PATCH-ing Things Up!

It is now just two weeks before the biggest event LA has organised this year and we're all pissing our pants in anticipation of meeting our two 'celebrities', Patrick and Thanes (scroll down for their pictures). Almost everything is in place, many thanks to our sponsors:-

Freddie from Organic Shop, ss18,
Madam Lian for wheatgrass drinks,
Wendy Boey and Ann Cho for 100 plus canned drinks

...just to name a few.

We have been having lots of support from students and friends who are going out of the way to contribute and help in any way they can. Our very own yoga teacher, Annie Ng has taken the initiative to approach her charitable friends to pool together a substantial sum for PATCH.

We truly appreciate creative efforts such as this. Just this evening, some of our friends from Bantus Capoeira have offered to contribute even though they cannot make it for the event.
We hope this giving experience can go on for many years to come.

Let PATCH lead the way and continue to fuel our passion for the arts and for life.

26 days countdown

With less than a month till PATCH, the crew has been frantically finalising details and preparations for the big day. Pimples and wrinkles abound as the tireless band of misfits continuously toiled day and night to make sure everything is in place.

Volunteer PR workers plagued the surrounding townships with endless promotional flyers and calls to attend PATCH. Not to be forgotten, our loyal menagerie of students have been hard at work, attending rehearsals and practice sessions in anticipation of 11.11. Everywhere, you can see students prancing around; aching bodies, beads of sweat amidst smiling faces.

Even the public is getting excited over PATCH. Just this evening, Living Arts Artistic Director 3sa and resident Capoeirista (pro-bono) T3rry met up with a friend who immediately upon hearing about PATCH, agreed to attend. What’s more, he also asked for more flyers to distribute to his clients, colleagues and friends.

With this kind of support, PATCH will be a truly amazing charity event!
Pledge now and join the fun at PATCH, 11.11.07.
Make a difference.

Say what? PATCH! Say what? PATCH!

PATCH stands for “Passion Aiding The Children”. It is the title of Living Arts Dance Studio’s first anniversary dance concert, which is being held as a fund-raising effort for two special children from Taman Megah’s Handicapped and Disabled Children’s Home. It aptly describes the spirit guiding the efforts in organising this anniversary concert, and the passion of the organisers in bringing together performers and volunteers who are excited and driven to help their community and, in particular, the two children in the best way they know how – the celebration of life through the arts.

The first anniversary concert will showcase dance performances by the students and teachers of LA, as well as performances from other dance professionals, teachers and students from 10 other dance schools around the Klang Valley. It is a culmination and acknowledgement of the efforts made by students in the past year in their pursuit of artistic excellence in dance.

It is also a recognition of the fact that arts is life, and that arts can nurture, support and encourage life in many ways. One of those ways is in using the talents and energy of everyone involved to help raise funds that can ensure a higher quality of life for those less fortunate than us.

For brighter future...

Who are PATCH helping?

Patrick Ding, 2 years old. Abandoned by parents.

Diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and Vision Impairment. Because Patrick cannot see, he responds joyfully to touch, as you can see in the second picture.

He is a new resident at Tmn Megah Handicapped & Diabled Children's Home.

He needs Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy training 3 times a week to maximize and to maintain his physical function and level of independence.

He only consumes a particular milk powder under the Nestle brand: Lactogen 2.

Thanesvaran, 7 years old. Not supported by parents.

Eldest son. Came from low income family. Diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and

Constipation.

He has been residing at Tmn Megah Handicapped & Diabled Children's Home for 4 years.

He needs Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy training 3 times a week to maximize and to maintain his physical function and level of independence. He only consumes a particular milk powder: Gain Kid Advance.

****

When I went to the bank to open a subsidiary account for PATCH today, they refused my application. Reason: No such privilege for sole proprietors. Only Sdn Bhds are allowed to have such responsibility.

This makes me wonder: How does a small little studio (SLS) like us dream big about creating sustainable outreach programs with the continuous support from public without being affiliated with an NGO or a corporation? *suggestions will be appreciated.

You can't stop us from thinking global and acting local.

When you give from your heart, no matter in what form or quantity, the gift that you give ripples into many other hearts. This is what Mother Teresa truly meant when she says, "Do the smallest acts with the grandest intentions". ¬ Teresa Chian

P - A - T - C - H

1st Anniversary Charity Concert
PATCH - Passion Aiding The Children

Date: 11.11.07 (as suggested by the cute logo)

Time: 5.00-8.00pm

Venue: Living Arts Dance Studio

Objective: Raise RM10,000 to support 2 handicapped children for 12 months

Everyone is invited! Admission by donation (minimum RM10)

More than 100 dancers, 11 dance schools around the Klang Valley are generously supporting and jointly performing in this memorable event.

