A dancer’s tale: farewell to Joan the ballerina
A memorial will be held on January 20.
Joan Glutz (nee Pratley) was a retired 74-year-old dancing sensation.
The Springs-born and bred dancer and teacher died in December after a battle with lung cancer.
“Joan was a revered and accomplished ballerina and teacher from the age of three under the tutelage of the Gardner sisters,” reminisces her brother, Brian Pratley.
“At 16, she achieved her solo seal for ballet under the auspices of the Royal Academy of Pancini.”
Joan won countless championships for ballet, modern tap and Spanish dancing.
“She was complimented by many auditors for her choreography at various Eisteddfods all over Gauteng, where her studio participated.
“Joan was also an understudy to internationally acclaimed prima ballerina Phyllis Spira during the production of Swan Lake.”
Brian touches on how people would describe his sister.
“Joan had the greatest respect and love for all her pupils and always put her heart and soul into her teaching.”
He also says he knew her as an absolute lady.
“She was the kindest person I know and very giving of herself.”
A memorial in Joan’s honour will take place on January 20 at Tyla Rae Café at 11:00.
For more information, call Brian on 078 908 2980.
