Growing up learning Hip-hop dance styles led me to train for three years in Musical Theatre at the Urdang Academy, as they have very strong connections with the commercial industry. Here I developed as an artist and trained in many art forms to a professional level.
Since graduating in 2014 I have worked as a choreographer, director and producer. A career highlight is creating the original choreography for musical theatre royalty Arlene Phillips OBE, who was directing the industry showcase of an original musical 27 which premiered in London. In 2016, I formed my own company, HOZO Dance.
A great passion of mine has been creating work for film; whether that be short dance films or music videos, I get a huge sense of enjoyment from creating in this way.
Why did you choose to study the MA Dance & Creative Enterprise? What were the main factors that attracted you to the course and NSCD?
The reputation of NSCD speaks for itself. I thought it was integral that I made contacts within the contemporary dance industry and learnt from the best within this sector. This course specifically interested me as I was in need of building my confidence in writing funding applications.
What interests you as an artist? How would you describe your creative practice?
Work that inspires me and evokes thought and feeling.
I love to create work with a narrative, stemming from my acting and musical theatre background. I love to push boundaries and challenge viewers whilst relaying a message or idea through narrative.
My style has no category – I prefer to experiment across dance styles incorporating Hip-hop, contemporary and jazz influences.
I like work with clever production value. I want to be inspired by the technical elements of the production as well as the artist’s performance.
How are you finding the MA? What are you currently working on?
I am loving being here at NSCD. The School’s approach to creating work is very different from my background, so each day I try to challenge myself and practice new techniques for piece development. I am extremely fortunate to have this year to explore and experiment within such a nurturing environment, to learn and develop as an artist.
How are you finding Leeds?
It’s not London. Having said that, Leeds has many events for culture and art, and it’s a lovely small city with lots of life and great dining sectors.
Do you have any future projects lined up?
I am constantly producing short dance films and music videos for up-and-coming artists, in order to keep learning and improving on the art form of producing and directing for the screen.
27 The Musical – Choreographer, London, 2015
Brotherhood (dance film) – Writer and Choreographer, 2016, London
African Queen (dance film) – Writer and Director, 2016, Berkshire
Forbidden Nights (London Residency, UK Tour & Europe performances) – Creative Director, Stage Manager, 2013-2019
Forbidden Girls – Choreographer, London, 2014
Music videos:
Call Me by Aria – Choreographer, 2017
Anymore by Kris James – Performance Coach, 2018
Stillness by Sseance – Choreographer and Executive Producer, 2019
Are U The Devil? by Sseance – Director and Producer, 2019
Bubblegum by Sseance – Director and Producer, 2019
TV:
Choreography for guest performances on ITV’s Big Brother and Britain’s Got Talent
Choreographer of one of the top 10 most-viewed Britain’s Got Talent auditions.
