Young Bharatanatyam artiste Nithyashreee performed ‘Pradosha Arpana’ at VR Chennai
How to Avoid Cultural Appropriation in Competition Routines
Competition routines can be opportunities to showcase stories from a range of cultures and perspectives. But without careful consideration, the line between inspiration and appropriation can begin to blur. Here’s how to avoid cultural appropriation and instead create routines that will help students of all backgrounds expand their horizons. What Is Cultural Appropriation? In a competition setting, cultural appropriation occurs when routines rely on stereotypes of a marginalized or minority culture in an attempt to portray that culture onstage or borrow its traditions. According to Canadian choreographer and dance teacher Ming-Bo Lam, that “often results in a watered-down, superficial version […]
“Cabaret” Dancer Ida Saki on Staying Present During Each Role
When it comes to her dance career, Ida Saki lets intuition lead the way. “I try to follow whatever I’m interested in at the present moment,” she says. “Every job opportunity has opened up another door for me and shifted my career in ways I never could have imagined.” Originally from Dallas, Saki, a graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, began her professional career with Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet in 2011, and has performed as Lady Macbeth in Sleep No More, on Broadway in Bob Fosse’s DANCIN’, and in music videos for Coldplay and Lola Kirke. […]