettes Syndrome, Learning
Difficulties and Hearing Impairments, enabling everyone to perform with
their peers.

All students support and encourage each other, both on the dance floor and
the stage, in an atmosphere where inclusion and integration is the norm.
Recently some students, who have graduated from the school are now
developing a professional career in the performing arts.

On Receiving the Alf Dove Award Moira said, ‘I am touched and humbled to be
given this award. It is an honour to be in a position to receive this and I
do, on behalf of all my team who work so hard to provide the quality
service that we do. I thank Councillor Morris and Councillor Lawrence for
their support and for nominating me. However, I would say that the true
stars are my wonderful students. Thank you so much. This award is for
everyone at La Danse Fantastique.

The Alf Dove Award was established to mark the 43 years of service of Alf
Dove and his significant contribution as a Councillor when he retired in
1999.

LDF are one of the Mayors charities for this year.