Maggie Kirdurka, “The Bald Ballerina,” is retiring and holding her cancer benefit at Howard Community College, Smith Theater on June 4, 2023.
On Sunday, June 4, the Howard Community College Smith Theater will witness a truly remarkable event that celebrates the indomitable spirit and resilience of one extraordinary woman: Margaret “Maggie” Kirdurka, lovingly known as “The Bald Ballerina.” This cancer benefit aims to honor Maggie’s journey and support her continued fight against cancer, while showcasing her incredible talent as a dancer. With her unwavering determination and infectious positivity, Maggie has become an inspiration to many around the world.
When she puts out the word that she’s hosting her “No One Survives Alone benefit concert, her long list of dance friends eagerly reply, “Yes” to perform. This year will be bigger and better than ever with performances by American Ballet Theater soloist Katherine “Katie” Williams (who trained in Howard County), Tyler Stewart, Adrienne Canterna Martinez (who once surprised her friend during the show, flying from Germany where she was performing), Maeghan McHale, Ashley Canterna-Hardy, Camilla Rodrigues, Daria Breslin, Kaeli Ware, Sam Buchanan, Kenzie DuMars, Julia Patella, Artistic Movement Academy of Dance, Dee Buchanan School of Dance, Studio Bleu, Design In Motion, Academy of Russian Ballet, and many more to come.
Maggie Kirdurka’s story is one of unwavering strength and a refusal to be defined by her circumstances. In 2015, at the peak of her ballet career, she was diagnosed with advanced-stage breast cancer. Rather than letting this devastating news shatter her dreams, Maggie found the courage to face her illness head-on, becoming an emblem of resilience in the face of adversity.
As a dancer, Maggie’s identity was intricately tied to her physical appearance. However, her battle with cancer led her to lose her hair due to chemotherapy treatments. Rather than hiding behind wigs or scarves, Maggie decided to embrace her baldness, using it as a powerful symbol of her fight against cancer. She became known as “The Bald Ballerina,” it’s a moniker she gave herself, and her courageous decision to continue performing with her bald head became a source of inspiration for countless individuals facing similar challenges.
Maggie stands 5′ 9″, with long arms and legs that seem to go on forever. As she dances on stage, her high-flying leaps make her appear even more towering, perhaps 7 feet from the ground to the top of her bald head.
The upcoming cancer benefit at Howard Community College Smith Theater is a testament to Maggie’s indomitable spirit and her unwavering commitment to dance. The performance will showcase her talent as a ballerina and serve as a reminder that movement can transcend physical limitations. Through her graceful and emotive movements, Maggie demonstrates the transformative power of art, providing hope and healing to those in need.
“I want this concert o be meaningful to me, so I invite performers who had played important roles in my life as a dancer and cancer patient,” said Kirduka with more than a hint pride. “You can imagine how I was overwhelmed when everyone invited enthusiastically agreed,”
Beyond her incredible talent and tenacity, Maggie Kirdurka has emerged as a beacon of hope for cancer patients and survivors worldwide. Through social media and various platforms, she has used her platform to raise awareness about cancer, advocate for early detection, and offer support and encouragement to those fighting their own battles. By sharing her experiences and being candid about her journey, Maggie has shattered stereotypes and brought attention to the challenges faced by dancers and cancer patients alike.
The cancer benefit at Howard Community College Smith Theater serves as an opportunity for the community to come together and rally behind Maggie Kirdurka. By attending the event, we can not only witness a breathtaking performance but also contribute to her ongoing fight against cancer. Proceeds from the benefit will go toward medical expenses, cancer research, and support organizations, all aimed at making a positive impact on the lives of cancer patients and their families.
Maggie Kirdurka has touched the hearts of many with her remarkable journey, resilience, and talent. Her cancer benefit provides an occasion for us to come together, celebrate her strength, and show our support. Let us stand united with Maggie and all those who face cancer, as we applaud her unwavering spirit and contribute to the cause of spreading hope and healing through the power of the arts.
Maggie will take the stage for one last time. She has been living with metastatic breast cancer for close to nine years and has had over 150 treatments. Maggie is retiring. Come celebrate with her.
The 8th Annual ‘’No One Can Survive Alone,’’ a fundraiser concert for Bald Ballerina June 4, 2023 at 2:30 pm at the Smith Theater at Howard Community College, 10901 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, MD 21044-3110. Visit here for tickets, directions, and donations.
