Ausdance NSW - As Luck Would Have It

As Luck Would Have It

JAMES LUCK is an aspiring young dancer. Originally from the small country town of Invercargill in New Zealand, it was the initiative and determination of this young seventeen year old that brought him to Sydney to commence his training to be a professional dancer.

In late 2009, James auditioned for Urban Dance Centre and was awarded a place in the one year Certificate IV in Performing Arts Course. Reluctant to ask his parents to fund his studies, he took it upon himself to raise the money to pay for the course. It was at that moment that James transformed from a student fresh out of high school to a young entrepreneur. With only weeks until the course payment was due, James set about organising a fundraiser.

Approaching venues to use their space, friends for their design skills, companies for their sponsorship and celebrities for their skills, James created an extravaganza. He created flyers, tickets and programmes for a three hour show which was filled with acts, dances and songs that he directed and choreographed himself. Susanne Prentice, winner of Australian country singer of the year, was just one example of the high calibre of talent who were convinced by James to perform. Everything from lighting to sound to venue costs were covered by companies, keen to assist James in his mission.

James approached the local council with his story and they responded by creating a grant for him; this new grant of $5000 was more money than they had ever awarded to any one individual. This encouraged James, who then took his plea straight to radio. What started as a request for a shout out on the local radio station ended up as a 45 second advertisement funded by Radio Works that aired nationally. The department store H+J learnt of his endeavours and donated $500 to his cause. He spent the weeks leading up to the show performing at any chance he could: local schools, Rotary clubs or retirement homes - you name it. And his efforts paid off.

James raised $3500 on the night, which is commendable, but what makes him stand out is his determination. At just 17 years of age, he displayed confidence and initiative far beyond his years, creating a showcase that was entirely funded by sponsors.

"I earned my place at the UDC. I wanted to show that I want to go far and I'm willing to work for it."

Now a full time student at Urban Dance Centre, he is busy preparing for his upcoming performance where he will be a featured dancer and a vocal soloist. Despite being alone in a foreign country, he is embracing every moment.

"I always knew that I wanted to dance for the rest of my life. Coming to UDC has made me realise that there are actually careers out there where you can dance every day."

See James and other young upcoming talent at the Urban Dance Centre Mid Year showcase, taking place at the Parade Theatre, NIDA on 3rd July. The show starts at 8pm and tickets can be bought online at www.ticketek.com.au.