‘Madu’ Doc Spurred By Ballet Dancer’s Viral Moment Sets Disney+ Release Date, Trailer

Disney+ has unveiled a streaming premiere date and trailer for Madu, its feature doc on Nigerian teen Anthony Madu, whose viral 44-second ballet video touched the hearts of people across the world, when it hit the internet in 2020. Helmed by Academy Award nominee Matt Ogens (Audible) and Kachi Benson, the film bows on the platform on March 29, having been set to debut on the opening night of the Santa Barbara Film Festival on February 7.

Pic watches as the 12-year-old Madu leaves his family and community in Nigeria to study at one of the most prestigious ballet schools in the world in England. Having never left his home outside of Lagos, Anthony finds himself thrust into a new world where his wildest dreams are suddenly within reach. His courageous journey is a story of extraordinary obstacles as he searches for belonging and acceptance, a family far away, and unexpected challenges that could impact his future.

Madu headed to the 100-year-old Elmhurst Ballet School in the U.K. on scholarship after coming to the world’s attention with the viral video. Hailing from Disney Branded Television, the documentary on his life is produced by Jamie Patricof, Katie McNeill, and Rachel Halilej of Hunting Lane Films. Check out the trailer for Madu above.