While learning about the general running and logistics of the company, he’s meeting community, teaching dance classes, auditioning and co-opting new dance ensemble members, not to mention working on the company’s upcoming performance, Min Min.
“I’ve got my work cut out for me, which is good. I like getting involved.… I worked with the [Leaping Lizards] yesterday – they’re the tiny ones, they are so cute – I did little movement exercises with them just to get them running without them realising that they’re dancing. They play games and copy, actually doing the movement so they’re already gaining those skills and connecting the mind and the body. We want to build those workshops and build those exercises so they have a sense of movement and dance and can continue on to the next level.”
Hastie started his formal dancing when he was much older. As he says, “Most dancers start from a very young age, I started when I was 17. I didn’t have that early training … it’s good for the kids. I’m here, so I can give it. It’s a good opportunity for me to teach as well.”
Having taught workshops and been i…
