Spotlight On YAFies: Kelsey Ang

Kelsey Ang
Choreographer for Likes & Lies

Can you share a bit about your background in theatre?
My background and training is primarily in dance. I studied dance at university and since then have performed and choreographed in numerous creative projects and professional productions. I started out mainly with contemporary dance pieces and have since also explored commercial and musical theatre work. I have professional experience working as a performer in contemporary productions and the theme park industry. I have also choreographed youth musical productions for numerous schools and YAF. In 2023, I also created a full-length dance show Until the Night Falls Away as a recipient of the Hong Kong Arts Development Council Emerging Artist Project Grant and got to experience directing, choreographing and performing. I’m also the director of SHIFT Dance, a dance platform for educational programmes, choreography and creative productions. This has given me the opportunity to learn more about producing, organising, managing and all the work that goes into creative projects. 

What excites you about working with HKYAF?
I’m very excited by the opportunity to work with young people to nurture their talent and explore the possibilities of what we can create together. It’s a great experience to create such a professionally produced show, and also to work with the amazing HKYAF team. 

Which of your productions are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of Until the Night Falls Away, which was a 45-minute dance piece I directed, produced, choreographed and performed in. It was my first time creating a full length dance show and managing all the different aspects from producing to marketing to choreographing was incredibly rewarding. I am also extremely proud of my piece How Dare You for the HKYAF show Gen Last. It was so exciting to work with such a huge cast – around 60 young performers – to create a powerful piece. 

What qualities do you look for in an auditionee?
For a dance audition, I look for dance technique, movement quality, performance quality, personal style, presence, work ethic and positive attitude, willingness to learn and try new things, ability to apply notes and learn quickly. 

What are your top three tips for someone preparing for an audition?
1. Understand the style of the production you are auditioning for. Dress in the style of the audition and train in that style. 
2. Prepare and train. There’s so much work that goes into the craft, and you have to put the time and effort in. It’s not just about preparing for auditions, you have to be committed to your training and growth in the long term. 
3. Be well rested, get enough sleep, eat well, and take care of yourself and your health before the audition day. 

What warm-up exercises or techniques do you recommend?
Dynamic movements to warm up the body. Don’t just do static stretches. Include some strength and movement to engage muscles as well. I like to do moves that involve the full body and warm up different muscles at once, such as spinal articulations, reaching up with your hands then contracting into a deep plié. 
Breathe. Take some deep breaths to calm your mind and help coordinate your movement with your breath. It will make you a lot more stable and calm when moving. 

What advice would you give on managing anxiety and stress before an audition?
Remember that there are a lot of factors that go into an audition that aren’t necessarily a reflection of who you’re as a person or your talent. Don’t take outcomes personally. Instead, focus on the opportunities you are gaining from the audition, whether it’s new connections, meeting new people, or the learning experience.

Can you share an effective practice technique for improving dance skills?
Repetition and consistent practice. You need to put the time and effort into honing your craft. Consistency is key. 
If you’re learning choreography and there are certain parts that are difficult to remember, keep practising those transitions so that they become part of your body movement. 

Is there anything else you think auditionees should know before stepping into the audition room?
Be yourself, authenticity is key. 
The energy you bring to the room is extremely important. Bring positive energy and be someone that others want to be around and work with.