GALINA BORISOVA

Galina Borisova is a choreographer, teacher and producer of more than forty projects shown in Europe and the United States. She has been called many things, including "the Amazon" and "Robin Hood" of Bulgarian dance. Recently she has been in charge of programming at the Etude Gallery. We will not list all the awards she has received, because we want to make room for what she told us herself. We will add with bated breath that, in our opinion, Galina is one of the best examples of how an artist can stand her ground. She also has a fantastic sense of humor.

How did it all start?

It started when I was seven years old and I hope it will end when I grow up – at about ninety-seven, for example. Then I can rest. As someone who has been dealing with her own body and the bodies of others all my life, I observe with great respect how they are used, improved, changed, limited, their specifics. Over the last thirty years, I have proven that you can live quite interestingly while circulating freely (as a freelancer) and spend your time quite well without any unnecessary compromises and or manic vanity, because you only prove things to yourself. Nobody tells you what to do or how to do it. Sometimes I hate myself for having qualities that are useful for my professional career, but not very practical in my personal life.

How is dance a means of communication?

Dance helps make real physical communication possible. People who are ashamed of their bodies also have many other complexes and need to think about they live their lives. Dance, that is, the body, is like a vessel for all our senses, and this advantage is the most beautiful form of communication. Touching a body that excites us is the most primitive, but also the most desired communication.

What are the latest trends in dance theater?

I haven't been interested in the latest trends in dance theater for about twenty years. For me, dance theater ended with the advent of the current millennium. For example, hanging around the stage is very fun, as well as the economical use of resources, clearing the form, originality no matter what means we use to implement an idea.

What can you tell us about spaces – for dance and in general?

I will tell the programmers and directors that they work for us artists, not the other way around! They should take care with what they offer, how they offer it and why they offer it. If a space is designed with finesse and intelligence, if it has a clear profile and strategy, it may succeed. It will find its character and stand the test of time. It will not be a sporadic temporary initiative.

Where are you going?

I'm on my way. Sometimes I go off the path, I do several things at once, because I get bored easily. I do not climb, I do not seek, I try to make my life easier, not to complicate it. I enjoy things, I eat well, I have fun from time to time. I work hard enough, but unfortunately I am no longer a beholder. I am finished with this exercise. Now I'm just a participant, looking to be the lead actor. The pay is better, there is greater responsibility, and life is more tangible.

What would your superpower be?

I still believe that the superpower lies in a woman's weakness. However, I have long ago taken on the role of the man in my family. In my personal life I try to be a blonde, but I don't do it very well. I'll let others comment on my professional career.