“This was fun! The little boy was very very good!”! Anthony King being interviewed on Channel 5 with Natasha Kaplinsky. Teaching the moonwalk and going out into Covent Garden to teach the step! Click here to watch! If you want to learn the moonwalk click right here to find out about Anthony’s classes, books and DVD’s! www.anthony-king.com

A fun interview in the Sky News studio (LIVE) http://www.anthony-king.com

“This is it” is a film comprised of footage filmed over the last days of the King of Pop whilst rehearsing for his 2009 comeback tour which would have been performed at the o2 arena in London. The film is out in cinemas worldwide on October 28th and will be an insight into the workings of the man and a real behind the scenes exclusive.

Click here for the Poster and more details.

“Everyone needs a signature dance move. I discovered this recently at a friend’s wedding when an impromptu circle formed on the dance floor, and reveller after reveller stepped into the ring. Break-dancing, body-popping, tap, jive, Charlston… I felt a gentle sweat coming on – I couldn’t reveal the fruits of belly-dancing lessons at university over a decade ago. Afterwards, I resolved never to put myself in that position again. I would learn to dance like Michael Jackson instead.

Pineapple Studios was the grooviest place to flex your Lycra in the 1980s. Since the passing of the King of Pop (and the return of Lycra) it is enjoying a renaissance. This is partly thanks to the popularity of choreographer Anthony King’s regular Michael Jackson dance classes. On a Wednesday night at 6pm, the rather warm Covent Garden dance studio is packed with Jackson fans in tour T-shirts and sweat gear, getting acquainted with the man in the mirror. I feel intimidated, but I’m soon distracted by King’s infectious energy and snake-hipped charisma. We begin with “Wanna Be Starting Something”. Wrist-flicking, leg-shaking, body-pumping, air-punching – and that’s only the first 1.5 seconds. We try it to music twice, and proceed to the next sequence, which involves unladylike thrusting. This I find embarrassing, especially as I’m positioned next to the window of our street-level studio.

“Shamone!” a class member exclaims triumphantly as we put the whole routine together. By the end of the hour I’m feeling so limber, I could almost perform in the piazza itself. So that’s why the class has a “do not come dressed as Michael Jackson” dress code! After all, there can only be one King of Pop – well, two actually.”

Click here to read the full article!

A tired Anthony King was interviewed by ITN News where he discusses being asked to be part of the O2 This Is It concert residency pre-show by AEG Live on the week of Michael Jackson’s passing. Anthony had a logistical meeting scheduled at the O2 arena on the week Michael died. Anthony also talks about the history of his Michael Jackson style dance class, being featured by Michael Jackson, how he started, as well as being introduced to performing by his step-brother who worked for Michael Jackson for many years. You can also see Anthony dancing in the video: http://www.anthony-king.com/

Anthony King is a regular TV commentator on Michael Jackson and you can find out more on his official website: http://www.anthony-king.com/

Anthony King live interview with Sky News in Covent Garden talking about Michael Jackson’s dance legacy and style.

Anthony King is a regular commentator on Sky News and you can find out more on his official website: http://www.anthony-king.com/

“The dancer of the dreamShare

Today at 4:15am

Praising people is always risky business. As a rule, almost, much is assumed and then the assumptions color the perception of the praise so heavily it falls upon mishearing ears. As though praising signifies weakness or inferiority, instead of the opposite - standing tall among midgets will never make for an accomplishment.

Even if I had an agenda, please read and learn, for what I have to say is a reflection of the truth against the mirror that is me. I want you to have a glance at him through my eyes as I am hoping he might, perhaps, serve you as a guideline in some random tomorrow. And that makes for a privilege.

We were supposed to go to the coast last weekend, my sister and I, but as the forecasts threatened with rain Maja thought out loud:

“How about we take a dance class instead?”

“Dance class! Dance class! Yey!” I said, “Even better!”

“There’s a dance studio in London, quite famous, they’re said to be really good. Pineapple it’s called…”

“Hah, Pineapple!” goofy name for a studio, I thought.

In the Pub the next day…

“I’m going to a Michael Jackson Style dance class! Tomorrow!” I said, clapping, in relation to nothing whatsoever during a conversation over drinks in a pub. But these were MJ fans so the sudden excitement struck no one as odd.

“Oh cool? You’re going to the Anthony King’s class?” asked Michelle.

“Ha? Who? Dunno. It’s in Pineapple studios.” I said. The name ‘Pineapple studios’ amused me.

“Yea, he’s really great. He’s a very nice guy.”

…I made a mental note that this anthonykingguy was perhaps a celebrity and an eye candy which automatically sent him to the “uninteresting” part of the scale. If there even was one. People do love dancers so it was to be expected that he would be gazed at hungrily during his classes, especially by women around. I sensed their excitement in the changing room and it amused me. For a second, though, because, doh, I’m going to his MJ Style dance class. In five minutes! Who cares about the petty hormones.

I passed by two studios on my way from the changing room and stared at anther two before the class actually started. Squealing mutely I soaked it all in. The prospect of being in a dance studio of this size and reputation, or of LIVING in a world where that, to some, is a regular thing blew my mind away. The six year old in my head that never got to have that was on her knees. She’d have devoured it, she’d have jumped on it as on a spring board to her future with no time for fear or buts/ifs or doubts. To the stage. She would have had her wings spread and with pride. With absolute undying lust for life.

Am I at the right place?, I thought looking around, checking my watch, have I lost track of time?, I checked over and over, just to make sure. I’m late for everything so often I get nervous by default even when I’m early.

The guys occupying the studio No. 2 started heading out and this meant we were to get in. Eager students, or rude people? (like in trams, you know, is it always the same everywhere, aarh those people!), sqeezed in before the guys ever got to get out. Fighting for the spot.. Always the same drill. Chasing the spot in front of the mirror.

