Christmas comes early
To raise the curtains for the upcoming festive season, the Dance Works Centre will present, “So… This is Christmas?” a dance show that promises an evening of free movement, classical and jazz ballet, hip hop, tap dance and contemporary dance.
“I have had a production every two years since 1979 when I started this academy but my teaching career goes back long before that,” says the director of the Dance Works Centre, Kanthi Ranchigoda. The Dance Works Centre has for the past decade been based at her home on Lauries Road, Colombo 4.
Pix by Mangala Weerasekera
This is Kanthi’s second Christmas production, the first being almost 11 years ago. “That show was for an entirely different generation. The daughters of some of the dancers of my earlier Christmas show are taking part in this year’s show,” Kanthi adds with a smile.
“Christmas is a time of joy and the Dance Works Centre has a real cause for celebration in that we are now blessed with 32 years of existence and that is indeed a milestone in a very competitive field,” says Kanthi.
The colourful production aims to showcase how dance has proved to be a wonderful way for students to build confidence, tone their bodies and display their skills and technique, while their personalities evolve. More than 100 students from the ages of three to 22 will be on stage with the majority being girls, with just two boys amongst them.
Kevin Wimaladasa, 21, is not fazed by being surrounded by female dancers. “I have been a student of Kanthi’s since I was 14 and this is my third concert,” he says. “It’s been amazing at practises. I have a very helpful dance partner and Kanthi is one of the best teachers that I have had the privilege to study under. Her productions are very unique, innovative and it’s a mixture of dances coming together in a perfect balance. It’s also for a cause which makes it even more valuable. Everyone should take a chance, come, witness this wonderful production and be inspired,” says Kevin.
All proceeds of the show will be donated to SUROL (Society for Upliftment and Rehabilitation of Persons affected by Leprosy). Kanthi designs her own costumes and minimum props will be used on stage to give prominence to the dancers. “So… This is Christmas?” will go on board on October 25, 26 and 27 at the Lionel Wendt from 7 p.m. onwards. For tickets, please contact the Dance Works Centre on 0112500573.
In Ms Ranchigoda’s own words, “It’s a Christmas show done in collaboration with all age groups of children catering to an audience of all age groups to bring the spirit of Christmas.”
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