Interview with WBC Medalist: Davi Chagas
Interview Published: August 24, 2018
Davi Chagas, age 23, has participated for several years at the World Ballet Competition Finals in Orlando, Florida receiving Gold and Silver Medals. He most recently competed at the 2017 World Ballet Competition OPEN in Sao Paulo, Brazil where he was awarded the Silver Medal in the Professional Soloist Category. Enjoy our chat below to learn about Davi's experiences competing at the WBC.
1. Tell us about your preparation for the competition. How often did you rehearse and have private lessons?
I prepared for the WBC with a lot of dedication. I took classes in the afternoon every Monday to Saturday, and at night I rehearsed many times. I also maintained a very healthy diet to be able to be strong and at the same time light.
2. Did you rent or have your costumes made?
My costumes were made by Marta Calheiros, a great friend. She's the mother of one of my partners and she does a beautiful job!
Davi performing the Variation from Le Corsaire. Photo by Virginia Trudeau
3. Why did you choose to participate in the WBC OPEN São Paulo?
Because I had the opportunity to participate several times of the finals of the WBC in Orlando, and I realized that it is an incredible event for the maturation of a dancer. There are many opportunities for knowledge, scholarships and contracts. Only those who have participated can describe the sensation.
4. What solos did you perform? Which was your favorite and why?
In the WBC Open Sao Paulo I performed ''Con Te Partiró'', by Ana Palmieri and also the classical variation ''Grand Pas Classique''. No doubt my favorite was ''Con Te Partiró'', because it is a very exciting choreography for those who dance and who watch.
5. Were you nervous to compete?
I was pretty calm, because there were many trials and a lot of work. I just thought I'd do my job with love and passion!
Davi performing his contemporary solo. Photo by: Virginia Trudeau
6. What did you think of the scoring system?
I think it's amazing! With this system, each participant can finish his performance without having to spend days distressed to know the result. It's one of the coolest things in WBC.
7. How was the WBC OPEN in São Paulo different from the Orlando Finals?
In fact, when I participated in the WBC Open Sao Paulo I felt like I was in Orlando because it was very similar! The only difference is that in the finals in Orlando have participants from all over the world.
Davi performing the Flames of Paris pas de deux. Photo by Virginia Trudeau
8. Which restaurants and/or landmarks should dancers visit while in town?
Ibirapuera Park, São Paulo Art Museum, Rock Gallery are some of the many cool places that exist in Sao Paulo. It is a very big city, there are many places to be explored.
9. What did you think of the master classes?
I really liked the master classes. Great professionals and were essential for my preparation in the days of the competition. In addition to the various opportunities offered in the classes.
10. What did you gain from your experience at the WBC OPEN São Paulo?
I gained more knowledge and a lot of incentive to move forward in my career as a dancer.
Davi performing in an ensemble group piece by Balletarrj Escola de Danca. Photo by: Virginia Trudeau
11. What advice would you give to dancers competing this year?
ENJOY this opportunity! Do all the classes, train a lot, do your best, dance with a lot of passion and don't forget to make friends, this is one of the coolest things in this competition. Be able to learn all the time, as I have been.
Interested to compete in the World Ballet Competition?
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