Right.

I found my place somewhere, not being too sure if it was already “reserved”. I stood there with my MJ shirt on and the converses on my feet (cuz the jazz sneakers were left at home, of course, to collect summer dust - converses on my feet!! seriously!? what a no-no, it’s beyond ridiculous) checking faces for possible frowns reagrding my claimed position. No one seemed to mind. Cool.

In came the teacher and I felt like letting out a big “YAY!” for I was going to be a part of the - the - dance class, I was going to see it all happen right there in front of me. Refusing to check if he was one of those man-I-love-my-mirror-reflection type of teachers or even to pay attention to his looks, egos, vibes, whatevers. None of it mattered, I was here for too short a while to be bothered. The fact that he does what he does was enough for me to respect him immensely and the gift of his was what I was there for, hoping I might decrypt some of the much loved and well known moves. The familiar beats filled my brain and I was on a high. After the short warmup started the introduction to the Smooth Criminal choreography.

See, now - there - right there, for the very first time in my life I witnessed a move be literally disected right to the basics. The alphabet. Left leg does this, right does that and again, and again. For just one simple move. He was adamant that everyone follows. There was simply no way that a student wouldn’t get it. He simplified the simple move so much I didn’t recognize it at first. Because it contained different elements, which, in my mind, how I imitated it were all just ONE element.

Wow, I thought, interesting!

One after another after another and there we were doing it. At least we all knew what it was that we were to do. It goes without saying that it was up to each of us to make perfect by practicing. The purpose of the class, I realized shocked, was that students leave it knowing what it really was that they were supposed to practice at home. There was no “imitation” to be dealt with, there was the real thing, the ABC of the moves to be learned and made comprehensive and recognizable and then, prehaps, interpreted in accordance with our own inner energies.

See, from my experience, dance classes often leave one as clueless as a singer trying to learn a song sang in a foreign language. It doesn’t matter how many times the teacher repeats the tune if the student doesn’t have the words in front or knows their meaning. And more often than not, the teacher won’t be bothered repeating - the students are to “pick it up” and if they fail to do so in a given time, well then, that calls for certain conclusions. This I was never aware of back in the time when dancing was still a tolerated activity for me. But since I gave into it again (weaknesses are weaknesses are strenghts) and since I am reintroducing myself with the logics of movement and am desperate to unlock my self-awarenesses and self-scornings in order to break free and live again, I must admit that for the first time I understand what it means to simply not be able to “pick it up”.

Anthony held nothing back. And he eagle-eyed the students. Supportive, powerful and demanding with a smile on his face. This is why he was here. For us. “Listen and follow and you will get there. You CAN get there!” was what his eyes, voice and involvement translated into. And no, he wasn’t one of those man-I-love-my-mirrored-reflection kind of teachers. But he burned through the beats so obviously he had to let it out now and then. And I understood, painfully. I wished to be as free and was reminded of my random pirouettes on tennis courts back in the day. “Consciousness expresses itself…”

It mattered not where one stood. He was all over the place and seamlessly so. Never failing to compliment for an effort or progress, I felt like he was making us all inhale this thick encouraging happy atmosphere.

At some point he directed his eyes towards the doors. An adorable little boy with a fedora on his head and an adult that accompanied him stood there, just like I did moments ago, gazing inside awestruck. The teacher invited them in, pulled chairs for them to make them comfortable, paying special attention to the interested kid. Encouragement, again.

This becomes especially remarkable during the following classes when he does what he can to protect the students form the interested random onlookers outside the studio. The students are not to be intimidated or distracted. His is to make it a safe place for them - or us. But kids, kids with this flame for dancing visible in their every blink, they are to be made to feel it flow right into their cores. Because they are the ones freed of, or unknowing of, any boundaries an adult mind may be burdened with. They are the Dancers, the leapers to the stage, to the ability to make their bodies express finesses better than any set of vocabularies can. That is when a dream dancer lifts of.

To become Anthony.

He mentioned his web page during the class that we should check out. Needless to say, I did so. There I found written and recorded descriptions of the dance.

I also found this there:

“I want all of my students to feel better about themselves than when they arrived and leave with a smile. I want every one of my students to feel part of the class, appreciated and have the best time while learning some really funky routines and take part in the baddest dance class around!
I have designed my class to be different from the conventional…I’m fed up of dance classes with 4 or 5, amazing looking dancers at the front of class (always the same people) and everybody else, seemingly forgotten, struggling behind fighting to keep up and leaving at the end feeling dejected and discouraged. In my opinion this is a failing on the teacher’s part for not doing there job which is to…teach!”

I was super glad to have seen it after the actual class, because that was exactly how he proved to do things before I even knew who he really was, let alone how he advertised himself.

But beyond all this, Anthony King is a profound, philosophical soul. He is one of the rare who feels thougths and contemplates emotions - the very incarnation of harmony - he preaches harmony between the mind, the body and the soul. He backs it all up with words choreographed in a fitting sense, with knowledge of the ancient and eagerness for the contemporary. He dances in the Now with his very essence surfacing through, from what I’ve seen (and I admit I saw little, could take but a peak), each aspect of existing. While, I assume, knowing that the Now is but a, well, harmony between the past and future, i.e. between different perceptions on the dance that is life.

I stand applauding full-heartedly and am thankful for the opportunity to have my spirits lifted and faith in people recuperated.

He lives my dream. Just seeing that makes me that much happier a person. It can be done.

He is the dancer of the dream. This guy, right there, ladies and gentlemen.
http://anthony-king.com/

(do read:)
http://www.anthonykingblog.com/2009/06/21/anthony-king-in-depth-interview-learning-dance-and-creativity/

Written by Sanja, a Croatian Anthony King student

Man in the mirror tribute…very beautiful.

