Currently in the United States where she choreographed the African Oscars, the graduate of Mass Communication in this interview with TONY OGAGA ERHARIEFE talks about her career, dancing for Tuface, her ideal man, and her dreams among other issues. Excerpts:
How did you come into dancing?
I’d say dancing has been a thing of passion from childhood; I’ve always had it down my alley. Dance started for me right from my primary school days when I was leading dance groups during end of year parties. I was so passionate about dancing I always looked forward to the end of year events. So, I’ll say it’s a natural talent; my passion, my hobby and today it’s my career.
How did your parents react when you decided to pursue a career in dancing?
The reaction of my parents wasn’t pleasing at all. Trust me; especially my mum. When all your parents want is for you to be a doctor, lawyer, banker, TV presenter and whatever and then suddenly they discover you’re doing something as useless as dancing. They feel you’re out of your mind and on a one-way street to irrelevance in life. They mounted pressure on you and then you begin to lose focus trying to become what they want you to be. It wasn’t easy. I remember my hair being shaved by my mum simply because I had a music book, and besides, I was always dancing even at home and that pissed her off! It was quite rough.
You were part of the Danceathon crew that set a world record. Could you recount the experience?
Danceathon 2006 made it to the Guinness Book of World Records. It was a wow moment for me! It was quite an experience. Having to dance for three days was quite challenging. However, I am not happy with the treatment the entire crew has received till date. If that record was set in other countries, trust me, those who sweated it out setting that record would be highly appreciated. That victory was as a result of teamwork, but at the end of the day, only one person got all the glory.
The impression out there is that dancers are morally lax. How true is that?
Talking about dancers being morally lax, I think it all depends on the individual. All I will say is that it happens in every career and profession. So, I wouldn’t say yes and I wouldn’t say no. It has to do with self-discipline and besides, the reason why dancers are seen that way is that most people spring up from nowhere and say they are dancers. All they want is to feature in videos and they are ready to do anything to be on these videos including sleeping around, and before you know it, people have this blanket impression that all dancers are morally lax but that’s not true; dancing is serious business.
We also understand that you once danced for Tuface. Could you recount those years?
Dancing for Tuface was a great experience. I feel privileged to have met and worked with him and to be part of his crew. Dancing for Tuface was a great honour I will appreciate for the rest of my life. But seriously, it’s funny how fate and life work. I remembered dancing for him in 2005 during that year’s edition of Guilder Ultimate Search party, but it was not as his dancer. He asked me to dance for him while he sat down watching and I gladly did. At the end of the day, I saw myself in the video of one of his tracks. He had merged some of the footages from the party scenes. In 2008, I was called by one of his top dancers, Patience to dance for him professionally. He’s kind, humble and wants to see others grow and that’s what makes him a legend. I still dance for him till date.
Were there times you had to save Tuface from overzealous female fans while on tour with him?
(Laughter) That’s funny but it is the truth. There was a day it got so bad he had to sneak into the bus that was conveying his dancers because of the large crowd of ladies who had already surrounded his car waiting for him to step out so they could devour him. (Laughter) I mean ladies never gave him a break. I hear people go about saying negative things about him but come on, I think it’s the ladies who need to comport themselves really. I guess it comes with the fame. Once you’re a celebrity, with the kind of charm Tuface has, women would always chase you?
What was your most memorable experience working with him?
Every time I’ve worked with him has been fun and memorable but one experience I won’t forget was when an incident happened during a show and there was a plot to ditch me as one of his dancers and he stood up for me saying, ‘Meg is my dancer and I want her on the team.’ I felt so good because in life some people want to bring you down but God has a way of elevating you. That felt so good knowing that my boss could stand up and speak for me; I felt fulfilled.
You’re currently in the US working on a project. Could you more shed light?
Yeah… I’m in the US presently. I came here for the African Oscars, which was held at the Warner Theatre in Washington DC. I was invited to come perform and choreograph the event. It was an honour and I really appreciated it because for me it’s a mighty leap. I didn’t just represent Nigeria but I also represented Africa as far as dancing is concerned.
What has been your greatest experience as a dancer?
My compilation was based on African songs from different African countries. After my performance, Kanja, my friend from Kenya and I thrilled the crowd. The appreciation and applause was awesome! I thank God because that has always being my dream. It was me doing my own thing. I didn’t have to dance behind anyone rather I was on stage as Megryderz of Stepryderz and that felt so good.
What projects are you working on currently?
I’m working on lots of things here in the US. I will let you know at the right time. I’m working on a script presently but can’t say much for now so let’s keep it that way.
Have you finally relocated to the US?
No, I have not relocated finally. I’ll always come and go. The idea is to establish myself on both sides of the Atlantic and help youngsters actualize their dreams..
What would you say you have benefited from dancing?
A lot. Dancing pays my bills. It has taken me all over Africa and the UK. This is my second time in the US, so dancing has opened a lot of doors for me and exposed me to many opportunities. I’ve met different people.
Have you been a victim of sexual harassment as a dancer?
Sexual harassment comes but it depends on how you handle it. Most people have the mentality that once they see you dancing onstage, you can do anything and they start entertaining crazy ideas. I have had challenges but I simply handled them maturely and stood my ground. I could remember giving up a job because of sexual harassment so it’s your choice.
Tell us about your love life?
Wow! My love life is fun and interesting.
Could you describe your ideal man?
My ideal man is simple, someone who appreciates and understands the meaning of love and giving back love in return. I’m talking about that man who stands by you. On a lighter note he has to be taller than me (laughs) and the rest is personal.
Could you share your dreams with us?
My dream is to be really big as far as dancing is concerned but I’m taking one step at a time. I would be fulfilled when I have my own studio where people can come dance, use the gym inclusive and generally work out for good health. I also want to be a talk show host. I’m also working on a dance reality TV show where I could touch lives and encourage up-and-coming talents.
What’s your advice for young girls who want to take after you?
Stay focused and improve on your talent. Always stay focused because people will come with the single mission of bringing you down; I’m talking about haters. At such times, you must believe in yourself and hold your head high.
[Sun News]
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