Living Arts Dance Studio

We have moved!

2009-01-16T10:59:00.000-08:00

This is a Public Announcement.

Living Arts is no longer operating in Bandar Sunway. Since February 2009, Living Arts Dance Studio has relocated to Puchong. You can find us inside

Giant Hypermarket, Bandar Kinrara, Puchong.

This blogsite is no longer active and not updated. Please visit our new website! For more updates, head on now to

http://living-arts.com.my/

Call us at 012 735 7244 or 017 330 7244

Thank you & Hope to see you at our new studio.

From, Living Arts Management.

Year end PARTIES back-to-back

2008-12-18T08:20:00.000-08:00

Yo, folks! Living Arts will be hosting not one, but two (2) P-A-R-T-I-E-S this month. Make sure you come for the right one.

Bantus Year End Party!
This is a private party for Bantus family only.

Date: December 27th, 2008 - Saturday
Time: 7.30pm - 11.30pm
Dress code: Bantus T-shirt of any country
Food: Potluck style

Admission: Free

*Alcohol free.

*No pets allowed (except for our resident cats).

LA Moving Out Party!

This is an open party for everyone who wants to eat & dance. Yes, we are moving to Puchong in January 2009, so come reminisce the precious moments we've had in this beautiful space.

Date: December 28th, 2008 - Sunday
Time: 6.00pm - 10.00pm
Dress code: Orange & Purple

Food: Catered from Ginger Tree Restaurant & Subaidah
Admission: RM10 per person

*Bring Your Own Bottle (wine, hard liquor)
* Bring all your pets

Acroyoga Workshop

2008-12-03T01:53:00.000-08:00

Acroyoga or acrobatic yoga is a blend of the spiritual wisdom of yoga, acrobatics and Thai massage. this blend of the three different and dynamic forms cultivates trust connection and playfulness and has a slight element of risk. Acroyoga is a fun way to build and strengthen partnerships as the exercises require participants to trust and communicate with each other. It is recommended for dating couples, husbands and wives, mothers and daughters, sisters, brothers and friends.

Not only that, Acroyoga is great for enhancing one's flexibility and extremely effective for toning muscles and trimming fats. Of course, it will help you lose weight! For clumsy people, it will improve their inner balance and awareness of their surroundings.

Workshop Details
Date: 6 & 7 December, 2008 (Sat & Sun)
Time: 2.30-6.30pm
Venue: Living Arts Dance Studio,
1-3 (3rd flr) Jalan PJS 8/11,
Dataran Mentari Sunway,
46150, Petaling Jaya
Price: RM99.00 for both days

Annual Student Showcase 08

2008-11-07T00:14:00.000-08:00

Dance students from the Living Arts Dance Studio will be showcasing their talents on-stage this November. The hour-long showcase will feature many genres from the dance spectrum. From the mainstream styles of Hip Hop and Latin American dance, to the unconventional Contemporary and Lyrical dance. The performances will also feature student choreography based on themes like seduction and fight. In these dances created by students you will see traces of Latin American dance, Capoeira, Acroyoga, Gymnastics, Indian dance, Ballet and Jazz movement styles. Watch out for these highlights!

Date: November 15, 2008
Time: 8.00-9.00pm
Venue: Sri Kuala Lumpur (Auditorium)
Ticket price: RM 20

For more information call Living Arts at 017-3307244/012-2806529

New Latin American Dance Classes

2008-11-04T01:55:00.000-08:00

Living Arts will be opening its very first Latin American dance class taught by Ms Sharon, a world class instructor in this genre of dance. Her students in the Philippines have won competitions through her training. Her class will start this Friday, November 7th at 7.30-8.30pm. So contact us for more enquiries or just come right over for a trial class!

RSPCA-KL Tower World Animal Day

2008-10-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

Students from Living Arts will be performing for this event this Sunday, November 2nd in support of World Animal Day. Performance times are as follows:

Capoeira
@
2.15pm & 3.15pm

Dance (Hip Hop, Contemporary, Lyrical)
@
3.30pm

So do come and support this event! It's for a good cause!

We are taking it up a notch...

2008-10-24T11:11:00.000-07:00

Prepping for the Annual Student Showcase 2008

2008-10-21T20:58:00.000-07:00

Ah... the sight of stinky socks...

Things have been pretty happening around Living Arts lately what with the Annual Student Showcase looming in the horizon... The dance studio has been literally open every single day - yes - including Sundays! Do I hear gasps of horror?

Looks pretty but it's pure torture!

But I digress. Rehearsals have been pretty intensive. Sorry, make that VERY intensive courtesy of our T.C (short for Torture Chief, Torture Chamber or Teresa Chian). Believe me she's extremely proud of it. I swear the dance floor has never been more sweat covered.

Would believe this woman with the sweet

smile is THE Torture Chief?

We welcomed Chi Ling into our dance family about a month ago. She is the latest addition to the seasoned beginners class! And boy, is she gung ho about doing everything! In her first lesson she was willing to do all the stunts that go upside down! Most people are usually scared stiff!

Daring Newbie: Chi Ling being flipped over by Jane

Believe it or not but she even managed to do a handstand on the second lesson with no former experience. She's either really disgusting or just plain talented. I think we dancers can take a leaf out of her book when it comes to being commited to a move.

Seduction: Liang and Grace being in the moment.
Doesn't it look like something out of a movie?

The contemporary dance gang has been working on their own choreographed pieces based on the themes of seduction and fight. They're really interesting to watch as the choreography is their own interpretation of the themes. Some of the pieces are really, really entertaining to watch.

The three muses: Jill, Rachel and Amy in their seduction routine

The best part about the rehearsals is watching everybody working together to make this a great show! Some of the students do feel a little nervous as this will be the first time they will be performing on-stage in front of a large audience. But hey, that's what rehearsing is for right?

Chi Ling, Jane and Yen rehearsing their routine.

Even though you can hear gripes and groans at the thought of sitting in a split for 3 minutes or more, or even stepping up and down on a plastic chair for 3 whole minutes non-stop, the students still come back for more, even though their bodies are aching like heck! Dancers are really suckers for punishment aren't they?

We love it though....

Capoeira Workshop

2008-09-29T01:28:00.001-07:00

If any of you attended the Capoeira workshop held at Living Arts last Saturday, you'll begin to understand why the Brazillian martial art is gaining popularity in Malaysia. Good looking, well-muscled male instructors aside, the culture and moves for Capoeira itself is very, very cool, especially the acrobatic sequences.

Elly and Alif: The two youngest participants of the workshop.

We had an awesome turn out of 22 people who participated in the workshop with boundless enthusiasm. The air in the studio was buzzing with excitement and anticipation of what was going to be taught in the workshop. What was amazing was that we had participants from all walks of life attending the workshop from pre-teens to adults.

Instructor Quek demonstrating a move with the help

of Terry, Living Arts' resident Capoeira expert.

Living Arts was fortunate to have Instructor Quek, from the Bantus Capoeira Group in Damansara Jaya, run the first hour of the workshop. To top it off we had Graduado Rafael, from Brazil itself, grace the studio and the students with his vast knowledge and supreme skill of the art form.

Cool back walkover: Syafiq showing his skills

Each instructor focused on different aspects of Capoeira in each session. Instructor Quek brought the ‘wow’ factor to his session by teaching people the cool acrobatic stunts that only caporistas know how to execute so effortlessly, thereby leaving participants and one observer (me) alike with their jaws hanging open, and eyes round with amazement.

Graduado Rafael: What is wrong with this move?

Participants of the workshop should be able to answer the question.

Graduado Rafael, on the other hand, touched on the more technical aspects of Capoeira. Even the most basic of moves, the 'jinga', was broken down. The participants were shown the correct way to position their hands – higher up to protect their faces instead of their chests – while executing the Jinga. He was the epitome of Capoeira coolness with his dread-locks and impressive array of tattoos.

Aik Hong assisting a participant for one

of the acrobatic stunts.

After the workshop, participants were invited to join an hour-long ‘roda’ with the two guest instructors. As ‘rodas’ go, it was lively and fun. The ‘Buka Puasa’ feast started right after the ‘roda’ was done, which, was good and well-timed because the participants were starving after three long hours of physical activity. But you could see that they all enjoyed themselves because of the glow in their faces.

To view more photos for this event do visit the Capoeira Workshop 2008 Album at Photobucket.

New classes! Theatre, anyone?

2008-09-12T10:29:00.000-07:00

THEATRE-CURIOUS?
THEATRE-SERIOUS?
CAN'T DECIDE?
There's something for everyone!

Come join our workshops with The Oral Stage Theatre Company

at Living Arts Dance Studio in Sunway Mentari!