This is a very beautiful tribute to Michael Jackson by Siedah Garrett who wrote Michael Jackson’s song “Man in the mirror”. She performed with Michael for many years in the Dangerous Tour and you can see her especially in “I just can’t stop loving you”. The Agape International Choir join her after she says a few moving words about her experiences over the last few days. Very emotional…

“I don’t know anything about his personal life…I just know his music touched me”

I think that that says it all for me.

A

If you are one of the thousands who have sent Anthony a message, do not worry, you will get a reply soon.

Update

Press all day. CLASS IS ON. I will be saying a few words.

A

via Blackberry

Update 2

Saturdays class is free for everybody and I will match what would have been charged and donate it to a children’s charity in London. I will update all of the press interviews, footage and videos from all over the world in due course after time and reflection of these very sad events.

A

via Blackberry

Update 3

I have been overwhelmed by really nice emails and messages…I thank you so much for that and I will reply to all of you soon. I am a little exhausted right now because it really has been non stop since Thursday and popping up to Scotland for a couple of hours really took it out of me. I feel like I’ve been interviewed on every News channel in the world but it’s actually been: Channel 5, CNN, Channel 4, four interviews on T4, Sky News, ITN news and others too. Had my video on the homepage of YouTube in tribute to the King of Pop and this was an honor. Germany’s “Stern” magazine and photographer also spent the day with me on Saturday and followed me around doing all of it and that will be out this week also. I don’t feel that now is the time to upload any of this but it will be up soon, after a period of reflection. I am still in shock myself. One more thing. If you email me regarding my classes or DVD or anything, please fully read my website and all the relevant pages as well as Pineapple’s website too. I am a little inundated and I would really appreciate that before you email me with a question which is clearly answered on my website. I have a lot to say and I will do so after this sad period. I thank you and I really wish you well at this time, especially the fans and old friends who I know really cared for him. Michael Jackson will always live on through his music. His spirit lives on…

Anthony

Update 4

Michael Jackson DVD: Please allow 7 - 14 days delivery.

Creativity…Is school and education the way to go? Sir Ken Robinson speaks on creativity (When you’re at the T.E.D site you should certainly have a snoop around!) . I wrote about this in my book and I just think that he captures something very special. It’s a short video of about 20 minutes and you can just have it on in the background….enjoy….

For a full in depth look at all the slides and routines then take a look at my full length and professionally filmed learn to dance like Michael Jackson DVD. Check out the DVD page on my website!

Step 5: The Snap:

As you snap your left heel up off the floor, your
right heel should simultaneously snap down on to the floor.
This is a solid weight transfer, which is a very quick and heavy
movement. It might help if you think of your body movement as
“up and down” as opposed to “forward and back”, because the
weight transfer is from heel to heel and up and down. Remember
to keep your back straight and head and body up right while you
carry out this step.

Copy:

From the finishing position of the last move duplicate
the slide on the other foot. It takes time to join up the steps so
that they flow. While you practice, it might make sense to pause
and rest in between each step. It is an unnatural position and
movement, so it takes practice and getting used to as well as
getting used to strengthening your feet and toes.

Step 6:

The head: To help to create the illusion of the move, add
a head movement. As you slide your leg back slowly move your
head forward as if it’s being left behind the movement and then
pull it back towards the body as you switch to the other foot.
Really stretch your neck forwards, pushing your chin forward. If
you focus on your chin and under neck area, while still keeping
head up right, you’ll be able to extend your head further forward.
Slowly push forward and pull your neck back with speed, in sync
with your legs and the snap.

Step 7 “The arms”:

To make the step look even better, swing your
arms as if you’re walking forward normally, while keeping them
in time with your leg movements. As your left leg slides back your
right arm should swing forward.

Extra tip:

It might seem near impossible at first, which is completely normal.
Practise the sequence a lot! It takes at least four hours of solid
practising just to get used to the concept, but after practice and
focusing on your form and stance, you’ll be busting the step
everywhere and impressing all your friends and more importantly
yourself!

By Anthony King (c)

…Been in touch with Preiswerk about purchasing or commissioning his designs.

Below is one of his dresses featured….beautiful!

You can read an edited online version here.

The piece was called “Britain’s got new fashion talent” and it goes to show that if you are the best and work hard you will get noticed.

P.S Lady GaGa has gone way up in my estimation now!

What was the main reason that made you want to teach Michael Jackson’s style of dance and do you consider it to be an art form such as Ballet, Tap, Or Jazz?

Michael Jackson is a great dancer…a true performer! This said, I do not consider Michael Jackson’s style of dance anything different from Ballet, Tap, Contemporary or Jazz or whatever…and I think that the reason is pretty obvious. Michael Jackson’s dance style and choreography incorporates all of the above! So when we talk about “style” we are talking about the way in which he executes the choreography or step. This is what differentiates him from the rest, not the actual “style” of choreography, necessarily (note: Take a look at his dancers performing the same choreography as him…very different to Michael’s delivery). It has been said that “there is nothing new under the sun” and this is true. What Michael does so well is apply his own style in his execution and in the fact that he moulds and reconciles lots of seemingly unrelated styles in an amazingly exciting and entertaining way, bringing it to the masses! Truly amazing! Like the moonwalk! Think about it, what is the moonwalk composed of exactly? A fusion of Demi- Pointe and a raw slide from the street, perhaps? Michael Jackson fuses every style out there in his short movies! You might have a “jazz dancer” who watches Michael dance in “The way you make me feel” or “Beat it” and say to themselves “I could never do that”, but in actual fact, every step from those two particular videos was derived directly from the Jazz/Ballet Broadway musical “West Side Story”. Yes…Every choreographed step! Now that same dancer would have no difficulty at all with the steps from West Side Story from a “jazz perspective” or mindset. Now that is not logical at all! So, the problem arises, not from the reality of the situation and the dancer’s actual ability, but from the dancer’s mind and from the application of labels like “style” etc…simply put Michael’s choreography is a combination of many styles executed in a unique way, and I like that!

