Courtesy Overtime Media
Photos courtesy Michael Salickram and Jermaine Cruickshank
Dance plays a major role in East Indian culture as movement illustrates sounds and gives visual and physical definitions to words, phrases and lyrics in general. The Chutney Soca music community has relied on Michael Salickram and his Shiv Shakti Dancers to enhance their events and many artistes’ performances and music videos alike. XVibes managed to secure a few precious moments with Mr Salickram amidst his rigorous rounds of rehearsal and choreography for the upcoming finale and asked him some key questions:XV: What does Chutney Soca mean to you?
MS: Well having been involved in the Chutney Soca Monarch since its inception, Chutney Soca is more than just a genre of music to me; it represents the vibrant fusion of cultural influences that Trinidad and Tobago is known for. It is a celebration of our heritage, a joyful expression of our people, and a powerful way to unite different communities. We (Shiv Shakti) have worked with and conceptualized and executed on-stage productions for ninety present of the winners over the years, and as a dance artist, Chutney Soca is a medium that allows me to share my passion for East Indian dance, while embracing the infectious energy and rhythm of Soca music. It brings people together, transcending boundaries and creating an atmosphere of pure enjoyment and celebration.
XV: How are you feeling about the Chutney Soca Monarch competition and the industry now and where do you see it in the next 5 years?
MS: The Chutney Soca Monarch competition is an iconic part of our Carnival season, and I feel immensely proud of the way it has evolved over the years. The competition serves as a platform to showcase the talents of our musicians, and it plays a significant role in shaping the future of Chutney Soca. As for the industry, it has grown in both local and international recognition, and I believe it will continue to evolve and reach new heights. In the next five years, I see the industry becoming more globally recognized, with more collaboration between different cultures and greater innovation in musical and performance styles.
XV: What’s next for you and your brand/business?
MS: The next chapter for me involves further expanding the reach of the Shiv Shakti Dance Company. This year we are celebrating 38 years and we continue to push the boundaries of East Indian dance and collaborate with other artists and genres, blending our traditional style with modern elements to keep the art form fresh and exciting. For my dancers, the growth is clear—many of them are gaining recognition on national and international stages, and our company is regularly invited to perform at prestigious events. As for the dance industry, I am seeing a real movement towards professionalization, with more opportunities for dancers to thrive, both locally and internationally. The future is bright for dancers in Trinidad and Tobago.
XV: Have you seen progress for your dancers and the dance industry here?
MS: Yes, absolutely. There has been a steady rise in the recognition of dance as a legitimate career, especially with more platforms like televised competitions and international performances opening up. My dancers have been fortunate to be a part of this shift, and they now have more opportunities to pursue dance professionally. The industry as a whole has also benefitted from increased collaboration, better training, and more avenues for exposure. This is a direct result of the tireless work and passion of people who love the art form, and it’s exciting to see the next generation of dancers shaping the future of the industry.
XV: Is there a special makeup brand used by dancers for their performances?
MS: There isn’t a single brand that stands out universally across the industry, but for my dancers, we often use a mix of professional makeup brands that are known for their quality and durability. For performances, the makeup needs to be long-lasting, bold, and vibrant to complement the energy of the dance. Brands like Kryolan, MAC, Fenty Beauty and of course our very own Sacha Cosmetics among others are commonly used, but we always tailor our selections based on the individual look we want to create for each performance. Each makeup application must withstand the heat of the stage lights, the movement, and the sweat during a high-energy performance.
