𝐀𝐧 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐏𝐞𝐦𝐚 𝐓𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠

Pema Tshering, affectionately referred to as Pema Buddha, commands attention in the world of dance as an instructor, director, and choreographer at Gokab Studio. Renowned for his dynamic performances and groundbreaking choreography, he ignites stages worldwide with his passion and innovation, leaving audiences spellbound. Beyond his role as a mentor and educator, Pema’s creative journey extends to the domain of music, with pending album releases stirring anticipation among fans and peers alike. As he continues to push artistic boundaries, Pema’s upcoming musical endeavors promise to offer a captivating fusion of rhythms and movements that transcend conventional norms, inviting listeners on a journey of self-discovery and emotional resonance.

Q. What does dance mean to you personally?
A. It’s quite challenging to articulate, but to me, dance is a form of self-expression. I embarked on my journey in 2015, performing before audiences, and I believe that dance not only brings joy to me but also to those who witness our performances. Additionally, I consider dance a means of contributing to Gross National Happiness (GNH) in our country.

Q. How do you convey emotions and storylines through your dance?
A. I approach this in two distinct ways: firstly, by immersing myself in the present moment, drawing energy and emotions from my surroundings, akin to freestyling. Secondly, I translate personal experiences and life’s narratives into movements, reflecting struggles, purposes, and journeys. This dual approach allows me to express emotions and storylines authentically through my own life experiences.

Q. Who or what has been your biggest influence or inspiration in your dancing career?
A. My dance journey began during my school days in 2005, where traditional and cultural shows sparked my interest. My brother Drupchu played a pivotal role, introducing me to the legendary Michael Jackson (MJ). Following MJ’s passing in 2009, I embraced him as my role model, delving deeper into the art of dance. Thus, my brother, school experiences, and MJ himself served as my primary sources of inspiration.

Q. What role does music play in your dance journey?
A. Music holds immense significance for all individuals, possessing a natural ability to heal through its sounds and emotions. It acts as a catalyst for creativity in dancers, enabling us to synchronize our movements with its rhythms. By immersing ourselves in music, we deepen our expression and create meaningful connections between movement and melody.

Q. Throughout your dance career, have there been any particularly memorable moments?
A. Countless projects and experiences have left lasting impressions on me. One standout memory was our participation in a religious festival in Uttar Pradesh in 2018, where the Gokab team represented Bhutan. Witnessing dancers from various backgrounds come together to showcase our cultural identity was profoundly moving. Additionally, performing in front of the Royal Family and the Fourth King during the national day celebrations in 2021 fulfilled a lifelong dream of mine.

Q. How do you manage the physical and mental demands of being a dancer?
A. Consistency is key in maintaining physical and mental well-being as a dancer. This involves rigorous training, continuous practice, and regular classes to refine our skills. Personally, I find balance by teaching children, reinforcing foundational techniques, and staying actively engaged in practice. This holistic approach ensures that my body remains agile, while my mind stays positively aligned with my art.

Q. Do you have any notable instructors or have you attended any prestigious schools?
A. My journey as a dancer began as a self-taught individual, drawing inspiration from dance-related media such as movies and social platforms like TikTok and YouTube. As I progressed in my career, I recognized the importance of continual learning and self-improvement. While I don’t have specific mentors, I am committed to expanding my knowledge and skillset through various channels.

Q. How do you envision the future evolution of the dance world?
A. Presently, I see the dance landscape evolving positively, thanks to the efforts of previous generations who laid the groundwork. The proliferation of platforms like social media, TikTok, YouTube, and festivals has democratized access to the dance industry, allowing dancers to showcase their talents and monetize their content. I believe this trend will continue, providing abundant opportunities for aspiring dancers to thrive and innovate.

Message:

For me, what I do it’s just what I love to do. But you have to do it just now and right now. Keep on doing it and give your best. Never give up even if you face obstacles and challenges. There will be always someone who might like you and who may not like you but then never give and you just have to do what you like. I have no vision about how I got here right now as we don’t know what future holds and it’s unseen. You have to do it right now as we never know where we are going to land.