SWS100: Play!
Duration: 2 hours per session
Time: Every Saturday, 2.00 – 4.00 pm
Commencement date: September 20th onwards
Rate: RM30/session
One-time registration fee: RM20
Class size: Max 20 per session, ages 16+
PLAY! is a fun-packed, non-stop session of games and exercises for you to let it out, sweat it out, meet new people, and perhaps discover a thing or two about the theatre. Recommended for the theatre-curious.

SWA101: Acting for Beginners
Prerequisite: None
Duration: 10 sessions for 10 weeks; 2½ hours per session
Time: Saturdays @ 11.00 – 1.30 pm
Commencement date: 27th September 2008
Rate: RM320; Get a 10% early bird discount before September 14th!
One-time registration fee: RM20
Class size: Max 20 per module, ages 16+
Facilitator: Kelvin Wong
ACTING FOR BEGINNERS is an introductory course to stage acting. Actors will discover the craft through games and exercises in a fun and focused environment, alongside introductions to improvisation, movement and characterization. This course will wrap up with a mini performance for the public. Recommended for those who are serious about stage acting, but haven't the experience just yet.

SWA111: Introduction to Public Speaking
Prerequisite: None
Duration: 10 sessions for 10 weeks; 2½ hours per session
Time: Mondays @ 8.30 – 10.00 pm
Commencement date: 22nd September 2008
Rate: RM320; Get a 10% early bird discount before September 14th!
One-time registration fee: RM20
Class size: Max 12 per module, ages 16+
Facilitators: Diane Goon

INTRODUCTION TO PUBLIC SPEAKING puts participants in the spotlight in a safe and encouraging environment where they discover techniques to effectively convey themselves in public – whether is it a speech, presentation, or a monologue. Participants will also hone skills to the proper and clear enunciation of words, at the same time improve on their visual-verbal accuracy. This course will wrap up with a mini performance for the public. Recommended for those with glossophobia – the fear of speaking in public.

SWA201: Improvisation for Actors I
Prerequisite: SWA101 or considerable experience in acting
Duration: 10 sessions for 10 weeks; 2½ hours per session
Time: Tuesdays @ 7.30 – 10.00 pm
Commencement date: 23rd September 2008
Rate: RM350; Get a 10% early bird discount before September 14th!
One-time registration fee: RM20
Class size: Max 15 per module, ages 18+
Facilitator: Kelvin Wong

IMPROVISATION FOR ACTORS focuses on narrative improvisation, where actors will explore a range of techniques in creating effective scenes on the spot, both individually and as a team. Actors will also experiment with various ideas and out-of-the-box concepts for performance on stage. This course will wrap up with a mini interactive performance for the public. Recommended for those who would like to sharpen their skills in stage acting, particularly devised and/or improvisational theatre.

SWA211: Audition!
Prerequisite: None
Duration: 10 sessions for 10 weeks; 2½ hours per session
Time: Sundays @ 2.00 – 4.30 pm
Commencement date: 28th September 2008
Rate: RM350; Get a 10% early bird discount before September 14th!
One-time registration fee: RM20
Class size: Max 12 per module, ages 18+
Facilitator: Johann Lim

AUDITION! explores the processes and techniques behind auditions for various creative industries such as TV, commercials, voice and the stage. Participants will be put in safe, interactive, mock audition environments where they can effectively hone the skills to increase their chances at landing the jobs they want.

SWD101: I. M.
Prerequisite: None
Duration: 10 sessions for 10 weeks; 2½ hours per session
Time: Thursdays @ 8.00 – 10.30 pm
Commencement date: 25th September 2008
Rate: RM400; Get a 10% early bird discount before September 14th!
One-time registration fee: RM20
Class size: Max 10 per module, ages 18+
Facilitator: Kelvin Wong

I. M. is a psychodrama module designed for participants to regain self-awareness in a fun, safe, and conducive environment. Using a variety of theatre games and exercises, this module encourages participants to reflect, emote and introspect, leading towards self and group development. This module will close with a mini performance for the public.
*Note that while this psychodrama module strives to be therapeutic, it is NOT to be confused with therapy in any sense.

About the Facilitators

Kelvin Wong got his first taste of theatre in 2004 in Sunway University-College's production of Tony Kushner's THE ILLUSION, directed by Rey Buono. Shortly after, he founded The Oral Stage Theatre Company and has since written and directed EIGHT (2005), ROJAK! (2006), FIFTYNINEMINUTES (2006) and SCREWED (2007). Also in 2007, he directed his first full-length feature, a reprise of Tony Kushner's THE ILLUSION – he also directed Paula Vogel's HOW I LEARNED TO DRIVE (2008) shortly after. Kelvin made his directing and performing debut in Singapore's Celebrate Drama! festival with MATCH (2008), his first foray into physical theatre. He was cast in Samuel Beckett's ENDGAME (2006) directed by Gavin Yap, THE BREAKFAST CLUB (2007) directed by André D'Cruz, BANNED! (2007) with Anne James and 8 WAYS TO LIGHTEN THE SCHOOL BAG (2008), directed by Mark Beau de Silva. Kelvin also teaches drama at secondary schools, and will direct the Kuala Lumpur Children's Choir come end 2008. Kelvin is a psychology graduate, and looks forward to continuing his postgraduate studies in theatre.

Johann Lim got involved with the performing arts later than most - having started with Joe Hasham's Acting for Beginners classes in 2006. That started the ball rolling - since then, he has picked up BROKEN BRIDGES THE MUSICAL (2006), directed by Joe Hasham; FIFTYNINEMINUTES (2006), with Kelvin Wong; AH STEVE (2007), directed by Faridah Merican; TARI CANGGUNG HAMIDAH (2007), with Ibrahim Razale; TUNKU THE MUSICAL (2007), directed by Joe Hasham; ROSE ROSE I LOVE YOU (2007), with Low Ngai Yuen; and HOW I LEARNED TO DRIVE (2008), directed by Kelvin Wong. He also performs for television and made his debut as a director and a playwright in UNCUT UNTITLED PAPER HOUSE (2008). Johann has a Masters in Software Engineering, is a budding entrepreneur and is very passionate about performing and writing.

Diane Goon's involvement with the performing arts began with a passion for music at a very young age. Initially trained with the piano, she found her true love for the cello at fourteen, which she picked up only seven years later, under the tutelage of cellist Jonathan Golove. Diane is a psychology graduate from University at Buffalo (UB), State University of New York (SUNY) – there, she performed with the UB choir under the baton of world-renowned choir conductor, Prof. Harold Rosenbaum. In addition to UB, Diane has also performed at The Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM; under the baton of Michael Christie), The General Assembly of the UN, and Radio City Music Hall (under the baton of Ennio Morricone) in New York. Upon returning to Malaysia, her cello instructor, Jonathan Oh guided her to performing with an 18-piece orchestra for TUNKU THE MUSICAL (2007) at The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPac). Following the remarkable experience, she then played for ROSE ROSE I LOVE YOU THE MUSICAL (2007) with a 9-piece band, GREAT THEMES FROM FILM & STAGE (2007) with the KLPac Sinfonietta, and The EUROPA AWARDS (2007) with the AMPAC Orchestra. In 2008, she played for THE SPRING FESTIVAL and The HSBC PIANO FESTIVAL, again, with the KLPac Sinfonietta. Diane's love for theatre sparked upon joining The Oral Stage's creative crew for HOW I LEARNED TO DRIVE (2008) as costume designer.

Get 25% off the rates of subsequent modules when you sign up for more then one class!

One-on-one classes also available.
Got a group of interested people elsewhere? Our facilitators will come to you!
Ask us how today!

Inquiries? Questions? Registration?
Email us at stageworks@theoralstage.com or
contact Charmayne at 016-3280010 or Jeremy at 017-6695617

A joint collaboration between The Oral Stage and Living Arts Dance Studio.
3rd Floor, 1 – 3, Jalan PJS 8/11,
Dataran Mentari Sunway, 46150 Petaling Jaya.

http://living-arts.blogspot.com/
http://theoralstage.com/

Or look us up on Facebook!

'Match' in Singapore

2008-08-19T17:16:00.000-07:00

The cast of Match: (Clockwise from bottom left) Diane, Kelvin, Erin,

Teresa, Erica, Nicholas Jeremy and Johann.

Woohoo! Talk about an eventful trip to Singapore. Let me begin at the beginning.

We arrived at Singapore by train at an ungodly hour and went straight to The Arts House where we were going to do a full run and get used to the space. The run was awesome even though the play den was frigging darn cold! However, because of a miscommunication, Teresa and Kelvin had to rework some of the more adult scenes to suit audiences aged thirteen. We were a bit shaken and worried at first but later took it all in stride and had a great opening night performance.

