Dance duo Damian Cornelius, 26, and Ryan Brown, 25, are hard at work preparing to defend their winning title at the World of Dance South African championship next month.
They were crowned the best duo at the regional World of Dance championship, held in July at His People’s Church in Century City.
Damian, from Silvertown, and Ryan, from Heideveld, have been dancing together since 2014. Initially they were part of another dance crew, but when they discovered that they work well together, they formed the duo.
Since their collaboration, the pair have been making waves on the hip hop and contemporary dance scene, winning top spots at local competitions, including Break the Beat, the South Peninsula Talent Show and 021 Best Dance Crew. They have featured on the Expresso TV show, performed with Emo Adams and taken part in SA’s Got Talent.
Ryan is a full-time dancer, actor and choreographer at the Bridgetown Theatre Company (BTC), while Damian is a sports co-ordinator at Southfield Primary School.
They are rehearsing their routine for the upcoming competition, which takes place in Johannesburg on Saturday and Sunday December 10 and 11.
The World of Dance Championship Series started 13 years ago in Los Angeles and now has more than 30 countries competing.
Despite the financial challenges and his age, Ryan says he does not plan on giving up dance any time soon.
“I still want to do choreography and be a mentor. It can be difficult making a decent living as a full-time dancer and actor, but I am satisfied with the journey God has brought me on. I have danced since I was seven years old, and although it has taken me to a lot of places, no matter where I find myself, it has always been my safe space. Dance comforts me. On stage reality fades away.”
Damian agrees, describing dance as his “personal sanctuary”.
“To me it’s a place of healing. It takes you away from all your problems. You can always channel all your emotional energy into dance.”
They are appealing to the public to help them get to Johannesburg for the competition.
“We are reaching out for sponsorship, as we need money for our costumes, flight tickets and accommodation,” says Damian.
If you can assist, call Damian at 078 105 7503.