How did the idea of the book come about?

I felt that the time was right. It’s so hard when teaching and interacting with people because sometimes you just don’t have the time to go into detail. So, I thought that the time was right to put it in a book, so that people can take it away and think about themselves, ability, goals and dreams for themselves…as it’s always a case of YOU are the number one expert in the subject of YOU. You don’t need a teacher or an expert to enlighten you. It takes a long time to go into specific reasons and remedy for different situations, and the usual 5 minute chat, quick sound bite or general tips isn’t the best way to inspire real change. It’s a lot easier to make a case with a book and encourage the reader to inspire change and think for themselves.

Does music play a major key in the appeal of a dance? Ex: “Can you fully express yourself in the dance if you don’t like the song?

This is a great question! Yes, music and dance have an obvious symbiotic relationship but I think it’s important to be specific. We are actually talking about the relationship between music and FORM. There is a clear analogy between form, sound and interpretation of what is aesthetically pleasing and the overwhelming effect of sound on the senses and our emotional state. Goethe declared that “architecture is crystallized music”. The Greeks also explored the relationship in depth and I am in agreement…physical form (let’s say movement, dance, architecture or anything “physical” in the world) are only physical manifestations of psychological expression. A sound is an aural expression. In plain English…we’re talking about harmony. If it’s harmonious it will look great and sound great. If it’s not it won’t. There are a number of factors involved, which we don’t have the time to go into right now…everyday factors that apply to every part of your life….you’d be shocked! I mean, a great dancer is harmonious dancer. A happy person is a balanced harmonious person. A strong building is a balanced building. A great song is a harmonious song….a rubbish song is exactly the opposite….out of key. They are all linked. “Key”, “Chords”, “Tone”, “form”, “Vibration”, “Harmony” are all things that you would normally associate with music and song. The true secret is that they are that and a lot more…but they have a profound effect on physical expression (i.e. dance!). This is nothing new; in fact we just need to take a look at the allegory of the walls of Jericho in the theological reference works, to recognize the significance of vibration, keynote (or music and sound) on the physical (in this particular example, the walls came physically crashing down….a very interesting allegory) By the way, I like the way you phrased the question “major key” I would also say that it all depends on the individual and if they feel comfortable with the music…as it is they who are dancing and expressing themselves. I think that if you don’t like a song, then that fact alone might be a great stimulus to dance and express yourself honestly, in itself! So liking or disliking anything has no bearing on our ability to express ourselves because feelings, thoughts, emotions etc…are temporary. In the same way, just because you think you can’t dance does not been that you can’t dance.

What are your inspirations? What inspires your individual dance projects? How to you personally create sequences and is it hard?

I am inspired by lots of things and some people. Musically it would be people like Michael Jackson, Jean Michel Jarre, various classical composers and Pink Floyd. When it comes to choreography then it’s a combination of taking a look at the person and trying to understand them and where they want to go. With that information the creating and the dancing can commence. Sometimes dancing is hard on the body, but the conceiving process is pretty easy and a lot of fun. The hard part, for some can sometimes be the perfecting process of repetition and practice. Although sometimes hard, this is the most important bit and really pays off on stage. I can be inspired by anything, everything or nothing though, it depends on the specific situation or with whom I am working.

You have worked with a number of stars what is it about the dance that drawls you back to Michael Jackson’s style?

Again, I think that Michael Jackson is an amazing performer because he executes his steps so precisely and also he is expresses himself honestly on stage…so in a sense….we should all, as performers, strive to recreate that “style” in our own unique way. Specifically though; form, speed and dynamics. I go into a lot more detail about this in the book. We can all learn a lot by watching Michael Jackson perform.

What was the “It” moment that made you think “I want to be a choreographer”

This is interesting. There was never a moment in time, because how can you be anything other than what you are anyway? It’s more like a gradual realization that you are doing what you want to do more and more frequently and doing what you don’t want to do, less so. There are very few “it” moments in life. The only “it” moment is now. Which is great, when you think about it! Generally, I do not differentiate between who I am and what I do, so I just do what I feel like doing as much as I can. It’s a case of; if you just be yourself and enjoy what you do, then it’ll work and you’ll be happy…the alternative isn’t logical or honest anyway. Consequently, “Thinking” doesn’t come into it. Knowing does…know what you want to do, then do it or even better BE it! That’s my philosophy, which works for me.

You are the founder and teacher of the “Michael Jackson Style Dance Class at the Pineapple Dance Studios“, how is that going for you?

I always have so much fun! We have the best class in the world without doubt! The amount of different types of people is amazing. We have a lot of fun and I love to do it. People are very surprised when they come because they don’t know what to expect…they soon realize that it is indeed a dance class where you need to come prepared to work hard and sweat! I have a profound respect for my art and for Michael Jackson. One person came dressed like Michael Jackson once, thinking that it was a Michael Jackson convention or something! The only person that I’d except into the studio dressed as Michael Jackson is the man himself! You can learn so much from great artists and people like Michael Jackson. I focus on the dance, and I think that is the key. I wish I could do it more, but it’s a small part of what I do and personally have a lot of fun doing it. Michaels music is great to dance to!

Is it difficult for the average person to understand and pick up the technical aspects of the dance?

Not at all! It’s really quite simply when you think about it. If you want to know something: learn to do it! It might take time, training, effort and hard work…but who cares! So the hard part is overcoming fear, motivation, effort…psychological issues, hardly ever physiological issues! We all have the ability.

Is it possible to simply look at someone and know they are the right mind set and will be a great dancer or does it take time to develop with most people?

