From Soweto to the world

FUTURE PLANS: MR NT PROMISES MORE DANCING, TOURING

Music is the next big thing for the dancer who ‘doesn’t follow trends’.

Nkosinathi Ngwenya started dancing at the age of 11. Hailing from the township of Soweto, the dancer, now known as Mr NT, became popular for dance styles like isbhujwa, hip hop, and krumping.

He joined dance crews Buck Fam, Relapse, and Creed before going solo.

During the Covid pandemic, he and fellow dance members including Chisanga Pembanyali (Bruecee) started sharing their slow motion dance videos on TikTok. Their style of dance took off when they used an international artist’s track in a video.

Soon international dance crews were mimicking the style and they went on to win awards for their creative style of dance, while also scoring invitation to choreograph and perform at festivals outside of South Africa.

He also has a dance competition for the youth (teenagers) that is an absolute success and is doing great things to uplift children. It’s called Royal Nice Things.

He speaks to The Citizen about his work: How did you get into dancing?

My passion for dancing started in 2004, starting out with isbhujwa. My interest in hip hop dance started in the year the RNB musician “Omarion” became a global sensation. I took a lot of inspiration from him and his style of music and dance.

What motivated you to push through before your success?

My living situation motivated me. I wanted to make my dad proud, so I aspired to make something of myself.

What impact has TikTok had on your career and why do you think your style of content has been successful on the platform?

My style has been successful because I move differently and always stay true to myself, and that has also inspired other people to take inspiration from what I do. I don’t follow trends, I create them. My first gig was with Standard Bank via TikTok, which made me realise that I could turn a hobby into a successful career.

How do you see yourself expanding your brand?

I would like to venture into music and create an entertainment business under my brand Nice Things.

You popularised a particular style of dance that has since garnered international recognition and mimics. What are your thoughts about appropriation and inspiration?

The fact that there’s a mixture of both shows I am doing something good. I feel inspired by those who are inspired by my style. They know who the creator is and many people credit me for the style.

You recently toured Nigeria and Ghana. Tell us about the experience and what you learned from the trip?

It was truly amazing. In Nigeria, I was a judge and coach on a talent show. I became a mentor to some of the kids I met there.

I made a special appearance at one of the biggest dance events in Nigeria called Freestyle Friday. It was amazing. The love and respect were unbelievable. In Ghana, I met up with one of the biggest dance crews in the country called The Militant Dance Family we collaborated.

I learned a lot, having met a lot of good dancers who took me on a tour of the city. You may think you are the best until you travel and see what others are doing. I also received a lot of love in a foreign country. I received a lot of respect. It was inspiring. There is so much talent locally and internationally and that pushes me to strive for bigger things when it comes to my career. I can’t stop here; this is only the beginning. The experience taught me so much, people actually want to see me win.

What are your thoughts about the state of the dance community in South Africa now and how does the fraternity work toward greater financial and professional/labour protection?

It’s all about who you know and what you are willing to do to get ahead. Really good dancers don’t get the opportunities and recognition they deserve. It’s a small industry with a lot of people. I have been working for years to be recognised by the dance industry so I stopped and only focused on people who love my creativity, my craft and the content

Now it’s the dance industry that’s calling me for work. The industry needs to be professionalised to the extent that there are labour laws to protect dancers.

Who were your dance inspirations and mentors growing up and what role has mentorshipplayed in your success?

I have never had a mentor. I mentored myself by pushing myself. But Omarion was my inspiration. Even though I don’t have a mentor my dad motivates me. I can’t believe that I am now mentoring others. It’s funny how the world works.

Your dance style requires consistent creativity and innovation. Talk us through the creative process and the power of innovation, creativity, and uniqueness?

My dance style is a combination of listening skills and body movement. I create on the spot.

I listen to the beat and lyrics and interpret it through movement by telling a story. I have been approached by deaf people who can’t hear the music I dance to but they understand the message I bring out.

I recently got nominated twice at the DStv Content Creator Awards and at the South Africa Social Media Awards for The Best Dancer Of The Year. This means there I’m doing something right.

First and foremost I would like to say I don’t like calling my supporters my fans. I wouldn’t be here without them so thank you for all your support. I’ll keep thanking you guys through my art so expect more dance, more music, and more touring.