Arts outreach organization Off the Lane has announced the creation of the Ann Reinking Scholarship, which will be presented this November to mark the late dancer’s birthday. The organization will offer a $5,000 scholarship each year to one early-career dancer moving to New York City, as Reinking herself did in her teens. It will also introduce the performer to a network of industry veterans who can support them on their path to success. The award is open to all young dancers, regardless of specialty, whether Broadway, modern, jazz, or ballet. The submission process will open in May.
“I believe Annie would have loved having her name on the Ann Reinking Scholarship Program,” Reinking’s husband Peter Talbert said. “Like so many young dancers coming to New York, she struggled to find a foothold in a strange city. Short of money and friends, Annie persevered and found her way forward, thanks to some helping hands. This program will offer others following in her footsteps that helping hand, to ensure that they can succeed in their desire to make their dream come true. That’s a legacy worthy of her name and reputation.”
In addition to Talbert, the scholarship’s advisory board includes Hinton Battle, Gregory Butler, Gary Chryst, Mindy Cooper, Dylis Croman, Charlotte d’Amboise, Erzebet-Liz Foldi, Joel Grey, Marilu Henner, Bebe Neuwirth, Chita Rivera, Tommy Tune, William Whitener, and Chris Reinking Stuart. Visit the Off the Lane program page for more information.