Reviewed by: Sharron Swain
Come see this amazing Brazilian ballerina on August 19
Reading time: 4 minutes
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Vitória Bueno, an 18-year-old ballerina who was born without arms due to a genetic condition, is a huge deal in Brazil and is bringing her incredible talent and contagious smile to Birmingham on August 19. She’ll be performing at United Ability’s Journey of Hope, and you’re going to want to be there to see it. Keep reading to meet Vitória and learn how you can see her rock the stage.
Vitória’s Journey of Hope
Vitória Bueno has built an impressive social media presence since her appearance on America’s Got Talent: All Stars, where her inspiring performance wowed the judges. But, her journey started long before then.
All the way from Santa Rita do Sapucai in Brazil, Vitória was born with phocomelia, a condition that caused her to be born without arms. She never let that stop her. She went to school where she started physical therapy and found her passion for dance by the time she was just five years old.
“When I was younger and started doing my physical therapy, I started to discover that I loved to dance. I’ve always loved it, but I didn’t know anything about ballet. My physical therapist connected me with a ballet instructor and it took off from there.”
Vitória Bueno
She noted how important it is, as a person with disabilities, to have a strong support system of people that are going to be there along the way. Her mom remains one of her biggest fans.
“My mom was very uncertain about ballet. I think she was probably just afraid of something happening. Her main concerns were things like balance, and me not being able to dance the way that everyone else did. We didn’t have much money and ballet is a very expensive sport, but she let me take it on and I fell in love immediately, so she has always been very supportive.”
Vitória Bueno
Get your tickets to see Vitória take the stage in The Magic City on August 19.
An inspiration to all
During my brief conversation with Vitória, it was quickly clear that she’s the kind of girl who lights up a room and brings joy to any conversation.
Ballet has helped the dancer not only realize her dream, but learn other skills including flexibility, strength, work ethic and more. Did we mention she does everything—from eating and brushing her teeth to doing her hair and makeup—with her feet? Talk about impressive.
Despite her disabilities, Vitória has danced on some of the biggest stages, inspiring people with every move.
“We are so much bigger than our disabilities. Things are not easy, everyone is on their own journey. It is so important to have people that believe in you, and to believe in yourself. It wasn’t easy to get here, but I never gave up.”
Vitória Bueno
See Vitória dance at Journey of Hope, August 19
Witness firsthand how Vitória’s awe-inspiring journey and overcoming of obstacles have become a beacon of hope for others at United Ability’s Journey of Hope on August 19. Plus, hear from Birmingham’s own Chris Biggins and Alie B. Gorrie as they co-host this FAMILY-FRIENDLY event.
- When: Saturday, August 19
- Time: doors and bar open at 5 pm | program at 6 pm | reception at 7:30 pm
- Location: UAB’s Alys Stephens Center, 1200 10th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35294
- Tickets
“I am so happy, a little nervous, to come to Birmingham. I can’t wait to meet everyone and inspire others with disabilities that anything is possible. If you really love something, you can find ways to make it happen. Everyone should be able to follow their dreams without being held back.”
Vitória Bueno
Learn more about Journey of Hope 2023 and secure your seat for an unforgettable evening.
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