Jai Ramgopal

Grade: junior

Future College: not yet decided

Future Career: not certain as of now

Years of Dancing: 13 years, 9 years professionally

Wingspan: How did you develop an interest in dance, and how long have you been learning it.

Ramgopal: “Dancing has always been a big part of my life and I have been doing it since the age of 3. I don’t remember how exactly I developed a passion and the love for dance, but I do know that I absolutely love dancing, and when I’m dancing, all my worries disappear from my mind and I’m in my happy place.”

Wingspan: Who or what is your inspiration?

Ramgopal: “My mom is my biggest inspiration as she has taught me everything I know and I truly admire her work ethic and really look up to her. As far as a dance inspiration is considered, Matt Stefania is my role model.”

Wingspan: What are the different styles of dance you do?

Ramgopal: I am trained in all styles of dance professionally. I like being a versatile dancer as the things I learn in one style give me the opportunity to explore body movement and style in other forms too.”

Wingspan: What is your favorite style of dance and why?

Ramgopal:  My favorites are contemporary/modern and hip hop! Contemporary/modern is a style in which I can really express my feelings and emotions through my movement and hip hop is my favorite because the energy and groovy moves are my elements.”

Wingspan: How do you use dance to express yourself?

Ramgopal: “I have a favorite quote I like to use: “Dance is an art. The floor is my canvas, I am the brush and whatever I create comes from the heart.” I use it as a way to express my personality and emotions using my body movements.”

Wingspan: what have you learned about yourself through dance?

Ramgopal: “Dance has taught me so much about myself. It has made me realize that I am more of a visual learner and like to do things practically In real life. It has also taught me to be adventurous and not fear to push and explore new territories”

Wingspan: What are some of the challenges you face while being a dancer?

Ramgopal: Some of the few challenges I face are that I get less time to spend with school friends as I’m spending so much time dancing. I also get the feeling that everyone in the dance field is competing about who’s better at what whereas I believe dancing should be an art form where everybody should learn and grow with each other.”

Wingspan: How has dance affected your life?

Ramgopal: “Dance has truly affected my life in multiple ways, it has helped me get a better understanding of myself and also has gotten me immense opportunities which I am super grateful for. I never think I can stop dancing, because of all the love and passion I have for this beautiful art form.”

Wingspan: Do you have any memorable performances that you’d like to share?

Ramgopal: “I have performed on stage numerous times from small events all the way to National and international levels of events/shows. However, my most memorable one has to be the time when I got to perform for The dancing king of Bollywood – Hrithik Roshan! The fact that I had the chance to do what I love In front of him was such a great experience and what made it the greatest night was when he called me out in front of everyone and praised me for my dancing skills on stage was truly a night to remember.”