We are turning ONE YEAR OLD!

Living Arts’ 1st Anniversary Charity Concert Details

In conjunction with Living Arts’ 1st Anniversary Charity Concert, we are kicking off a year-long adoption campaign for 2-year old Patrick Ding Poh Chuan and 7-year old Thanesvaran from Taman Megah’s Handicapped and Disabled Children’s Home. Patrick is diagnosed with cerebral palsy and vision impairment while Thanesvaran is diagnosed with cerebral palsy and constipation. Both children come from low-class families who are not able to afford their monthly expenses.

Campaign name: PATCH – Passion Aiding The CHildren.
Objective: Raise RM10,000 to support 2 handicapped children for 12 months

Date: 11.11.07 (Sunday)
Showtime: 5.00pm – 8.00pm

Everyone is invited! Admission by donation: Minimum RM10 (drinks provided)

This is Living Arts’ 2nd charity concert. The 1st charity concert was a Christmas Party in December 2006 to raise fund to buy new mattresses, blankets, pillows and bed sheets for 20 orphaned children in Trinity Home, Old Klang Road.

List of participants:- Teachers & students from Living Arts Dance Studio, Celestar Studio of Performing Arts, Acts School of Performing Arts, The Music Professionals Academy of Performing Arts, Rhythm Tappers, Bantus Capoeira, and Tadika Chee Oi.

Exciting Promotions Sept - Dec 2007

THIS IS EXCITING because students started to register for this new promotion a week after it was announced.

YOGA - RM188 for 2 months UNLIMITED
Valid through Sept to Dec 2007 only.

Ongoing promotions
YOGA - Buy 1 Free 1 (1 month)
DANCE - Buy 2 Free 1 (3 months)
YOGA/CAPOEIRA - RM60 (student)

If you have always dreamt of a healthy lifestyle at an affordable rate, this is it! We make lasting impressions and create deeper satisfactions.

Little Dancer Children Program

The 1st ever children dance program that combines 3 art forms! For ages 5 – 12+ years old

a) This program is written to expose students to dance, yoga and capoeira as an art form.

b) This program are conducted in 12 lessons, approximately 3 months excluding holidays, term breaks, unexpected events, annual concerts, performances, etc.

c) Dance classes are held once a week, with an average of 4 lessons per month.

d) Lessons are approximately 50 mins long.

e) The number of students is 5 -15 per class.

f) Values like discipline, teamwork and responsibility are instilled.

g) Two-way communication models are established between teachers & students.

h) This program is based on three objectives: moving, imitating, and creating.

g) The emphasis is about actively engaging students through participation.

h) Various genres of dance & music are introduced at an early stage to encourage students to express themselves in more ways than one. Yoga asanas and Capoeira movements are modified to stimulate the creativity and agility in children.

There will be 2 Free trial classes on September 8th and 15th, from 5.30pm - 6.20pm. Parents and children are invited to come and participate.

There is a Buy 2 Free 1 promotion running in conjunction with these trial classes. Please call & confirm your participation 017-330 7244.

"I think, therefore I am. I participate, therefore I am."

What is capoeira?

Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian art that combines elements of dance, music, theatre, culture and fighting. In some ways, Capoeira can be categorised as a martial art, a dance, or even an artistic expression of sorts.

Students doing the ‘ginga’. The ample space gives the students plenty of room for expression.

Practitioners and students may choose to develop the art according to their preferences, be it music or the cultural evocations that comes along with it. Capoeira is about learning the art, and making it yours.

Here at Living Arts, the art is taught with a wholesome syllabus that combines a healthy lifestyle with brazilian culture. Music and expression are important elements that are constantly cultivated throughout the class.

Music session after a typical class. Students are encouraged to sing and play instruments

Anyone can practise Capoeira. Contrary to public misconception, it is not something only young, strong men can learn. Capoeira is a 'street dance' created for women, children, the old and the young. Kids as young as 5 years of age and the elderly over 50 years can indulge themselves in this art. You need only to be young at heart.

If you didn't know how old you are, how old would you be?

Drop by our on-going class everyday Saturday 10.00am-11.30am. Free Trial.

Contributed by Ligeiro

A Night to Remember

The Event: Rotary Club of Kelana Jaya Installation Night on July 7

A collaborative dance performance by Living Arts Dance Studio, Celestar Studio of Performing Arts, Reaper's Rhythm, and many friends from other studios. We were dancing to Song Medley - Michael Jackson, So Excited - Janet Jackson, Listen - Beyonce Knowles, Sexy Back - Justin Timberlake.

