Q. When you look back at the year gone by, how was 2020 for you?
A. 2020 has been an interesting year, difficult and exciting in some ways. It was difficult because live classes and performances were not possible but the tech platform introduced us to newer and innovative ways to teach and to perform which made it interesting. It’s given me time for myself and my family which I appreciate. Work-wise it has been difficult as two tours of the contemporary company Navdhara to France and Germany were postponed and my choreography assignment with the Linz ballet in Austria was also postponed.
Q. What was lockdown learning for you?
A. It’s important to take time out and breathe. Value the time you have spending it with people you work with and those you love. I got a chance to spend time with my family and my son which was lovely. Also, I realised some things we do out of habit and are not necessary. I worked just as much as I needed to and did not see any significant difference to the results. There are many ways to connect and reach out to other artists and dancers.
Q. What did you miss the most doing this year?
A. I missed being in the studio and the theatres, meeting friends and the dancers who are like family to me.
Q. Professionally, how was the year for you?
A. Professionally it’s been interesting as it has forced me to look at newer ways to dance, perform and teach. Though it has taken away live interactions it’s opened up possibilities of collaboration which would otherwise be difficult.
Q. What was the lowest moment for you this year?
A. I don’t think I have really had a low period as what I let go of was replaced by other things. Everything happens for a reason. In every situation, there is an opportunity to understand more about you and your craft. So the year has been different but not low.
Q. What do you believe will change in your industry after this year?
A. Learning how to translate your art to the digital medium is going to be important in the coming year. Be it teaching or performing I believe live interaction will remain a dominant playr but at some level, the digital interactive process has definitely sped up with this and so newer innovative ways will appear as an add-on.
Q. What is your New Year’s resolution?
A. To get fit and healthy and live a positive and balanced life
Q. What are your hopes as you look forward to 2021?
A. I have a couple of tours which were postponed for Navdhara which will happen in 2021 and during lockdown I got offers to create two new shows. For the Danceworx academy, we are looking to introduce an international level professional course purely for contemporary dancers.