Ballet concert hosted by the Balandis Lilley Dance Class for women over fifty
It’s no secret that movement and social connection have a powerful impact on both physical and mental wellbeing. This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the strength that comes from women supporting each other, uplifting one another, and making a difference in our communities.
A wonderful example of this took place last month at a ballet concert hosted by the Balandis Lilley Dance Class for women over 50. This inspiring event showcased the magic that happens when women come together – a true testament to the power of collective support. My Sisters’ House Women’s Centre was honoured to be the beneficiary of the fundraiser.
All the dancers who performed in the Balandis Lilley recital on 31st January 2025
Held on 31st January 2025 at North Mundham Village Hall, the concert brought together dancers and supporters, creating a beautiful display of movement, dedication, and community spirit. We are deeply grateful for their generosity and commitment to empowering women. The Balandis Lilley Dance Class raised £680 at their concert and the funds were generously donated to My Sisters’ House Women’s Centre and received by Marcia Nguyen.
Supporting Women at My Sisters' House
At My Sisters’ House, we provide holistic, wrap-around support for women facing multiple challenges, including domestic abuse, homelessness, and mental health struggles. Our services focus on wellbeing, employment, and welfare, helping women regain confidence and rebuild their lives.
While we may not run dance classes, this fundraiser highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for women to lift each other up. That same ethos is at the heart of our Thrive Programme, which offers tailored support to help women access employment, training, education, and volunteering. Too often, the biggest barriers to these opportunities are high anxiety, low self-esteem, and lack of confidence. By integrating our Thrive and Wellbeing teams, we ensure that women receive the foundational support they need to move forward – not just to survive, but to truly thrive.
A Lifetime of Dance and Empowerment
The class is led by Sandra, an accomplished and passionate dancer whose career is nothing short of remarkable. At just 15, she became the Junior British Tap Champion, and by 16, she was already teaching in Yorkshire before moving to Lancashire. Over the years, she has trained both children and adults, with seven of her pupils going on to study at the prestigious Royal Ballet School and many others forging successful careers in showbusiness. Now 82 and living in West Sussex, Sandra continues to dedicate herself to inspiring older dancers, proving that age is no barrier to passion and creativity.
Why Fundraising Matters
Running My Sisters' House costs over £600,000 a year, and fundraising initiatives like the Balandis Lilley Dance Class concert are vital in helping us sustain our services. We are incredibly grateful for their support, which enables us to continue providing trauma-informed, needs-led support in safe, women-only spaces.
This International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the power of women lifting each other up. Whether through dance, support groups, or fundraising efforts, we can all play a role in empowering women to thrive.
A heartfelt thank you to the Balandis Lilley Dance Class and to everyone who contributes to making a difference. Together, we are stronger.
About the Balandis Lilley Dance Class
The class focuses on enhancing physical awareness and stamina through dance. Every Friday, for two hours, they rehearse and perform routines including ballet, tap, contemporary, and acting. As the group is already well established and of a high standard, Sandra only accepts new members who have some prior knowledge of dance. Together with Lisa, she choreographs routines tailored specifically for this age group.
For class enquiries and further information, please contact Balandis Lilley Dance Class on 01243 264832