We burn the floor even before the party started!

More student's testimonial

LA's first Holiday Workshop in November 20-22, 2006 for students aged 7 onwards to adults

The writeup below is contributed by Miss Elsie Liew and her cousin, Miss Michelle Toh, who are our current Contemporary Dance students. They are the pioneer batch, and have been learning from Teacher Teresa since LA started. P/S: I am proud of u girls, too!

Contributed by Miss Elsie Liew, Bandar Sunway

Where do I get to know about LA? Thanks to my sister, Li Yeng, who joined LA’s first holiday workshop with my cousin sister, Michelle Toh. They came back and started to practice and to my surprise my sister can DANCE! She has no background or close to dance. I still remember whenever Pussycat Dolls – Button plays, I will refer it to both of Michelle and Li Yeng and it makes me want to dance.

So, one day I took the initiative to find out everything I needed to know and 3 of us joined the contemporary dance in December 2006. I’m proud to say that I was Teresa’s first batch of students.

Why LA? I remember asking Teresa why there are no mirrors in the studio like others do. She told me that she do not want her students to compete with each other by looking at the mirror. She wants all her students to feel and dance confidently. What she said was very true as all of us have our own style. Another thing I love about LA is the wide and spacious studio. In the past, I have visited several dance studios that are comparatively smaller and had lower ceilings which restrict our movements. In LA, students are put in small groups (less than 10) so they can concentrate better and the teacher can focus on everyone.

Teresa is friendly and very, very and I repeat very patient to have a student who forgets her steps in each and every class – ME. But eventually, she told me that I am improving in the 2nd semester. And from the 2nd semester onwards, I can remember most of the steps (although I still forget it, hehehe). For the past 6 months, I learnt what is contemporary – it differs from other dance and there is no specific form to it. And best of all, I got a patient teacher Teresa for a slow learner like me. Last but not least, I am proud to be part of LA’s family. BRAVO to everyone!

Contributed by Miss Michelle Toh, Bandar Sunway

I got to know LA through a leaflet, and that particular leaflet is about the December holiday workshop. Coincidently, I was on holiday so I gave it a try. During those 3 days, I went home drenched with sweat and a body full of aches. Besides that, it was all fun. I knew that LA is the studio that I would like to go to. So, I signed up for contemporary dance because I like the gracefulness of the dance.

I chose LA because they do not have mirrors (hooray!). With me being plump, I don’t get to see myself in the mirror and become self-conscience of my body shape. Without mirrors, I can fully concentrate on my movements. The high ceilings and open windows also allowed me to dance comfortably because I do not huff and puff after class as I have fresh air circulating in my lungs rather than air-cond.

Now that I have been with LA for 3 semesters doing contemporary dance, I have more confidence in myself. Thanks to teacher Teresa, who is often patient in guiding me. Being in contemporary dance, I do not only learn the steps. I also learnt how to correct my body posture, alignment and improve my creativity. Sometimes we are given a game where we are required to explore movements together with the music. These games enhance my creativity.

It is so fun being in dance class and that makes me look forward to dancing every day. Being part of LA’s family makes me very proud. As long as I can dance, I would always be a part of LA.

Students' Testimonials

Angelic faces & contained energy before performance.

From L-R standing: YenShan, Fessy, KuanSing, Stephanie, WoanSheu, Deborah, Yike.

From L-R kneeling: MeiShang, Amylin, Jojo.

Final practice backstage

The following writeups are contributed by Miss Amylin Gan, Miss Chai Woan Sheu and Miss Deborah Evangeline Gan, who are our current Hip Hop students. They are gracious enough to share with us their newfound experiences since joining Living Arts Studio (LA). Thank you, girls. Namaste.

Contributed by Miss Amylin Gan, Subang Jaya
Since young, I enjoyed dancing, but was not exposed to any formal dance lessons. I got to know about LA from my sis, Deborah who googled for a dance studio which provides hip hop lessons nearby our place. So, we decided to pay a visit to LA. Prior to joining LA for hip hop class, I was taking aerobic and dance class elsewhere. After 3 months, I decided to look for a dance studio that can offer much better dance experience for me.

Both of us enrolled for its trial class for hip hop lessons. I found myself liking LA - the mirrorless wall, spacious and airy dance floor, friendly dance teachers and peers. I had a feeling that LA was able to give me a better platform to learn to express myself.

