With the opening of their $20 million re-developed theatre, Jupiters Hotel & Casino continues to up-the-ante for live entertainment welcoming Jabbawockeez as the new venue’s first stage show.

Direct from Las Vegas, world famous dance crew Jabbawockeez present the critically acclaimed MÜS.I.C (muse-i-see), an entertainment experience like no other, true to its tagline LAUGH. CHEER. MOVE.

Far from a typical dance production, MÜS.I.C features a unique mix of freestyle movement and theatre, appealing to a wide audience with captivating characters, heart-felt themes, laugh-out-loud comedy, grand sets and costume changes, and a track list of songs to suit all ages.

We had a chance to catch up with some of the boys that make up the “Jabbawockeez” crew today and learned a little bit more about their background. The boys have all been dancing their whole lives ‘since they were little kids’ according to production crew member ‘Keith’. They come from all over the USA – Sacramento, Vegas, Phoenix, San Diego etc. One of the original founders, Gerry Kendall or G-I, was the crew’s mentor and creator. Sadly he passed before his time but the boys always point to the heavens within every show to pay respect and ‘shout out to G-I’.

Established in 2003 in San Diego, California, Jabbawockeez is the brainchild of the “Three Musky” who wanted to showcase freestyle dance. The name Jabbawockeez, coined by Joe Larot, was inspired by the fantastical monster from the Lewis Carroll nonsense poem Jabberwocky. The crew’s signature white masks and gloves from Phil, Kevin, and Joe’s performances as Three Musky were adopted as the visual signature of the group.

The group currently consists of performers known by their street names of: SB, KD, PUNKY, PHI, CHRIS-TYLES, B-TEK, TONY TRAN, and KID-RAINEN …

Jeff “Phi” Nguyen had this to say:

Thanks to Jupiters Hotel & Casino, Dancelife is giving you the chance to WIN two tickets to Jabbawockeez presents MÜS.I.C!

Tickets can also be booked through Ticketmaster at ticketmaster.com.au or by calling 1300 888 086 with dinner and show packages starting from an incredible $69.

The 90 minute MÜS.I.C show will appear in Jupiters Theatre for a strictly limited season until August 16th, with nightly performances Tuesday through Saturday at 7.30pm, Sunday Matinee at 4pm, Wednesday 1pm Matinees and a Saturday Matinee starting at 3pm.

So get ready to LAUGH. CHEER. MOVE with Jabbawockeez performing exclusively on Australia’s newest stage at Jupiters Hotel & Casino – where the world comes to play!

Enter our competition to WIN DOUBLE PASSES TO THIS AMAZING SHOW @ JUPITERS CASINO ON THE GOLD COAST by emailing us at win@dancelife.com.au and telling us why you would LOVE to see the JABBAWOCKEEZ … please include your mobile phone and address details!

PROJECT DANCE SYDNEY TO PROVIDE A FREE ALL-DAY DANCE CONCERT AT FIRST FLEET PARK, SYDNEY

Sydney – Project Dance’s New York City signature event will return to Sydney October 5-7, 2012.  The event, which occurs over a three-day weekend, includes dance classes, motivational forums, networking and a free all-day dance concert held at The Rocks, Sydney.

“We are here to give of ourselves to the city of Sydney, but in the process we gain something as well,” says Lara Bianca Pilcher , The Producer of the Sydney event. Lara has produced the event in Sydney since 2004 and is flying over from London’s West End to be in Sydney this October leaving behind her work as a performer for a few weeks to give to her home country once again through Project Dance. Lara also produces Project Dance London.

“The purpose of the free dance concert is to share our talent with the people of Sydney and to communicate a message of hope and healing through the language of dance,” explained Cheryl Cutlip founder of Project Dance.

Project Dance was born out of a desire to serve the people of New York City directly after the events of September 11^th and it has managed to do just that.  Each year thousands of New Yorkers stop to watch the concert held on a temporary stage on the corner of 44^th Street and Broadway now in it’s 10^th year.

About 400 dancers gather in New York City to take part in the festivities and similar events are held in London, Orlando, Hong Kong and Washington DC.  Although the weekend is designed to give participants the opportunity to perform and take dance classes, Project Dance also strives to inspire dancers as artists and individuals.