In my opinion, you can usually tell and it is very possible to look at somebody for a few seconds and gage their ability, seriousness, maturity and mindset. Ability, usually from their walk, attitude and physicality, for example, but mindset and potential from the words they speak, or more importantly, lack of them. The student or dancers with the most potential are the ones who listen…its pretty simple! In fact the quickest learners are usually the people who have the least faith in there own ability because they feel that they have nothing to lose, so they put the extra effort and have that willingness to learn…that eagerness. In fact it is that mindset that get’s you there quicker! It’s about the psychology of the person as well as intellectual integrity. Somebody who thinks that they have ability but doesn’t is incapable of learning anyway and already has everything that they need. Somebody that thinks that they don’t have ability can only improve, and usually with hard work and dedication, very quickly! So you are right to point out mindset, as it is very very important. Especially in the learning process, this of course, is a psychological thing before it manifests physically in any kind of form.

What is advice you would give to young people who want to make a career out of dance? What are the challenges, and on what should they focus?

I would say to them; study the greats like Michael Jackson and Fred Astaire. Get as much performing experience as you can. Get a strong grasp of Ballet and Jazz and increase your dance vocabulary with as many unique styles as you can. Take care of your physical body and try and look good. Smile a lot! Forget the idea of making money out of it for a long time…if you are thinking about money when you are a young person instead of about learning your craft, then you should go and study accountancy or something in the financial sector….but if you’re willing to work hard, for little money and for the love of your art then go for it! And you’ll be surprised at where you can go. Most importantly…read. Read, read, read…read everything and then question the world and the people around you and then go and put all of that passion into your art, and change the world! Focus on YOU and then other people will too. Finally, disregard all of the above if you want! Feel free to create your own path and make your own way and do what you feel is right….you can’t go wrong!

Your book is divided into 3 parts, psychological, fitness and beauty in movement, out of the 3 sections which do you feel is your strongest and which one do you think is the hardest for developing dancers to achieve?

Again, I personally do not differentiate between them at all! They are of equal importance to me, which is why I included them all. In fact I would be hard pressed to separate them as they are so interlinked and in my interpretation are one and the same thing. If I had to, I would say “psychological” is the most important aspect, because dance and movement are just physical manifestations of who you are. If you do not understand who you are or your own intentions, how on earth can you convey them successfully to an audience in a believable way? The physical bit always comes after this…in fact the physical bit is the easiest bit, because anybody physiologically able with training and hard work can learn that. Generally, dancers or people in general seem to have more difficulty developing their psychological awareness and ability over anything else. This isn’t surprising! Especially when you look at the state of society and the way in which we are all trained/indoctrinated in the system! That’s a long one so I’ll leave that one till next time! It’s more than an issue of artistic expression though…but the way out, for the people that are searching, is artistic expression and intellectual integrity, in my opinion.

What your book offers looks more to be a way of life than just a simple instruction manual. Is your own life built around the art?

I think that I might have answered this question already, but yes, I express myself in many ways, as honestly as I can at all times. That might be dancing, thinking, reading, walking, drinking tea, writing books, creating a DVD or whatever. A true artist cannot differentiate between who they are and what they do…I strongly believe this. So there is no 9 – 5 job, or “work mode” or “holidays”….this is not an artists life…so if you want to express yourself artistically to your highest potential, just know that there are real sacrifices, real pain, possible loneliness and alienation but real rewards and fulfillment to! It is definitely a way of life and not for the majority of people. It helps if you’re a little nuts as well!

Have you ever spent time with Michael Jackson? If yes, When you spent time with Michael, did you two ever talk about your diet and fitness regimes? Did he give you any advice in that regard? Or what makes MJ’s creative dance process stand out from other dancers/choreographers?

I have never choreographed for Michael Jackson so I have never been in a situation where I have been asked for my advice or professional opinion, in relation to him personally. I have met him and it was a very quick thing, so there wasn’t time to talk about a lot! But I’m sure we’d have a lot to talk about…probably about Philosophy and Theology and how it relates to artistic expression…something that most people find boring, or something that I’m interested in like that! I know a little bit more about the creative process because some of my good friends have choreographed and danced for him. I would say that he is just who he is on stage and just let’s the energy flow though him…he doesn’t need direction and his energy, charisma and talent is recognized as magical, universally.

You’ve had some exciting achievements, what would you like to achieve next? What has been your greatest project so far?

Wow, that’s hard! I would have to say that my greatest project to date was actually pretty recently working with Pink Floyd and Nick Mason. It’s an honor to work so closely with people that I respect so much, and even more of an honor to be invited around the house, play his drums and work on some unique choreography for such a nice person! You’d be surprised, the bigger the star the more relaxed they are and more comfortable they are to let you do what you do. It’s fun to work with legends and to talk about, for example, how Michael has been influenced (staging, lighting, pyrotechnics etc…) by Pink Floyd, and how it would be great to take some inspiration in return from Michael…and then have the chance and opportunity to give it a try! We had a laugh about this because he had just met Michael a few weeks earlier and said that he would have brought it up! (the “borrowing” of ideas) …I’ll give you guy’s a clue…go and have a look at the end of Black or White in the History tour, with the Search lights, sirens and the explosions with the falling speaker boxes….and then go and watch Pink Floyd’s “The Wall”….anyway a lot of fun! Long live them all! I was very excited about being featured as breaking news on Michael’s website too though! That was a while ago, but still a lot of fun. I try and make all of my projects fun to be honest, no matter who they’re with. I’m working on choreography for a dance act, 2 gorgeous twins and a DJ right…I’m having a lot of fun doing that! I’m working on the audio disc version of my book right now in the studio…that’s a unique challenge and we are having so much fun doing that too! Right now though, the main focus is my new DVD “Thriller Dance workout” which we have totally redesigned and is just about ready to be shipped…I am very excited about that too…so it’s all exciting!

