Sarjo Sankareh

Sarjo has his dance education from Norway, France and the USA. He has a bachelor's degree in dance and pedagogy from the Norwegian Academy of Dance, practical pedagogical education from the Oslo National Academy of the Arts and a master's degree in dance science from NTNU. He has also studied at the Alvin Ailey School in New York and the Centre International de Danse Jazz in Paris.

– I was a very shy and quiet person when I was younger. Dance gave me a voice – and self-confidence.

With jazz as a foundation, he has also explored expressions such as salsa, contemporary dance, capoeira and Afro-diasporic traditions, and has performed and created works in Europe, Asia and the United States.

– I have brought elements from these styles into my work, both on stage and in teaching.

A steep learning curve

Recently, Sarjo was part of The Book of Mormon at the Folketeatret, which ran to full houses for 107 performances.

– It is perhaps one of the most performed productions I have ever been in, and an experience with a steep learning curve. Musicals are a genre in their own right. In addition to dancing, I was challenged in both acting and singing. Every time I went on stage, I got a little better.

He has also collaborated with companies such as Tabanka Dance Ensemble, Panta Rei Danseteater and Fargespill Oslo, as well as international artists.

Seeing the whole student

In addition to his career as a performing dancer, Sarjo also has extensive experience as a teacher. He has worked at the Norwegian Academy of Dance, upper secondary schools, Terpsi Dance Studio and Panta Rei Dance Theatre, among others.

– The most important thing for me is to see the whole student. It's not just about technique and choreography, but also about building a safe environment and supporting them where they need it.

A year that gives direction

Now Sarjo is looking forward to working as a folk high school teacher in a school environment without grade pressure, close to the students' everyday lives.

– I look forward to working with students where the focus is on development, not grades. I will guide, provide feedback and help them grow – and motivate them to know their own progression and achieve their goals.

He also wants to prepare students for life after folk high school.

– For many, folk high schools are a starting point. They have finished high school, but are not entirely sure about their future. Here they get a year to do something they enjoy – which can give them direction.

Sarjo is aware that dance has value far beyond becoming a dancer.

– The great thing about dance is that you learn to collaborate and think creatively. You take that with you, no matter what you do.