For me, working with Noa Zuk and Ohad Fishof was incredible. When I was 16 I attended a performance by Hubbard Street Dance Chicago. They were performing a work by Ohad Naharin called Minus 16. At the time, I was trying to decide if I wanted to be a professional dancer or go into another field. I was struggling because I felt that dance was very selfish and that I should choose a career that gave back to the community more… both of my parents are doctors, they were literally saving lives every day while I was dancing. You see my dilemma, however Minus 16 made me realize why the arts are so important in our society. That piece was the reason I decided to pursue dance professionally. I had the opportunity to work with Naharin in college but only for 3 days. So, to spend four weeks with Zuk and Fishof, who have worked so closely with Naharin for so long, was really a dream come true. I was ready to dive in head first and give it my all. Taking Gaga was a refreshing change of pace and a challenge. It was like trying to learn Spanish in just 4 weeks… it is not possible but one can get a very basic vocabulary down and maybe even have a simple conversation. I personally plan to keep training in Gaga as much as I can, wherever I can. The creative process was very engaging. Zuk was specific, demanding, kind, generous, exotic, spicy, warm, and judgment free. She knows what she wants. My challenge was trying to give that to her in such a short time. Ohad Fishof was also incredibly inspiring. He created the soundtrack for the dance and at times he would jump up from behind his table and give us a few moves of his own. I loved those moments. This was a great process for me and I am looking forward to the premiere in Oct, and also to seeing Noa and Ohad again very soon.
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