At just 24 years old, Maya Agasi has managed to conquer all the stages in Israel and work with the biggest artists, from Noa Kirel to Anna Zak, Omer Adam, Netta Barzilai and Eden Hason. She has traveled the world, giving master classes in Peru, Mexico, Ukraine, Spain, Germany, Poland, Chile and more.
Now, in the midst of rehearsals and preparations for her move to New York to star in the Soul Project Dance Company, we caught up with her for a quick interview between flights.
-Do you have any memorable experiences working alongside stars?
-The European tour with German singer Shirin David was one of the experiences that will stay with me forever. The cast of dancers, the choreographer, moving from one city to another every day… it was truly a dream come true. I also performed with Omer Adam in Yarkon Park in Israel. We worked so hard in rehearsals and then seeing tens of thousands of people in the park from the stage, their enthusiasm and their cheers. It was an incredible experience, especially since it was at home. I’m not usually there for long.
-You also travel all over the world. What is your schedule like currently?
-At this point, I don’t even know if I can call it a schedule. Every week I move from one country to another, crossing continents to teach at conferences and studios around the world. It’s definitely the most interesting and exhausting experience I’ve ever had, but walking into a class and seeing all the students waiting to learn from you and seeing new communities and cultures is truly a privilege. Social life and going out are not my thing; my social circle is connected to the dancers, and that’s the dialogue I feel comfortable with. Dancing alongside artists both internationally and at home is a gift. Seeing them sweat and work hard with us, knowing that we’re in the same boat, and that without the dancers the show wouldn’t be complete, is an immense feeling of satisfaction. People who are not interested in dance don’t understand how demanding it is and how hard dancers work.
– Are you worried about leaving home and living abroad?
– Of course, there are worries. Traveling the world sounds like a dream, especially since it’s my job and what I love the most! I’m very grateful, but it’s not something that’s suitable for everyone. There are many challenges and difficulties in living out of a suitcase, being away from home and constantly finding yourself in different social circles and cultures. It’s not like being in Israel with your family and best friends, but I’ve found family in every corner of the world and I can’t imagine being without them. There’s always a slight feeling of loneliness that accompanies you and you have to overcome it. But I simply prioritize my career and personal fulfillment. I’m happy to find people who support me both near and far.
– What is the best advice for dancers starting their career?
– Work hard, don’t give up, know how and be willing to make sacrifices in other areas. This is a very demanding career mentally and physically. I spent most of my teenage years in the dance studio, I always knew where to focus my time and preferences. But above all, don’t be afraid to dream big. No matter what part of the world you come from, with hard work and self-confidence, there are no limits, she concluded by saying.