Slumdog Millionaire choreographer, Longinus Fernandes has been hosting a series of six week courses around the country to “source out some raw talent”. As his groove danced its way to The Mac, Birmingham, I had the opportunity to catch up with him.
It was before one of his classes began, that he explained his plans to create in essence; a Bollywood Broadway musical- “one of its kind” is how he wanted the audience to remember it. Giving the example of Andrew Lloyd Weber’s infamous musical Bombay Dreams, Fernandes appeared enthralled at how well received it was and keen to get the same response from his show.
His dance style, which appeared reflective of his personality, was modern yet heartfelt. His ideology speaks of “reaching masses and all classes”. It should be simple, yet pleasing to the eye.
Longinus is best known for his choreography for the song “Jai Ho” in the British drama film Slumdog Millionaire. It was during the success of the film that the director, Danny Boyle personally thanked Fernandes at the Oscars in 2009.
Emb Hashmi, Senior Journalist also attended the course said, “It was my first time doing a Bollywood dance class, and I found it was great, exercise wise. But I’ve learnt, if you want to be a successful dancer, you need to let go of your inhibitions. Emb has vowed to complete the six week long course, so you can keep updated on her success in the near future!
By Aneesa Malik
