With no formal training, Athavan (aka WessTigga) is a self-taught dancer inspired by his friends and family. Seeing his close friends put on a performance at his elementary school’s talent show was what got him hooked. He says “they looked invincible” and wanted to experience the rush of being on stage himself one day. From then onward he was locked up in his room dancing away.

“Soon, with practice, I shared what I could by taking part in various street battles and my journey with dance began.”

Though starting out as a solo artist, Athavan has also danced on teams through high school (‘Eelam StarZ’) and at the University of Waterloo where he is currently a student (the dance crew ‘paraDOX’ and the Waterloo Warriors’ Dance Team). Working with dancers of different ethnicities and dance backgrounds has helped him shape his unique style.

Athavan’s performances bring together elements of South Asian and Western cultures, so it’s no wonder that he’s inspired by the likes of Prabhu Deva and Michael Jackson. He attributes their confidence and remarkable originality with influencing him immensely. His friends have also played a role in shaping his work because of their passion and love for dance. In particular he credits Anujan Asokan and Anu Vasanthakumar.

“Dance and all my other creative pastimes are a means of escape from reality and life’s stresses. I enjoy dancing and becoming a character on a stage or onscreen.”

While he’s performed countless numbers of times, there are three occasions that he can’t forget—performing live in Germany, winning second place at the annual ‘So You Think You Can Dance Waterloo!’ Competition, and taking part in Suveathan’s “Onnume Puriyale” video.

WessTigga – Performing Live in Germany:[youtube]llFMroSuRXA[/youtube]

paraDOX – SYTYCD Waterloo 2nd Place Performance:[youtube]L09rTTP5bKQ[/youtube]

Suveathan – Onnume Puriyale:[youtube]6dl492UnJQU[/youtube]

For Athavan performing solo abroad, with a winning team, and creatively in a music video were all opportunities that he’s been granted and aren’t common for many.

“The sole aspiration that I have as a dancer is to continue entertaining others and to keep producing new and more engaging material for them to enjoy.”

Aside from dance, Athavan is also pursuing interests in cinematography and photography. He hopes to one day be able to produce a short film and other projects. He believes that dance and other art forms draw people to them because of the opportunities for self-expression. Athavan credits dance with helping him through hardships in his life, and encourages others to pursue their passions as a way to make life more meaningful.

“Whatever it may be, being in tune with what brings greater meaning to your life is the best endeavour you can pursue—as a hobby or a life-long career.”

—Nive Thambithurai, Editor (Entertainment, Spotlight)