The hip hop dance lessons were conducted in termly duration, each lasted for 3 months. After each term, I was given a chance to perform what I had learn to an audience. In the first performance, I was given a chance to perform for Sukan Wanita at Putra Stadium, Bukit Jalil on June 4. I got to experience what dance performers had to go through prior to staging a performance. In the second performance, my friends and I performed in front of 300 odds people in Port Klang. At that time, I was attending dance lessons and rehearsals back-to-back every week. What a challenge! But in the end, all was worth the while.

After taking classes at LA for 6 months, I found my dance techniques improving by leaps and bounds. I gained confidence in myself, and was able to see myself grow. I have learned to love my body and to tell my body to move in the manner that I choose to. In short, I felt great about who I have become.

Burning the dance floor with singer Adilla

Contributed by Miss Chai Woan Sheu, Subang Jaya
When I first came to LA (recommended by a friend), I know I wanted to learn dancing. I signed up for Hip Hop class because I admire those cool dancers on MTV. They seem so attractive, professional and confident. My first hip hop class consists of a few guys and gals around my age. Miss Yike’s choreography made dancing so fun and enjoyable until we started meeting at LA more often just to practice.

So, I was very excited when given a chance to perform at a grand stage in Stadium Putra, Bukit Jalil. At first, I felt nervous and tensed then I felt very lucky and grateful to be able to perform with other professionals for this show. But when I heard the audiences cheer, I realised that all the sweat and tears spilled during rehearsals were worth it.

At a separate performance, I was so inspired upon seeing a group of children dancing. They seemed so natural, so sure of themselves. Something I have always strived for in my dance, in my life. Personally, there is so much more to discover about dancing. I have just started to enjoy rhythm and let my inner self shine!

Through dance, I shared my worries, my joy. Through dance, I found new friends. Through dance, I discovered my true potential and personality! Because I am not checking myself in the mirror every second (LA has no mirror), I can therefore focus on ‘feeling’ every movement and interpret it in my own unique way.

Giving their best during the performance

Contributed by Deborah (Eva), Subang Jaya
Dancing has always been on my mind since a very tender age. How I came across LA? I went through google to search for a dance school near Sunway, and so happen LA appeared in the searched results. Since day one at Living Arts, there is no denying that I certainly had learned a great deal. They would even give us a chance to perform in public.

Speaking about performing, from my past experience with LA, it has been really encouraging for me to move forward, to better myself. Stage fright was one of my greatest fear, thanks to all my friends at LA who is always there to boost my level of confidence. They are all a bunch of awesome people. Not to mention, my dance teacher, Miss Yike, who is one fine lady with distinguished ability and of course, courage. Wouldn't you want to come on board with us?

Higher adrenalin after performance.

Dear friends and students,
Below are NEW INTAKE for beginners. We offer free trial for students who would love to try out new styles and techniques.

Monday
7.00 - 8.00pm Yoga
7.30 - 8.30pm Hip Hop
8.00 - 9.00pm Yoga
8.30 - 9.30pm Jazz Funk

Wednesday
7.30 - 8.30pm Contemporary Dance

Thursday
7.00 - 8.00pm Yoga

Friday
7.00 - 8.00pm Yoga

Saturday
3.00 - 4.00pm Contemporary Dance (Intermediate)
4.00 - 5.00pm Yoga
5.30 - 6.20pm Little Dancer Children Program

Hope you find what makes your feet grooves!

In Deep Contemplation
Those of us serving at Living Arts are constantly asking ourselves question. Self-inquiry and self-study is one of the main elements that speed growth. To be honest, to not be attached, to have gratitude, and to be responsible of our health, our words, our deeds, our thoughts.

In light of my recent completion of Reiki 2, we are all ONE.

Yours in reiki-love,
Teresa

"The man who is devoted and not attached to the fruit of his actions obtains tranquility."

‘ON THE MOVE’ Holiday Workshop

This is a dance workshop for students aged 7 onwards and adults.

We are back to get you on your groove this holiday.

Be prepared to be molded into a semi-professional dancer in just one day!

Looking for something to do during the holidays? If you like to kick, turn, slide and jump, come spend a day with dance professionals and capoeiristas. So grab your friend and find your moves together. There will be belly dance, hip hop, funk, contemporary, capoeira, yoga and many more!

Dance or sports attire required. Open for all levels and ages. Experience is not necessary. Please call to make reservations at 017-330 7244 or 012-399 8467.

Workshop Schedule (Email me for full schedule)
Session 1 - May 27th for Adults (18 & above)
Session 2 - May 28th for Juniors (age 7 - 17)

Workshop Time
10.00am till 5.00pm (both days)

Workshop Fee (Inclusive of Lunch)
Living Arts students - RM100
Early bird registration – RM120 (valid before May 20th)
After May 20th – RM150

SPECIAL EVENT for LADIES only!

