COLUMBIA, S.C. – The Search for Zelig Williams Continues
The community of Columbia is coming together as they search for missing Broadway star Zelig Williams, who was last seen on October 3. The 28-year-old performer is well-loved among his family, friends, and the local dance and theater community, which has sparked a wave of concern and support following his disappearance.
A Star Born to Shine
Caroline Lewis-Jones, a dance teacher and close friend of Zelig, shared her thoughts about him. “I knew immediately that he was gonna thrive, besides his amazing talents — hard-working talents — but also God-given talents,” she said passionately. Lewis-Jones was fortunate enough to meet Zelig when he was just 11 years old, walking into her class at the Southern Strutt Dance Studio.
“I immediately knew how special he was. He would come to all the dance classes, and I’d be like, ‘Zelle, you know that this isn’t your class,’” she recalled with a smile. “And he was like, ‘I know, but I’m here, so I want to take class.’ I was like, ‘Awesome.’ So, he was just a kid that always wanted to do more.”
Always Giving Back
Her fondness for Zelig didn’t just stem from his talent; it was also his generous spirit. “He never forgot where he came from,” Lewis-Jones reminisced. “He always came home to teach the next generation of kids.” She emphasized Zelig’s commitment to shaping young minds by teaching at various local studios like Palmetto Performing Arts, Mrs. Jenkins Dance Academy, and others.
Remembering His Bright Beginnings
Former drama teacher Jeanette Arvay Beck has her own memories of Zelig’s infectious energy. “He did his normal, wonderful, upbeat, incredible thing during his first audition, and I remember thinking, ‘Holy, goodness gracious, all that talent right there just waiting to blossom.’ And he did,” Beck said proudly. Even after achieving his dreams on Broadway, she noted, “even up there, he seemed to bring out the best in others.” The sunniest part of Zelig, it appears, is not just his dancing, but the joy and light he brings to everyone around him.
The Ongoing Search
Unfortunately, it has now been weeks since anyone has seen Zelig. Investigators report that he was in the vicinity of Congaree National Park, and his car was later discovered in a parking lot near the park for the Wateree Passage of the Palmetto Trail. His loved ones have been actively engaging the community for prayers and assistance in locating him.
“Whatever your form of prayer is, cause we all believe different things, I think just keep praying however that looks for you,” Lewis-Jones encouraged. “And keep having the belief that he’s going to come home because we do feel that. Just keep your eyes open; keep your ears open.”
A Community Event in His Honor
In light of the situation, the Unbound Dance Company is hosting a special event called “Dance for Z” on Sunday, October 20, from 5:15 to 7 p.m. This heartfelt gathering will take place at The Southern Strutt, located at 90 Ashbourne Rd. All proceeds and donations will go directly to help aid in the search for Zelig.
The community’s outpouring of love and support highlights just how much Zelig means to all of them. Anyone with information regarding Zelig’s whereabouts is encouraged to call Crimestoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC. All callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward if their information leads to an arrest or conviction.
The hope remains strong that Zelig Williams will be brought back home safely, surrounded by those who love and cherish him.