Project Dance is a movement of dancers seeking to positively impact culture through artistic integrity. Our desire is to see every dancer nurtured to their fullest human potential for their own wellbeing and their contribution to the world. We offer training, education, and performance opportunities for dancers worldwide who desire to dance with integrity to inspire.

www.projectdance.com

Voyage de la Vie™ is a multi-million dollar theatrical spectacular featuring death defying and breathtaking acts. With an international cast from 19 countries and other guest artists, this is Singapore’s longest running show with over 400 performances to date.

The first circus theatre production to be created in Singapore, it is presented through a celebration of song and dance. Combining the energy, physicality and athleticism of circus arts and gymnastics, the result is a contemporary cutting edge performance art form which fully engages the senses and keeps you at the edge of your seat.

With elaborate moving sets, stunning displays of grace and agility, and intricately designed costumes, Voyage de la Vie will be an amazing theatrical experience. World class architect and the set designer for the Beijing Olympics opening ceremony, Mark Fisher, will lend his magical touch to this unforgettable show.

The show only has a few short months left of its run in Singapore, so for Australian Dance and Theatre enthusiasts traveling through Asia, it is a must-see stop-off on your journey!

Several very talented Australian cast and production members were recently available for interview: Bianca Ruyssenaers (Ensemble), Emma Casey (Ensemble), Michael Stone (Ensemble/The Guide), Helen Walsh (The Muse), Mark Mclauchlan (Ensemble), Markham Gannon (Artistic Co-ordinator)

Here’s what they had to say:

What is it like working in Singapore?

Bianca: “I absolutely love it! Love the weather, the people, the job, the lifestyle… It’s all such an incredible experience. This job has completely opened my eyes to the performing world, and I am so thankful to be a part of such an amazing cast and incredible show”.

Emma: “Working here has been a life changing experience. It is such a beautiful country and I have enjoyed the different cultural experiences”.

Michael: “Working in Singapore is great – I’ve worked here before in 2009/2010 as part of the opening cast at Universal Studios. A lot of the friends I made are still here, so I’m lucky to see them again but also make new friends here at Voyage de la Vie. The cast is just like a family”.

Helen: “Wonderful.. The weather makes you feel like you’re on a holiday”.

Mark: “Singapore is such a mutlicultural country and the Gateway to Asia. Its great to live here because there is always so much to experience.”

Markham: “There is something about the warm weather that really takes the edge off. I always feel like I am on a holiday. That is personified by working at Resorts World which has a wonderful family feel about it with tourists from all over the world. Every day feels like an occasion of sorts. My work week here is very demanding and can feel relentless, but I wouldn’t change anything.”

What do you like most about working on a show like Voyage De La Vie?

“ … the international cast of talented people – walking back stage and catching snippets of conversation in Russian, Spanish, French … (Bianca) … “Nothing beats being able to perform such a high energy show everyday” (Emma) “… it’s a new adventure … For me this is my first theatre show and I have learnt so much here” (Michael) … “The circus acts are so amazing, I never get tired of watching them … (Helen) “… the chance to learn, then peform other acrobatic aparatus which are very new and exciting. Learning on the job is always a BIG bonus for me” … (Mark) … “I have benefited from working with two incredible Artistic Directors and  mentors in Maggi Sietsma and Michael la Fleur. The two are very different entities from diverse backgrounds, and I have been fortunate enough to gain a great deal of professional knowledge from both of them. Secondly, I have learnt to appreciate the work ethic and passion of the performers and coaches within the circus world. We have world leaders such as Aurelia Cats in the show, who exemplify the ideal of perfect body lines and daring skill. The concentration and risk involved in these acts is incredible, and they work almost to the point of obsession to perfect themselves. I have so much respect for their dedication to their art-form” (Markham)

What can audiences expect from the show?

Michael: “The audience can expect a range of talent from amazing singers and dancers to gymnasts and amazing principal acts like juggling, trapeze, cloud swing, contortion and even an act with bow and arrows – it’s unreal. Also the work of a great artistic team and crew should not go unmentioned either… It’s an amazing show to be a part of and simply just to watch.”

What has challenged you most as a performer working on VDLV?

