Setting the stage for ‘Technique-Colour’

By Oshani Alwis

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Marking her thirty seventh year in the arena of dance, celebrated dancer and dancing teacher Kanthi Ranchigoda, stages her latest showpiece “Technique-Colour” which will showcase the skills of her students who have been practising under her guidance at the Dance Works Centre.

This year, the show which unfolds a diverse range of dance routines ranging from Classical Ballet, Jazz, Flamenco and Tap to Freestyle, Hip Hop, Bollywood and Contemporary dance will go on stage from October 20, 21 and 22 at the Lionel Wendt Theatre at 7.00p.m.

Kanthi’s “Technique-Colour” troop comprises girls aged from two and a half to 25, she believes each to have unique ways of expressing themselves which makes it a pleasure to teach them she says.

“The title represents a fusion of different styles of dancing which would stand for technique, vibrance and glamour which is unique to each dance form -will be projected through colour,” says Kanthi as she explains the meaning behind “Technique- Colour” .

Being interested in dance from the very young age of five, Kanthi started off as a classical ballet dancer and later adopted the styles of Tap, Jazz, Contemporary and Aerobics. For her, teaching has become more of a lifestyle than a career. “I have new girls coming in to Dance Works and even the seniors are still here with me. The inborn potential is noticed when a child starts her dance moves for the first time. I pick up those talents and just develop them providing a proper training and guidance.”

While talking with some of the senior dancers in the group, Thilini Jayawardena who fell under the influence of Kanthi’s dance school; started off her journey in dancing as a toddler of three, the Mirror learns. “It is a great pleasure for me to dance with aunty and I really enjoy coming here,” she says expressing her enthusiasm for dancing. “Since the show is getting near the rehearsals have become quite intense now,” says Thilini of her excitement about the upcoming show.

Elaine Fernandopulle who also joined Dance Works at a very young age says, “Most of the senior dancers are now engaged in jobs. It is our usual habit to come here to the studio and do some dancing once a week which is a huge relief.”

As in the previous shows staged by Kanthi and her students of Dance Works, all the proceeds of the concert will be donated to SUROL, a society for the upliftment and rehabilitation of persons affected by leprosy.

Tickets and box plan for the show will be available for purchase at Dance Works Centre, No. 70A, Lauries Road, Colombo 04, priced at Rs. 1000, Rs.1500, Rs.2500 and Rs.3500.