(From left to right) Our beloved SM, Diane, Director, Kelvin and

Teresa having a discussion.

This goes to show that doing performances can be a bit tricky at times. If you're lucky, you need only worry about adapting to the performance space. If you're unlucky, you might have to change up the choreography at the last minute. Needless to say, the audience loved our piece.

On Saturday, we were free to do as we pleased so everyone pretty much did their own thing. We did meet up with the organizers that night for a drink and a chat, though. They're very savvy about the performing arts scene in Malaysia and they're great fun to talk to.

Sunday was our last show. We had a group discussion, if you will, before we went out to perform for the last time. The amazing thing I noticed is that when you perform and work a a team, the bonds that are established go much deeper than just friendship. There is respect and trust as well and you will notice that somehow everyone has grown together as a group.

That's the power of theatre, of performing together in an ensemble and working together as a group.

The power of teamwork: Acro-yoga anyone?

Lyrical Jazz & Hip Hop

2008-08-12T20:24:00.000-07:00

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

2008-08-12T20:18:00.000-07:00

Living Arts

Frequently Asked Questions

A guide for absolute beginners & dance enthusiasts

HOW DO I KNOW WHICH DANCE STYLE IS RIGHT FOR ME?

It is a little difficult to tell you immediately which style is more suitable. We need to get to know you a little better as a person before we can make a correct assessment. However, the best thing for you to do is to try out different styles for yourself and figure out what you enjoy. Living Arts lets you come for free trial lessons to help you come to a decision. Also, here is a guide to the different types of dance classes that are available:

HIP HOP

What is Hip Hop?

Hip hop by its widest definition, can include a wide arrange of styles such as breaking, popping, locking and krumping, and even house dance. If you ever hear hip hop tracks on the radio and always feel like getting up to dance to the music but don’t know how, then this class is for you!

What will I learn?

Body coordination and isolation

To discover your own unique flair in this style

Adopt the more aggressive side of your personality

Good channel for showing your attitude

Who should learn?

Teenagers and young adults

When is it?

Monday at 7.30 - 8.30pm

Wednesday at 8.30 - 9.30pm

What do I wear?

Ø A comfortable shirt

Ø Pants that allows you to move freely

Ø Jazz Sneakers/Dance shoes (available at Living Arts)

How much are the fees?

RM300.00 on a per term basis (1 term = 3 months)

STREET JAM

What is Street Jam?

Looking for a class where you won’t just learn one style of dance? Then the street jam class is for you. Over the term, you will learn a new style of dance every month! You will learn every style from hip hop to salsa to line dancing to Latin dance to contemporary to lyrical and jazz dances!

What will I learn?

Have a fun time being exposed to different types of dance.

Totally heightened body coordination as you transit from one type of dance to another

Build your stamina and boost your cardiovascular strength

Fun way to socialize

Who should learn?

Children to teenagers to college students

What do I wear?

Ø A comfortable & fitting top

Ø Jazz/Dancing pants

Ø Jazz sneakers/Dance shoes

When is it?

Saturday at 1.30 - 2.30pm

How much are the fees?

RM80.00 per month for 4 consecutive classes.

CONTEMPORARY DANCE

What is Contemporary Dance?

If you’ve watched So You Think You Can Dance, you will have an idea how Contemporary Dance looks like. If you don’t then…Contemporary Dance is a free form of dance where dancers will acquire a very versatile technique. You are given the chance to express yourself through swinging, kicking, rolling, jumping, sliding and movement exploration games. There are no rules!

What will I learn?

Burn lots of calories!

Increase your flexibility

Fix your body alignment

To increase your stamina and strength as a dancer

Who should learn?

Teens and adults of age

What do I wear?

Ø Soft ballet shoes/socks

Ø Ballet Leotard

Ø Baby Tee/Fitting Top

Ø Jazz/Dance pants

When is it?

Wednesday at 7.00 - 8.30pm

Thursday at 8.00 - 9.30pm

How much is it?

RM300.00 on a per term basis (1 term = 3 months)

LYRICAL DANCE

What is Lyrical Dance?

Lyrical dance is a fusion of ballet and jazz dance techniques. Lyrical dance challenges dancers to find the meaning and emotion of the music through dancing. This dance style also allows you to tell a story using dance.

What will I learn?

To express your emotions in movement

Boost your confidence and enhance your self-image

To put meaning to music using dance and movement

Challenge the body to be versatile in both technique and emotion

Who should learn?

Teenagers and adults with a little bit of a dance background in ballet or rhythmic gymnastics, jazz, salsa, etc…

What do I wear?

Ø Ballet Leotards

Ø Jazz pants

Ø Baby Tee/Fitting Top

Ø Jazz/ballet soft shoes

(Available at Living Arts)

When is it?

Monday 8.30 - 9.30pm.

How much are the fees?

RM300.00 on a per term basis (1 term = 3 months)

CAPOEIRA

What is Capoeira?

Capoeira is a unique Brazilian art form which combines elements of Dance Music, Martial Arts and Culture. Learning to play Capoeira is both challenging and fun. It is a great way to meet people by doing something energetic AND culturally enriching!

What will I learn?

Gain endurance, flexibility, agility and strength in your overall fitness

Learn how to sing in Portuguese and play traditional musical instruments.

Improve your overall body coordination.

Who should learn?

Anybody looking for a challenge and is curious about the Brazilian culture

What do I wear?

Ø T-shirt

Ø Comfortable/stretchable pants

Ø No footwear required

When is it?

Wednesday at 8.00 - 9.15pm

Friday at 8.00 - 9.15pm

How much are the fees?

There are 2 payment options for Capoeira.

Option 1: RM120.00 for 1 month of UNLIMITED classes.

Option 2: RM80.00 for 1 month of 4 consecutive classes.

BELLY DANCING

What is Belly Dancing?

Belly dancing has been termed exotic, sensual and beautiful and is one of the oldest social dances. It is known to be less strenuous on the body and definitely more entertaining compared with lifting weights or sitting on a bike.

What will I learn?

To strengthen your core muscle

Increase flexibility

Build leg and arm strength

Burn as many calories as jogging and have fun while doing it

Who should learn?

Teens to senior adults who want to embrace their inner Goddess

What do I wear?

Ø Fitting top

Ø Long/flowy skirt

Ø Scarf with beads

Ø No footwear required

When is it?

Thursday 7.00 - 8.00pm

Saturday 4.30 - 5.30pm

How much are the fees?

RM120.00 per month for 4 consecutive lessons

YOGA

Vinyasa Yoga. Partner Yoga. Acro Yoga.

What is Yoga?

Yoga is allowing practice that links various physical postures as well as breathing and meditation techniques to integrate the body, mind and breath. Yoga can provide relief from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Think of yoga as a natural chill pill, free of side effects.

CAUTION: Do not eat heavy food 2 hours before class. Do not wear jewellery during the class. Please NOTIFY the teacher if you have any health conditions and PLEASE switch off your hand phones.

What will I learn?

To coordinate breathing with movements to keep the body energised

To restore your core strength, balance & mindfulness

To balance the masculine and feminine energy in each individual

To be able to use the exercises as a tool to guide and heal your everyday life

To link physical postures, breathing and meditation techniques to integrate the body mind and breathe.

Who should learn?

12 year olds to adults

What do I wear?

Ø Fitting tops that are sweat absorbent

Ø Comfortable pants

Ø No footwear required

When is it?

Monday 7.00 - 8.00pm

Thursday 7.00 - 8.00pm

Friday 7.00 - 8.00pm and 8.00 - 9.00pm

Saturday 3.00 - 4.00pm

How much are the fees?

Living Arts offers two packages for yoga.

Package 1: 2 months of UNLIMITED yoga classes @ RM188

Package 2: 1 month of 5 consecutive yoga classes @ RM100

Do I have to buy a yoga mat?

For hygiene purposes, students are advised to bring or buy your own yoga mats from Living Arts. Yoga mats are priced at RM60 - RM80 and it comes with a cool carry bag!

Glimpses of our Match

2008-08-03T21:14:00.000-07:00

Match is a new physical theatre directed by Kelvin Wong. I was asked to choreograph and hence, you may see various techniques & styles injected into the production - Contemporary dance, Jazz dance, Modern dance, Capoeira, Partner Yoga & Acro Yoga. Bravo to the team members to immediately adopted the "funky" moves (with a pinch of salt) into their previously untrained bodies.

More funky pics by Nicholas at http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=50316&id=597235745. Let me know if the pics are unavailable to you. Or you can add me on facebook.

