SOLOMON KARMEGAM

What is the most challenging aspect of working in dance and being a parent for you?

 

Balancing the intensity and time commitment of dance—particularly rehearsals, competitions, and mentoring—with being fully present as a parent. Dance requires discipline and consistency, while parenting demands emotional availability, so consciously prioritising both is the key challenge.



What support did you feel you had when you were on paternity leave?

Flexibility in professional work helped, while the dance team culture- built like a family - allowed temporary delegation without losing continuity.

 

Was there anything that may not have been in place that you felt could have been useful?

 Formal policies within creative and dance communities around parental support, structured time-off, and mental wellbeing would be highly beneficial.

 

Do you think being a dancer/ working in the dance industry made you think differently about your partner’s pregnancy/recovery?

Yes - discipline, physical awareness, and respect for the body in dance translated into a deeper appreciation for recovery, patience, and resilience during this phase.

 

From your experience, what advice would you give to an expectant parent regarding leave?

 Plan early, communicate clearly, and build a strong support system. In creative fields like dance, empowerment of others (delegation) is key to sustaining continuity.

 

Does parenting help you in your work?

Yes - parenting strengthens empathy, patience, and leadership, all essential in mentoring dancers and leading teams.

 

Does dance help you in your parenting?

Absolutely - dance builds discipline, resilience, and teamwork, which directly influence how I approach parenting and instil values.

 

Do you know of any resources that already exist for parents who work in dance?

 Formal resources are limited. Dance communities themselves often become the support system, but more structured platforms like Dance Mama are critical to bridging this gap.



Anything else you think would be worth raising?

Dance and parenting share a common foundation — growth, patience, discipline, and community. Creating ecosystems where both can coexist is essential. The legacy of Twisters Crew proves that strong communities can shape not only performers but well-rounded individuals for life.



About Solomon

Solomon Karmegam is the founder of Twisters, the official dance crew of Anna University established in 1996. Over nearly three decades, he has built Twisters into a high-performing dance community that has won numerous inter-collegiate competitions and developed over 1,000 members. Alongside his dance leadership, Solomon is a senior workforce transformation leader in the UK & Ireland. He remains actively involved in mentoring dancers, promoting discipline, teamwork, and personal growth through dance.



Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@solomontwisters5276

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solomonkarmegam/

https://www.instagram.com/twisters_crew/