Mark: “Learning to accept and adapt to an ever changing, challenging and evolving show due to the new ground that VDLV is creating in Singapore’s entertainment industry.”

Bianca: “Being the youngest cast member (18) in Voyage De La Vie … this is my first major performing show, I have had a lot to learn about all aspects involved in circus theatre life. But I have tried my very best to embrace and learn as much as I can from all of the talented people I work with.”

Tell us why Australians travelling to Singapore MUST see this show?

Emma: “VDLV is in a field of its own, from the amazing sets to the incredibly talented cast and crew. We really do not have any productions ‘ike it on Oz so come to Singapore and experience Voyage De La Vie!”

Markham: “VDLV is packed with exciting acts in many genres, including trapeze, aerial hoop, fast track tumbling, juggling, crossbow shooting, dance, inline skating, bungee, cloud swing, singing, you name it. There isn’t a show of this nature in Australia. It has real ‘edge of your seat’ moments fused with a dramatic and emotional score by local composer Jonathon Lim. It’s a great way to spend part of your evening at RWS, enjoying world class entertainment at the Festive Grand Theatre.”

TO BOOK TICKETS FOR THIS AMAZING SHOW, BOOK HERE

From left to right:

Emma Casey, Markham Gannon, Helen Walsh, Michael Stone, Helene Embling and Bianca Ruyssenaers.

Shay Stafford is the quintessential Showgirl having travelled the world dancing in heels and feathers!

I had the opportunity to read her book ‘Memoirs of a Showgirl’ recently – sometimes through bleary eyes in the wee hours of the morning! Her tale was so hard to put down and I loved being transported from her early Brisbane upbringing to her ultimate Showgirl world in the arms of Parisian life and the famous Moulin Rouge and Lido. Shay has beautifully written her entertaining account of her life as a struggling dancer who finally reaches her ultimate goal.

I was lucky enough to catch up with Shay for a quick interview:

What motivated you to write your fabulous book ‘Memoirs of a Showgirl’?

I REALLY WANTED TO PULL BACK THE CURTAIN ON THE FAMOUS CABARETS AND SHOW READERS HOW MUCH HARD WORK IS INVOLVED ON AND OFF STAGE. I HOPED TO MAKE MY BOOK A TRIBUTE TO ALL OF THE DANCERS AND BEHIND THE SCENES WORKERS TOO WHO HAVE PUT THEIR HEARTS INTO CREATING AND PERFORMING THESE SHOWS 365 DAYS A YEAR FOR OVER 120YEARS! ALSO, I WROTE IT FOR SELFISH REASONS. I KNEW THAT MY TIME IN PARIS WAS COMING TO AN END AND THAT IT WOULD BE HARD FOR ME TO LEAVE THE CITY I LOVED SO MUCH, AND MY LIFE ON STAGE, AFTER 12 YEARS. PUTTING IT ALL DOWN ON PAPER REALLY HELPED ME TO MOVE ON TO THE NEXT STAGE OF MY LIFE.

You describe in detail your early life as a struggling dancer … how did you keep your ‘eye on the prize’ and keep going through that early hardship?

I ALWAYS KEPT A SENSE OF HUMOUR, AND DEVELOPED A THICK SKIN.

When you finally hit Paris, was it everything you had expected?

PARIS WAS SUCH HARD WORK WHEN I ARRIVED. IT WAS COLD, SO FAR FROM MY FAMILY AND CHALLENGING EVERYDAY. BUT I FELL IN LOVE WITH THE CITY BEFORE SHE BEAT ME. I WAS MOTIVATED TO MAKE IT WORK. IT WAS MY DREAM SO I HAD TO.

What were your first impressions?

I WAS OVERWHELMED BY THE PACE OF THE CITY. IT WAS VERY DIFFERENT TO MY HOMETOWN BRISBANE. I LOVED THAT I COULD GO OUT WITH FRIENDS AT 3AM AND GET STEAK AND WINE. AND I FOUND LEARNING A NEW LANGUAGE SO EXCITING.

Would you describe dancing at the Moulin Rouge like a dream come true?

