Journey through dance school’s 35 years
Mervyn Naidoo talks to principal Smeetha Maharaj
THIS week, the Nateshwar Dance Academy celebrates 35 years of moving, shaking and entertaining.
What inspired the founding of the academy?
My mum, Draupadi Singh, who was studying Hindi and was involved in cultural events such as the Hindi and Gujarathi eisteddfods. Our first venue was in Dick King Road in Durban's CBD. She has since passed away.
What are the aims and objectives of the academy?
My mum, who was also an announcer on Radio Truro, wanted to promote the Hindu culture, that has always been our objective. I was studying dance in India when she started the academy.
What has been the key to its longevity?
The great drive that I have for the performing arts inspires our students. As a result, we are busy throughout the year. In 1998, we launched the Nateshwar Dance Company, which is our professional wing, and has been very successful. The academy has branches in Verulam, uMhlanga, Durban central, Westville, and Amanzimtoti.
Is it difficult to get students each year?
I speak to a lot of older dance teachers who have stopped operating or are slowing down and they recommend us. We don’t advertise, yet there is a continuous stream of people wanting to join. The interest in Indian culture and tradition, among the youth is not dying as much as people think it is. While Bollywood-style dancing is popular, I have seen lots of people encourage their children to do classical dancing because they want to expose youngsters to their culture.
What is the primary age group of students?
Ages range from 4 years old to the over 50s.
What is your next big
drawcard event?
Our annual year-end show is normally big. It’s on November 28 at the Playhouse Theatre. Each year, we adopt a different theme. This year, we’re calling it: Nateshwar, the journey. The show will showcase what we've done in the past 35 years, locally and overseas.
Has the academy gained exposure internationally?
We have played at numerous overseas events. What is the most memorable event?
We’ve done many highprofile events including performing for presidents and government officials. But for me, performing for Nelson Mandela on a few occasions
were the best memories.
Has your operation earned accolades over the years?
Numerous. As a teacher, I have taught groups that have won many awards in local competitions. And we have received commendations from many leading organisations and big name artists.
What are the set long-term goals of the academy?
We want to secure enough funds to open our own performing arts centre. In the new year, we want to introduce a dancercise programme on a grander scale. We have started with it, but we want to do it in a bigger way. It is popular, especially with women, who want to keep fit and socialise in a fun way.