Renowned dancer wants Midrand youngsters to dance their way abroad
MIDRAND – A dance academy has grown through word of mouth.
Professional dancer and Midrand resident Megan Erasmus has opened a local dance school and aims to have students representing the country abroad.
ME Dance Academy currently operates from AFM Midrand Impact Christian Center on Saturdays where Erasmus teaches toddler ballet, modern jazz, hip-hop and contemporary dance for people 13 years old and over.
“I felt that there were hardly any dance schools in Midrand and my four-year-old daughter had such an interest in dance so I thought why not start my own school given my extensive knowledge and experience in the field,” she said.
Erasmus, who is originally from Cape Town, has been dancing since the age of five. After completing her diploma in business computing, she decided to pursue dancing professionally. She performed in the opening title sequence of the soapie Backstage and moved to Johannesburg with renowned executive producer Mfundi Vundla as a resident dancer for the soapie.
“This was where I was introduced to Somizi Mhlongo who exposed me to the corporate sector where I worked with all the local choreographers for corporates,” she said. For six years she performed and choreographed for the late singing sensation Lebo Mathosa touring Africa and Europe. She has shared the stage with Beyonce, Tamia, John Legend, Will Smith, Black Eyed Peas, Ludacris, Brandy and Shaggy.
In 2012 she performed at the Chora Awards in Côte d’Ivoire and shared the stage with Chris Brown, P Square and other African artists. Local artists she has choreographed and performed with include Lira, Karen Zoid, Mandoza, Tumi from The Gang of Instrumentals, Danny K and many more.
Erasmus said her school, which currently teaches 13 children, was preparing for their first competition, the Alberton Dance Eisteddfod which is scheduled to take place soon. “This will be our first competition. In the next year or two, our aim is to go overseas and represent South Africa. I have received a great response from parents and children. The academy has grown so much through word of mouth,” she said.
To join the school contact Megan on 079 775 5133 or email meganerasmus@yahoo.com
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