DANCING AT THE MOULIN ROUGE WAS INDEED A DREAM COME TRUE FOR ME. I HAD A WONDERFUL TIME THERE AND WAS VERY LUCKY TO BE GIVEN GREAT OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN AND PROGRESS. THE SHOW SUITED ME AND THE LIFESTYLE AND CULTURE DID TOO, SO I THRIVED. OBVIOUSLY IT’S NOT FOR EVERYONE( THE GRIND DOING THE SAME SHOW 12 TIMES PER WEEK IS MENTALLY TAXING) BUT I LOVED IT.

… And the Lido?

THE LIDO WAS A HIGH POINT FOR ME. I NEVER THOUGHT THAT A KID FROM THE BRISSIE SUBURBS LIKE ME COULD LEARN TO BE AS GRACEFUL AND ELEGANT AS THE LIDO’S BLUEBELLS. BUT I DID, AND EVEN GOT TO DO IT IN THE SPOTLIGHT. HAVING MY MUM SEE ME DANCE THE LEAD ROLE AT THE LIDO DE PARIS MADE ALL OF MY YEARS OF COMPETITIONS,EXAMS AND SHOPPING CENTER PANTOS WORTH IT. FOR HER AND I.

What advice do you have to aspiring young Australian dancers who would like to follow in your footsteps?

GET AS MUCH EXPERIENCE IN AS MANY STYLES AS YOU CAN. ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF YOUR CLASSES AND THE AUDITIONS TOO. REMEMBER DANCE IS ENTERTAINMENT SO IT’S MEAN TO BE FUN.

Will we ever see Shay the Showgirl set foot onstage again? What are your future plans?

YES, ONLY IN FEATHERS ON SPECIAL OCCASIONS! MY TIME IN PARIS WAS SO SPECIAL THAT I CAN NEVER RECREATE IT. AND RECENTLY I HAVE BEEN TEACHING AND IT IS WONDERFUL TO SHARE THE THE LOVE I HAVE FOR THIS STYLE OF DANCE.

I AM DOING MY SHOW AT SLIDE ON FRIDAY 25TH MAY!!

SHOW DETAILS AT SLIDE:

For one night only, Aussie showgirl, Shay Stafford will bring a little bit of Champs Elysees to Oxford St when she pulls back the curtain on the world’s most famous cabarets, the Moulin Rouge and the Lido.

In an unashamedly camp pastiche of song, dance, feathers and sequins, Stafford – author of the best-selling “Memoirs Of A Showgirl” and former principal dancer at the Moulin Rouge and the Lido de Paris – will offer up a never-before-seen glimpse of life behind the scenes of Paris cabaret.

The former Brizzie girl and 12-year veteran of the Paris stage will share the spotlight with her showgirl dance troupe the Can Canettes and live performances from French balladeers.

Dinner and Show $80.00
Show Only $40.00

BUY TICKETS HERE

Shay’s Book ‘Memoirs of a Showgirl’ is sold online by all book dealers and can also be ordered in story. .

MICHAEL JACKSON’S GONE, BUT FANS STILL CAN’T GET ENOUGH

“Music has been my outlet, my gift to all the lovers in this world. Through it, my music, I know I will live forever.” – Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson HIStory II, a musical biography of Michael Jackson and the anticipated follow-up to last year’s sold-out live concert tour HIStory, will be staged in theatres across Australia in August/September 2012 with an exclusive Sydney season on FRIDAY 24 AND SATURDAY 25 AUGUST at the State Theatre.

2011 saw the staging of the live production HIStory and triggered a phenomenon rarely witnessed in Australian theatres.  Critics praised the production as a thrilling example of live entertainment, however it was the public’s reaction to the production that will go down in history. Online public response erupted with praise for the show and social media buzzed with fascination over the show’s star, Kenny Wizz.

Today, Wizz is known to be the best Michael Jackson Impersonator in the world.

Due to this demand, fans across the country have called for the show’s return, however they can think again, according to producers, if they are expecting the same show!

Like MJ, the show has reinvented itself. HIStory II brings to the stage a level of production that will exceed all expectations. The show will also feature the addition of new songs, dances and ground-breaking moments.

The tour is an opportunity for Jackson fans to witness a concert they may never have experienced in their lifetime, or to relive memories they were lucky enough to make.

Repeatedly described as a musical juggernaut, Jackson’s influence on popular culture and music is virtually unparalleled. Beside his inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of fame, Hollywood Walk of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame, Jackson held thirteen Grammy awards and twenty-six American Music Awards including ‘Artist of the Century’.

