EXCLUSIVE: Instead of Engaging With Negative Comments, I Simply Ignore Them, says Nicole Concessao

Nicole Concessao embarked on a remarkable journey that led her from a PR & Market Research career to discovering her true passion for dance and teaching, ultimately culminating in creating Team Naach.

Nicole Concessao, born in Mumbai and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, embarked on her remarkable dance journey at 5. She grew up learning Kathak, participating in all possible dance events, and loving Bollywood movies, especially the ones with Madhuri Dixit! With a deep-rooted love for dance and a desire to create something extraordinary, Nicole consistently sought to push the boundaries of her creativity.

In an exclusive conversation with us, Nicole Concessao spoke about her inspiration, favourite dance style, handling criticism, and the latest trends. 

Here are the edited excerpts from the exclusive interaction:

What inspired you to start creating content in the dance industry?

I was initially inspired to create content in the dance industry to promote my dance class in 2016. However, as some of our videos began gaining traction and attention, it became clear that a larger audience was interested in consuming Bollywood dance content. This realisation motivated my team and me to continue creating videos showcasing different styles and choreographies to cater to this wider audience. It has been a fulfilling journey to share our passion for dance with others and see its positive impact on people's lives.

What is your favourite dance style to perform and why?

My favourite dance style to perform is semi-classical. I find it to be the most expressive and enjoyable style, as it allows me to convey my emotions and feelings through both dance movements and facial expressions. I appreciate the intricacy and grace of classical dance, but I find semi-classical to be a beautiful blend of traditional and contemporary styles. It perfectly balances precision and fluidity, allowing me to showcase my skills while exploring my creativity. Overall, performing the semi-classical dance is a deeply fulfilling and enjoyable experience.

How do you stay up-to-date with the latest dance trends and techniques?

Staying up-to-date with the latest dance trends and techniques is a constant challenge, but I try my best to make the trends my own and add my unique twist. While it's impossible to keep up with every single trend, I consciously try to stay aware of what's popular and relevant in the dance industry. It includes following popular dance channels and social media accounts and collaborating with other dancers to exchange ideas and techniques.

For example, I remember the choreography to the song "Woman" by Doja Cat was really trending, and I wanted to incorporate it into one of my videos. I decided to wear a saree for the video to make it my own, adding a distinct Bollywood touch. The video went viral, garnering over 8 million views, and it was a great example of how I adapt and personalise dance trends to stay relevant while staying true to my style and culture.

Can you share a memorable experience while performing or teaching dance?

One of my most memorable dance experiences was performing at the YouTube FanFest 2019 in Mumbai. We had a crew of about 50 people on stage, and a live dhol band, and the energy was electric. It was incredible to perform in front of such a large and enthusiastic audience, and I'll never forget the rush of excitement that came with it.

As for teaching, the most fulfilling moments are when I see students who may have lost touch with dance or lost confidence in their abilities rediscover their passion and love for it through our classes. Witnessing their progress and seeing the joy that dance brings to their lives is incredibly rewarding and makes all the hard work worth it. These moments inspire me to continue teaching and sharing my love of dance with others.

How do you handle criticism or negative comments about your dancing or choreography?

When it comes to handling criticism or negative comments about my dancing or choreography, I choose to adopt a no-hate policy. While everyone is entitled to their opinion, I don't feel the need to accept every opinion that comes my way. Instead of engaging with negative comments or allowing them to affect me, I simply ignore them. If I encounter any rude or offensive remarks, I delete the comment or block the individual from my page. It allows me to maintain a positive and supportive community around my work, essential to my growth and success as a dancer and choreographer.

What advice would you give to someone looking to improve their dance skills?

If you want to improve your dance skills, I would advise prioritizing training. It includes dance-specific training and strength training to ensure that your body can support you in every way. Regular practice and repetition are also key to improving your skills and mastering new techniques. Don't be afraid to seek constructive feedback from teachers or fellow dancers; use that feedback to identify areas where you can improve. Lastly, stay inspired and motivated by watching other dancers, attending performances, and exploring different dance styles. With dedication, hard work, and a love for the art form, you can continue growing and improving your dance skills.