The seven-member Korean street dance group ARTGEE will put on a show tonight at Jerudong International School (JIS) Arts Centre’s The Rhythm of Korea show. The sold out show is organised by Korean Embassy in Brunei Darussalam and Korea Foundation.
The Weekend Bulletin interviewed ARTGEE member Gyuri during rehearsals on Thursday.
She said, “Our performances were recognised on various stages including winning second place at World of Dance Finals 2017 in the United States, first place at Snipes Funkin´Stylez World Final 2018 in Germany and an appearance on Spain’s Got Talent in 2019 where we received the Golden Buzzer and made it into the final round.
“ARTGEE has been improving over the years and we are taking a step to make street dance the most interesting performing art.”
The name ARTGEE, she said, is Korean pronunciation of the word art.
Gyuri said ARTGEE’s slogan is ‘All great ideas are at the edge of irrationality’ and the group has prepared a unique performance for the JIS show.
Tonight’s show includes Mirror Man performance, a TikTok dance using only two sounds, a routine featuring a blend of magic and dance as well as a piece combining traditional Korean culture and street dance.
Gyuri has been in street dancing since 16 years old. She quoted Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2: “There are two types of beings in the universe: those who dance, and those who do not.”
She said, “People are born with the instinct to dance. The baby steps are the most risky but is also first step of dance in the world. But as people grow older, they don’t dance anymore. This is due to the lack of self-confidence or not meeting good fellow dancers to grow with and support one another.
“Anyone who dances steadily with passion is a successful dancer. Therefore, don’t despair if you can’t do a great dance now. The world is a playground so don’t give up on your dream of becoming a great dancer.”
She added, “Street dance has many unique and intense movements. Therefore, if you are too ambitious, there is a risk of injury. To live as a full-time dancer, you must improve your dancing skills and have thorough self-management.
“There are so many great dancers in the world that when you battle in a competition or face at a festival, you may lose courage or confidence. At times like this, it is important to pull yourself together. The dance community always gains a lot of courage by relying on each other and cheering for each other. I’m sure there are different reasons why ARTGEE members chose street dancing but I’m a dancer because there’s nothing more enjoyable in the world.”
In a message for Brunei, she said, “Brunei is an attractive country full of beautiful nature and kind people perfect for exciting culture and arts. We often look at the world with a different perspective to create interesting performances. I think it’s a vital part of my life. I hope people in Brunei will also enjoy their own unique perspective on the world. May free dancing be with you in your wonderful life.” – James Kon
