Virendra had the opportunity to work with a well-established choreographer as both a performer and a co-choreographer recently and co-created a piece that was performed at renowned theatres across Hamburg. Additionally, he also had the chance to share his knowledge of Yoga, Kalaripayattu, and Bollywood dance there.

How has pursuing a career in the movement arts rewarded and challenged you?

I grew up in a slum, where I often felt like I lacked confidence and direction. Everything changed in 2016 when I started dancing professionally. Dance boosted my self-confidence and I realized it was my true passion. I never imagined that a boy from a slum could become a skilled freelance dance artist in a country like Germany.

As I learned more, I realized how much there was to still discover. My curiosity grew, leading me to study dance further in Germany. Since then, every challenge dance presents feels like an adventure, and I genuinely enjoy the journey, even if I'm not sure where it will lead.

What was studying at CDSH like?

Studying at CDSH was a dream come true after waiting three years. At CDSH, I discovered a whole new dance vocabulary that was very different from my natural way of moving. The first year was challenging, and I often doubted if I belonged. But by the second year, as I improved in ballet and modern contemporary dance, I started enjoying it more than ever.

A quote I learned there, ‘Everything happens for a reason’, stuck with me. It helped me realize I could move in ways I never imagined. CDSH not only improved my dance skills but also taught me valuable lessons in decision-making, building connections, and being seen in the dance field.

Can you tell us a bit about your latest piece?

Recently, I worked on a production titled ‘A Place Called Home’ by Monique McDowell. It is a dance theatre piece featuring five performers and integrated live audio description. It explores the political, social, and emotional aspects of the concept of home.

Set on a simple black box stage, the performance takes the audience on a journey from isolation and longing to a sense of community, security, love, and understanding. Through contemporary dance, the piece delves into the complex emotions and experiences associated with home, drawing on the migrant perspectives of the artists.

The performance invites viewers to see home as more than just four walls, highlighting how, for migrants, home is a shifting feeling carried within us throughout our lives.

What have been some of the highs and lows of pursuing a career in the arts abroad?

Living abroad was a big change for me. Everything was new, from the language and food to the weather and people. I did feel lonely at first, but I eventually got used to it.

In dance, I never really felt low. There were moments when I questioned if I belonged, but that feeling passed. I mostly enjoyed my art because, here, dance is seen as a real career, not just a hobby. I feel respected for my work more so than ever before.

What plans next? Where do you see the next few years taking you?

I don’t have a fixed plan yet, but I’m excited to keep freelancing because it’s full of new opportunities. I see myself becoming a recognized contemporary dance performer, teacher, and choreographer, someone people want to work with. I’m driven to create my own work and share my dance knowledge with the next generation, inspiring others to follow their passion.