Issue no: 06
“ I have been performing and competing most of my life and loved it every single time. But the most challenging thing for me was to dance with a celebrity on national television in front of millions! The pressure was the most difficult thing to overcome.” His first major show was competing in So You think You Can Dance Television show on SABC 1.“ Doing SYTYCD was childhood dream come true; one I didn ' t even know I had until it all started happening. During the first live show when the famous SYTYCD theme song came on and the dancers are being introduced, I was shaking; I couldn ' t believe it was happening! The whole situation is designed to push you to your limits; I learned so much about myself and trusting my abilities. I don ' t think I ' ve ever focused so much in my life.”
From showcasing in SYTYCD and making to the top 16 another opportunity presented itself and granted him an amazing platform.“ I am so honoured to have been part of Strictly Come Dancing season eight. I ' ve been a fan of the show and it is such prestigious thing in my career. A beautiful space, lots of energy and an amazing team of people working on this production. I ' ve grown so much and am so passionate about continuing as a professional dancer.”
Goals and Inspiration
Obed ' s ultimate goal, coupled with all the experience he has acquired on the dance floor, is to travel the world and do big shows in big arenas.“ My goal as a dancer
is to be a part of the greatest dancers. This is my life. The world of dance is very big and I continue to grow and learn so much. I enjoy teaching as I get to share my knowledge and experience of dance. He draws inspiration from world-renowned dancers.“ I get inspiration from dancers like Rafick Hoosain, Lorcia Cooper, Michael Wentink, Tebogo Kgobokoe, Darren Hammond, Otlile Mabuse to name a few.” He also mentions that selfmotivation has played a major part in making him what he is today.“ I started off on my own, training myself how to dance by watching a lot of dance videos to help me stay motivated.” My dance philosophy is ' Dance to entertain, but also dance to educate '.“ I have had the opportunity to teach dance in communities around Limpopo and found it as a great way to get teenagers off the streets, get physically fit and also instil in them values of decency and respect. Patience, dedication and handwork are key to being a good teacher.”
Mistaken Beliefs
Although Obed has a strong personality he was nearly discouraged to become a dancer because of lack of knowledge and mistaken beliefs.“ Growing up I thought it was an expensive sport and meant for a certain class of people especially when you are from a disadvantaged rural black community. I think any sport or mural activity is expensive or demands some kind of sacrifice and compromise. Time is an expensive commodity and this includes focus, passion and dedication which are
www. megaartists. co. za Nov-Dec 2015 Page 10