We had the pleasure of meeting Slava Ruza in person· a great dancer and pole artist. He is originally from Latvia, but he moved to Sweden almost 8 years ago. Slava discovered pole dancing in 2013 and since then pole dance became a big part of his dancing life. Nowadays, he has a full-time job in the office, he teaches and practices pole in the North Pole Studio and he also dances from time to time in the theatre.
You can attend online pole lessons by Slava via the Open Dance Academy Platform.
Use the code “verticalwise” for a 10% discount.
In this exclusive interview with Slava Ruza, a talented dancer and pole artist, we delve into the captivating world of pole dance. Originally from Latvia and now based in Sweden, Slava shares his experiences, insights, and the role pole dance plays in his life. We had the opportunity to chat with him. As he said, pole dance is the perfect way for dancers to expand their skills and open a new way to defy gravity. Better to let him do the talking in this exclusive interview at Vertical Wise.
Slava Ruza enjoying the interview with Dora Charisiadi and Elli Voulgari from Vertical Wise
Sitting and chatting! Konstantin Kosovec, aerial artist, joined us!
1. Why Pole?
I think what appeals to me in pole dance the most is that you can bring your dance into another dimension. Floor and air are connected with a pole – it is pure magic! This is the perfect way for dancers to expand their skills and open a new way to defy gravity. It is also a great physical exercise and the best way to stay in good shape.
2. Pole ___ (fill in the blank!)
With what phrase would you combine it? Fitness, sports, dance, art? Which one expresses yourself in the best way?
I would say SPACE. It is so much bigger nowadays than just dance, sport or any kind of exercise. Some people have all their lives dedicated to pole culture – they compete, they teach, they travel, they earn money or they just express themselves with pole dancing.
3. Pol’ography: Tell us a few words about that. What elements combine?
Basically, it is just a choreography class with incorporated elements on the pole. For me, it’s the way to share my style on the pole – how I see it and how I feel it. It is about finding inspiration for the new routine you want to create, or maybe just challenging yourself with something different from a regular pole class.
During his Pol’ography workshop at Vertical Divas Studio, Athens, Greece.
4. Pole and Olympic Games: A Dream or Reality?
I don’t dream about it. Pole sport is something I do when I have cravings for a competitive spirit. It is for sure not the main reason why I dance on the pole. We are all humans and sometimes it is hard to resist this temptation to be on the top. But with time you come to the point when you realize that the only competitor you have is yourself.
Signing autographs
5. The Perfect Match: Pole and Dance
Pole & Dance is like milk and chocolate – it is good together, but also great each by itself!
6. The Future of Pole Dancing: Where Do You See It in 5 Years?
Probably in every gym and in every show!
Slava Ruza with Konstantin Kosovec, Kseniia Kochenkova, Elli Voulgari and Dora Charisiadi.
7. What about Aerial and Pole? Do you combine those two arts?
I never tried seriously any other apparatus than the pole. I think all aerial disciplines have one thing that I miss – a connection to the floor. You know I am like that bird that wants to fly but still being able to walk on the ground and do it with grace 🙂
Wrap up
As we wrap up this exclusive interview with Slava Ruza, we are left inspired by his passion for pole dance and his unique perspective on combining grace and athleticism. With his dedication to the art form, it’s clear that pole and dance will continue to evolve and captivate audiences worldwide.
A Grateful Conclusion
Thank you, Slava!!
We would also like to thank House Of Pole by J&C, Kallithea for the hospitality 🙂
