Photo by Susie Inverso, Crimson Cat Studios, courtesy of Silk Road Rising
In our December issue, we hear what professional dancers have to say about their go-to teachers.
Puja Mohindra
Bharata natyam dancer formerly with Natya Dance Theatre
Chicago, IL
“It helps to have a teacher who’s really honest about whether you’re in the correct level. Recently, I was in a class where I felt I was too advanced for beginner, but not strong enough to be in that class. The teacher agreed, and I appreciated that candor so that I could adjust.
I also always want someone to assist me. When you dance as an adult, it’s a lot of drop-in classes, and often the teachers don’t correct you with such attention to detail. Over time, you can injure yourself. But I’m still an artist and dancer, and I want my technique to improve, so I find someone who will work with me and offer suggestions versus just ‘giving class.’”