Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in the world. It moves and breathes in its own vibrant tempo, creating a safe haven for artists of all eccentricities. Dancers of all genres flock to this city to spread their wings – literally and figuratively – and together they make Toronto an even more beautiful place.

Nicholas Rose – Strangers in Toronto

What is your earliest memory of dancing?

I remember doing this one little gospel dance when I was a kid. I wore this green shiny top with a pair of black slacks.

Could you please share a bit about your dance training and aesthetic?

I trained at a boarding school called HARID Conservatory, it’s a Russian- based ballet school in South Florida. I then moved to LA at 17 to go to Colburn Dance Academy, which is a Balanchine influenced school with Americanized style.

What inspires you as a dancer?

What doesn’t inspire me as a dancer? Just the simple fact I get to wake up and see this world and breathe the air is just enough reason to celebrate and dance! We are so lucky.

Why does dance matter?

Dance is communication. Dance is art. And without art, could you imagine how dull, boring, and small minded we would all be?

In your opinion, what is special about the dance scene here in Toronto?

I think that everyone here has a natural gift of movement I have noticed. Maybe because it’s such a diverse scene here, people from all around (like myself) are out here.

What are some things that you’d like to see change/evolve in our dance ecology?

There needs to be more BLACK, LATINO, ASIAN, and MIDDLE EASTERN dancers. When you see the dance world it does not reflect the world we are living in. There needs to be more inclusivity.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Dancing overseas in Europe, taking part in changing the way people view dark skinned dancers in ballet.