Sam in the NSCD foyer when he was studying here
NSCD is thrilled to share the exciting journey of one of our standout alumni, Sam Baxter. With a successful career in both dance and film, in addition to a deep commitment to dance teaching, Sam’s story highlights the power of passion, resilience and world-class training.
From his time at NSCD’s Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) to starring in the Wicked movie and this year’s upcoming Snow White, Sam has seamlessly applied and blended his talents across various artistic mediums.
A key milestone in his career was his casting as a dancer in the Wicked movie. Sam worked closely with renowned choreographer Christopher Scott as part of the skeleton crew of around twenty people on Wicked which worked on the movie from day one. Sam’s involvement stemmed from his collaboration with Mandy Moore on Snow White, where she recommended him to Christopher.
As one of a small group of dancers who R&D’d all numbers and dance scenes for Wicked before rehearsing with larger groups, Sam also worked very closely with the actors before main rehearsals and played a key role in creating movement for five numbers and participated in filming two of them.
Sam said of his involvement in Wicked:
“I was thrilled to be a part of this amazing project. For me, Wicked was the epitome of incredible talent coming together and being given the creative freedom to make magic.”
“You have to stay constantly ‘switched on’ because things are always changing,” he says about his experience of the high-energy, ever-evolving nature of the production. While the fast-paced and unpredictable environment can be daunting and make you question your abilities, it’s also deeply rewarding. The work keeps you engaged, knowing that every challenge presents an opportunity for growth. Being surrounded by incredible creatives and artists is both humbling and inspiring, reminding me that trusting the process is key to navigating such an exciting, yet demanding, journey.
Sam’s highlight moment of working on this project was during filming the Oz Dust Ballroom scene, actor Michelle Yeoh brought in her Oscar to set after winning it for her performance in Everything Everywhere All at Once.
Sam recalls:
“Michelle was the first Asian female to win Best Actress in a movie, so this felt like a crazy moment in film history to be a part of.”
In addition to Wicked, you’ll also be able to see Sam in Snow White movie which is released in March this year. Sam’s involvement in Snow White came through a private audition through an agent that approached him on social media.
Growing up in West Yorkshire, Sam was initially introduced to dance through a relative who encouraged him to attend a local dance school. He started with tap and modern dance before expanding into ballet. But it wasn’t just formal dance classes that captivated him; Sam was always active, enjoying climbing, parkour and gymnastics. His natural curiosity and enthusiasm for movement led him to audition for the CAT at NSCD, a decision that would shape his career and future.
“The CAT taught me so much,” says Sam. “Not only about dance and professional practice, but how to develop and grow as a young artist and developing teenager. We experienced a variety of processes including regular technique classes, creative R&Ds and performance opportunities. These experiences allowed me to attend conservatoire auditions with a maturity that made me stand out from others. The regular classes and intensives also prepared me for the extensive commitment and drive that dance training requires."
Sam whilst studying on NSCD's CAT programme
After graduating from the CAT programme, Sam continued his studies at NSCD and undertook a Foundation and Honours Degree course in Contemporary Dance. The training, alongside the diverse opportunities offered at NSCD, prepared him for the competitive professional dance world.
As a graduate Sam quickly progressed, working with choreographers like James Wilton (James Wilton Dance), Robby Graham (Southpaw Dance Company) and Lukas McFarlan and Kate Prince (Zoo Nation).
His career quickly diversified into feature films and music videos, working with artists such as Thom Yorke, Snow Patrol and Anything But The Girl and Directors including Paul Thomas Anderson (ANIMA), Tom Hooper (Cats) and Michael Gracey (Better Man). As well as collaborating with renowned choreographers Wayne McGregor, Anton Lachky and Andy Blankenbuehler on various other filming projects.
As he continues to build his career in performance, Sam is also passionate about teaching. He is keen to share his knowledge, experience and insights with the next generation of dancers, much like his own mentors did for him.
Sam shares his teaching practice in a wide range of teaching environments including dance company class, choreography classes, workshops and intensives/retreats. Sam does this with a variety of companies such as Akram Khan Dance Company, Phoenix Dance Theatre, Mobius Dance, Extended Play Dance, James Wilton Dance Company, VERVE and Equilibrio Dinamico Dance Programme in addition to working with NSCD, London Contemporary Dance School, Base Dance Studios and World Of Dance Italy.
Sam is also part of the Ferus Animi Terra Nova (FATN) teaching group and has collaborated with them on multiple intensives.
2025 sees FATN's 10-year anniversary which will see Sam being involved in workshops all over the world to celebrate, including one in the Arctic Circle.
Sam says:
“With all things, you won’t get it perfect every time. If you aren’t successful in auditioning the first time, never give up. A career in dance takes a lot of drive and effort. Sometimes, you will have to audition for schools, jobs or companies multiple times before you succeed.”
Sam also stresses the importance of self-awareness and realistic goals for current dance students: “The industry is intense. It requires a lot of commitment and hard work. Ask yourself: ‘Am I ready to be in a dance company?’ If you’re not sure, keep working on your weaknesses and continue learning. The dance world is tough, but for those who stay driven, it’s incredibly rewarding.”
Looking ahead, Sam is most passionate about exploring further artist development. His last two major projects (Snow White, Stranger Things) have been movement auditions that have developed into credited acting roles which highlights how dance and a good understanding of movement can lead to diverse roles within the performance sphere.
Tracy Witney, Head of Learning and Participation at NSCD, shared:
"We are incredibly proud to have played a part in Sam's journey and take great joy in watching him thrive across all areas of his work. His growth as both a performer and teacher continues to inspire us, and we look forward to seeing even more of his outstanding contributions to the industry in the future.”
As Sam continues to shine in the professional world, his advice rings true: cultivate a strong work ethic, stay self-aware, and always set realistic, achievable goals.
Stay tuned for more inspiring NSCD alumni stories.
For those people who are interested in studying on our BA (Hons) Dance (Contemporary) course, applications for 2025 are now open. Learn more and apply here.
Photography credits: Giles Aguiliar, @j_a_c_k__t_h_o_m_s_o_n @kalenejeans and @harveygibson
