Pinetown dancer scores gold at London championships

KEVIN Ellis from Pinetown walked off with gold, gold and gold honours at the World Dance Master Champions held in Blackpool last month.

Kevin danced in the challenging “All-Stars” category and his first-place wins attained a gold graduate score, – the highest score that can be achieved – from some of the judges.

“I received gold for my first dance, an East Coast swing, practice and hard dance, and gold for my second dance, a waltz and gold for my third dance which was a show-dance entitled Come Alive for the Greatest Showman (movie),” said an elated Kevin from London.

“‘The “All-Stars” category is also the highest section one can dance in at World Dance Masters Championships and I am so proud to be in it.”

It is no mean feat and Kevin said it takes hours of practice and dedication. “Qualifying to dance in the All-Stars section, I will not lie, is very challenging and freestyle, but I ain’t giving in or giving up.”

ALSO READ: Looking into the heart of the dancer

His exquisite and unique costumes and hats are beautifully crafted by creative, Gareth Greaves, from Durban who has also moved to London.

“I’m living in London now exploring and seeing the museums, galleries, markets and exhibitions. I am also taking dance classes and enjoying West End theatre shows and just loving the unbelievable and eclectic mixture of fashion here, it is truly amazing from boho and vintage to retro.

“The daily hustle and bustle are electrifying. There’s a saying, if you are tired of London you are tired of life and I certainly am not. I am learning new things and growing and I have never walked so much in my life.”

Last year, Kevin attained the Champion of the World titles in the line dance advanced men’s singles category. He has won many titles over the years to reach the All-Stars pinnacle category.

ALSO READ: Kevin’s in the mood for dancing

He is also SA’s undefeated freestyle singles, doubles and triples champ. He gyrated his way into the well known Moulin Rouge cabaret in Paris, formed part of the entertainment team on 27 cruise ships including the Oceanos where he was lauded a hero and given a bravery award for saving 690 passengers.

Kevin is also a fashionista and designer when the muse strikes. He is multi-talented and was a choreographer for X-factor SA, taught keep fit and modelling deportment; was a motivational speaker, produced shows and ran the marvelously eccentric shop at The Stables.

He also worked as a stylist on movies, magazines, hair shows and music DVDs.

A large dollop of magic, colour, swag and flair left Durban when Kevin moved to London earlier this year.

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