SDDS students strut their stuff

Be it the percussive beats or the smooth scale transitions, there is something universal about dance and music which connects people, regardless of their cultural differences. Dance has a language which is very much its own. It can either bring a smile to your face or open the flood gates of the past. So imagine the effect when these emotions are combined with spectacular visuals of the superbly choreographed movements from the Shiamak Davar Dance School (SDDS). Stunning and lively, the show offered the best in AustralianBollywood dance for the young and old.

On a beautiful November afternoon, the equally beautiful Box Hill Town Hall boomed with desi beats and excited dancers. Age groups and levels varied, as did influences in themes for the dance sequences. Although the size of the venue for the annual performance was notably smaller, the crowd was enthusiastic and high spirited. The superbly organised and presented afternoon was hosted by Manisha Chanbel Menon as she played the part of MC and was co-hosted by Vihaang, a choreographer from the talented dance school.

The even began started under the bright red Shiamak sign, and young performers from the beginner’s classes got the crowd cheering. Well choreographed and very well performed, the beginner groups set the tone for what was to follow. The songs ranged from recent top 40 Hindi and English mixes to those of yesteryears. Just as the songs varied in time and mood, so did the performers. From tiny tots who followed prompts from their teachers on stage to elderly performers who beamed through their numbers. The dancers moved swiftly through each performance, racing on to the stage for their moment. The pieces were short and vigorous, testing the abilities of those who had double performances, to keep up their energy levels.

It was a wonderfully exciting afternoon with plenty to take in and enjoy. The minimalist set designs were subtle enough to hold the eye, without overpowering the presence of the dancers on stage. They supported the dancers attired in dazzling and glittering costumes of various colours. These came in a great variety of sizes and designs: from skimpy gold hot pants and halter tops to the more traditional and modest lehengas

The dance performances evolved chronologically from beginners to advanced students from various branches of the school around Melbourne. The intermediate classes performed longer pieces which displayed their levels of aptitude and enthusiasm perfectly; this led the way for the advanced classes to perform their more detailed and professional numbers. As a part of the annual show, there was also a medley performance from the SDSB – special dancer’s batch. These dancers showcased their skills and passion for dance to the tunes of Anjaana Anjaani. There was also a special performance from the Emerson School in Dandenong. These school kids were neither Indian nor dancers. They were in fact, a very special group of children who only recently began to learn how to dance Bollywood-style. The Emerson School caters for children with learning difficulties and as a way to increase exposure to other methods of learning and self development, the SDDS instructors have been working with their students. The results were outstanding and truly showed the unity that music and dance can provide.

As the show was close to three hours long, there were far too many amazing performance to mention in this short report. However, the honourable mentions were the showkids’ performance of the Moulin Rouge medley, which was stellar. The energy and happiness with which they performed was inspiring. The Saarfarosh performance with its silhouettes and visual trickery was artistic in its presentation and sharply delivered. Finally, the classical piece which followed was elegant and precise in its movements and entirely charming.

Seeing as the show began with a bang, it was only fitting that it would end with one. The Dabaang finale piece from the SPB, with performers including the choreographers, set the stage on fire. It was high energy, high voltage and extremely enjoyable. Closing in style, the SDDS students left tongues wagging, feet tapping and the audience wanting more.

The choreography and performances proved that the proof really is in the pudding. The effort and numerous rehearsals showed clearly throughout the afternoon. Not only were the performances a joy to watch, but they were also professional and well presented.

It seems that the Shiamak Davar brand name certainly does weigh its worth in gold. And if you’re interested in going along to a Shiamak show, why not buy tickets to the Stars of Bollywood show on March 26, 2011.