Continued from pg 31 heading up the department as the Musical Theater Director . Continuing to discover his mojo , Tor became certified as a dance fitness instructor which helped him to evolve and enter back into the world of dance . Now Tor was able to help people AND do what he loves FULL TIME .
China . This was the break he longed for . Tor was hired and began to live the dream … again !
This nine month gig turned into four years with shows on cruise ships and at China ’ s Venetian and Sands resorts . Ironically , even though he was booked as a singer , dance opportunities always seemed to just fall into Tor ’ s lap . Such was the case when he took the initiative and started teaching dance at the Venetian . He was soon offered the opportunity to oversee the entire dance department . His triple threat portfolio kept him gainfully employed being one of only five performers asked to stay on . Because Mr . Tor could do it all , he was positioned to DO IT ALL . His work life became … twelve hour days , 10-12 different shows every three months , mixing his own music , setting formations and staging , casting the shows , lighting , costuming , choreography … a one man production company . And he enjoyed every minute of it ! When you ’ re doing what you love your heart is committed to the process .
With the renewal of his contract every six months , Tor was able to break away and travel home . And it was a trip back to the states for a friend ’ s wedding that changed his life . Upon arrival , he wasn ’ t feeling well and before he knew it he was admitted to the hospital for a lengthy 3 ½ month stay . Healthy and revived , Tor was back to himself , but he had missed the opportunity to return to China . Just when he felt he was back in his groove , Tor had to start all over again … again . In order to pay the bills he studied to become a physical therapy assistant but this time around he was proactive . He masterfully combined both disciplines , taking what he had learned as a therapist and an instructor in New York and China and created his niche in the entertainment industry .
The relationships Tor built over the years served as a catalyst for his next steps . While attending Agape Church in Los Angeles , Tor began to take dance classes again . Ironically , one day , the hip hop instructor was a no show and Tor was asked to teach the class . He went from teaching to
Tor is currently one of the top instructors , choreographers , and Master Trainers for Billy Blanks Jr ’ s Dance It Out format . Everywhere he teaches his classes are packed with diehard supporters who follow him from venue to venue . He has also successfully parlayed his love for musical theater into his own version of a “ Broadway ” dance class that can be enjoyed by the novice , the expert , and everyone in between . “ I don ’ t just teach steps from a musical . I tell a story through song , any song that fits what is being expressed , always having a beginning , middle , and an end .” I can vouch that Tor ’ s Broadway class takes you on an amazing journey of dance . His energy and creativity are phenomenal !
A closer look at TOR CAMPBELL …
ACT : Of all of your experiences , what were your greatest moments as a performer ?
TOR : The role as Tin Man in middle school was a pivotal moment in my life because that ’ s when I realized I loved musical theater . Booking “ Cover Girls ” was a life changing experience as well . The connections alone changed my life ’ s path .
ACT : Who were your biggest influences in your dance career ?
TOR : Keith Haley Andrews , my boss in China . He taught me different sides of the business and helped me stretch my talents to become more than a dancer .
ACT : What is the best advice was given to you by an industry professional ?
TOR : Always BE PREPARED ! And find your niche .
ACT : So , if you get the chance to choreograph one show for an artist , today , who would that be ?
TOR : I ’ m torn between Bette Midler and Beyonce . I would probably pick Beyonce because I could turn her songs into a musical about her life .
ACT : What advice would you give a dancer who is trying to figure out that next step in his / her career ?
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