Three years after the King of Pop’s death his popularity has reached epic proportions. This musical biography will take fans right back to the Jackson 5 era before continuing on a thrilling journey to the current decade with over twenty songs performed live by Kenny Wizz.

Wizz was just twenty when MJ’s career exploded with the release of the pivotal album ‘Thriller’. During that time, Wizz’s strong resemblance to Jackson heralded the start of a long career as a conduit for Jackson music. His regular performances in Atlantic City gratified audiences and allowed him to perfect his act. After tours in Europe and Asia, Wizz settled in Las Vegas where his show was signed for eleven years at the Riviera Hotel and Casino.

Together with a live band of talented musicians, fully choreographed dancers, authentic costumes and the kind of high production values that can only be done justice in a theatre, HIStory II is the recreation of what fans want but can never again see – Michael Jackson LIVE in concert.

Venue: State Theatre, 49 Market Street, Sydney

Dates: Friday 24 and Saturday 25 August 8pm

Cost: Adults: $89 | Concession: $79

Bookings: 136100 or www.ticketmaster.com.au

www.mjhistoryshow.com

EVERYBODY DANCE NOW is searching for the most entertaining dance act in Australia!

From Acro to Aerial, Belly Dance to Ballet, Ballroom to Burlesque, Pole Dancing to Popping and Locking, Hip Hop to Highland, Contemporary to Krumping, Bollywood to Breaking, Flamenco to Folk… the brilliant to the bizarre.

Australian dancers of ALL ages and ALL styles ‐ solo, duo or groups… young, old, professional or amateur – everybody is welcome! Everybody Dance Now starts with 120 acts competing head to head in a series of Dance Duels in front of millions of Australians.

Each night during the heats one act will take home $10,000 and secure their place in the Everybody Dance Now finals to compete for the ultimate cash prize of $250,000.

You’ll be working with top entertainment professionals who will help you become the most entertaining dance act in the country. All you have to do is bring your best moves and showcase your dance talents in your own genre or style.

You are dancing for the audience, not a judging panel … we’re looking for pure entertainment!

OPEN AUDITIONS

BRISBANE: SATURDAY, 2nd & SUNDAY 3rd JUNE 2012 (Registration: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

Brisbane Convention Centre, 1 Grey Street (opposite the new ABC building) Southbank, Brisbane, QLD 4101

ADELAIDE: FRIDAY, 8th JUNE 2012 (Registration: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM)

Adelaide Showground, Ridley Centre’ Goodwood Road, Wayville, SA 5034

PERTH: SUNDAY, 10th JUNE 2012 (Registration: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre, 21 Mounts Bay Road, Perth, WA 6000

MELBOURNE: SATURDAY, 16th & SUNDAY 17th JUNE 2012 (Registration: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

Melbourne Exhibition Centre – Door 10, 2 Clarendon Street, South Wharf, Melbourne, VIC 3000

SYDNEY: SATURDAY, 23rd & SUNDAY 24th JUNE, 2012, (Registration: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

Sydney Showground, Badgery Pavillion, Cnr Grand Parade & Hume Street, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW 2127

www.everybodydancenow.com.au

DVD & ON-LINE AUDITIONS

If you are unable to attend our Open Auditions, you can still apply to be on the show by sending us a DVD or on-line submission. Simply log on to everybodydancenow.com.au and follow the instructions to send us your audition.

For more information you can contact us at everybodydancenow@fremantlemedia.com.au

TO QUALIFY TO AUDITION FOR EVERYBODY DANCE NOW

• Any age can apply but if you are under 16 years of age you must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

• You must bring identification to your audition to prove your identity and your age (i.e., driver’s license / birth certificate / passport).

• You must be either an Australian citizen or permanent resident of Australia or a citizen of New Zealand.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE OPEN AUDITIONS

• You must prepare two dance performances that run approximately 1.30 minutes. Please bring a copy of your music on a CD, iPod or MP3 player

• Please have your music cued and ready to go.

• Due to time restrictions, you may be stopped during your audition.

• Bring everything you need for your audition such as costume, props etc as your audition may be recorded.