Several important thoughts that transpired during rehearsals last week:

1) Breathe - makes the movement flow easier, bigger & fuller in space. Also makes a person livelier and more engaging to watch.

2) Strong Core - this is the toughest yet most important element when dealing with physical movements. exerting movements from the core enables you to move effortlessly. most people move mindlessly by, in my own terms - "flailling their limbs". you may look clumsy & unconfident. movements seem unfinished & minute. forget 200 sit-ups a day, just do your breath of fire in a stretch pose.

3) Warm spine - our spine is known as our 2nd brain. it carries memories, past & present experiences. once the spine is warmed-up sufficiently, you will know which move comes next, instinctively. And be less prone to back injuiries.

4) Friends with the floor - falling & landing is unavoidable. this means protect your joints when coming in contact with the floor. knees & elbows. wrists & ankles. head & necks.

These notes can be a point of reference to all aspiring dancers & performing artists. Thanks for reading!

A NEW DAWN

2008-07-31T21:47:00.000-07:00

True to the title, a new dawn has arrived. After more than 6 months of attracting and communicating with the universe, I finally found what I am looking for. And it came in a compact & bubbly package. Read the post below to find out what the "£%*%@" am talking about.

Well, today’s the day I officially start interning with the Living Arts dance studio. I’m pretty excited about the whole thing and am out to give it my best shot. I am a final year student completing my Diploma of Performing Arts and in order to attain it I need to do a three month internship with any company involved in the performing arts industry. I chose to do this internship because Teresa has really inspired my passion for dance and I feel that I will be learning a lot of things that attain to my personal growth and development.

I really like the Living Arts approach to movement and dance. Over the years of joining dance studio after dance studio, it hasn’t been easy finding one that doesn’t just spoon-feed choreography to you but also allow you to explore dance movements for yourself and just be plain creative with it. Despite the fact that we are sometimes subjected to Spartan training, we also have a lot of fun in classes and we get to play games that allow us the freedom of movement.

What I really hope to achieve from this internship is to know the dance industry more intimately and where it stands in the performing arts industry. Living Arts is actively involved in the world of performance and theatre so I will be able to get glimpses of this. I also hope to attain a growing sense of responsibility, efficiency and confidence through this internship. As it is, I am already being challenged even during my pre-internship period as I slowly learn the ropes of administrating a dance studio and assimilate with its systems. Submitted by, Erica Tham.

Welcome Erica! My angels & I are quietly celebrating this moment as we embrace you into our family. Namaste = "I bow to the divinity in you, as I see in myself".

Picking up the pieces, one by one...

2008-07-12T10:29:00.000-07:00

The fastest way to communicate what I've been really, really busy with is through pictures. I hope to get around uploading pics real soon. It has been a wonderful 2008 so far, with opportunities to perform, to teach and to travel. Am blessed to be able to attract what I want. Once again, I am humble by the power of nature and the divine presence surrounding me.

Admittedly, I may have neglected my family, my bf and my dogs but I do treasure the few minutes I have with them. I am grateful for all that I am, all that I have, all that I (can) do.

Terry & I took EIGHT days off to Macau/Hong Kong to attend the Asia Yoga Conference 2008 in Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai.

Those of you who have been to HK will know that Wan Chai and Tsim Sha Tsui (Terry pronouns this as Tim Sar Jui) isn't exactly the place to stay for backpackers like us. So we travelled to Yau Ma Tei (Terry = Yamateh) to stay in a cosy, clean, decent place called The Salvation Army Booth Lodge. For RM207 per nite, we were given clean bed & buffet-style breakfast. Not a bad deal eh?

While we were, we met up with this cool capoeira dude, Indio from Group Axe. We became instant friends, he was such a chill pill, all except when he was teaching class. We attended a class in Pure Fitness gym. In 1 hour, he action-packed everyone with warm-up, duo trainings, kick-boxing, group roda & makulele. Fuyoh, I hardly had time to breathe. He introduced us to coco de roda, cool dance moves. Thanks, Indio, Wilson & Alex.

As I am writing this, I am still in a musical production called No Limits. Which reminds me, I need to get some sleep, soon. Come back for more drama!

Right after this, I will be roped in as a female fighter/capoeirista in a low-budget reel made for fun & a physical theatre production which will be staged in Singapore, August 08! One step at a time, sunshine!

Yoga Trance Dance

2008-05-12T23:46:00.000-07:00

this is not a typical dance or yoga workshop. this workshop is geared towards personal healing & empowerment.

Due to popular demand, we are back with another Yoga Trance Dance workshop. Come dance the evening away with LIVE percussion music and reconnect yourselves with the universe!

Yoga Trance Dance is designed as a means to HEAL from WITHIN, to EXPLORE, and come face to face with your FEELINGS and EMOTIONS. We Dance to Reinvent ourselves, we Dance to discard Fears and move into the Creation of Dreams, we Dance to Celebrate LIFE!!! This is an organic process, the place of creation, the laboratory of the self.

Workshop admission by min donation of RM20 per person

3 - 4pm Mini Holistic Session

4 - 6pm Yoga Trance Dance (all reading will stop)

6 - 7pm Mini Holistic Session

Our healers & lightworkers will charge a minimal fee of RM20 per reading. These 2 sessions are for those who wants a little help in re-discovering their life path & gain insight on their current path. Courtesy of Angel Cast'er. For more details, visit http://www.angelcaster.com/

Cornelius Chan - Aura soma reading- Using color as a tool to self-discovery and healing.

Jin Yap & Charmaine Lian - Angel Card reading- get guidance about your life with the help of your guardian angels.

Manjeet - EFT- release any discomfort, pain, fear or stress by just tapping your meridian points.

World Fairy Festival 2008

2008-04-18T11:10:00.000-07:00

Isn't this picture pretty?

Just a quick update on my latest activities. I have been invited to conduct a dance workshop at this festival. Not your regular dose of follow-me-turn-left-turn-right-5 6 7 8 - again, but something creative that connects a group of people. So here is what I came up with after some researching and some soul-searching:

YOGA TRANCE DANCE – Healing in Motion
By 3sa

From the beginnings of recorded history we find evidence of dance. It seems that our original relationship to dancing was for the purpose of worship and healing. In this ancient time our ancestors viewed nature and all of its elements as an expression of God. To duplicate or mimic nature through movement and sounds was their first and highest way to connect with spirit, and was the origin of dance.

Yoga Trance Dance is a vehicle to heal from within, to explore, and come face to face with your feelings and emotions. And allow your movement to become the Connection with the Self. We Dance to Reinvent ourselves, we Dance to discard Fears and move into the Creation of Dreams, we Dance to Celebrate LIFE!!!

This is an organic process, the place of creation, the laboratory of the self. You may experience total chaos where everything is disorganized, and the higher wisdom of the body knows exactly where to go and what to do. In that chaos, there is peace and silence. Everything slows down, you feel your breath and sweat pours down your body, the music guides you to experience the moment. You move to peace and enjoy a deep connection with the Divine.

Yoga Trance Dance will be conducted on Sunday, May 4th at 5 - 6pm.
For details, click on the title of this post!
Much love, 3sa

NEW PROMOTIONS

2008-03-10T22:00:00.000-07:00

Since the beginning of 2008, we have been approached by people who intent to: Lose Weight, Slim Down and Trim up. So, we are introducing TWO new packages.

1) Energiser package
Unlimited yoga class, Contemporary Dance, Capoeira
Normal Price RM350. Now at RM230 only.

2) Restorative package
Unlimited yoga class , Belly Dance, Street Jam
Normal Price RM370. Now at RM230 only.

This TWO packages work for those who: Want to lose weight, manage stress level, re-activate social life, re-claim sense of balance & focus.
Yes, it is possible and you can do it with a bit of help.

If you Buy any of the above package for 3 months, you will Get 1 month FREE!

PLUS! You will be pampered with Honey Wheatgrass after each session!
This is an organic and vegetarian product marketed by Easy Pha-max. Some of its functions:

1) Improves acidic constitution
(good for those who eat outside food everyday)
2) Reduces body heat
(good for after dancing or during hangover)
3) Purifies toxin, prevent cancer
(good for those who sleep irregular hours or not at all)
4) Provides nutrients needed by the body
(good for those who don't eat vitamins)
5) Reduces blood cholesterol, prevents cardiovascular disease
(good for those who likes snacking on spicy, fried & oily food)

Please contact Teresa at 017 330 7244 for information on schedule.

Contemporary & Lyrical D. Pictures

2008-03-09T09:42:00.000-07:00

What dancers do on a regular Sunday

2008-03-09T07:08:00.000-07:00

A glimpse into Contemporary & Lyrical Dance Workshop

2008-02-24T22:28:00.001-08:00

Rehearsal videos of Wild Horses

Rehearsal videos of Phenomenal Women

Group picture taken after the workshop. Sweaty but smiley!
more to come...

