James Knott - Dancing with Passion and Purpose
James Knott
Dancing with Passion and Purpose
Credit: Mefus Photography
Dance has the remarkable ability to captivate our hearts and souls, moving us in ways words cannot express. For James Knott, dance has been a lifelong passion that has shaped his journey as a performer and artist.
As a young child, James stumbled upon his great love almost by chance. While waiting outside his sister's dance class, the alluring melodies drifting from the studio compelled him to move. His mother, recognizing his budding talent and enthusiasm, made her own bold move and “popped him into the class” one week, saying, “In you go!” Little did she know that this small act would set the stage for James' lifelong dance journey.
Throughout his teenage years, James began to take dance more seriously, fueling his passion and determination. Inspired by his ballet teacher, Kim Bardsley, and the professional dancers from both Ballet Cymru and New Adventures, James found himself immersed in a world of artistic expression and boundless creativity.
It was during his performance in Matthew Bourne's Lord of the Flies at the Wales Millennium Centre that James experienced the transformative power of dance. The adrenaline rush of performing and the joy of using his body in such an expressive manner solidified his desire to pursue dance as a profession.
Photo: Sian Trenberth Photography
As he delved deeper into the world of dance, James found himself drawn to the collaborative nature of artistic creation, relishing the opportunity to work alongside fellow artists and bring their collective visions to life. For James, the studio is a sanctuary—a place of hard work, determination, and self-improvement, where the joy of movement is intertwined with the fulfillment of creative expression.
James believes that art is more than personal expression; it's also about making a difference. He believes in the power of art to inspire change, connect people, and challenge societal norms. With a deep passion for equality, empowerment, and environmental conservation, James strives to use his art as a platform for meaningful conversations. Whether it's commenting on climate change or exploring human emotions and relationships, he uses dance as a vehicle to provoke thought and evoke emotions.
Credit: Mefus Photography
Looking ahead, James is excited about the path his career will take. He is committed to developing his artistic practice and expanding his network of artists. Freelance engagements and joining a dance company are on his agenda, providing him with opportunities to showcase his versatility. Furthermore, James dreams of creating his own work, delving into themes and situations that resonate with his artistic sensibilities.
Beyond dance, James' vibrant personality shines through in his love for diverse activities. From hitting the gym to walking his parents' dogs, he finds joy in staying active and appreciating the beauty of nature. Apart from dance, James is an avid Dungeons & Dragons player, relishing the chance to improvise and fully embody different characters. He’s intensely proud of his Welsh roots, and recently enjoyed a trip to his hometown, Llantrisant, where he took a dance class with his first ballet teacher before they retired.
James's journey has been enriched by the unwavering support of his partner, family, and fellow dancers. Their encouragement and guidance have fueled his growth as an artist, reinforcing his belief in the importance of community and connection. As he continues to dance, he’s clearly poised to leave an indelible mark on the dance world, using his art to inspire change and touch the hearts of audiences worldwide.
Written by Lena Smith
