'I'm a Wolverhampton dancer who is chasing his dreams and performing with Rita Ora and Katy Perry'

From an early age I knew that I wanted to use my body to express how I feel and who I am. I started out at six years old, in dance studios around the West Midlands, training in lots of styles; Hip Hop, Contemporary, Ballet, Jazz and Gymnastics to name a few.

During the ages six to 16 I would compete nationally every weekend at dance competitions and showcases, often winning as a soloist and in group pieces. I knew that I needed to start taking my dancing seriously, so at 16 I started training at BOA in Birmingham, where I earned my Diploma in Dance and Performing Arts. This gave me the tools I needed to make the big decision, the move to London.

This is where things really amped up, I started training with the best choreographers in the world, and the hard work started to pay off. My first job was a movie called ‘Everybody’s Talking About Jamie’, which led to other work. I featured on the Netflix show ‘Dance 100’, where I worked closely with 10 American choreographers. I then performed on multiple episodes of ‘The Voice UK’ with Will.I.AM and Sir Tom Jones. 

That led to me starring alongside Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande in the blockbuster movie ‘Wicked’. As well as TV and Film, I started to work closely with internationally acclaimed music artists, for their live shows and performances. The first artists I performed with were Raye and Becky Hill at the ‘Birmingham Commonwealth Games’! From there I danced with Rita Ora for the internationally televised ‘Eurovision Song Contest’ performance. 

I was then asked to perform with Kylie Minogue at ‘The Brit Awards’ . I also danced with the Sugababes for their headline show at the 02 arena. Not only was I working in the UK, I started to travel the world, to places like China, where I performed with the superstar Chris Lee, for her New Years Eve show, and in the ‘Vogue World Fashion Show’ in Paris, with artists Bad Bunny, Ciara and Katy Perry.

As my dance career continued, I also developed my gift for choreography and creation. Nurturing this talent allowed me to not only perform, but help create incredible shows and productions around the world. I started working as a dancer and assistant choreographer for Jay Revell at ‘Black Skull Creative’ production house. The first project I assisted on was the ‘League of Legends’ Opening Ceremony with superstars Ashnikko and Linkin Park at the 02 arena - which won the World Choreography Award for best Television Award Show. 

We have also travelled quite frequently to Saudi Arabia, where I have been an assistant choreographer on multiple shows there, like the Joy Awards, where I both choreographed and performed with Katy Perry (for the second time), Robbie Williams, and Boney M. 

Another show we created there was the Opening Ceremony for the ‘E Sports World Cup’, for Post Malone and Duckwrth. I also travelled back to China for the second time, creating the ‘League of Legends Opening Ceremony’ in Chengdu, with superstars G.E.M and Anyma. I also assisted Jay in the creation of a fashion show for the German brand ‘About You’ , as well as working with Fergie, for her Netflix version of ‘London Bridge’.

Other notable performance credits of mine include featuring in music videos for Sam Smiths’ Desire, Robbie Williams - Rocket, Kun - What A Day (where I was also dance captain). I have also featured in global adverts and campaigns for H&M, Venmo and Sky TV.

What has been a lesson that you have learned so far?

I would say that what I think gets people ahead in this field of work is self belief - a strong foundation and sense of confidence. Knowing who you are and what you stand for is so important in propelling forward as a performer, or any artist for that matter. 

I think the biggest lesson that I have learned is that building that strong foundation or that belief in yourself cannot come from anyone else, YOU must believe in who you are first. When I was younger, I sought out external gratification and validation, in hopes that it would strengthen my self belief, and although it did temporarily, my confidence was still not at 100%. Things started to improve when I poured into myself; I worked on my confidence, and began to trust my talent and what I have to offer the world. This is the type of self worth that lasts and stays strong.

What is dance to you?

Dance definitely keeps my mind and body in an energised and inspired state. Moving my body has always allowed me to connect with who I am as a human, and I think that learning more about who I am through dance is such an interesting journey. How I move is a direct representation of my journey through this life and how I am growing as a person - I believe that the two develop together. Dance is such a grounding experience for me, it allows me to express every asset of my earthly experience every day, and it is something that I will always love deeply.

What helps to keep you inspired?

I think the simplest and most honest answer to this question is just living life. Being a human is the main thing that keeps me inspired, making sure that I am taking time to embrace and experience everything that life has to offer, and living it fully. Things like sitting in the park, being around nature, spending time with loved ones, or even eating my favourite food, all help to pour love into my soul. I also like to stay grounded and calm in my day to day, and meditation has been a beautiful tool in looking after my spirit. Taking time to be with myself has allowed my energy to become more balanced, meaning I can approach dance and life with more love.

What’s Next?

The big question! Honestly I am so excited for the future, and can’t wait for what life has to offer. As well as my performance and choreography work, I am also starting to teach more and more in the UK, specifically at The Playground London. Teaching allows me to share my love for dance and my own artistic flare with others, it is something I think I will continue to do for a long time. 

I have also just been lucky enough to be recognised by Arts Council England, and have received a grant to develop my creative and movement practise, which means I can create my own work and further explore my artistry on a bigger scale! I am also hoping to make the move to US, specifically Los Angeles. I have always been inspired by the industry there, and feel like I am ready to make my mark! I am excited to keep living life and to keep learning and growing!