Capoeira in demand

2008-02-24T22:28:00.000-08:00

Capoeira has been gaining popularity in recent times. As such we are even featured in The Star (click on title to go to link) and New Straits Times. Yay!

We are stepping up our efforts to introduce Capoeira to the residents of Sunway and Subang Jaya by having regular Rodas (pronounced 'Hoo-da') within the vicinity of Living Arts. Look out for our performances at 10pm on Friday nights in Dataran Mentari, just in front of the Perodua Showroom below the studio.

Join our on-going classes: Wednesday and Friday at 8.00pm - 9.15pm.

Drop by for a FREE trial class today!
For more details call Terry @ 012 328 6730

Workshops to satisfy the itch in your feet!

2008-01-28T07:58:00.000-08:00

Contemporary & Lyrical Dance Workshop
Everybody Can Do It

date : February 23, Saturday
time : 4.00pm - 8.00pm
venue : Living Arts Dance Studio
fee : RM50 (LA students) / RM60 (outsiders)

This is an open workshop jointly conducted by Teresa and Yen Shan. Open for anyone who has acquired some form of dance experience.

In 4 hours, you will learn the necessary techniques to move confidently on a dance floor. At the end of the workshop, you will perform a simple choreography combining both styles. Be inspired to express your souls with our creative teachers.

special feature!
Mini Showcase at 8.00 - 8.30pm. Parents, friends, and dance enthusiasts are invited! Light refreshments will be provided after the mini showcase.

Limited to only 30 students.
Please email, sms or call Teresa at 017 330 7244 to secure your place today.

***

Hafla – Middle Eastern Medley
A Belly Dancing Event For Women Only. Visit http://elwardadance.blogspot.com

date : March 8, Saturday *Please note the change of date to March 15.
time : 8.00pm - 11.00pm
venue : Living Arts Dance Studio
Tickets : RM65
Early bird price (before 15th Feb): RM45

A hafla in celebration of women – ‘Middle Eastern Medley’ will feature performances from instructors Naziehah, Huda, guest artists and students. Various Middle Eastern delicacies will be served buffet-style.

There will be bazaars lining up choices of eclectic and genuine hand-made and home-made goodies. Henna art and make-over by make-up artist to indulge all your feminine desires! Besides dance performances, we will also have:

Other special treats:
1. FREE Henna art
2. Goodie bags
3. Lucky draws
4. ‘Hip’ Games! And many more...

Get your tickets now by e-mailing elwardadance@gmail.com with your name, contact details and no. of tickets. Payment methods are via direct bank-in, Maybank2U, or cash directly to Naziehah. For more information, please e-mail or call Naziehah at 012-9250902.

Are you ready for 2008?

2008-01-01T23:08:00.000-08:00

New Year, New Beginnings
Party with a difference. There is a first for everything.

We are celebrating a good start to a new beginning by declaring them. Here are the details:

Date: 13 JANUARY 2008 (Sunday)

Time: 8.00pm onwards

Venue: Living Arts Dance Studio

Food: Potluck style. Bring food that inspires a new beginning. No junks or greasy fast food. You can never go wrong with homemade food cooked with love. (Bring enough for 10-15 pax)

Drink: There will be Wheatgrass Honey & 100 plus & Lots of H2O (no alcohol)

Activities: Sing, Dance, Play Games.

Prepare EITHER a short song, a short dance, a short poem/poetry, a short mime act, a short speech. Your presentation should tell us something about the 'new' you. Can be your new year resolutions, new intentions, new actions, new goals. You can make it original/improvised/copy from somewhere. 100% participation.

Now here is the most important bit, Admission is FREE!

Do inform me 3 days advance if:
1) You plan to bring friends
2) You know what food to bring
3) You DON'T know what food to bring

Let's come together and have a good time! Call/sms to confirm attendance
Amylin 012 676 0663 or Teresa 017 330 7244

Into Two Thousand Eight, 2008

2007-12-22T22:00:00.000-08:00

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IS IT TOO EARLY TO SAY?
I know of many people who would wish for everything new and different because they genuinely want a HAPPY-new-year. But only a few, I dare say, would envision the "new and different" and make necessary changes to make it happen.

I too dream about the "new and different". And I cannot help but retrace my footsteps. Where I have been, What I have done, Who I have been. Here are some snippets and an outline of what we have accomplished throughout our first year. Yes, we are only one year old!

January - Perform for Orientation Night at Taylor's College, PJ & Interviewed by The Star Newspaper

February - Conduct Contemporary Dance workshop at Taylor's College, PJ & Organise Astrology and Feng Shui Talk at LA

March - 1st Public Performance at Asia Cafe & Organise Dance & Capoeira Workshop at LA & Conduct Contemporary Dance Workshop at Sunway University College & Sponsor for Lex Star Bride Night at Summit Hotel, Subang & Malcolm's birthday celebration

April - Provide professional grooming, catwalk and showmanship training for 9 talents in 360 Degrees Beauty Contest, Organise Dance Masterclass by Normann & friends from USA

May - Conduct Holiday Camp at LA & Conduct Dance Workshop at Girl Power Camp in Sunway University College & 2nd Public Performance at Asia Cafe & Interviewed by The Star Newspaper

June - Visit Singapore Arts Festival, Judge for Steal the Limelight, Charity Dance Talent Search at UM & Perform for Sukan Wanita at Stadium Putra

July - Perform for Rotary Club of Kelana Jaya's Installation at Bukit Equesterian & Participate in Tari '07 at ASWARA

August - Participate in the Awakening Global Action in Bali & Conduct Contemporary Dance Workshop in Dance Vogue, Ipoh

September - Perform for the 7th Annual Concert of The Music Professionals at Securities Commission & Perform for Tadika Chee Oi's Biennial Concert at Internationl Youth Center, Bandar Tun Razak & Perform for MCA's Pesta Tanglung Annual Mooncake Festival Celebration in Sunway & Woan Sheu birthday celebration & Judge Talentime Competition at Monash University & Conduct Little Dancer Children Program workshops

October - Perform for Rotary Club's Joint Conference at Sheraton, Subang & Zen's birthday celebration & Interviewed by Nuyou Magazine

November - Organise Living Arts' 1st Anniversary Charity Dance Concert (PATCH) & Perform for HerbaLife at Putrajaya International Convention Centre

December - Conduct Belly Dancing Workshop at LA & Conduct Animal Musical Party at The Music Professionals Academy, Kota D'sara & Public roda (capoeira) at Sunway Pyramid, New entrance & Judge Talentime Competition at Melia Hotel & Organise Wine Appreciation Night for PATCH volunteers at Divino Bistro

Other activities to be conducted by Living Arts:
1) Dance Teacher Intensive Training Course Jan - April 2008
2) Conduct Dance lessons at Sri KDU
3) Charity performances at various venues
4) NEW INTAKE: Capoeira, Contemporary Dance, Hip Hop, Belly Dance, Gymnastics, Little Dancer Children Program

Ever wonder if you can Belly Dance?

2007-11-22T08:13:00.000-08:00

Calling all women, regardless of your size and age.

Come and experience for yourself.

Belly dance feels and looks natural for you.

Belly Dance Workshop (mix-levels)

Date: December 15, 2007 (saturday)

Time: 6.00 - 9.00pm (3 hours)

Venue: Living Arts Dance Studio

Dress code: Workout attire/ fitting blouse + long skirt

Fee: RM99 only (plus refreshments)

According to Instructor Naziehah...

What is this?

... You will learn basic belly dancing moves and techniques. How to relax your body and let go of your stress through the graceful movements. Expect to learn great new things about yourself. Be amazed at all wonderful movements that you can do with your body!

Who is this for?

1. People with no dance background

2. People with some experience & has attended a few classes

3. People who wants to learn new ways of exercising

4. People who wants to add belly dancing moves to their portfolios

5. People who just want to have fun shaking and grooving to ethnic music

To register, please contact Teresa at 017 330 7244

Charity Dance Concert PATCH raised more than Seven Thousand Ringgit

2007-11-19T07:40:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday 11.11. was the day we have been waiting for. We have aimed to win the audiences' hearts with our dance skills and flashy smiles in order to raise RM10, 000 for Patrick and Thaneswaran, both suffering from cerebral palsy.

Total collection received before, during and after PATCH is now at RM7, 400. We are still receiving donations from everywhere.

