Dance as an art form introduces us to a variety of styles, with 'waacking' being an intriguing extension of that very tree.
Embracing yet another exciting opportunity in Goa, My Workout Space, a health and wellness center in Panjim, is hosting 'Waacking with Sukanya,' a lively disco dancing session led by multidisciplinary artist Sukanya Majumder.
The workshop will take place on Saturday, August 24, 2024, from 6 pm to 7.30 pm at My Workout Space in Miramar. While the regular fee is set at Rs 800, early birds can save by pre-registering for Rs 650 until August 21, 2024.
“We aim to introduce a variety of dance styles through workshops at My Workout Space. In addition to waacking, we offer classes in 'dancehall' and 'soca', and we’re looking forward to hosting workshops on hip-hop and other dance styles soon,” says Princy Mehta, co-founder of My Workout Space.
With that said, the question still persists- what exactly is 'waacking?
Luckily for us, Sukanya explains, “Waacking is a dance form that originated in the gay clubs of Los Angeles', USA, among dance and disco-lovers during the disco music era of the 1970s. It emphasises dramatic arm movements, stylised posing, and freedom of expression.”
At the workshop, participants can expect to learn the foundations of waacking, musicality, confidence, posture correction, and a lot of swag. Since this is a street style dance, one can incorporate character work and mix in other dance forms and music as well.
LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY
She elaborates, “The LGBTQ+ community, especially Black and Latino individuals, were often marginalised in society, and they found an outlet through this music, blending pop culture and history. Waacking emerged from catching the instrumental breaks or vocals of disco songs.”
"Interestingly, this dance form doesn’t have strict rules. Its first rule is to express yourself without hesitation. It can be modest when the situation or music demands, but the primary benefit is enjoying yourself on the dance floor,” Sukanya smiles as she wraps up a class.
BENEFITS OF DANCING
Dancing is beneficial in more ways than one. "One gains confidence, improves body language, and expands their thinking. Nowadays, waacking’s popularity in the underground dance scene isn’t limited to disco music, and top dancers receive international recognition,” says the artist who began teaching waacking a year ago, but has been learning and participating since 2014.
"You can even compete in local Indian dance battles organised by local dancers, where winners earn cash prizes or a fresh title,” she adds.
EXCITEMENT IN GOA
As for the upcoming workshop in Goa, she says excitedly, “Goa has a crowd that’s open to self-discovery. I’m thrilled to meet dance enthusiasts eager to learn something new."
Dance has always been a powerful outlet for self-expression. Whether you’re feeling on top of the world or a bit down, grab your classic disco outfits and get ready for an evening of rhythmic dancing with Sukanya.
She’s excited to teach you her favourite moves, and maybe even steal some of yours!
DETAILS
WHAT: Waacking with Sukanya (Workshop)
WHERE: My Workout Space, Miramar, Panjim
WHEN: Saturday, August 24, 2024
TIMINGS: 6 pm to 7.30 pm
FEES: Rs 800 (Early bird fee is Rs 650 until August 21)
CONTACT: +91 9552589253 / @myworkoutspace.goa on Instagram