I Don’t Want To Be A Choreographer: Terence Lewis

Leh: He is one of the most popular choreographers in the country, but Terence Lewis admits he enjoys performing more than being behind the camera, teaching dance moves to others. Terence has choreographed for Bollywood films like Lagaan and Jhankar Beats, and many stage shows. The 41-yaear-old dancer, however, says being in the front gives him more high than anything else.

“I don’t want to be a choreographer. I don’t want to do anything behind the camera. When I was young, I took a liking for stage. I wanted to be on stage. I wanted to perform. I love audience. It gives me a great high to be a performer than to be a director or producer. That’s not my dream,” Terence told PTI on the sidelines of Naropa Festival 2016 here. Many choreographers have turned directors but Terence has no such interest.

“I have no plans to direct films because I love to be in front of the camera not behind the camera that is why I’m not the choreographer I’m also a performer. I enjoy performing more than choreographing and that is why I quit films. “But given a choice which I have right now i would rather be a performer than a director. I’d rather be an actor than a director,” he said.

When asked what kind of roles he would like to play, Terence said, “I’ve explored but the scripts that have come to me… I think I’m at this stage of my life where I’ve seen lot of international cinemas and I believe cinema is such a huge part of Indian mentality as much as the makers and producers have made this into very comercial business, which is fine.

“But I want a cinema that can affect you. I want a cinema that can entertain, can make you laugh but also make you think. If it can be entertainment with education, with a thought. That kind of films I’m looking for,” he said. Terence, however, is certain that more fame or money will never be a reason for him to take up acting. “I will not take up acting for money or fame or because I want to go to the next level. I will do it because of my passion. I have money. I don’t want fame, I have it.”

PTI