Have you ever heard of the Nameless Dance Company? Of course not. How could you? They have never invested in any publicity, put on any shows, nor performed at any local events under this name. Until recently, these seven students were still individuals dancing under their own names. Moreover, they were all still dancers in training whose talents were unknown to anyone but their respective dancing schools.
One might call it fate, others coincidence or simply the natural course of events but these seven girls finally met at St Aloysius sixth form and they have never looked back since. The formation of the group was a gradual process as they began to perform at school events such as the musico-literary night, prize day, soiree and SAC fest. Although they are relatively inexperienced, this never showed in the dancing as the constant attention to detail and their obsession with perfection resulted in repetitive, high-quality performances.
The group of five students – Martina Said, Gaby Scicluna, Deborah Falzon , Audrey Micallef and Debbie Schembri – who have now successfully completed their sixth form education and will shortly be starting University, were joined by Rita Bonello and Collette Caruana in their second year. Despite second year being such an important year, the group increased their participation in events, striving to expand on their previous work in a quest to choreograph more challenging pieces. Although the group comes from a background of ballet and jazz training, this does not mean that their repertoire does not include other styles.
In fact, Nameless was chosen as the name for the company to show that they are versatile and will never be labelled as simply ballet, hip hop or jazz dancers. However, the principle concept behind the name is that in order to be a good dancer, in essence one must be an actor. One cannot be herself but must be an empty vessel, “nameless and without identity”, in order to take on the character of the dance.
In order to celebrate the unveiling of the company, Nameless have decided to put on their first official show. They have choreographed 12 extremely diverse dances ranging from flamenco to jazz, mild cabaret, hip hop, contemporary, ballet and lyrical. Their love for dance and positive attitude has also led to them to obtain sponsorships from HSBC, Fudge, Vodafone, H2O, Meet and Eat, Gymstars gymnastics club and VJ Salamone.
They have been working daily for the past two months, meeting every afternoon while other teenagers their age are usually lounging on the beach or watching TV. All this hard work will culminate and hopefully pay off on 13 September at the St Aloysius Theatre. The show is not only a showcase of their talents but also a fundraising event as all proceeds will be donated to the Paolo Frere Institute for deprived children and youths in Zejtun. Tickets are being sold at Lm2.50 and are available from the following ticket hotlines: 7929-1138 and 9980-1193.
Nameless Dance Company has also invited guest singers their age to perform in between certain numbers, as well as the guest band Wilted. The girls urge the public to come and participate in a spectacular show and at the same time help a worthwhile cause. They would also like to thank their families, sponsors, Fr Rector, Fr Joe and especially Mr Jean Pierre Portanier for the faith they have showed in them.
Have you seen YADA Dance Company perform? Of course you have; who hasn’t?
Have you seen Nameless Dance Company Perform? Of course you haven’t… but now you can!