CHENNAI: To a bunch of youngsters, starting a dance studio was a dream. But when that was accomplished in 2016, the next step was to win the World of Dance championship. This year the dance troupe of Organisation Of Powerful Movers (OPM) emerged as champions of team division at India qualifiers on June 8 to represent the country in World of Dance Championship, USA.
“The passion for dance brought us all together at the Natesan Park in 2014. We did not even have the most basic element for dance — mirror. The environment was not encouraging, people found loud music to be disturbing and balancing work and passion was another challenge. After struggling for two years we built a studio at Saidapet. Our team has part-time and full-time dancers. Some of us have also been part of reality shows. All of us strive hard and pitch money for maintaining the team,” says Mauryan D, one of the 24 members in the team who are mostly in their 20s. The crew had a similar opportunity to take part in the championship last year but their efforts went in vain due to a financial crisis.
They specialise in a fusion of hip-hop, storytelling and core styles where musicality, detail and precision form the foundation. For the past three years, their focus is on building and setting the standards for urban dance culture in the city. They gather inspiration by watching YouTube dance artistes, maestros and choreographers of this style globally. “The city has been witnessing a growing dance community since the past few years. While it is common for most of the teams to take up a medley of songs, we stuck to one whole song. Our theme revolved around the Syrian crisis highlighting the state of humanity. Every performance has been a learning experience. We also have members who’ve danced for temple festivals in the past. We have moulded the individuals to our style,” says Nivash M.
From an underdog team to being the crowd’s favourite, it has been a roller-coaster ride for the team. Talking about the dance scene in Chennai, Mauryan says, “More than talent, it is behind-the-screen politics and lack of support for freshers that plays a big role in the industry. It takes a lot of time to create a fan base and recognition among already established troupes. Developing countries seem to celebrate their talent by aiding them in nourishing their career. But India has a long way to go in identifying these talents and supporting them financially.”
For the upcoming championship, they need to raise `2 lakh per person, which is inclusive of airfare and registration fee. Of the `36 lakh needed, they’ve managed to raise `1 lakh.
Getting sponsorship has been a herculean task. “Unlike sports, nobody is inclined towards sponsoring art forms. We will work towards future educational development and worldwide opportunities in the field of performing arts, where dance and music will get equal weight as sports and any certified course,” he says.
With merely 35 days left for the competition, the team is working on their strengths and weaknesses.
“World of Dance is a dream stage for many budding artistes. You get an opportunity to compete with participants from different cultures representing around 50 countries. The teams are reviewed based on style, creation, coordination, presentation and crowd appeal. Dedicated practice is of no use without financial support. We’re hoping that luck knocks our door at least this time,” says Mauryan. The team is currently raising funds through online campaigns and workshops.
Team OPM will fly for the competition on July 26. You can fund them through www.milaap.org or call 9840972919