Surrounded by movement and music at an early age since his father was a salsa dance instructor, he never considered pursuing a career as a dancer until he experienced the healing power of dance during an especially difficult and emotional time in his life.
But salvation came during an unforgettable performance by the world-renowned Nederlands Dans Theater. “At that moment, I understood the power of art,” he remembers. “I knew I wanted to pass on that feeling I experienced that evening. The feeling of being understood. The feeling that you’re not alone.”
If you ask why he dances, Joshi will reply with a charming grin, “Dance is my addiction.” And in that moment, that’s all you will need to hear. Not because he’s trying to sell you on it but because you can see the proof and power of it on him. In the way he doesn’t hesitate to be vulnerable. In the way he bears his soul and dares to be unapologetically himself. In the way he creates space for others to do the same.
Joshi minces no words about the impact dance has had on his life. He’ll tell you, honestly, “Dance changed my life. And it keeps changing my life.” And he’ll confidently proclaim, “ It’s like a religion without rules, which is amazing to me.”
Perhaps that’s why he thinks more men should try it because “you’re always able to change the way dance is or how it is perceived. But you have to experience it before you’re able to judge it.”