Art and White Snow Boots

Dearest Tanja,
I remember vividly the first time I saw you. Returning from living o/s for a long time the current dance landscape was unknown to me, so I went to see this new ADT and there you were! You radiated beyond the theatre, you flew high, rolled like a demon, glided on gossamer, shone out with personality and pizazz in every fibre. Simply put 'stunning'. My choreographic gastronomy salivated to create a solo for you. I should not have hesitated to ask, I should not have feared.

I am so fortunate to have been able to get to know you just a little. Through the 'Ignition' seasons, witnessing your choreographic talent blossoming in Adelaide, dancing some C.I. together, catching up in London and swimming in the sea pool in Sydney, Sol walking you along the edge of the pool like an elegant trapeze artist, debating art making processes, the role of the director, chewing the grisly bits of philosophy about why we make what we make, and even why we make art at all. The silly song I made up about your red blow up bath cushion, those white snow ugg boots you adored and wore until they disintegrated, your fabulous earring collection. Sol and yourself dancing ballroom at Bryans birthday in that bar on Hindley street. A partnership to behold!

I am so fortunate.

I danced again on Sunday. I just had to go to the underscore. I danced with you in my heart, you were in the room, smiling, playful. I danced without hestiation, I must not put off, or delay, but follow your inspirational lead to dive in and get wet with life and living again. To dream your dance and dance your dream.

I picture you and all I can do is smile then my heart is heavy. Tanja you continue and will always be a huge inspiration, a huge big warm fuzzy in my heart.

Sol my heart bursts for you, Tanjas dear dear friends all over the world also.

Dear Tanjas family my deepest condolences, you must be terrific and amazing people also to have raised this wonderful person!! My family's hearts and thoughts are with you now and for the coming months. Please know she was much loved, thankyou for sharing her with us!

All our love
Helen Christian and Grace