• DO NOT post your Application Form to us. Please bring it along with you and make sure it is completed before you arrive.

• Unfortunately there may be a lot of waiting around, so you may want to bring a book or magazine, water and some light snacks.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

• If your act is selected to be part of Everybody Dance Now you will be required to attend a three day filmed workshop on 20-22 July.

You must also be available to attend the studio recording of the programme over one three day period (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) between 8 August and 7 October 2012. We will advise you of the actual recording dates by no later than Monday 16 July 2012.

• If you win your episode, you may be required for rehearsals and wardrobe fittings on the Monday of your assigned weekend.

• If you make it through to the quarter-finals you will be required every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 14 September through 7 October or until you are eliminated from the competition.

• If you or any member of your group requires air travel from your normal place of residence to attend the recording of the Programme then FremantleMedia Australia will provide you with one return economy class airfare as well as accomodation (room only). All other expenses incurred by you including travel insurance will be your sole responsibility.

• If you are under 18 years of age and required air travel from your normal place of residence to attend the recording of the Programme, you must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. FremantleMedia Australia will provide such parent or legal guardian with one return economy class airfare as well as shared accommodation with you (room only). All other expenses incurred by you including travel insurance will be the sole responsibility of the parent or legal guardian.

A cast of 60 in an epic dance sensation

Direct from the award-winning creative team behind the
Opening Ceremony of the Beijing Olympics

Opera Theatre, Sydney Opera House 14 – 16 June 2012

OPERA WARRIORS showcases the newest and best of Chinese modern theatre arts in a show which combines a story of the Peking Opera told through martial arts and modern dance. To celebrate the closing of the Year of Chinese Culture in Australia OPERA WARRIORS will premiere at the Opera Theatre, Sydney Opera House with four shows only from 14 to 16 June.

OPERA WARRIORS is the story of three fantastically talented opera actors and their life and death struggle to bring outstanding beauty to the stage. The story is set in the northern part of China in the early 20^th century where we meet three young protégés who hail from the same martial arts master. After completing their training the three performers join a theatrical troupe, until their lives diverge when fate and destiny take a hand. One is shot by accident trying to protect his kinsman, one suffers a disastrous love affair and one finds great success.

OPERA WARRIORS, will be choreographed by Mr Xing Shimiao, who will interpret the script of Ms Pik Wah Li (Lilian Lee) – one of Hong Kong’s most popular columnists whose screenplay Farewell My Concubine won the Golden Palm at the Cannes Film Festival. Mr Sha Xiaolan, the Lighting Designer of the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of Beijing 2008 Olympics, will light the Opera House stage.

Leading Chinese dancer Mr Wang Di, who performed the painting scroll sequence in Beijing Olympics Opening Ceremony, and Mr Huang Doudou, China’s most famous male dancing artist, who performed Chinese Kung-Fu in the Closing Ceremony of 2004 Greece Olympic Games, will lead the troupe of 60 dancers. Popular Chinese folk singer Ms Tan Jing, will sing the OPERA WARRIORS theme song.

OPERA WARRIORS is an exquisite visual feast that combines an elaborate set, beautiful costumes, dynamic lighting and original music with a story that tells us that life is like a drama, full of ups and downs and that the world is so changeable, a loss may turn out to be gain.

OPERA WARRIORS has been brought to Sydney by the Shanxi Huajin Dance Troupe to celebrate the closing of the Year of Chinese Culture in Australia. Before coming to Australia the Troupe will perform in the newest and best venue for performing arts, National Centre for Performing Arts, in Beijing. Shanxi Huajin Dance Troupe last performed in Sydney five years ago with their show Forbidden Fruit Under The Great Wall.

Tickets ON SALE NOW!

Venue: Opera Theatre, Sydney Opera House

Dates & Times: Thursday 14 June 7.30pm

Friday 15 June at 7.30pm

Saturday 16 June at 1.30pm & 7.30pm

Prices: $59 To $159

Bookings: sydneyoperahouse.com or 02 9250 7777 or online

www.ticketmaster.com.au or 136 100

Premium Packages: VIP Dinner & Show, and Stay & See Hotel Packages

Showbiz 1300 4 SHOWS (1300 474 697)

or www.showbiz.com.au

www.operawarriors.com.au

Hi there DanceLifers!

