A local dance foundation is using culture and discipline to help young performers build confidence, focus, and opportunity beyond the stage.
At its fourth annual concert on Saturday, the Apsara Dance Company showcased Indian classical and fusion dance and the role the arts play in shaping young lives.
The focus was not simply on performance. For the young dancers on stage, the evening reflected months of preparation, discipline, and a wider effort to keep culture alive while giving children a constructive space to grow.
Managing Director of Apsara Dance Company, Richie Seepersad, said the concert was designed to give young people a platform to showcase their talent and commitment to Indian culture.
“Our concert is about motivating kids, inspiring other kids as well as singers, not just only dancers but also singers, giving them a platform and an opportunity where they can go and showcase their talent for the hard work and dedication towards Indian culture.”
For young dancer Vaishnavi Sookdeo, that platform is already shaping how she sees her future in dance.
“Becoming a professional dancer and bringing smiles on people’s faces and encouraging other people like me to dance powerful and beautiful.”
While rooted in East Indian dance, the company is exploring contemporary and urban styles, reflecting the cultural mix of Trinidad and Tobago and giving young dancers room to express themselves in new ways.
Mr Seepersad says dance can be especially valuable for children during school breaks, offering structure, expression, and important life skills.
“Dancing, that’s only to express itself, but also teachers discipline, respect, tolerance, and it also teaches teamwork and we all know teamwork goes a long way in society now.”
That emphasis on discipline is also echoed by the wider foundation supporting the company. The dance group found a home through the mandir and foundation, where the aim has been to provide children with guidance, opportunity, and a positive environment.
Chairman of the Pundit Ravindranath Maharaj Foundation and spiritual leader of the Sri Ram Mandir Ayodhya Dham, Omkarnath Supersad Maharaj, says the benefits have been seen both on and off the stage.
“All of these children who are part of the dance company, not only excelling in dance, but the discipline that they find in dance has translated into their academic lives as well.”
For Apsara, the next stage is also an international one. Members of the group say they have qualified for All Dance America in September, giving the young performers a chance to carry their training, culture, and Trinbagonian energy beyond the local stage.
Suri Nadine and Sabri Bindi Seepersad, two young members of the Apsara Dance Company, say the group is excited about the opportunity.
“We are very excited… me and my sister and I, and the group, so we all are qualified to go to All Dance America, which is in September.”
As the dance company continues to grow, its leaders say the aim remains clear: to use dance not only as entertainment but as a way to develop confident, disciplined young people who can carry their culture from the local stage to the world.