How do you go about setting your goals?

My opinion about goal setting and achievement is in the book. My personal achievement technique is simply based on action rather than a thought process or philosophy…in the words of Nike, “Just do it”. If I have a goal, it will be done, and that is the end of the matter! At the end of the day, it’s about making a conscious decision to do something. Don’t TRY, don’t think, don’t attempt, just make a plan, work hard to implement it and sooner or later with intellectual integrity, honesty and a little bit of patience you can achieve your goal. Some people might find that writing goals down can clarify the situation and help achieve your goals. My perspective is clear…if it encourages you to act, then great! If it encourages you to contemplate for too long, it’s probably an excuse and you should probably just give it a try anyway!

Where do you want to be 5 years from now?

I just want to be happy. So, as happy as I can be! I haven’t got a clue where I’ll be in 5 days so I’ll just have to wait and see…maybe we’ll speak again then!

Special thanks to mjjforum.

Back to Thriller though…After the BBC came down and we had filmed an item promoting Michael Jackson’s Thriller 25, I was asked to teach a few steps from Thriller for the BBC website. It’s a slight variation of the chorus piece and you can take a look at it on the BBC website here by clicking at the link at the top of the article or by watching the link directly here (the second video is the step by step quide)….Enjoy!

Note 2 videos: The first video is the news piece and the second video, linked on the right hand side of the BBC player “step by step guide” is the short session.

Click on the link’s above for Anthony’s page or you can add his tag at facebook, which is: anthonykingdance

When you do, please send a quick message saying “hi!” and where you are from, so that he knows who you are!

See you soon!

Anthony King’s free mini moonwalk lesson has been viewed over 7 million times, so before you start take a look at the mini Moonwalk lesson that covers the basics. You can view it by clicking here. If you want more detail and more serious lessons check out Anthony’s proper professional DVD “Anthony King’s Thriller Dance Workout”, where he’s filmed by 9 cameras teaching all the slides and Michael Jackson Style moves, by clicking here!

“Although Michael Jackson hugely popularised the moonwalk,
as it is known today, the step is also known as the “backslide”.
The moonwalk is actually a slightly different move which is a
combination of floating, gliding and sliding, and has a more
circular movement, which I like to call the “circle slide”. Michael
Jackson first showcased the moonwalk in his legendary
performance of “Billie Jean” in 1983 at the Motown 25th
anniversary show. But in actual fact dancers like the legendary
Jeffrey Daniel, who subsequently choreographed for Michael
Jackson were performing the backslide years earlier. Before that
James Brown performed a kind of moonwalk but it was a street
dancer called Cooley Jackson who apparently taught Michael
Jackson the backslide. One of the most impressive backslides was
performed in 1955 at the end of a tap sequence by the entertainer
Bill Bailey. It is clear though, that although he did not invent it, it
was Michael Jackson who has made the move world famous. So I
think we should give it a try…here goes!

Ideally for this move you will need a smooth surface, comfortable
trainers or any light shoes and comfortable clothes. Although it is
ideal that you have a smooth surface to execute the moonwalk,
it can be executed on carpet or pavement or any surface that
doesn’t have a substantially high amount of friction (like sand or
mud, for example!). Pavement or less is fine. In fact I suggest that
you practice on a rougher floor first to get used to the mechanics
of the steps and get used to pushing and transferring the weight
into the floor so that it is easier when you want to perform or
show off the move on the dance floor! The illusion of this move
comes from the execution of the weight transfer, accurately, as
opposed to the sliding which is why the moonwalk is classed as a
“popping” move and not necessarily a “glide” as it may seem.

Starting position:

Start with your back straight and your feet
together pointing forward.

Step 2:

“The L position”: Lift your right leg
and place the toes of your right foot down on the floor
approximately a foot behind your left leg.
Try and keep a solid stance, so that you can put weight onto your
back foot and toes, while keeping your “L” shape stance. You’ll
achieve this by varying the position of your back foot in relation to
your front. If it’s too close then it might be unstable. Keep a solid L
shape!

Step 3: Balance:

If you feel off balance you can increase the width
between your legs to create a wider centre of gravity.”

Step 4: The slide:

Lean back onto your rear leg and slide the left
heal back and into the floor, so that it finishes behind the right
leg. At the end of the movement snap the heel of your left foot
up, off the floor. It’s important that you keep the heels of your feet
at opposite positions and then only snap them and reverse the
positions very quickly in one swift step.
The aim, is for one foot to be vertical and the other to be
horizontal, and then snap, keeping the form in reverse. Only snap
your heel down at the END of the movement. Although this is
difficult at first, you’ll get used to it.

Purposefully keep your heel up right, until it’s physically
impossible to sustain your L shape because of your weight
transfer and heel snap while sliding, push the heel of your foot
backwards but most importantly DOWN, into the floor. This is
important. The pressure of your heel should push into the floor so
that it is an effort to slide the foot backwards.

It is this effort that creates the illusion and the force of the snap.
Really focus on pushing your heel into the floor and back rather
than just dragging your foot backwards. Again, it’s the up and down
thinking and movement that will create the illusion of the move.
The toes of both feet should never come off the floor even if your
heels do.

By Anthony King (C)

Part 2 coming soon…

THRILLER MOVES TO KEEP YOU FIT
As jacko turns 50, celebrate by learning his famous dances - you just can’t beat it!

By Elizabeth McMahon

It’s impossible to deny Michael Jackson’s contribution to music. He moonwalked into the world 50 years ago and although his tunes may not have healed the place, they have certainly improved it for pop fans. He has chosen to celebrate his half century by releasing King of pop, a new album of his best work. Across the world, people voted for their all time favourite Jackson hits and each country has its own unique album according to what the fans there chose.

