ClassicalClaps is pleased to introduce Beyond the Stage, a reflective column by Dr Tina Tambe, Honorary Editor-at-Large at ClassicalClaps.
The column will offer space for thoughtful reflections on the many visible and invisible dimensions of the classical arts — the world of practice, performance, teaching, tradition, change, relationships, artistic responsibility and the larger cultural environment in which artists live and work.
We are grateful to Dr Tambe for sharing her voice with ClassicalClaps and our readers. We hope Beyond the Stage becomes a space for meaningful engagement among artists, students, teachers, rasikas and all those who believe that the arts continue to shape life beyond performance.
A Personal Note to Readers
“I thank ClassicalClaps for giving me this space to share my thoughts through Beyond the Stage.
Over the years, dance has taught me to observe life more closely — not only as a performer, choreographer and teacher, but also as an audience member, a woman, a mother and a common citizen. Many times, what we experience outside the stage quietly enters our art, and what we learn through art helps us understand life better.
Through this column, I hope to share reflections that arise from practice, experience, observation and dialogue. Some may come from the classroom, some from the stage, some from the audience, and some from everyday life.
I do not see this column as a place for final answers, but as a space for honest reflection. I look forward to sharing these thoughts with the readers of ClassicalClaps.”
Below is my first piece for Beyond the Stage.
– Dr Tina Tambe
Dance Anyway
A feature in a popular magazine, a prestigious trophy on your shelf, a photograph clicked by the best photographer or a Government empanelment; with or without these accolades, dance.
Mentorship and promotion, reviews by great critics, applause aplenty, dining with the elites; regardless of if they surround you, dance.
Students, teachers, spectators, critics, may live on trades and exchanges; whether there is something to give or take, it cananot displace what you can and must do. Dance.
For Dance is the blessing, responsibility and purpose given to you and your only Dharma is to evolve and refine your art with conscious and continuous practice and efforts. Accept and respect the opportunities presented to you with honesty and grace. Perform, teach, choreograph, assist, write, participate in musicals, productions, events, albums, songs. Evolve while immersing yourself completely in the practice of your craft. There will always be those who love and admire your art, some connoisseurs, patrons or organisers who will see excellence and authenticity in your art. Breakthroughs always exist for those who continue to nurture their merit.
And irrespective of the arrival of these breakthroughs, persist, withstand; and dance. Remember that Dance is above performances, performers, Gurus, mentors, critics, awards, applause, interviewers, institutions, and all the byproducts of a mercenary world. It is supreme, supernal and sacred; giving meaning, purpose and contentment to the Soul.
Dance is the essence of the dancer’s life, rather Dance is life itself.