A heartfelt "Thank You" to all performers, volunteers, emcees, donors, sponsors, teachers, and my PATCH team. Thank you for including PATCH in your valuable Sunday. Our voices were heard, our footsteps were printed, our passion were felt. I believe in the Power of Being One. If you can create this in PATCH, you can go out and re-create this experience in your own life.

Special thanks to T3rry, who had unselfishly held the fort for me throughout PATCH. Stay tune for pictures!

Announcement for NEW dance classes

2007-11-18T23:44:00.000-08:00

NEW INTAKE FOR DANCE CLASSES
FEES RM300/3 month/12 lessons

Hip Hop (new beginner + teens)
Dec 3rd, Monday at 7.30 - 8.30pm

Jazz Funk (mix-levels)
Dec 3rd, Monday at 8.30 - 9.30pm

Contemporary Dance (little or no experience)
Dec 5th, Wednesday 7.30 - 8.30pm

Contemporary Dance (with some experience)
Dec 6th, Thursday 8.30 - 9.30pm

Please note that capoeira classes have now changed to every Wednesday 7.00pm-8.15pm effective December 2007.

To register, please contact Teresa at 017 330 7244

Good Feng Shui!

2007-11-04T22:56:00.000-08:00

PATCH team had an *organic meeting on 3.11.07 to get to know each other and talk about how each unique person can contribute and actions needed from now onwards. PATCH is 6 days away.
*organic = lively, continuously growing, loosely structured

This post is to draw an interesting parallel between the members of PATCH team. Note that ALL (feng) air signs and (shui) water signs are present. There are only one fire sign and one earth sign. There are 6 November babies working together to reach the same vision. How more powerful can that be...*hair standing*. With all the crafty, creative & crazy people around, PATCH is an imminent success. More pics later!

1) Artistic Director
TERESA (Scorpio)

2) Floor Manager
LI-ANN (Scorpio) & JORDAN (Pisces)

3) Registration Team
NICOLE (Gemini), JEN (Scorpio), SEE MUN (Libra)

4) Setup, Runner & Props Team
MALCOLM (Aries), TERRY (Capricorn), ERWIN (Libra), CHOON (Scorpio), KEN (Scorpio)

5) Front-of House Team
GRACE (Scorpio), CK (Pisces), WOAN SHEU (Libra), CHING CHING (??)

6) Layout/Space Design
ZEN (Libra) & JIN (Gemini)

7) Video Recording
RIZAL (Aquarius)

8) Emcee
CHRISTINE (Aquarius) & MAY (Libra)

9) Stage Manager
B.B. (Capricorn)

10) Backstage Coordinator
YEN SHAN (Cancer)

11) Food & Refreshment
YIKE (Gemini)

12) Music Coordinator
ANDREW (??)

PATCH-ing Things Up!

2007-10-25T09:48:00.000-07:00

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

2007-10-16T11:27:00.000-07:00

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!

2007-10-16T11:12:00.000-07:00

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...

2007-10-04T01:49:00.000-07:00

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

2007-09-26T01:26:00.000-07:00

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!

2007-09-18T06:42:00.000-07:00

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

2007-09-06T12:07:00.000-07:00

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

2007-08-24T13:58:00.000-07:00

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?

2007-08-19T10:44:00.000-07:00

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

2007-08-16T00:43:00.000-07:00

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

2007-07-27T01:15:00.000-07:00

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

2007-07-22T11:59:00.000-07:00

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.

2007-07-09T00:36:00.000-07:00

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!

2007-07-08T21:47:00.000-07:00

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

2007-05-18T00:07:00.000-07:00

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!

2007-05-14T16:14:00.000-07:00

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.

2007-04-11T11:12:00.000-07:00

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

2007-04-10T09:16:00.000-07:00

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?

2007-04-09T11:50:00.000-07:00

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

2007-04-09T11:08:00.000-07:00

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!

Here, take a moment

2007-03-29T23:24:00.000-07:00

Take a deep breathe. inhale...exhale...

Hooray! We have been given the privilege to hold our very first outdoor performance at a very happening spot in Subang & Sunway area. Come over, have a drink and make some noise! We will be throwing ourselves on the floor and up in the air, near the bird cage...Let me repeat, find us near the bird cage. Come & say HOLA!

Time: 9.00-10.00pm

Date: 31 March (saturday)

Venue: Asia Cafe, Subang (opposite Inti College)

Program: Hip Hop, Contemporary Dance, Line Dancing & Capoeira

Magical moments with friends of LA

2007-03-27T10:56:00.000-07:00

New promotions! New classes for everyone

2007-03-08T11:20:00.000-08:00

There is no art without originality. There is no originality without personality.

Starting this March 2007, we are giving offering more goodies for new and existing students. Here is the story:

Yoga class - Buy 1 Free 1.
Sign up with a friend and pay only the price of one.
Original package is RM100/1 month per person.

Dance class - Buy 2 Free 1.
Sign up with 2 other friends and you get to dance for free!
Original package is RM300/3 months per person.

New classes at Living Arts

Monday 7 - 8pm Big Belly Latin
Monday 8 - 9pm Yoga

Thursday 6 - 7pm Contemporary Dance
Thursday 7 - 8pm Modern Jazz
Thursday 8 - 9pm Hip Hop
Thursday 9 - 10pm Funky Jazz

Friday 7 - 8pm Line Dance
Friday 8 - 9.30pm Capoeira

Saturday 4.30-5.30pm Hip Hop

Email me if you would like a full schedule. or just want to find out more.

MARCH - Workshop & New classes

2007-03-06T04:03:00.000-08:00

LIVING ARTS presents - Capoeira & Dance Workshop

If you think you can kick, turn, slide and freeze, come spend a day with capoeiristas and dance professionals. Jump into any class for RM5 only. So grab your friend and find your moves together. Dance or sports attire required.

You can call us to make reservations. 017-330 7244 or 012-399 8467

Date: March 10 (Saturday)

Time: 12pm - 5pm

Venue: Living Arts Studio
No 1 – 3, Jalan PJS 8/11, Dataran Mentari, Bandar Sunway.
(we are located opposite Sunway Pyramid, beside ProJet Station, above Perodua Showroom)

SCHEDULE:

12.00 - 1.00pm Capoeira
1.00 - 2.00pm Contemporary Dance
2.00 - 3.00pm Capoeira
3.00 - 4.00pm Hip Hop Latin
4.00 - 5.00pm Capoeira

Capoeira

Contemporary Dance

Hip Hop Latin

******

New classes at Living Arts

Monday 7 - 8pm Big Belly Latin

Monday 8 - 9pm Yoga

Thursday 6 - 7pm Contemporary Dance

Thursday 7 - 8pm Modern Jazz

Thursday 8 - 9pm Hip Hop

Thursday 9 - 10pm Funky Jazz

Friday 7 - 8pm Line Dance

Friday 8 - 9.30pm Capoeira

Saturday 430-530pm Hip Hop Beginner

If you would like to view our schedule, please email me at tchian@gmail.com or call me at 017-330 7244.

Namaste.

Teresa
Artistic Director

Point of contact

2007-01-13T11:42:00.000-08:00

Living Arts became a celebrity overnight!

Thank you for all your enquiries via emails and phone calls. Your support, passion and desire has been very motivating for my team and I, here at LA. We are multi-tasking every day and no matter how driven we are, the tasks at hand can get quite daunting at time. But your wish is my command.

We look forward to meeting more people who are curious about what we do. Living Arts is getting known as THE place for artistic activities - a place with airy space, high ceiling and no mirrors!

For information about classes and fees, drop me a note or give me a buzz.
Teresa
017 330 7244 or tchian@gmail.com
Yike
012 399 8467 or yikechan@gmail.com

The Dance Connection - published in Sunday Star on January 7, 2007

2007-01-07T11:27:00.000-08:00

TERESA Chian has very fond memories of Bali Spirit, a three-storey cafe cum dance and yoga school in Bali run by an American entrepreneur. She discovered the creative space when she visited Bali two years ago.
“It was very raw, yet there was an intimacy among friends there,” she says.

Now 25, passionate dancer Chian is trying to recreate the atmosphere she enjoyed at Bali Spirit in her dance studio, Living Arts.

“This will be a space where different forms of art come together to build something,” says Chian enthusiastically as she shows me around the place. “I want people to come in and hang out and get inspired, come and go whenever they wish,” she goes on to say.

In the studio, people will learn contemporary dance such as “Funky Spears, “Hip Hop Amuro”, line dancing and even musical theatre.

Living Arts offers an airy feel and a place in which to lose your inhibitions – unlike your usual dance studio, it has no mirrors! The studio is dominated by a wide, open space, mostly covered with warm, wooden floors; it has a soaring ceiling and lots of glass windows letting in natural light adds to the airy feel. This is where most of the dance classes are held (yoga classes are held in a small room in the same floor), but unlike most dance schools, there are no mirrors in this space.

