One Has to be Lucky to get Funds
What according to you is the essence of choreography?
The essence of choreography to me is to reach out to my audience expressing the idea or the concept of my piece through body language and innovative moves aesthetically presented in a beautiful design on stage- or sight-specific space, and become one with them. For me dance is my medium of expression and I prefer to emote through this medium, whether it is my personal journey or a prevailing issue.
How does one go about getting one's work produced?
It is very difficult to produce a work without the support of funding bodies. I wish there were more organisations (like those abroad) where artistes could send their applications for funds along with their concept note, budget and other details, and the organisation could short list and fund the work. Most of our work is done with our own funds, with support from some corporate house (if we are lucky).
When did you first start choreographing?
My first work as a choreographer was in 1977, when I choreographed for the annual show of a school in Kolkata. The experience was frightening as I had no idea about the process. I had to deal with 300 children, music, costumes, light design, rehearsals, creating the piece, editing it... none of which I had any idea about, except dance! But that journey was a hugely educating one. It taught me that being a choreographer is more than just teaching dance.
What are the basics one needs to establish oneself?
Learn dance properly at least for 12 years before even thinking about choreography. It is important to have a strong foundation.
What worked for you?
Learning Bharatnatyam, Kathakali and Manipuri along with the Shankar Technique at the Uday Shankar India Culture Centre, for more than 10 years has worked for me. I also had the opportunity of doing workshops on Graham technique with Evlin Lochman.
Author: Pankaj Mullick (HT Horizons)
Date: 22nd October, 2010
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