by Steven Seedo
PARAMARIBO — The Surinamese dance world is a great source of inspiration for the Diva Dancers, which was founded two years ago. The energy, passion and rich history that are expressed in the different dance styles particularly appeal to Noerzija Pawiroredjo, Poedjha Somaroe and Nasira Damoe. They not only want to entertain the audience with their performances, but also show their creativity by combining different dance styles. “There is so much energy, passion and history in the dance, which really adds something unique to the dance world. The way in which Surinamese dancers incorporate their culture and traditions into their movements is powerful and beautiful to see,” they tell the True Time.
The trio is particularly attracted to how dance is used to tell stories, connect and bring people together. “We try to convey that same energy and power in our performances with a mix of styles that tell our own story.”
“The way Surinamese dancers incorporate their culture and traditions into their movements is powerful and beautiful to see“
The group was created from a shared passion for dance and the desire to bring different styles together. Although the emphasis is on Bollywood, the dancers are open to various assignments and challenges. They also provide performances that include Javanese dance, hip hop and R&B.
However, modern Bollywood especially appeals to them. This dance style combines traditional Indian elements with contemporary influences from hip-hop and pop. “What particularly appeals to us is how these dances tell stories with a lot of emotion, but at the same time also have a modern flair that fits in with current music and trends. It gives us as a dance group a lot of space to be creative and incorporate our own style.”
Background dancers
In addition to their own performances, the three women can regularly be seen as background dancers. This is not just about performing choreographies, but also about strengthening the energy and appearance of a performance. “We love enhancing the energy and dynamism of a performance. Backing dancing is another side of dancing that we really appreciate as it allows us to showcase our skills while supporting the main act: teamwork at its best.”
Since its inception, the dancers have gained experience during events such as the Big Chutney Soca Blast 2024, where, among others, Savita Singh from Trinidad and Tobago and Lucky Singh from the Netherlands performed. They also appeared at the Holika Color Festival, where they collaborated with Trinidadian artist Veekash Sahadeo.
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Growth and new challenges
The dancers try to find a good balance between training and performances, so that they can develop further and at the same time continue to gain experience on stage. The trio wants to further develop their passion for dance both locally and internationally. Not only individual growth is central, but also the development of the team as a whole.
The Diva Dancers wants to continue to express its creativity by combining different styles, giving more performances and challenging itself with new projects. In addition, the dancers hope to inspire the audience and give people fun with their performances. For them, dance is more than just movement: it is also a way to convey emotions, tell stories and connect with the audience.
Pawiroredjo, Somaroe and Damoe say that the name Diva Dancers reflects the energy, strength and elegance of the group. The word ‘diva’ stands for self-confidence, passion and a strong personality. Characteristics that they also want to show in their performances. “We not only want to give great performances, but also show that every dancer has her own unique strength. The name emphasizes both the glamor and the hard work ethic of our group.”
With their love for modern Bollywood, their openness to other dance styles and their ambition to grow further, the Diva Dancers want to further strengthen their place within the Surinamese dance world in the coming years.
