RiverGrass Dance Theathre and Academy

E: Could you describe what dance is to you?

M: Dance is process of self-discovery. It’s an entry point to understand our own self-better, both mentally and physically. When the self is involved in dance, our identity is illuminated. When we gain our identity, our self-confidence grows and this leads to creativity. Throughout the whole process, our health is promoted as a byproduct of dance.

E: Tell me more about the health benefits of dance. In this day and age, health is aggressively promoted in fitness centers, slimming saloons, spa clinics etc. Are we able to lose weight from your classes?

M: Well, RVG is not really a health center and losing weight comes as a by-product of dance anyway. I rather focus on the alignment of body and spine as a means to achieve good health. The spine or the backbone is the main supporter of our body. It has to support the internal organs so that our body can function properly. However, due to the nature of our work, it can be abused. As an example, many office workers spend long hours sitting in cubicles in front of computers. As a result of bad posture, they suffer from tense lower backs, migraines, eye sores, headaches, backaches & breathing problems. When all these muscles are tense, they cannot focus on their work properly.

E: Hmmm, I know a few people who ought to come to your class to improve their temper. Anyway, could you briefly explain how realignment works?

M: Realignment is a process of connecting to yourself. Firstly, we need to develop an intrinsic knowledge of our own body, how it works anatomically, how our muscles are connected and which muscles are prone to be injured etc. Next, we need to develop sensitivity and an awareness of our joints, muscles & bones. Once we are aware of our whole body, we are able to target specific muscle groups that are tense and tight. Lastly, we have the correction and realignment of the spine. Guidance will be given by the teacher but the solution or the realignment process is self-found as each body is different.

E: Does this change in ourselves both physically and mentally lead us to finding our own identity?

M: Yes, our identity is not just about fashion or how we dress or how we talk. It is about being comfortable and assured of our own self. You see, when we are confident of our identity, we can be comfortable being alone (and have yourself to talk to). It is the body and soul (physical and mental) coming together in harmony.

E: The relationship between student and teacher can spark creativity?

M: Yes, some teachers only teach one approach to movement. Let me give a scenario, a teacher only has 1 way to execute a movement, say a jump. Some students may not be able to produce the same type of movement as the teacher. As a teacher, he/she should provide as many ways to possibly execute the movement.

E: I can’t understand many avant-garde type dance performances. Is this the type of creativity that you are aiming for?

M: Being creative doesn’t have to be shocking like some avant-garde show. The inspiration comes from a security inside oneself (secure identity) that allows freedom in mind and body. I believe this freedom is the source of creativity. Over here in RVG, I try to nurture creativity in my students, especially in the Children’s Creative Dance, Creative Dance for Young Adults and the RDTC (RiverGrass Dancers Training Course).

E: That would surely go well with our government’s call for greater social integration. Would you continue to choreograph intercultural dance works?

M: Intercultural choreographies are not just about putting different ethnic dances together but first being the people of those cultures. Coming back to myself, I am fully aware that I’m a product of an intercultural society. Besides the dance movements, I always draw upon my interactions and understanding of our various cultures to create my work. I hope my effort will develop among our people stronger awareness of who they are, not only as an individual but also as a carrier of cultures in transition.