“When you do not have a mirror in front of you, you actually forget about posing and doing the right thing. The process becomes more internal and intuitive. It becomes more soulful, more rasa (with feeling),” Chian says.

She adds, “I wanted an open plan where people can just come in and just watch, experience and feel the chi (energy).” The interior of Living Arts may seem unpolished (there is no fancy furniture or gorgeously tiled floors), especially to those who have seen better décor in dance studios, but this is how Chian likes it.

In polished studios, you can’t connect, she explains. Chian has grand plans for the place. She hopes, in a year’s time, to convert the studio’s rooftop area into a cafe, and a place where people can do outdoor yoga. She also hopes to hang paintings from young, experimental artists – “nothing too landscape-y” – around the studio.

When Living Arts opened in November last year, it held free dancing classes on the first day. People dropped by to learn jazz, hip hop or even yoga. However, there aren’t any ballet classes. Nor will there ever be. “I think there are enough ballet studios out there. I want to be one of the few people who educate young audiences about modern dance,” she explains.

Though Living Arts hasn’t been open long, students are already flocking to the studio.“I didn’t like ballet,” admits Chian, who started ballet lessons when she was five and took classes until she was 17. “My toes bled all the time! I was lucky that I left the ballet world without any injuries,” she says.

Setting up Living Arts was an almost impulsive decision for Chian – her friends and family were surprised at her move. But Chian went full steam ahead: in two months, she found a place for her studio in Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, renovated the place and began promoting the school.

She throws the words “energy”, “spirituality” and “rawness” around a lot, and one gets the impression that Chian regards the arts as something very spiritual thing. “Eventually I want to choreograph a piece where we do alternate dance; there will be different forms of arts coming together to build something,” she says.

Chian was exposed to dance at a young age. She was part of the dance troupe Dua Space when she was 19 (1999-2001) and then joined the influential Kwang Tung Dance Troupe in 2005. In 2004, she performed in cities around Scotland with Maxine Railton, a dance lecturer from Anniesland College, Glasgow. “I learnt to blend in and yet have my own style,” she says of her experience in Scotland. “I thought then that Westerners were better and Asians were second grade, but I realised that dance is body language,” she says. And that transcends culture.

“Dance is progressing slower than music or theatre in Malaysia,” says Chian almost wistfully. “But people are coming out to do dance in their own way,” she adds more hopefully.
Chian, for one, has great admiration for Malaysian dancers; they are multi-disciplinary dancers, she says, because they are exposed to Indian, Chinese, Malay and other ethnic dances and cultures.

“Malaysian dancers are coming into their own identity. And they have more depth and soul,” she says.

Cast Party!

2007-01-04T10:34:00.000-08:00

Dinner - Tarot Card - Bowling - Movie (Confession of Pain)
LA Dream Team: Yike, Apple, Jordan, Malcolm, Yuki, Melvin & Jack
LA friends & supporters: James, Little Leaf, Wide Heart, Kev, Joe, Kiwi

From being merely friends who share the same passion, we've become a big caring family of brothers and sisters, constantly looking out for each other. This is very encouraging.

Recently, someone has even suggested that we change the studio name to "Loving Arts". There seem to be abundant love going around...

Happy New Year

2007-01-03T23:31:00.000-08:00

Living Arts is back!
We are conducting more classes, more workshops and more events!
In January 2007, we will be facilitating a talk by a feng shui practitioner. Read on.

ASTROLOGY & FENG SHUI 2007 TALK
A talk with a difference
________________________________________________________________

Will I get filthy rich if I place a certain vegetable/ fruit/ plant
near the main door?

Tell me more!
Come find out what’s in store for the Fire Boar Year and how YOU can tap into beneficial annual energies of the year. Also join us for an informal talk focused on making the information relevant to YOU. We will:

i) discuss how best to approach and utilize Chinese Metaphysics (eg. BaZi, Feng Shui) for betterment of life
ii) discuss the beneficial annual energies that YOU, based on your year of birth, can best utilise (instead of the usual one-size fits all approach of large public seminars)
iii) discuss the groundwork that YOU can (& need to) do in order to safely and effectively tap into the annual Feng Shui energies of the Fire Boar year.

When? 27 January 2007 (Saturday)
7.30pm – 10.00pm

Where? Living Arts Studio
No.1-3, Jalan PJS 8/11, Dataran Mentari, Bandar Sunway.

Admission? RM20 per person (Coffee & Tea provided)

Contact? Teresa 017 330 7244
Yike 012 399 8467
Kong Eu 012 379 3779

7.30 – 8.00pm Registration
8.00 – 8.15pm Introduction to the talk
8.15 – 9.00pm General Forecasts & Feng Shui 2007
9.00 – 9.30pm How to use it
9.30 – 10.00pm Question & Answer

Toh Kong Eu

Toh Kong Eu is a practitioner of Chinese Astrology and Feng Shui, currently specializing in BaZi-- one of 2 major systems of Chinese Astrology. He is a Life Consultant who utilizes BaZi to help people understand and make the most of their inborn potential. Once we have understood our BaZi ie. our innate astrological code and “life structure”, we can then effectively use Feng Shui to aid in our life endeavours.

Kong Eu’s formal training in Chinese Metaphysics is with the leader of modern teaching systems in the field-- the Mastery Academy of Chinese Metaphysics. Kong Eu was previously in oil and gas trading/marketing/brokering with Petronas and in Singapore. Besides holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering, Kong Eu also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology—a field that he combines with his knowledge of Chinese Metaphysics to aid people in improving their lives.

More pics

2006-12-28T11:50:00.000-08:00

Picture Gallery

2006-12-28T11:47:00.000-08:00

X'mas Party

2006-12-14T07:43:00.000-08:00

Hola!@

For the benefit of friends who have been checking regularly for updates, I have failed to log on due to several reasons. Now, I'm happy to be connected again. Phew! We are a bit relieved now that the Holiday Workshop Program is over. Our next event requires tremendous support from friends, family, students and members of the public.

I am talking about a charity event to raise fund to buy new mattresses and couch for 20 children from Trinity Children's Home. Admission is by donation. All food and drinks are sponsored by students, parents and friends who wanted to do more than just "give the money".

In conjunction with this event, Yike and I have literally slaved ourselves to long hours of rehearsals and phone conversations. We have been 'living' in the studio till well past midnight.

Date: 17 December 2006
Time: 5.00 - 9.00pm
Venue: Living Arts Studio. No 1-3, Jln PJS 8/11, Dataran Mentari, Bandar Sunway.

Here is the program outline. Be the first to know!

5.00 - 6.30pm Chow time - Buffet Style
6.30 - 7.00pm Fun Games & Entertainment
7.00 - 7.30pm Trinity Home Dancers, Comedy Cousins (a skit), Trinity Home Dancers (again), Broadway Dance (by my 6-10 year olds)
7.35 - 8.00pm Chinese Cultural Dance, Fusion Dance, Junior Jumping Shrimp, Bantus Capoeira M'sia, Latin Duo
8.15 - 9.00pm Vocal Performances by Tears of Tragedy, Jack Yu, Valerie Chian, Apple Chan, Malcolm Wu, Melvin Ho (our wonderful, cheeky vocal instructor)

We are beginning to feel like slaves to the Art we so passionately preach about. As Artistic Director, I dare say that the performers, although largely made up of amateurs, are definitely up to standard. My vision of nurturing a generation of performing artists who are better than me and my ancestors may not be so much of a distant dream afterall.

For Kevin Hor & the rest of the better world, there are 2 reasons why I am doing this. Christmas, for me, is about giving, sharing and living in abundance. I believe in practicing this on daily basis but more so on Christmas season. Second, I have met so many talented young people since Living Arts' inception in November 1st. I wanted to channel all these funky, creative energies to one place.

This is definitely the best way to celebrate our Art, our Christmas, in our Studio, with people whom we love and who loves us! Come and feel the love!

Upcoming Events

2006-11-13T12:34:00.000-08:00

Line Dance & Yoga Open Day
Open class for all levels and ages

Date: 26 November (Sunday)

Venue: Living Arts Studio
No 1 - 3, Jalan PJS 8/11, Dataran Mentari Sunway
(Beside ProJet station, above Perodua Showroom)

Admission fee: RM10 per person
(FREE for children below age 10)

1.30 – 2.00pm Registration
2.00 – 3.00pm Line Dance
3.00 – 3.30pm Break
3.30 – 4.30pm Yoga

This workshop is targeted on individuals and families who are out to have fun together on a Sunday afternoon. Experience is not necessary but enthusiasm is vital!

