HAMILTON, Bermuda, February 24, 2005 - The National Dance Foundation of Bermuda (NDFB) announced today that screen and television star, Victoria Rowell, has joined the Foundation's Board of Directors and will be attending An Evening with Catherine Zeta-Jones, a black tie gala to be held this Saturday at the Fairmont Southampton Resort.

Ms Rowell, who plays the character Drucilla on The Young and The Restless, danced professionally before pursuing her hugely successful acting career in film and TV. She performed with American Ballet Theatre II Company, Ballet Hispanico of New York and Twyla Tharp Workshop among other dancers companies.

"We are thrilled that Victoria has agreed to join our Board and is coming to Bermuda to participate in our annual gala event." said Chairman of the National Dance Foundation Don Kramer. "I am grateful for her active involvement and her commitment to dance. Earlier in her distinguished career, Victoria danced with the second company of American Ballet Theatre, whose Studio Company is performing at the gala."

"The objectives of the National Dance Foundation of Bermuda are ones with which I identify," said Ms. Rowell. "Their commitment to provide superior training to talented dancers, regardless of financial means, resonates with me. It was through scholarships that I was able to enter the world of dance, a world that gave my life direction, purpose and meaning.

"The discipline I acquired through dance became a fundamental force in my life."

Ms. Rowell, who lived for 18 years in foster care, established the Rowell Foster Children Positive Plan in 1990, a scholarship fund that helps foster children through fine arts classes, sports camps and cultural enrichment.

"Our goal is simple," Ms Rowell said. "We help children who would otherwise not have a chance to reach their full potential."

All proceeds from An Evening with Catherine Zeta-Jones , which is sold out, will go towards the establishment of an international summer dance institute in Bermuda . This year's programme will be run by American Ballet Theatre from August 15-September 2. More information can be found at www.dancebermuda.org .

The National Dance Foundation of Bermuda, a non-profit organization registered with the Bermuda Charities Commission, is dedicated to the development of exceptional dancers and choreographers in Bermuda .