Dance vehicle for expression: Cole
DANCER and choreographer John Cole says dance can be used as a vehicle for expression.
Speaking to Cole said he ventured into dancing as a way of trying something new, but later on realised the benefits within it.
He said for him, it took passion and talent to master up his skills in choreography.
“It was a passion at first for the art form of dance, however during the course of the start of something wonderful you come across more features and one of those is making money and I found the right door to my career and I ran with it never looking back at all,” Cole said.
“The journey was tough to be honest, not as appealing because back then no one understood dance so changing the narrative was a goal, so here we are, John Cole the dance brand.”
He encouraged those with a passion for dancing to never give up as dancing can make one achieve what they desire.
“Never let yourself down and look at the bigger picture as a whole, not just tomorrow or day after, it's a longevity game so take yourself seriously and everyone else will fall in line,” he said.
Cole has choreographed a lot of local and international videos which he said had lost count and have won awards, which include Zimstar Award 2020, Empire 263 & Arts Awards 2021.
“I have directed/choreographed many videos which I have lost count but all of them were marvellous,” he said.
“Some of the international videos directed include one for Nagug (artiste based in UK) for her song Simuka, then for Allanah titled Mufaro. I produced local videos for Holy Ten, Tinashe Magacha and Natasha Muz, well the list is endless, but it’s a lot.”
The passionate choreographer said for all the videos he directed he cannot point out the best among them because all of them came out nice.
“I can’t solely say one because each video or artiste is a whole different vibe, scope and mantra. I will say this art life is a journey of note which we must take notes and apply in others,” Cole said.
He said his skin colour has been a challenge in the industry.
“Well colourism is what I face from my peers in the industry as most if not all choreographers and dancers think I have what I have because of my race and if I was black I would not have the same opportunity,” he said.
“However it’s never the case as what I know is hard work and pushing the envelope to ensure a successful career.
“It’s always said every year but every year I keep doing the most. After all they are just words and working towards my goal is key. I never listen to naysayers, I prove them wrong.”
“I am planning on opening a dance academy soon and as for now I have my own public relations and media company and a consultancy agency.
“Stay focused on what you must archive, Rome wasn’t built in one day however it became the centre of the world. Take what you can do and dream big.
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