On dance appreciation
Cast members and members of the audience spoke on ‘Tears in the Rain’, following the Lagos performance.
“As a profession, dance is very relevant but it seems always to be left behind when it comes to recognition and appreciation. For some people, dance is all they do. We need to be respected as much as the bankers, lawyers and the doctors and other people who equally work hard in the pursuit of their dreams.” –Folakemi Cole (Logistics director, Jimbay).
“As a performing artist trained abroad, I have seen the standard of what is obtainable abroad and here [in Nigeria] and there is really not much difference. The only difference is there are more opportunities abroad to be trained and to fine-tune the raw talents. What we have here is talent and no opportunity. It is saddening because Art is not something you can do easily. It is as hard as being a doctor, engineer or lawyer. I love the Arts and I think it is something that can get kids off the streets. A lot performers, rather than do something negative, choose to put their energy into what they love. And the message we should try and pass across to the youth is that you can do this and be appreciated for it.” — Elvina Ibru (CEO, Twice as Nice).
“[Dancers] need help. We need people to know that we are very important in every aspect of the Arts. The society needs to know that without dance, there is no music. Dance is the mother of all arts. We complement all forms of art. But most times we end up being used. People, actors and musicians, recruit dancers and pay them little money. ‘Tears in the Rain’ was put together produced and choreographed by dancers and it was all successfully done. Now what they need is for people to invest in them so that they can make a big tour from this and even teach it at the universities. I am sorry to say this, but you may not get a production of this level from any of the theatre arts department in Nigerian universities. These are raw talents and they need to be appreciated.” –Dayo Liadi (Dancer/Choreographer, Ijodee Dance Company).
Leave a Reply