Giving equal opportunities on stage to male dancers

RYAN’s Dance Troupe, made up of a group of young, vibrant personalities who all love to dance, puts special emphasis on allowing male dancers equal opportunities to be on stage and believes that this sets the group apart from others.
The two brothers who founded the dance troupe are 20-year-old Ravindra Persaud and 19-year-old Ryan Persaud. Sonia Singh is the female dancer attached to the group. “Our dance troupe is just like any other dance group, but with a bit more spice added,” Ravindra told the Buzz this week.

The group, formed in February 2015, specializes in all kinds of dances, particularly, classical and contemporary Indian dances and hip hop. The dancers are self-taught as growing up, dancing was all they knew. “It was that activity we found ourselves engaged in while other children were outside playing. While most of our dances are choreographed, we like to surprise our audience by adding our own signature moves and twists,” Ravindra expressed.
The two brothers were both dancers in the Shelita’s Dance Troupe and while this allowed them a chance to showcase their passion for dancing, they felt that more focus was being placed on the female dancers.

“As such, we knew we needed to have our own group where male dancers would be able to take the lead and add a twist to how dance groups are viewed in Guyana. We started out with just my brother and I and then our friend Sonia joined us,”Ravindra reflected.
Starting was very challenging for them as they felt that the Guyanese audience was accustomed to seeing only female dancers on stage. So to promote their group, they volunteered at several events until their name was being recognized.
Some of their notable performances so far include those at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the Indian Action Committee. “These two agencies allowed us to showcase our talent at so many events and for that, we are eternally grateful. Because of the opportunities provided by them, we were able to build our clientele.”

While the group comprises only three dancers so far, the team plans to expand to include more persons who have a passion for dancing.
“Our objective is to become one of the lead dance groups in Guyana, leading to the establishment of a dance academy. Just like any other dance group, we are a family. New dance moves/ choreographs are always welcomed from any member of the group. The one thing that sets us apart from other dance groups is the fact that we allow our male dancers equal opportunity to shine,” Ravindra said.
In addition to performing at events such as weddings, private parties, and other functions, the group offers dance classes to those desirous of learning.
“Those who wish to be enrolled in our classes or book us for any event can contact us. To view some of our performances, persons can check out the Indian Action Committee’s YouTube channel and also, our Facebook page,” Ravindra pointed out.