But how should one personally commemorate such an occasion? Why, by attending Anthony King’s Michael Jackson Style Dance class at Pineapple Studios, of course. King is a celebrity choreographer who specialises in Jacko. He has also written a book and released a DVD. Anthony King’a Thriller Dance Workout. So my hopes were high - would my cellulite take a leaf out of Michael’s book and Beat it?

When I met Anthony I learned the reason for his interest in MJ: his stepbrother worked for Jackson, so while we were all practising that famous “Hee-Hee” move in our bedrooms, he was watching it for real. It was clear from our initial handshake that Anthony King has a passion for dance. He is dynamic, enthusiastic and charismatic. His favourite MJ song is Wanna be starting somethin’ - and I certainly had high hopes this class would be the start of something special for this Jacko-lover.

THE CLASS

PINEAPPLE dance studios fits perfectly with the required Eighties ambience - it’s brimming with loose-limbed, energetic types in legwarmers. I felt like I’d stepped into an episode of Fame. There were around 20 of us in the studio - a good turnout for a Wednesday night - and we all immediately felt included as Anthony made a point of addressing us all personally. We warmed up with some intense jogging on the spot. Watching my thighs jiggle in the mirror was not much of a treat but it got the blood flowing. The overall routine was based on Beat it but Anthony said that every class is different so, if you go regularly, you will be treated to an array of hits. I was milding disappointed, having dreamed of learning the moves to Michael Jackson dance and Learn how to dance like a zombie Michael Jackson Style to Thriller, but was already hooked and vowed to come back.

THE ROUTINE

WE SLOWLY and carefully built up an intricate routine over the hour. Anthony took the time to explain each section, demontrating what he meant in front of the class and then giving us the opportunity to practice before we attempted to put it to the music. This was all well and good for those with some semblance of rhythm, but I had difficulties with my motor skills as the moves became progressively more complex.

But even though I was much less coordinated than most I still felt pretty damn good as we bounced around to the infectious beat. Even if you are exceptionally inept, it is impossible not to enjoy yourself.

By the end of the class, I was sweaty and exhilarated. I had even kind of mastered the routine in my own special way.

BENEFITS

ANTHONY believes that dance allows you to gain a physical and psychological high very quickly. I can certainly vouch for that: his high energy class really did get us all going - there were even a few Michael-style yelps from the more enthusiatic among us. Dance movements are multidirectional and therefore good for your joints, while the weightbearing moves can improve bone density. And if you really go for it, you can burn up to 500 calories in one session. Dancing is also good for balance and agility and the whole process helps to flush out toxins and alleviates stress. Regular participation can reduce your heart rate, lower blood and improve cholesterol levels. You can’t really argue with all of that, can you? Learning how to dance like Michael Jackson and
watch and learn more Michael Jackson Dance Moves I know that I felt full of beans as I left the studios - in fact I got a few funny looks as I practised my moves on the way home.

VERDICT

IF YOUR’RE looking for an entertaining way to burn calories and love all things MJ then this class is perfect for you. It is not pretentious or intimidating - no one takes anything too seriously apart, of course, from the music. So did I fullfill my need to celebrate Jacko’s 50th Definetely. Michael Jackson Moves. Was I any good? Hmm. When asked his thoughts on the white- gloved one, Bob Geldof famously said: “When Michael Jackson sings, it’s with the voice of angels and when his feet move, you can see god dancing”. I would like to say that I exhibited similar qualities but if I did, i would be telling atrocious porky pies.

London Lite, Anthony King review by Elizabeth McMahon

www.anthony-king.com

- Learn How To Moonwalk, Side Glide, Moonwalk In A Cirle, Spin
- Watch and learn more Michael Jackson Dance Moves
- Thriller : Learn how to dance like a zombie, Michael Jackson Style
- Ultimate Michael Jackson Dance
- MICHAEL JACKSON DANCE STYLE
- Michael Jackson Best Dance Moves
- learn michael jackson thriller dance
- michael jackson style dance

CLICK ON THE LINK ABOVE FOR MORE DETAILS (email: anthony@anthony-king.com)

@anthonyking1

We’re just trying to work it out!

www.anthony-king.com

“Anthony King, founder and teacher of the Michael Jackson dance Style class at the famous Pineapple dance studios in Covent Garden - London, argues that despite the fact that ‘Michael has to start training for his shows like any other entertainer ‘, he stresses the fact that the pop star’s age will not be an obstacle. “Fred Astaire did his best dancing way over the age of 50, the same applies to James Brown” says King, whose classes were endoursed by the King of Pop’s website…”

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/

The original place to learn Michael Jackson dance style! Click here for Michael Jackson dance style DVD!

VIDEO LINKS!

Michael Jackson Live @ the O2 Arena, London (OFFICIAL ADVERT/ Promo Video)

SOLD OUT!

OFFICIAL WEBSITE: http://www.michaeljacksonlive.com/video.php

Michael Jackson’s “final curtain call” LIVE at the 02 Areana London:

Opening with 10 nights (increased to 50 nights!) at the 02 on July 8th.

Ticket prices are £75 / £65/ £50

OFFICIAL SITE: http://www.michaeljacksonlive.com or text “MJ” to 81707for your chance to join the presale. Textcosts 10pto 12p dependent on network. UK Only.

Pre-sale tickets go on sale Friday March 13th.

MICHAEL JACKSON DANCE DVD!

Learn the moonwalk! Learn Michael Jackson dance style! the DVD! Click here to learn to dance like Michael Jackson:
http://www.anthony-king.com

RESCHEDULING INFO

Due to the sheer magnitude of the “This Is It” concerts at The O2 arena promoters and producers AEG Live and Kenny Ortega, Michael’s directorial partner and creative collaborator have elected to move back a few of the opening shows in order to meet the challenges presented by such a massive and technically complex show.

