If dance is your passion, and you’ve been looking to formalise that passion with relevant higher education, Shiamak Davar’s full-time, one-year certificate programme could be just what you’ve been waiting for. He’s been called the Guru of dance, and through this programme, he could be your own guru in styles such as Shiamak Style, ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip hop, ballroom, and folk. Additionally, you will get training in yoga, malkhamb , gymnastics, acting, audio and video editing. All modules are taught from the basics.
Shiamak says, “The OYP is a holistic performing arts course that encompasses all aspects of dance. The focus of the programme is my style of contemporary dance and I personally teach this programme every day for three to four hours.” Interested dance enthusiasts between the ages of 15 and 28 can audition, and classes will be held starting mid-April, at Shiamak’s dance studio.
Though students aren’t expected to have any prior training in dance, the auditions are rigorous. “I audition students to check their fitness and basic dance ability to ensure that those selected will be able to cope with the programme, physically and mentally. The auditions are a combination of participants performing their own routine and a couple of routines set by me,” says Shiamak.
The health benefits of dance and physical fitness are well-documented. But beyond that, dance could lead to your personal and professional development. Shiamak explains, “Dance improves confidence, discipline, team spirit and self-worth.” He adds, “A lot of people find their true passion through dance. So, during the OYP, many of my students realise their love for video editing, remixing music, taking up managerial responsibilities, designing costumes or handling public relations.”
During the programme, students will have several opportunities for “on-the-job learning” — to perform in shows and films with the Shiamak Davar Dance Company. After the programme, several options are open to the dancers. Besides teaching, performing in musicals, branching out independently, students may be selected to be a permanent part of the dance company.
What makes this certification unique is the theoretical component — “For example, a course called ‘Science of Dance’ incorporates the understanding of the body which is essential for a dancer,” explains Shiamak.
Auditions, will be held on February 25, at Shiamak’s warehouse (Arches 10/11, Mahalaxmi Warehousing Agency, off Dr. E Moses Road, Mahalaxmi West, Mumbai - 400 034). Those who can’t make it to the live auditions can send in their video entries.
To register, log on to www.shiamak.com/oyp . For more details, mail oyp@shiamak.com or call 022 61543000.