Well this is the news you have ALL been waiting for! I have just received a very exciting phone call to announce that….

The search is on once again for Australia’s best and most entertaining dancers!

FremantleMedia Australia is set to produce a brand new show for Network Ten for dancers of all genres and all ages called ‘Everybody Dance Now’.

The key difference to this show is just that - DIFFERENCE!

Unlike other dance shows before it, ‘Everybody Dance Now’ will embrace each dance act within their own signature genre.

Dancers will ONLY be required to dance within their own specialty and will compete against each other in a series of dance duels in front of a live studio audience and of course television viewers right across Australia.

‘Everybody Dance Now’ will start with 120 dance acts. The Producers are looking for ALL types and styles of dancers – groups, solo, everything! Age is absolutely no barrier either, so EVERY Australian dancer has the opportunity to ‘strut their stuff’!

Auditions will be happening in June and the show will go to air in the second half of the year.

Further details will be released immediately as they come to hand from Network Ten through our DanceLife network, so… stay tuned!!!

You know those performers who just shine?

I definitely notice them.    They glow and let their Joy out all over the place.  They look alive and happy and I can’t help but feel happy with them too!

There are a few of those performers who GET that their natural JOY or the reason why they perform is the most important thing they need to convey to an audience.  They know that is their MAIN ROLE!

They know that the act of performing is not just for their own self-gratitude but it is to connect and move an audience with them too!

Then there are those who are so focused on the technicalities of things they almost look like robots.

They are doing the movement the exact way it has been taught to them without tapping into the joy of what they are doing.  They are singing with the most outstanding technique or acting as they have been instructed but it’s just…. BLAH.

Boring.  I’d rather be having a coffee outside then watching another second of some factory churned out performer.

They are going through the technical motions of it all, doing it the way they have been taught, being “Good Students” BUT they don’t SHINE.

There are, unfortunately a lot of schools of thought out there that are so technically based.  If you feel you are too involved in the technical side of your performance here are 2 easy steps you can do right now to get more into the flow.

STEP 1

Take judgment out of your performance and BE IN THE MOMENT.  Most performances look too staged or robotic because there is a lack of trust in letting go and being in the FLOW state.

Being present is one of the great gifts you can give yourself and the audience and it can be easily achieved by saying these words to yourself:

“I completely and utterly trust in myself now and in this moment.  I love myself for everything I am right now, and everything that I am not”

STEP 2

Get really clear on WHY you are doing it.

Why are you performing today?  What do you want to achieve in class? Does it feel good? Do you enjoy telling the story right now?  Do you know what the story is?

If you’ve already got your technique then start to work on allowing your bliss to come out to play too.  It’s a crazy thing to get so stuck technically and not engage in the glory of the arts by letting your bliss shine through.

Most of the time you’ll find your answer is because you enjoy it.  Or have a gift or are talented and think and feel you should do it.  Other times your real reasons will hang under the “because I’m not good at anything else or because my parents make me” stories.  Whatever story you are telling yourself DROP it, if it’s not serving you.    Underneath us ALL, creative industry people, corporates, stay at home mums or whoever, is our creative spirit and it requires exposure every so often.  Get it out!

STEP 3

Focus on the story you are telling.

The greatest sales people, leaders, performers engage by being good storytellers. Whether it’s with your words, tone or body, you need to focus on the message rather than the structure or the grammar.

Who are you?

What character are you playing?

What imaginary clothing do you have on?

I approve in having strong and correct technique.  Don’t get me wrong.  I think that the reason why we are creative, however, is to achieve inspiration and not perfection.

We have been given this mind for many more purposes than to worry about our technique, so embrace it and use these 3 easy steps to get you into the flow whenever you feel the robot reaction is getting too strong!

I want to hear from you…

1. What easy technique do you use to get into the flow of your performance that I haven’t mentioned here?
2. Post your answer below in the comments or on the Facebook page “Bex Grennan-Artists Adviser”

If you need more at home assistance with unleashing your creativity then head on to www.stage2coaching.com.au/shop and get your paws on my CD set.  Individuals or 3 piece set – INSTANTLY DOWNLOADABLE and onto your IPOD NOW! : )

Love lots

Bex xoxoxo