Maggz

Maggz is a Melbourne-based freestyle dancer and multidisciplinary artist specialising in waacking: a dance style characterised by the use of rhythmic gestural arm movements. From dance battles to collaborative live performances, Maggz explores the possibilities offered when different creative genres are integrated and aspires to evoke the beauty of individuality within the self and others.

We asked her a few questions about her dance trajectory, inspirations and reasons why everyone can benefit from a good boog.

What styles of dance did you learn growing up? How do you think they influence your movement today?

I started doing ballet when I was 6 and did that for 7 years. My dance form is very much influenced by ballet and the tenderness that comes with it too, I suppose. 

Who are your dance influences? 

Too many! I get inspired from everything, in a sense. 

What about other influences? What inspires you outside of the dance world?

Creatives from other genres. Over the past year I've been establishing myself as a multidisciplinary artist - being able to collaborate with artists from other genres has always been very inspiring, especially the experimental side of it. I'm very much passionate about being able to connect with others on such a deep level, the essence of which is beyond words. It gives me life, really.  

Tell me more about waacking!

Waacking originated in the 1970s in LA from gay clubs, as a form of facilitating the freedom of expressing one's sexuality.

How does that history relate to your practice?

Practicing waacking has definitely given me a more profound understanding of LGBT culture, and the importance of acknowledging and respecting the original form of waacking whilst developing my individual style.

How did you first come across it? What drew you to it?

I first came across it when I was 15, watching videos online. At the time Ibuki and Yumeki (Japanese waacking sisters who are about my age) had just started to express the freestyle and competitive elements of waacking, and I was instantly attracted to it and wanted to be able to move my body like them. 

Do you think dancing has changed your relationship to your body and physicality in general?

Yes, in general dance motivates me to take better care of my body, hence to be able to dance better. It's an interdependent relationship. 

Do you have any goals for the next few years/ future? What would success look like for you?

I would like to be able to express and share my art with others, and hope that they could be inspired to believe in themselves and not be afraid to become who they want to be. Expressing the beauty of individuality through my art is very important to me.

What is the most beneficial thing that dance brings to your life?

I guess dance is like having a long-term committed relationship with myself- it makes me feel alive, and it helps me express myself and heal. I believe that dance is the most genuine reflection of myself and where I'm at in my life. I'm so very grateful that dance chose me and that I've persisted with it. 

And lastly, what do you think the biggest benefit of a good boogie is for the (non-professional) rest of us?

Dance is awesome, being able to move your body is awesome and feels awesome, so just follow your heart and enjoy. :) 

For more inspiring dance content, follow Maggz on instagram: @magg._z