Dana Musa, 29 years old, from Atyrau
Dancer, choreographer, dance films director, teacher, Ethno Ballet ballet association founder
About myself
I have three higher educations, two of which are connected with making dance films, and one with dancing, which I got at Paris-8 University. I got my first education in Kazakhstan, at Zhurgenov Academy of Arts, where I studied directing. I love the audiovisual stuff and wanted to shoot videos, films, create performances and participate in them - in fact, create for myself. In addition, this is a large-scale job, you are not limited to films only. Moreover, I already felt and knew the scene, and wanted to study the screen.
About France
I came here for a typical reason – studying MA on fine arts. Arriving in Paris, I wanted to get more experience. I started working in projects, in agencies, I conducted many workshops and master classes. In 2013 I created my own ballet association called Ethno Ballet.
About difficulties
Of course, problems are eternal. There were difficulties in the field of my work, culture, language, administration, finances. But I easily adapted, as took all the difficulties for granted. I like to work and overcome difficulties, to fight, because when they’re solved, I feel better. I’ve never felt bitterness, regrets, although this is not easy. If you have a desire, a goal, a dream and a backbone - you are firmly on your feet - then anything is possible. Problems always exist, especially when you are in a foreign country. I do not have financial support from the state, sponsors, family. I made everything on my own, not as fast as I would like though. Nevertheless, I always was devoted to myself and my dream.
About Ethno Ballet
I decided not to stitch to the beaten path and created my own dance style, which hadn’t existed at all. It wasn’t easy to promote Ethno Ballet in France, among classical and modern styles especially, but this is my way. Ethno Ballet is a mixture of ballet technique, as I really like the classical one, with symbols, sacred ritual dances of ancient peoples, i.e. tribes that lived in Central Asia: Saks, Sarmatians and others.
Tips for those who want to succeed
It is important to have a clear goal and not to get lost, distracted by money or fame. Remember what is crucial for you among all the tinsel. And, despite all the adversity, reach your aim, be sincere and honest to yourself and your audience, because people are not fools. Your audience, students and all the others feel whether you are sincere or not. If you’re frank, people will believe and follow you. They will want to help, if it is difficult. Others can believe, only when you believe in what you are doing.
