By Panni De Cheke Qualls
There is a saying in Canada that goes something like, “Feels great to start my day with Timmy.” Until KCSP Tímea Bettina Rideg arrived in the Toronto area, that might have only referred to the excellence of a Tim Horton’s cup of coffee. But now that she’s here, folk dancers in the Kodály or Rozmaring Ensembles can use this Canadianism otherwise.
Rideg has been using her skills to support both groups since last October – giving her a chance to hone her teaching skills and pedagogy – and inching her closer to perhaps leading her own ensemble one day. She’s built community, turned theory into practice, and made lifelong friends.
Though Rideg will turn 26 this summer, she’s been dancing for 23 years. That’s right – since she was just three years old. Her initial exposure was inspired by costumes she saw at a local festival. From there, she joined the local ensemble, attended camps, and the rest is history.
“At my first camp, we danced from morning until late afternoon. I don’t remember what kind of dance we learned, but I remember when we did the choreography, and the instructor said that we have to dance it one more time, and one more time after that, everyone sighed, they didn’t feel like it anymore. And I said: “That’s it, let’s go one more time!” That’s when I realized that I am hooked and really focused on dancing. Since I didn’t get tired of it, this passion must come from deep inside me, I thought. Later on, this feeling only got stronger,” says Rideg,
On her journey to the Hungarian Dance University, Rideg earned certificates in Tourism/Hospitality and English. Rideg now uses what she learned to work with the Toronto-area Hungarian communities. In collaboration with fellow KCSP Attila Dávid Balogh, she teaches five groups in the Kodály Ensemble and three at Rozmaring – spanning all ages. Because the ensembles participate, and perform in a variety of Hungarian events, Rideg and Balogh have had opportunities to run rehearsals, organize programs, and create different choreographies.
It is through KCSP that Rideg realized that teaching is also a part of her calling. Up to now, it has been mostly about honing her own skills as a performer/dancer and having a theoretical pedagogical background. The interaction here with different age groups, and abilities has been cathartic.
“This is the first time in my life that I have an on-going, and full-time relationship with an ensemble as an instructor, and I really like it. I like that my days revolve around folk dance. I spend my time analyzing dance materials, selecting music, songs, and dances. In addition, there are various programs in the ensembles – performances and events for which you have to prepare separately,” observes Rideg.
Rideg was especially surprised at teaching young children – also a first time for her. “I didn’t know what to expect. I wasn’t sure if I had what it takes to support them – in terms of patience, for example. To my greatest surprise, they made it so easy for me – it is a joy to teach them. They are so sweet,” says Rideg.
But unlike the old proverb “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” Rideg has a lot of other interests which complement her dance skills. She dabbles in psychology, health food, yoga, hiking, nature photography and traveling. As a creative handcrafter, Rideg can do everything from knotting bracelets, pottery, painting, and stringing beads to origami, and carving. In her spare time, she devours all things related to these hobbies – books, podcasts, and documentaries.
“Based on what I understand so far, two aspects to leading a happy life are self-awareness and consciousness – to be at peace with ourselves. This appears to go hand-in-hand with the fact that this allows us to see, and understand others differently. As we see ourselves differently, we begin to understand others more,” says Rideg.
Living a healthy life inspired Rideg to take a more holistic approach to her habits. This translated to an interest in healthier foods and what she calls “conscious eating.” This meant thinking about what goes into her body, staying in shape and maintaining a feeling of overall mental and physical health.
All of these hidden talents marry well with the KCSP skillset. There is emphasis on creativity, people skills and creating community. Rideg has capitalized on her diverse knowledge to give people greater access, and insight into the folk dance culture and its traditions.
“Learning to dance might not appeal to everyone, but everyone longs for a sense of community, and belonging. Folk dancing, hand-in-hand with tradition, can create this. Even as a beginner, dance provides a way to express yourself almost immediately. With very little experience and instruction, you can join the dance community – for example, through the Moldvai dances at a táncház. After about 30 minutes, you feel so good, and connected to those around you,” says Rideg. “And after a long dance party, folk songs follow into the early morning hours. Anyone can join some of the simpler tunes and sing along with everyone else.”
Rideg finds tremendous satisfaction in seeing people engaged and interested in this way. While she knows the learning curve is steep, and that there is always more to learn, Rideg wants to make sure folk dancing remains accessible and appealing to everyone.
“Even with more experienced dancers, it is important to keep the motivation level high. We adjust rehearsals, and the material accordingly. In Kodály and Rozmaring, we try to make sure dancers’ movement, and musicality is enriched, and that they continue to dance. Of course, at the root of all training, whether here or in Hungary, is to build community,” observes Rideg.
(Photo: with KCSP Attila Dávid Balogh)
Even as Rideg continues her KCSP journey, her teaching philosophy continues to evolve, as does her portfolio of work.
“It’s fantastic that I can teach so many groups here, because it allows me to improve, as well. Yes, of course, I learned a lot in my university classes, but here I can actually experience teaching, explaining, breaking down dance motifs, inventing leading exercises, etc. And engaging children is another matter entirely – coming up with tasks they both enjoy and find challenging, so they continue to develop. While, of course, keeping things organized when they are more energetic. Theory is very helpful as a foundation. Then, you have to think on your feet – and that’s been personally and professionally transformative,” says Rideg.
Which brings us full circle to the symbiotic relationship between a KCSP fellow and the community they serve. It’s one where ideally everyone benefits. For Rideg, it is experience she needs to move along the professional folk dance educator continuum. For the Canadian Hungarian communities it means access to new knowledge, techniques, and choreographies.
“For now, I would like to participate in the KCSP program for at least one more tour, but maybe even two. My thinking and perception have changed a great deal – and I really think I can continue to support the communities here with my talents. Eventually, I would like to settle in Hungary, teach folk dancing or start my own ensemble. Perhaps, I will obtain additional degrees in one of my more serious interests, and expand career options in those directions,” concludes Rideg.
(Photo: Tímea Bettina Rideg’s nature photography)
