11 y.o Nigerian boy Anthony Mmesoma Madu is awarded a scholarship to New York City's American Ballet Theatre

An 11-year-old Nigerian boy went viral this summer when millions of people watched a video of him dancing ballet barefoot in the rain — and now the talented youngster has secured a scholarship to New York's prestigious American Ballet Theatre.

Anthony Mmesoma Madu from Lagos captivated social media users — including celebrities like Viola Davis and Cynthia Erivo — with his dedication to the dance, and his ability to pull of stunning moves in the rain without any shoes on.  

Now, thanks to the international attention the video has received, the pre-teen will train ABT online this summer as he prepares to travel to the US for more training in 2021.

'When my friends see me dancing, they feel like, what is this boy doing, is he doing a foreign dance?' he told Reuters. 'Now I have won a grand prize to go to the U.S. in the year 2021. I am very, very happy about that. I will be in the plane and this is what I am waiting for, and ballet has done it for me.' Anthony's parents wanted him to become a priest, but they're supportive of his dance dreams. His mother, Ifeoma Madu, told BBC News that she has 'joy' when she sees him dance, and advises other parents to 'give their full support' to their talented children so they can 'go far.' Anthony's school and teacher have also benefited from the attention. Owoseni, his instructor, will participate in a National Training Curriculum, which teaches instructors. 

He is also getting donations, which helps because he teaches his 12 students for free and doesn't actually have a dedicated class space.

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Toyeen B's World: 11 y.o Nigerian boy #AnthonyMmesomaMadu is awarded a scholarship to New York City's American Ballet Theatrehttps://t.co/mi8QYCtiyz pic.twitter.com/i5Tld7loBD

— Fireworks With Toyeen B. (@FireworksWithTB) August 12, 2020