Melbourne’s got talent

Dismal weather and pouring rain did nothing to dampen the spirits of hundreds of Indians who flocked recently to Robert Blackwood Hall in Monash University to watch another Shiamak spectacular. ‘Have feet, will dance’ Shiamak’s motto, seems to be catching, as the community’s involvement with Shiamak’s Indo Jazz Dance Movement (SIJDM) goes from strength to strength.

Since its inception in March 2007, SIJDM has rapidly become an integral part of many people’s lives as they learn to dance, keep fit and have fun twice a week every term.

The annual Summer Funk gives these students, with ages ranging from 4-70, a chance to present their talent on stage.

Credit goes to Shiamak Davar for the entire concept of involving all ages at all stages, creating a platform for families to share their passion for dancing. It is heartening to see grandparents shaking a leg or two along with their grandkids, or moms and dads giving their teenagers a run for their talent on stage.

Retailers like Lincraft and Spotlight benefit hugely around this time of the year as demand for their sparkly, sequined stock increases to create the innovative costumes used in Summer Funk. The props are shipped over from Mumbai along with brilliant ideas for displays and incorporating them into dance routines. This year saw a combination of the tried and tested and some new ideas like dancing inside a golden square to represent the silver screen, cute little kids dressed up as Sikh kids with bats a la Dil Bole Hadippa and checkered flags to accompany the Race medley.

This year also saw a gimmicky, yet very likeable addition of the comic duo Ankush and Sahil as co-hosts of the event. From their Bollywood ishtyle entry onto the stage on bikes to their hilarious take on several Bollywood themes, the duo kept the audience entertained at all times. Both Ankush and Sahil are very popular and talented students of Shiamak who are now instructors along with Vihang, Deepti,

Darshan, Mehak and Radhika. Manisha Chaubal Menon as the MC for the evening added glamour to the event with her costume changes and commentary.

Shimak has developed a reputation as a diverse, witty and exciting choreographer who draws from a wide range of movement styles. His work showcases dance for the exuberant sake of dance. At the 09

Summer Funk there were many outstanding performances and some clear contenders for Melbourne’s Got Talent. The Cat Jazz, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan medley, Amitabh Medley, Shiamak Showkids were among the performances that stood out for their choreography, concept and delivery.

Summer Funk is a student’s show, so there were various levels of expertise