Fostering a community of dancers
Published: 28 Aug 2024
By: Adeeb Fazah
Time taken : ~10mins
Having started out in the Singapore street dance scene in 2006, Gin spent the first 13 years of her dance career as a creative director, choreographer and performer at O School, one of Singapore’s premier street dance schools. She has also been teaching, performing and invited to judge in the international arena. Currently, she teaches students from university dance clubs, aged between 18 and 25, as well as professional dancers at an advanced level. Most recently, Gin founded her own training practice, Stirring Ground, which aims to “inspire artistry and instigate revolution” through various training programmes, including open classes, masterclasses and workshops at various competency levels.
It began with 14 years of classical training, which provided a strong technical foundation and deepened my love for the art form. Later, my interest shifted towards street dance, and I began participating in and winning various competitions, leading to numerous opportunities to perform and teach.
My formal entry into teaching was significantly influenced by my association with O School. Being part of O School from its inception allowed me to work closely with experienced instructors and directors, who not only mentored me but also inspired me to share my knowledge and passion for dance. Through teaching at O School and later at Stirring Ground, I have combined my experience with continuous exploration, both locally and globally, to refine my teaching methods. This journey has been fueled by an intrinsic desire to inspire and nurture the next generation of dancers.
My practice as a dance instructor is deeply rooted in a diverse and extensive background in the art of dance. My journey spans from foundational classical training to a profound passion for street dance. My approach integrates these varied influences, merging technical precision with expressive freedom. Artistically, I focus on hip hop dance forms, incorporating elements of contemporary structure to add narrative and relatability. My teaching style is student-centred, emphasising creativity, individuality and personal growth.
I foster a collaborative and exploratory learning environment. My aim is to inspire dancers to not only master techniques but also to find their unique voice and expressiveness through movement.
Gin Lam with participants of Singapore Management University (SMU)’s Eurthymix at their annual <em>Timeless</em> production. Image credit: Gin Lam
One of the biggest challenges has been adapting to the diverse needs and learning styles of students. Each dancer is unique, and finding ways to connect with and effectively teach a wide range of personalities and skill levels has required constant creativity and flexibility. Another significant challenge has been managing the administrative and logistical aspects of running my own dance company, while also maintaining the highest standards in my teaching and choreography. Balancing these responsibilities can be overwhelming at times.
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My belief in the transformative power of dance—how it can bring joy, foster community, and serve as a profound form of expression—drives me to continue pushing through these challenges. Ultimately, it’s the love for the art form and the desire to share it with others that keeps me dedicated to this path.
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Dance, for me, is not just about mastering techniques or winning competitions—it’s about helping individuals discover their unique voice and express themselves freely through movement.
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The most rewarding aspect of my work is watching students transform, both as dancers and as individuals. Seeing someone gain confidence, overcome challenges and achieve milestones they once thought were impossible is incredibly satisfying. It’s about the profound joy and fulfilment that comes from witnessing their growth.
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Additionally, the opportunity to continually learn and evolve alongside my students motivates me. Teaching is a two-way street; as much as I impart knowledge, I also learn a great deal from my students’ perspectives and experiences.
Gin Lam with participants of SMU’s Eurthymix at their annual <em>Timeless</em> production. Image credit: Gin Lam
I aspire for them to develop a strong technical foundation and a deep understanding of dance as an art form. I want them to gain confidence in their abilities and appreciate the value of discipline and hard work. Beyond technical skills, I hope they find joy and fulfilment in expressing themselves through dance. I want each student to feel encouraged to explore their unique creativity and individuality, discovering their own voice and style within the art form.
I also aim to foster a sense of community and collaboration among my students. I hope they leave with not only improved dancing skills but also lifelong friendships and a strong sense of belonging within our dance community.
Whether they pursue dance professionally or as a passion, I hope the discipline, resilience and creative problem-solving skills they develop will help them navigate life's challenges and opportunities. My goal is for them to emerge as not only better dancers but also more confident, expressive and compassionate individuals.
Contributed by:
Adeeb Fazah is a theatre director, producer, playwright, and educator. He is the Artistic Director of The Second Breakfast Company, and co-founder of Impromptu Meetings, Strike Digital Festival, and In the Round. He teaches drama across secondary and tertiary levels, and currently serves as treasurer at Singapore Drama Educators Association. He also writes for the Critics Circle Blog.
