What do you enjoy most about 2016’s performance season?
The repertoire is most exciting; dancing new and different pieces is always thrilling and engaging. This year brought a wide range of guest choreographers to the season, which trains us to adapt to different working styles and demands quickly. I particularly enjoyed performing Val Caniparoli’s Swipe, and Nils Christe’s Symphony in Three Movements.
What is your most memorable performance in your life?
I’ve had many memorable performances during my time at SDT, one of them which stands out in my memory is my first show, Swan Lake in 2012. I was so excited for my first professional performance.
I remember the feeling during the curtain call, looking up at the applauding audience I thought to myself, “Wow, this is amazing”. I won’t be forgetting that moment any time soon.
Performing at the park for Ballet Under the Stars is also very unique in its setting alone. A full stage outside in front of a beautiful building at the Fort Canning, that is really something – the dancers get a great view too!
What motivates you to keep dancing?
I’ve been dancing for most of my life, for so many years without giving up. There is definitely an innate drive within me to keep on doing what I am doing, and pushing further.
How has dance changed your life?
Dance has made me a more confident person, I was a very shy boy before I started dancing. As a child, I was not very sure of myself, but dancing brought me out of my shell quite a bit. My posture has also improved with my dance training.
Favourite costume and choreography?
The costume from Swipe is very cool, I like the open chested shirts the men wear with black pants. The choreography in this piece is among my favourites as well, the arm movements and style really suit the music.
What do you enjoy most about class/rehearsals?
I like the familiarity in classwork, as it brings us back to our basics, enabling us to focus on the refinement of our technique. On the other hand, rehearsals are very different, often requiring us to learn completely new movements which can be a challenge, but also very satisfying when it comes together.
What is your greatest fulfilment in being a dancer?
Sometimes when learning a new choreography, I come across some routine which can be difficult to master. Overcoming these difficult challenges is very fulfilling, especially when one of your weaknesses becomes one of your strengths.
If a choreographer created a work on you, what do you think it will be about?
It depends on the choreographer. They usually try to get to know their dancers strengths and past experiences. As they get to know the dancers better they will draw on those experiences to create a work that is unique, original and showing off the dancers’ best abilities.
Favourite movie, past-time, ice cream flavour?
I really enjoy TV shows such as Game of Thrones and Breaking Bad. Some of my favourite past times are just relaxing on weekends with friends either watching something good, or playing the occasional game of Poker. I do love a good mango ice cream…it’s very refreshing.
Quote or motto to live by?
“Never give up and always look to improve on yourself.” This is something that keeps me going, for instance focusing on small details in class are prime examples of improving technique, which goes a long way in rehearsals later.
