Show Time

This morning, I wake up and I won't be heading to SoE CR 5.1 nor the ACC to dance.

I can't believe it's over so fast. I'm still pining for the stage.

This is not my first production, but how I feel about it is different. From Reverie II, to Bailamos En La Calle, to LA Salsa Congress, and then Dance Garage, I have different sentiments for each. But like the rest, it's hard to put them into words.

I can only say that I'm so proud of Eurhythmix, for sticking it out in the past 4 weeks, and finally pulling off a show that's entirely ours (our only guest performers were the break dancers, bikers and skater).

When I was on stage, I gave my all, the best I've given in a long while. I loved and savoured every moment of it. But the ultimate joy came off stage, when I saw the faces of friends and other audiences lit up, when I saw that they had been well entertained.

Ryan. He's our choreographer, and he's a very unique guy. He pushes us to our limits, yet makes it seem like it's not impossible. He says things like, "It isn't a lot of choreography, only 6 scenes what!", "Did I ask you to spin on your thumb? Did I ask you to do 36 pirouettes? See, your choreography isn't hard at all" and "If Wrecking Crew Orchestra (the group of mind-blowing Japanese dancers who performed at The Big Groove - go YouTube them) can do it, why can't you? They have 2 arms and 2 legs, you also have 2 arms and 2 legs." As ridiculous as it initially sounds, it still makes sense after all. He teaches and forces us to work as a team, he scolds us but expects us to be more determined instead of demoralised. He also jokes and laugh along with us. All the silly and funny acts were thought off by him as well.

For a 35 year old, he's a mighty dancer too. And he's got every bit of my respect.

For a few months now, I've contemplated quitting Eurhythmix to learn Latin Ballroom. But this is less likely now. I love the freedom for cheering, shouting, jumping around, freestyling and being in character that hip hop gives. I wouldn't get that in Latin Ballroom because it's very much about technique and control. The friends I've made makes it harder to leave as well. When I first joined, I thought people were cold and aloof, but Dance Garage has brought us together, and there's a lot of potential in E-Mix. And I want to continue learning under Ryan, not just dance, but the attitude and mindset he imparts. He said that how we are in the dance studio is similar to how we will be when we go out to work, and I think so too.

We might be going to Japan next year too!

That's not to say I've dismissed the option of learning Latin Ballroom. I was mesmerized by it at Stardust. I'll find a way somehow, someday.

I haven't said enough, but it's not like what I want to say can be expressed in words.

So I'll end here, and focus on Oikos and StarringSMU now. Hopefully I'll have time to upload pictures.

And as for those we weren't present at Dance Garage, I can only say you missed out big time. I don't write this out of bitterness or disappointment at your absence, but in all honesty and sincerity, along with utmost pride for the dancers.