Jayachandran Palazhy, an internationally sought-after dancer and choreographer, talks to MONIKA THAKUR about how dancing is gradually turning from a hobby to a career

What is the aim of the academyij

At Attakkalari, we aim to keep the values of ancient dancing and to infuse them with the new energy and contemporary expressions. Dance is all about narration and facial expressions add to the essence of dancing. We make sure that each and every student is able to evolve into a better person with the help of dancing and that he becomes an extraordinary storyteller. A storyteller that is equipped with a full- fledged knowledge of dance.

What are some of the measures that one should take in order to have a career in dancingij

 I strongly recommend the National Diploma Programme at Attakkalari Dance Company. Such programmes transform individuals, what is essential for a dance artist is to be able to reach up to the international level through dancing, same techniques and guidance is being given to the students of our academy. A dancer should have at least two years of experience in order to make a successful career in dancing. Dancing is a life-long learning, it never stops.

What qualities do you wish to see in your students and what are the selection criteriaij

We need people who have the basic academic education so that they are able to make decisions in their career. The students also get stage technology classes at the academy. We train our students to be better human beings and we teach them to respect our culture and traditions. This is the best time to approach us as we are conducting auditions throughout the country for the 2018 batch that starts from September this year. For more information on the fee structure, courses, syllabus and centers, visit www.attakalari.org .

What is the scope in dancingij

The opportunities are limitless. If you wish to develop a career in dance then you must be aware of the space in the market. There are many international schools and colleges that are looking for dance teachers. A lot of people are also looking for personal dance trainers; a lot of companies conduct regular dance classes for their employees, almost all the gyms need teachers for conducting Zumba or Bollywood classes. School colleges and corporate houses need choreographers to train people for their annual functions, films, fashion and design industry is looking for people. In Animation industries we have a unique concept of motion capture where there are sensors put on the body of the dancers and cameras capture the movement of sensors.

How is dance breaking stereotypesij

There were times when people used to think that dance can’t be pursued as a career. The times are changing. Dancing successfully breaks all the stereotypes when it comes to gender. There is not a single dance form that girls can and boys can’t do. Sometimes you have to be able to do a handstand, flips or a roll on the floor. Toned body is of course an asset in dancing but if you are a bit overweight or bulky it is not the end of the world.