Meet the cast of Let There Be Dance...
Thilini
What makes this different from all your previous concerts?
For starters, we don't have a specific theme for the show. We have always had a theme for our previous concerts, but not this time. Our main focus is on the word "dance" and performing various forms of dance. I also believe that this time we have really outdone our previous shows.
Tell us about your role in the concert.
I am a senior dancer for Dance Works Center. I have been a student of Aunty Kanthi's since the age of 3. I will be performing in 10 dances, each a different form of dance.
Which genre of dance did you enjoy preparing for, the most?
This is a tough one. I don't think I could pick one. I enjoyed preparing for every single one of them. It's been an absolute pleasure learning and practising all those dances.
Who are your inspirations in the dance world?
I would say it's Kanthi Ranchigoda, more known as Aunty Kanthi to us. She was my first dance teacher. From her posture to her grace we've seen when she teaches us, not to mention, her patience has got every little girl wanting to be her someday. She is one of my biggest inspirations.
How long have you been dancing for?
I have been dancing for the last 19 years. I started at the age of 3.
Kendra
What makes this different from all your previous concerts?
"Let there be Dance!" encompasses a wide variety of dance genres that help bring out the different styles of all the dancers you'll see on stage. One thing people always agree on is that Aunty Kanthi's concert's are special. The effort and sacrifice taken is seen on stage and therefore this year too Dance Works Centre hopes to once again outdo themselves and give the audience something different and exciting.
Tell us about your role in the concert.
There are no "roles" in the typical sense as there is no underlying story line. However I'm one of the senior students of the school and will be part of a number of items this year too.
Which genre of dance did you enjoy preparing for, the most?
Every dance genre is very unique so it's hard to choose one as a favourite. However, this times tap dance is one of my all time favourites because of the different twist we've added to it.
Who are your inspirations in the dance world?
For dancers, inspiration is everywhere. Whether it's a random dance photograph or video you saw online, or an amazing costume that makes you just want to dance in it. Personally, Aunty Kanthi has always been a source of inspiration to me and to all the students at DWC. Her passion for dance which became her career has resulted in 34 years of teaching and over the years,touched the lives of hundreds of kids that just love to dance.
How long have you been dancing for?
I've been dancing with Aunty Kanthi since I was 3 and a half years old and now I just turned 21. I think it's safe to say that I've spent a good part of my life at the dance studio. Dance Works Centre made me fall in love with dance, and now I just can't imagine my life without it!
Meliza
What makes this different from all your previous concerts?
Every show we have put up in the past has been different in many ways. However this year I feel we have challenged ourselves to reach greater heights in terms of technique, style, performance and costumes. Speaking of costumes the effort and care taken to personalize and detail each costume is something to admire at the DWC.
Tell us about your role in the concert.
There are no "roles" as such since there is no story line. However I'm one of the Senior students with the DWC and will be a part of the night's performances.
Which genre of dance did you enjoy preparing for, the most?
This time I have enjoyed preparing for two dance styles which is Tap and ballet. But I have to admit that the ballet's this time are hands down my favourite as I feel it brings out the best of me.
Who are your inspirations in the dance world?
I didn't have to look far for inspiration as it was right I front of me. My dance teachers are whom I look up to. Aunty Kanthi has not only inspired me but everyone who has walked through the doors of DWC during the past years.
How long have you been dancing for?
I have been dancing under the guidance of Aunty Kanthi for the past 6 years and I have enjoyed every session in the studio, from learning my first Plié and going all the way to a Senior. I'm ever so grateful to her for the opportunities and support given to me and all the other dancers.
Udesha
What makes this different from all your previous concerts?
There is no specific theme this year, it's a mix of different styles. Some of our old hits will also be performed. We have put our heart n soul during practices so the outcome is definitely going to be worthy.
Tell us about your role in the concert.
I'll be taking part in 10 dances. I'm one of the senior dances, there are 7 of us I'm one out of them.
Which genre of dance did you enjoy preparing for, the most?
My favourite style of dancing is contemporary, however I'm loving our senior hip hop item too.
Who are your inspirations in the dance world?
Aunty Kanthi - she is an amazing dancer and a teacher. Her passion for dancing and the sacrifices she has made to reach this position is unbelievable. I hope that I too will one day be a strong, dedicated and humble dancer like her.
How long have you been dancing for?
I've been dancing at Aunty Kanthi's for the past 13 years. And I'm loving it.
Rachel
What makes this different from all your previous concerts?
Well there is no particular theme as such this time, but rather showing different genres of dance.
Tell us about your role in the concert.
I'm a senior dancer taking part in multiple number of dances of different genres of dance.
Which genre of dance did you enjoy preparing for, the most?
I enjoyed preparing for the hip hop numbers the most!
Who are your inspirations in the dance world?
Likely, I wouldn't be having any such inspiration in the dance world other than Aunty Kanthi herself firstly.
How long have you been dancing for?
I've been dancing with Aunty Kanthi for the past 14 years now.
"Let There Be Dance" will go on boards at the Lionel Wendt on October 30 and 31 as well as November 1. Tickets priced at Rs. 2500, Rs. 2000 and Rs. 600 are available at the dance studio located at 70A Lauries Road, Colombo 4.
Interviewed by Rihaab Mowlana
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