The 11-year-old ballet dancer captured in a viral video while dancing in the rain on the streets of Lagos, Nigeria, has earned a scholarship from the American Ballet Theatre in New York.
Anthony Madu’s video went viral recently, earning praise from millions that viewed it, including actress Viola Davis.
“Reminds me of the beauty of my people. We create, soar, can imagine, have unleashed passion, and love….despite the brutal obstacles that have been put in front of us! Our people can fly!!!” Davis tweeted about the video shared by the Leap of Dance Academy on their social media page.
Davis was not the only actress that admired Madu as he waltzed on the rain soaked streets, with Cynthia Erivo coming on board to help facilitate the scholarship.
“They’re in Nigeria. I happen to be Nigerian as well. And I was like, this felt like a kismet moment,” the actress told NBC News.
She was so moved by the young dancer’s performance, she connected him with the theater company. “I think it’s extremely important because I think boys are not encouraged to do this incredibly hard craft that actually encourages strength and stamina and beauty,” Erivo said.
Speaking to NBC, Madu also proclaimed his excitement at the opportunity to take his craft to a higher level.
“I see my future like that I’m going to be a professional dancer when I grew up,” he said.
