Robert’s journey with dance has unraveled to an adventure granting him a passport to perform and experience many cultures around world. Quite the surprise in retrospect from his humble beginnings imitating his sisters, as he danced around the house.
Robert was born in Toronto and raised in Unionville, Ontario. At 14 his training began at Performing Dance Arts in Woodbridge, Ontario with all the genres, where he competed in dance festivals throughout North America. Aside from winning many awards and scholarships it was the exposure to the variety of dance that sparked a flame of passion and interest to going. His professional training occurred at The School of Toronto Dance Theatre, Arts Umbrella in Vancouver, The Ailey School in NYC, and The School at Jacob’s Pillow.
He has toured the United States and parts of the Caribbean with Ailey II (the second company of Alvin Aliey American Dance Theatre) teaching in many schools and universities as well as performing in such prestigious venues as The Apollo Theatre, The Kennedy Centre and The Radio City Music Hall. During this time he was also invited to perform along side Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre in various repertoire, including the world famous, ‘Revelations’.
Robert then made history by performing the floor ballet duet alongside his sister in The Lion King on The West End in London, England, a first for any siblings in this musical. His other Musical Theatre credits include, The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Copacabana (Mill Mountain Theatre), Cats (Drayton Festival) and Wicked (Osaka, Japan).
Robert can be seen alongside Mike Myers in the closing dance sequence of the feature film, ‘The Love Guru‘, in Lizz Wrights’ music video for ‘My Heart’, and in two episodes of the TV show ‘HELLCATS’, one being a Fosse themed episode and the other a ‘Dance-A-Thon’ of which Debbie Allen directed that guest starred musical sensation, Ciara.
He has danced for the following Canadian companies, ProArte Danza, Judith Marcuse Projects, Kaeja d’Dance, REAson d’etre productions, Arabesque Dance Company, Kaha:wi Dance Theatre (touring to Japan, Mexico and Australia), Dancers Dancing and Mascall Dance.
Robert’s love of dance gave birth to his interest in the Holistic Arts. He is a 3HO Certified Kundalini Yoga Teacher, a Registered Thai Therapist in Nuad Bo Rarn (Ancient Massage, more commonly known as Thai Yoga Massage), and is always thrilled to discuss life and the Universe.
With his diverse career and the blending of performing arts with holistic arts, Robert has much wisdom to share in motivating creative ways. He is a frequent guest teacher and choreographer that strives to nurture individual uniqueness and potential. Currently a resident of Victoria, BC.