For many of us, the ‘Exotic Dance’ number in AIDA is a favorite moment. Below, Tanesha Ross gives us a little history into how the dance came to be and her experience throughout the process.
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Ladies, if you are going to be in a situation such as this, there are no better three men to have this experience with than Bojohn Diciple, Bertram Johnson, and Steve Tomkins (significant others excluded).
Bojohn Diciple (Nubian Ensemble), Steve Tomkins (Director), Tanesha Ross (Nehebka), Bertram Johnson (Nubian Ensemble) rehearsing ‘The Exotic Dance’
I didn’t know that I was going to be the featured dancer in this production until the 2nd week of rehearsals, when I saw my call time was just me, Bojohn, and Bertram, and we were going to do the “Exotic Dance.” Oh the things that ran through my head! I fortunately don’t have to wear tassels and really tall shoes. Oh the exciting world of being an actor! Always going with the flow, and stretching ourselves to the limits.
Bojohn Diciple, Steve Tomkins, Tanesha Ross, Bertram Johnson rehearsing ‘The Exotic Dance’
I don’t have much dance training, a little in college, and the shows I have been in; I give all credit for my abilities to Yoga. However, those aspiring to be in this profession…take classes!!! Working with Steve is wonderful. He is patient and caring, and I do this piece every night for him. I couldn’t feel safer and more supported than I do with Bojohn and Bertram. They are fantastic! I hope you all enjoy this number as much as we enjoy performing it!
Bertram Johnson, Tanesha Ross, Bojohn Diciple performing ‘The Exotic Dance’
-Tanesha Ross
