The Global Search for Education: Reuel Rogers Says You Can Be a Hero Too

Posted By C. M. Rubin on May 4, 2021

What does it take to become your own personal Hero?

This month on the Planet Classroom Network YouTube Channel, audiences will find out when they marvel at the artistry of dancer in Hero. Get ready to dance in the wild with this artist from Curacao who’s taken the dance world by storm.

Hero (curated for the Planet Classroom Network by Battery Dance) is a breathtaking, unforgettable work by Rogers that will move and energize all who experience it. The dance, in Rogers words, is designed to inspire personal growth and ”the need to be the change we want to see in the world.”

Featuring gravity-defying techniques, Reuel’s performance defines the meaning of self-empowerment through the power of dance.

The Global Search for Education is delighted to welcome Reuel “Crunk” Rogers.

Reuel, the film Hero is described as being about “how to become your own personal hero.” What inspired you to choreograph a dance around this topic?

The inspiration behind making Hero is the same inspiration I have in life. I strongly believe that we need to be the change we want to see in the world. Starting with the one thing we have mostly under control which is yourself, if we take the time for it. With being fully present and balanced, I think we can positively influence our surroundings to create a big impact even on our environment.

What is the story you are telling in Hero? How do you hope it will impact those who watch you, especially young people?

I hope that people feel more than anything what it means to be dancing in the wild and to execute the moves that take their breath away, and implement that feeling, to illustrate craft and talent and skill. I want people all over the world to feel the power of self-empowerment because growing up I had a lot of odds that weren’t in my favor and most of them didn’t change, but I did. I want everyone to be motivated to chase after their dreams, passion, and ambition. This power we have will set the tone and open the right door to push us in the right direction toward achieving the ultimate goal, which is to believe in happiness and complete freedom.

Slow-motion effects are used during parts of your “gravity-defying” dance. Why was it important to feature this effect in Hero?

Slow-motion was used more in this video than the normal standard dance video. And this was on purpose, because most of the moves I do are fast, and out of the normal view range when you’re facing one side. So that means that some aspect will be lost to the viewer. Or at least the beautiful details of it. And with filming, we can slow it down so you can feel the movement and flow more intensely than you would if you saw a live performance. I think when it comes to slow motion, it displays the difference between technical skills effortlessly from the mundane.

In what ways do you believe the pandemic changed the world of dance? What did you learn as a dancer during this time?

The pandemic introduces distance in the world of dance. We can transmute everything into the right energy or idea. But personally being in proximity to art and greatness is one of the best feelings that there is. On the Curacao island where I live, I have been training alone for years now. And not having not even one soul there does have its effect, because the video is totally different than in the presence of others.

What advice would you give to aspiring young dancers?

My advice to young dancers is to have enough courage to follow where the dance will lead them at a young age. Because that is your golden chance to reach your ultimate potential. Because when you’re young you are more pliable to receive and grow in the right direction. Even if it means moving to a different country. And don’t let a second go by that you’re not dancing on your ultimate best level. Seeking mentors and the wise counsel is a must.

Where do you see yourself as a dancer in the years ahead? Where do you want your art to take you next?

When it comes to seeing myself and what dance brings in the future, I do not lack the imagination and courage to dream big. I see myself dancing and performing all over the world and connecting with people of all sorts of walks of life. I see dance carrying me into high age and giving me the agility and youthfulness of when I started. Just like a hero, I will go where a Hero is needed!

And we will follow. Thank you so much Reuel.