Teilhard Paradela (32), Canada / Philippines
17 Mar 2011
MA in International Performance Research (Erasmus Mundus Programme), University of Amsterdam
I chose to study in Holland for two reasons. One, I have always been intrigued by Amsterdam, by its openness and vibrancy. Two, I was attracted to this programme offered by the Theatre Department. I like its approach to the study of performance. And I must say all my expectations have been met, indeed surpassed.
Furthermore, studying here feels more international and more collegial than in Canada and in the Philippines.
Organization of 2008 Cross Channels festival
I am currently involved in organizing the 2008 Cross Channels: New Intercultural Artistic Initiatives. Pivoting on the theme of interculturalism, this festival seeks to open up space for young and emerging artists from different cultural backgrounds to showcase their work. So there are theatre and dance pieces, art and media installations, and other experimental performances.
The shows are very diverse: from a full-staged dance drama about online dating to practical explorations of theatrical cross-dressing, from a poignant video on losing the Hispanic accent to a series of monologues inspired by 17th century Dutch still-life paintings.
This festival has been developed by the students of MAIPR and of the MA Theatre Studies. In the organizing committee we have students from India, Chile, Malawi, Canada, Portugal, Russia, the Philippines, Israel, Germany, as well as from the Netherlands of course. As the festival director, working with such a diverse and international group of people has been quite an experience for me.
There are many challenges for sure, such as dealing with different languages and references. But on the other hand I realize that people are people. We have to deal with each other, not as stereotypes, but as individuals.
Plenty to do in Holland
I like the fact that Holland is easy to get around in and versatile. You can go from the city to the country and vice-versa in the blink of an eye. The pace of life is fast, but somehow not stressful. There are a variety of things to do. You can never be bored in Holland!
The Dutch people I have met have been super friendly as well as very sexy, but I don’t think they really realize it.
