Rachel Ferullo, a recent graduate of Medfield High school performed her arangetram on Sunday, June 27, 2010 at Keefe Technical High School in Framingham, MA.

Rachel, a student of acclaimed dancer and dance teacher Neena Gulati, presented 4 styles of dancing - Odissi, Chao, Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam.  Here is an interview with the young artist.

1.       What attracted you to Indian Classical dance?

 My sister Julia, began dancing before I was born, and I was brought to her Saturday dance class ever week, almost since I was born. So naturally, I wanted to follow in the footsteps of my older sister, and therefore decided I wanted to dance Indian Dance like her.

2.       At what age did you start learning Indian classical dance? What aspect of your teacher’s Neena Gulati’s teaching do you like the best?

I began learning Indian Classical dance at age 5. There are so many things I love about Neena ji’s teaching, but I especially love how she truly cares so much about each of her students. She is so passionate about this that I cannot help but want to work hard, so that her teaching efforts are not presented in vain.

3.      Can you describe your family’s role in furthering your interest in Indian classical dance?

As I stated earlier, I began Indian Classical Dance because of my older sister, Julia. Throughout my life, my parents have encouraged me to practice and to perform. Unfortunately, when I was younger, I became quite tired of Indian dance quickly. I actually quit for about five or six years, and then began dancing again in the winter of 2009. My parents have tried to keep dancing fun, hence the reason they allowed me to quit at a younger age. But since I have rejoined they can tell I really love dancing. They have supported me by coming to all my performances, putting up with my never-ending practices, and praising and encouraging me after each time I dance. This really keeps me going-for me, encouragement motivates me much more than constant criticism.

4.       Are you interested in any other form of dancing (from any other part of the world) other than Indian Classical dancing?

I actually really love almost any kind of dancing. Some forms of hip-hop I find intriguing, with the unique way that the artists can move their bodies. Popping and locking as well as African dance are two types of art that I cannot perform myself, yet they never fail to amaze me. For me myself to perform, I love Latin dance. I have taken dance classes in both Costa Rica and Puerto Rico in salsa, merengue, bachata, and rumba.

5.       How do you find Indian classical dancing differing from Western classical dance?

Indian classical dance is very structured. Each tiny movement of the body, from the toes to the tips of the fingers is important, and is established through thousands of years. Indian dance is related to religion whereas Western dances such as Ballet are normally not.

6.       Why did you decide to go for a dance arangetram? How did you feel on the occasion of your arangetram?

The idea of doing an Arangetram was not even a question to me. It is quite an accomplishment for any dancer, and those who are serious in dancing will complete one. I enjoy the challenge of the Arangetram, and it is very special because I was able to choose my favorite dances to perform. On the occasion of my Arangetram, I was a tiny bit nervous, but I was more excited to showcase all my hard work.

7.       You performed several different types of dance in your arangetram – Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Chau. Which one is your favorite and why?

Kuchipudi and Odissi are both my favorites. They both flow beautifully and there is so much emotion that can be put into these dances. I love the bends of the body in these two styles, and they are less restricting the Bharatanatyam, which forces one’s body to be very stiff at instances.

8.       You have just graduated from High school. What are your future academic plans?

This coming fall I will be beginning at Northeastern University. I have not declared a major yet, but hopefully I will figure it out soon.

9.       What after arangetram in dance? What are your goals for your study of art and continued performance in the U.S?

After the Arangetram, nothing will change. I still would like to attend my weekly dances classes. I hope that now that I have accomplished my ‘debut’, I will feel more confident performing in front of others. Performing is my favorite part of Indian Dance. It makes all the practicing worthwhile, and it shows this beautiful art form to others.

10.   Have you visited India? Is there a particular place you would like to visit in India? Do you think you would plan a dance recital in India someday?

I visited India for the first time this past March. For most of the time, we stayed in a tiny town called Mawana, north of Delhi. This was my favorite location of all we traveled because it was so beautiful and untouched. There were no shopping malls and fast food restaurants, and because of the close quarters, it made making new friends very easy. If I were to visit again, I’d love to see Rajasthan and its beautiful colors. I would love to have a dance performance in any country. India is especially special though; when I danced there last March, the people were such an amazing audience!

11.   What aspect of Indian sensibility or culture do you find interesting? Do you feel you have consciously cultivated that sensibility in your own personality?

Indian culture is very complicated and very vibrant. I like this a lot. Most family members are close to each other, and I feel this is a wonderful trait. Of course I also love the bright colors, the clothing, jewelry, dancing, and music. Everything about Indian culture is so beautiful and fascinating.

Thank you, Rachel and lots of good luck to you.

Thank you,  Mrs. Rao.

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