Organisers are determined that all Michael’s legions of fans attending the opening nights get to experience the same high quality staging that is planned for all of the spectacular shows. Only the four shows listed here are affected:

8th July will take place on 13th July 2009
10th July will be moved to 1st March 2010
12th July will be moved to 3rd March 2010
14th July will be moved to 6th March 2010

Randy Phillips, President and CEO, AEG Live added, “Kenny and Michael are, at the same time, both creative pioneers and perfectionists. This show has grown in size and scope, thereby, necessitating more lead time for manufacture of the set, programming the content for the massive video elements, and, most importantly, more time for full production and dress rehearsals in the world’s busiest arena, the O2. As much as we agonized over this change in the original schedule, we are sure the fans will understand when they experience the level of entertainment Michael Jackson intends to deliver while also ensuring the safety of the musicians, cast and crew and the crisp execution of the production. It is AEG Live’s sincere hope that those lucky enough to have purchased tickets will have enough time to change their personal schedules and travel plans if they are coming from outside of London. We do not want anyone to miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

FULL LIST OF DATES:

13TH JULY 2009*
14TH JULY 2009
18TH JULY 2009
22ND JULY 2009
24TH JULY 2009
26TH JULY 2009
28TH JULY 2009
30TH JULY 2009
1ST AUGUST 2009
3RD AUGUST 2009
10TH AUGUST 2009
12TH AUGUST 2009
17TH AUGUST 2009
19TH AUGUST 2009
24TH AUGUST 2009
26TH AUGUST 2009
28TH AUGUST 2009
30TH AUGUST 2009
1ST SEPTEMBER 2009
3RD SEPTEMBER 2009
6TH SEPTEMBER 2009
8TH SEPTEMBER 2009
10TH SEPTEMBER 2009
21ST SEPTEMBER 2009
23RD SEPTEMBER 2009
27TH SEPTEMBER 2009
29TH SEPTEMBER 2009
7TH JANUARY 2010
9TH JANUARY 2010
12TH JANUARY 2010
14TH JANUARY 2010
16TH JANUARY 2010
18TH JANUARY 2010
23RD JANUARY 2010
25TH JANUARY 2010
27TH JANUARY 2010
29TH JANUARY 2010
1ST FEBRUARY 2010
3RD FEBRUARY 2010
8TH FEBRUARY 2010
10TH FEBRUARY 2010
12TH FEBRUARY 2010
16TH FEBRUARY 2010
18TH FEBRUARY 2010
20TH FEBRUARY 2010
22ND FEBRUARY 2010
24TH FEBRUARY 2010
1ST MARCH 2010*
3RD MARCH 2010*
6TH MARCH 2010*

* Rescheduled dates

Exclusive video : This Is It Tour - Rehearsals & Auditions (Michael Jackson & his dancers)

Secret audition footage:

Learn to dance like Michael jackson…Michael Jackson dance DVD!

http://www.anthony-king.com/

.

He certainly has changed the course of my life and my family growing up, as well as the pop world forever.

Happy 50th Birthday

AK

http://www.asharqalawsat.com/details.asp?section=54&article=484660&issueno=10867

Out 29/8/08

Special thanks: Faisal Abbas

There will be no class charge but you will still have to pay the nominal pineapple entry fee as usual to get in the building….it will be a classic.

Please note: LONDON LITE NEWSPAPER will be in attendance with a photographer so look good…..in fact….80’s gear please!!!!!!!!!

We’ll be doing a classic, so see you then!

Day: Wednesday 27th August

Time: 6pm - 7pm, Pineapple dance studio, Covent Garden

Attire: 80’s gear please!

See you then!

Anthony

MICHAEL JACKSON DANCE DVD!

http://www.anthony-king.com/

Breakfast TV version:

Anthony King BBC Video (Click to watch)

Enjoy!

Anthony will be appearing on BBC ONE on the breakfast show between 6am and 9am on Friday 30th November!

Don’t miss it!

Anthony appeared in the Birmingham Post and Birmingham Star Newspapers who featured pictures and reported on his recent dance workshop at St michaels C.E. Click on the picture to enlarge.

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN ONLINE! (online for 1 week…recording coming soon)

(Interview starts on 40 minutes. No rewind. Press the “15 minute” button twice and the “5 minute” fast forward button twice, to start streaming in exactly the right place)

(click to enlarge)

After a massive response the winner was picked at random and given the workshop with Anthony and 20 theatre tickets, for an exciting weekend in London.

Winner:

Congratulations to S. Simmons and friends!

The original place to learn Michael Jackson dance style! Click here for Michael Jackson dance style DVD!

Video

“Clap Yo Hands” performed by Fred Astaire and Kay Thompson

Astaire used his mac like a matador would use his cape, to amazing affect, as well as his umbrella like a sword. And also a note…the umbrella throw was real! Fred Astaire would practice for months until perfection. Ginger Rogers once said that her feet bled after rehearsing with Astaire. He loved props and really brought them to life…real life! I do feel that he was the best. Say if we compare his use of props to Gene Kelly’s in “Cover Girl” (ie. the hat stand), this is clear to see. He is a magical dancer and was always dressed immaculately in sharp suits, he always looked fantastic, on and off the set.

In the late 40’s “jazz” was just coming into fashion and Astaire or any great star of the like would have looked down upon it as a fad or nonsense, probably…this is clear to see in the piece…it is a satire on “jazz”…interpretating it through the filter of Hollywood, saying that it was a little silly….they who specialised in BALLET and TAP.

Anyway, the genius of Astaire and Thompson is that they lifted it and the style that was in vogue at the time in Paris and really made it look dignified and classy…just what I love about them. Even a send up of the Philosopher, the French and “Jazz” is made to look majestic and dignified.