Local artist profile: Eliza Nichols

THIS week we chat with Eliza Nichols, a senior dancer, long-time member and one of the driving forces behind the Bendigo Chinese Association’s Plum Blossom Dance Team.

How did you become a dancer?

As a little girl l loved to dress up and dance around at home. It didn’t matter what sort of music it was to. When I was young I wasn’t all that interested in playing a sport but wanted to try dance. However, I couldn’t decide exactly what form of dance I wanted to do and was happy to try something different.

What motivated you to become a Plum Blossom Dance Team member?

I started dancing with the Plum Blossoms towards the end of 2014, when I was about seven years old. I loved the involvement with the Chinese Association, performing and the outfits.

Also, my family has Chinese heritage, so between family and dancing I have learnt a lot about Chinese ancestry and the meaning behind the events and different days on the calendar.

I probably didn’t think about it much when I was little, but looking back, seeing all the beautiful and graceful dancers, especially the older Plum Blossom girls that I looked up to in the team, really motivated me to keep going; I believe that it has made me a stronger dancer.

When I was younger I was always keen to watch and learn the older girls’ dance routine, even if I couldn’t perform it with them.

What is your role in the team and how long did it take you to learn it?

I started as a junior Plum Blossom and after a few years stepped up to the intermediates. But I then had a chance to dance the Long Sleeve Dance with the seniors in 2019. From there I have been a senior Plum Blossom dancer.

Are there any themes that the team likes to feature in its work?

Obviously we dance to Chinese themed music. We have incorporated themes like when it was the Year of the Monkey in 2016 into our dance performance. We like to be able to tell a story through our dance. In particular this Easter I’m collaborating with the Lion Team to tell the story of the Jade Emperor and the Monkey. We have been rehearsing for a number of weeks.

What are some highlights you have from being in the Plum Blossom Dance Team?

Over the years there have been so many highlights. The best part, most exciting and special part is Easter for sure. It’s something that we always look forward to because there are always so many people to perform in front of. Being able to walk in the Torchlight and Gala Parades as well as performing at the Awakening of the Dragon is so much fun and something we train very hard towards.

Another highlight of performing would be when I had a chance to dance at the revealing/ welcoming of the new dragon Dai Gum Loong to Bendigo.

One part about dancing that I really enjoy would have to be the costumes we get to wear, along with the excitement of the quick costume changes between dances.

What would you say to encourage young people in the region who are thinking about getting involved in the Plum Blossom Dance Team?

Dance is always a great way to connect with people. Particularly learning a traditional art form is also a great way to understand different cultures and make friends.