Upcoming Events - Holiday Workshop Program

2006-11-13T12:29:00.000-08:00

LA Holiday Workshop Schedule

Date: 20th ~ 22nd November and 11th ~ 13th December

Time: 10am ~ 1pm (daily)

Day 1 - Rhythm & Movement / Hip Hop Freestyle
Day 2 - Yoga / Funk Freestyle
Day 3 - Musical Theatre / Contemporary Dance
- Mini Showcase (2pm)

Venue: Living Arts Studio
No 1 - 3, Jalan PJS 8/11, Dataran Mentari Sunway
(Beside ProJet station, above Perodua Showroom)

These workshops are targeted on primary school, high school and college students who would like to experience various types of dance techniques, styles and presentation.

Fees for you, my friend

2006-11-13T11:54:00.000-08:00

For friends who enquired about our fees at LA, here is the list.

Dance
Dance is the pulse and rhythm of life! Whether you are a serious dancer or a casual dancer, there is definitely something that can get you up on your feet. Enjoy an exciting mix of Hip Hop, Funk, Musical Theatre, Jazz Dance, Modern Dance and Contemporary Dance. Feel your bodies explore different forms of energy as it moves through space.

Fees: RM300 for 1 term/3 months/12 lessons
Payment menthod: Pay per term
Promotion on Buy 2 Free 1 – If you register for a dance class with 2 friends, your fees will be waived for the whole term.

Yoga
Yoga can provide relief from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Think of yoga as a natural chill pill, free of side effects. This class offers a flowing practice that links physical postures, breathing and meditation techniques to integrate the body, mind and breath.

Fee: RM100 for 1 month/4 lessons
RM160 for 1 month/8 lessons
RM180 for 1 month/12 lessons
Payment method: Pay per month
Promotion on Yoga Mat & Bag – If you register for a yoga class within Nov ’06 – Jan ‘07, you will be entitled to purchase our yoga mat & mat at only RM60 (20% discount), while stocks lasts.

On-going classes

2006-11-05T10:53:00.000-08:00

Yo yo hommies!

I just watched HONEY again. I can almost connect to her story. In fact, I am living some parts of it now. She worked hard to secure her own dance centre and I pulled together all my resources to establish my own studio. A place where I share my tears & joy. (Melvin, you are right). At LA, we do more than just dance. Let's get connected and experience living with the Arts.

Monday
6 - 7pm Hip Hop Amuro & Musical Theatre
7 - 8pm Jackson Groove & Yoga
8 - 9pm Funky Spears & Yoga
9 -10pm Funky Spears & Yoga

Thursday
6 - 7pm Hip Hop Amuro & Modern Dance
7 - 8pm Contemporary Dance & Yoga
8 - 9pm Funky Spears & Yoga
9-10pm Funky Spears & Yoga

On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, we are open for bookings for :
1) Group dance classes (min 6 person) Choose own timing
2) Yoga at Lunch (private or group) Time: 1 - 2pm & 2 - 3pm
3) Yoga at Sunrise (private or group) Time: 7 - 8am & 8 - 9am

Please pay us a visit at our beautiful studio or simply call Teresa at 017- 330 7244 or Yike at 012-399 8467.

Feedback for Class Description
Would you like to know more about our Modern dance class? What is the difference between Modern dance and Contemporary dance? Choose a class that suits your personality. Post a comment here and let us know if you would like to know more. Thank you.

Holiday Workshop Program

2006-11-04T09:06:00.000-08:00

Greetings from Living Arts!
To those of you who missed our fun-tastic & booty-shaking OPEN DAY on November 4th, this is your chance to reverse your guilt. We are organising a dance camp for children aged 7 onwards, teenagers, and young adults.

November Workshop dates: 20th, 21st, 22nd
December Workshop dates: 11th, 12th, 13th

Time: 10am ~ 1pm (every day)
Fees: RM60 (special introductory rate)
Food: Light refreshments is included.
Attire: Comfortable clothing, sports/dance shoes, (no jeans)

Schedule: Day 1 - Rhythm & Movement
- Hip Hop Freestyle

Day 2 - Yoga
- Funk Freestyle

Day 3 - Musical Theatre
- Contemporary Dance
- Mini Showcase at 2pm

All activities will be conducted at Living Arts Studio. Registration & Payments can be made at our studio. You can also book a place via phone. Please contact Teresa at 017-330 7244 or Yike at 012-399 8467.

Address: No 1-3, Jalan PJS 8/11, Dataran Mentari Sunway, 46150 Petaling Jaya.

FROM SUBANG - Opposite Sunway Pyramid, there is a Caltex station. Pass Caltex and make a Left turn. Go straight and you will see ProJet station on your right. Pass ProJet and make an immediate Right turn. We are above Perodua Showroom.

FROM KL - Go up the LDP ramp and turn Left. Go straight, keep Left and make a U-turn under the bridge. You will see Domino's Pizza at the corner. Keep Left and turn Left. Go straight to a T-junction, you will see ProJet on your right. Turn Right, pass ProJet and turn Right again. We are above Perodua Showroom.

FROM KLANG - Go up the LDP ramp and turn Right. Go straight, keep Left and make a U-turn under the bridge. You will see Domino's Pizza at the corner. Keep Left and turn Left. Go straight to a T-junction, you will see ProJet on your right. Turn Right, pass ProJet and turn Right again. We are above Perodua Showroom.

A thank you note

2006-11-04T07:44:00.000-08:00

From Artistic Director's desk
Living Arts is officially conceived on November 1, 2006. Within barely a week, we organised 2 events in the vicinity. A Studio Warming cum Soft Launch for friends & family and an Open Day for the public. Both events, I must stress, would not be as successful without the support from some people whom I'd like to mention here (not in any chronological order) - Mom, Dad, Yuki, Ken, Kevin, Janice, Apple, Angeline, Yen Shan, Jessica, Justin, Mable.

Special mention for Li-Ann (who claims that Living Arts or LA, is named after her) for saving my day on more than one occassions.

And my partner-in-crime Yike Chan, we make the best team in town. Having LA means a star is born. It is up to u and me to lead this star. For whatever reason, let's make this journey worthwhile.

LA is now operating based on passion, trust and commitment from everyone. To every individual who has helped me directly or indirectly, thank you for being friends of LA.

Come, come, whoever you are.
Wonderer, worshipper, lover of leaving.
It doesn't matter.
Ours is not a caravan of despair.
Come, even if you have broken your vow
a thousand times
Come, yet again, come, come.
-Rumi

Living Arts - Studio Warming & Soft Launch

2006-11-04T06:21:00.000-08:00

WOW. This is a common response from everyone who has visited LA. The studio space itself speaks more volume than a thousand words. "I like it. It is very raw", mentioned a close friend. This space, I feel, can truly be a place where people come and live with the arts. A place where people can disconnect from the real world and connect through their hearts. Inside every heart, there is place for the Arts. And when we connect, we can genuinely appreciate the Arts for what it is. Thank you, to everyone who joined Yike and I in this very humble beginning.

Drawn & Designed by Miss Ng Hui Ling, a famous young artist who is currently working on her own exhibition. She took time off to help me out. Check out the energy bursting out of their core center (which is an important aspect for dancers - to connect to their center).

This section - Artist's Gallery is for young people (artist o r not) to express themselves. I foresee a steady growth in this section.

This is my reception area. It is pretty empty. Every single tables and chairs were borrowed from friends and family members. People started pouring after 8pm and every chair were occupied. Had to borrow some chairs from the office downstairs. Hehe, with permission ok, JK.

Glad to be reunited with some friends. A warm feeling is casted upon LA studio as people mingle freely. No shoes on the wooden floor! Hope an artist will propose his/her work on my cement floor. Thanks Janice for the great food.

Me giving an impromptu speech, delivered from the heart to my attentive listeners.

Yike Chan presenting her usual passionate self in front of the unexpected turnout of close to 80 people. Yes, they all can fit in our reception area, pantry area and little studio.

The moment we've been waiting for. How did we arrive here in the first place?

Post-party syndrome

A studio. A home.

2006-10-18T00:01:00.000-07:00

I was gravitated towards this place when JK showed it to me on August 27th. Now, I can sincerely call it my own. Talk about some unknown force.

Love at first sight.
*Ahem*
more like Gasp (with glee) at first sight.

From another point of view. You can already catch glimpses of the high ceiling. Part of the reason why I retain this space is simply because IT IS BEAUTIFUL. and i like to see beautiful things. "tai mei li"

Specially went shopping for these 3 pendant lamps. These magical lamps cast light and shadow on my gallery space.

The first step

2006-10-17T21:06:00.000-07:00