ABCD fame American actor lauren Gottlieb is ready to enter Indian television with Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. She tells Karan Bhardwaj that her dream is to dance with Hrithik Roshan. She is an ardent admirer of Madhuri Dixit
What does dance mean to youIJ
It’s a most difficult question. Dance opens me up. The day is incomplete without moving and shaking my body.
Your earliest memories…
My mom was into dance. I got it from her. I developed a passion which was always inside me gradually. I tried learning different forms. There are unique technicalities involved which I love.
Are you excited about JhalakIJ
It’s going to be a challenge. People wonder how I will carry myself on the show. The dance formats are new. Indian culture is full of exciting dance and music. I hope I can adapt. I am trying to transform myself.
How will this influence your movie careerIJ
Majorly. When I got the offer, my film had just come out. I walked the street a day before ABCD’s release and no one noticed me. But when it released I was recognised. I am in talks for two more films.
Do TV stars have voting advantageIJ
Yes, absolutely! I am worried about it, but don’t have control! I willl give 100 per cent. Others are here for a long period and have big fan following. I have my dance and I hope people know more about me and support me.
Favourite dance forms...
Hip pop
Your strength and weaknesses...
I am versatile. Even if it’s a style I don’t know, I try to perfect it. I would do it over and again till I get it. There is no such thing as weakness. Bollywood is new for me, and I am trying to adapt. That’s a challenge.
Do you admire any Indian dancers or actorsIJ
Madhuri Dixit is brilliant. I look to her as inspiration. She is a complete package. I don’t know if anyone can touch her. Her style is different.
It’s also my dream to dance with Hrithik Roshan. He is a fabulous dancer. But I want to get into the shoes of Jennifer lopez. She started as a dancer and has a great career in singing and acting.
How are preparing for JhalakIJ
I am listening to pop songs, movie songs. I am watching Madhuri Dixit’s old dance numbers and Prabhudeva’s 90s videos. I want to do justice to my performances. I come from a specific training background, so I am trying best to adapt.
I have also started taking Hindi classes. I want to connect with the audience. It’s dream to face judges in Hindi.