Living Arts is proud to present an Egyptian Belly Dance Workshop by Inessa Parker.

Inessa is an international oriental dance artiste who has performed in Japan, UK, United Arab Emirates, Egypt and various venues in Malaysia, including Genting Highlands Resort. A member of the UK Mosaic Arabic Dance Network, Inessa has been an avid performer since 1993. Today, she’s one of the finest and most established belly dancer, teacher and performer in Malaysia.

Date : May 20th, 2007 (Sunday)

Time : 1.00 – 5.00pm (technique & choreography)

Fee : RM220 per person (plus refreshments)

For enquiries and to register, please contact Teresa at 017- 330 7244 or tchian@gmail.com

Special Announcement! Masterclass postponed.

Living Arts presents a DANCE MASTERCLASS by celebrity dancer ‘Normann’.

Specialize in Hip Hop, Funk and House dance (involves a mixture of salsa, break dance, jacking, hip hop, jazz and tap).

Originally from France, Normann has performed and toured with celebrity singer Madonna to France, USA, Canada, Europe, Russia, Japan, Germany, Portugal and etc on various occasions. He has also worked with Misteeq, Craig David, Busta Rhymes, to name a few. Apart from dancing, he practices Muay Thai (Thai Boxing), English Boxing and Basic Acrobatics.

Date: 21st April (Saturday) Please note that this masterclass has been postponed to 28th April.

Time: 2.30 - 5.00pm

Venue: Living Arts Studio

Fees: RM80 (LA students) / RM90 (public)

This is a rare opportunity!

Open to all dance students who has some dance experience. Limited to 30 spaces only. Please call me for registration and pay RM10 to secure your place today. 017 330 7244

Asia Cafe 31 March 2007

COWABANGA!!!

Thank you for all the wonderful team effort. You all turned up, albeit the downpour. It was a successful pilot project. We will be back at Asia Cafe on 14th and 21st April, 9pm onwards. Find us near the birdcage again! Pray that we get dry weather this time.

Date: 14th and 21st April (saturday)

Time: 9pm onwards

Venue: Asia Cafe, Subang (opposite Inti College)

Why do I practice yoga?

BE INSPIRED. BE ORIGINAL.

Our asana practice can have a positive impact on our lives because it constantly asks us to become more sensitive, more conscious, more aware of ourselves—not just of our bodies but also of our minds, feelings, and emotions. Asana practice can teach us to tune in to our beings and truly feel aware of the world around us. As our sensitivity increases, life becomes more rich and enjoyable because we can taste the unique flavor of each individual moment.

More important, we also become more aware of what moves us toward our dharma, or life path, and what takes us away from it. This awareness makes us clearer and more peaceful, more able to elegantly handle life's endless dilemmas without feeling overwhelmed or fearful. As a result, we become more effective in all of our actions, and our presence begins to inspire and bring out the best in people around us.

The awareness that we develop on the yoga mat, though seemingly small, affects all that is. As we become more aware in our yoga practice and in our lives, as we move away from force and violence and toward sensitivity, feeling, and awareness, we change our individual consciousness and actions. In turn, these changes influence the consciousness and actions of everyone we meet. Slowly, we shift the direction the world is taking.

As we practice each asana, whether it be a challenging twist or a simple standing pose, we have the opportunity to become the embodiment of peace and to make our practice a prayer for harmony in the world.

To all my friends who are on this divine journey, you & I are not alone. Namaste. Om Shanti.

Embracing Change

We all know that nothing is permanent. What goes around, comes around. These are the natural laws of the universe. As the Artistic Director of Living Arts, I am constantly faced with the challenge to provide tremendous freedom & creative space for my ppl and to build a megasolid structure for the business. Space + Structure = ?

In the events leading up to the new reality dance show - SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE (SYTYCD) that has become the talk of the town recently, LA has embraced multiple layers of change. As friends & students continue to come and go, I can only get more excited and be prepared for our next challenge.

I have reset our marketing strategy. A fortnightly public performance at Asia Cafe is set to go. We must be seen, be heard and be felt! Share our passion with strangers. This is the essence of the practice of our art - by the people, for the people. People has started to enquire about jazz funk, modern jazz, modern dance, contemporary dance and capoeira. Previously, our Malaysian counterparts can only relate to Hip Hop, Hip Hop, and more Hip Hop.

SYTYCD will definitely be a booster to our industry because our speciality is in funk, hip hop, jazz, modern and contemporary dance and this show seemed to have engaged judges, dancers and choreographers who are expertise in this genre of dance. Very glad indeed¬! Bring it on, dancers!

There is magic in each day. Find it and spread it!