Anthony AntBoogie Rue II

AntBoogie and I went to LaGuardia High School together. His lunch time breakdance sessions caught my attention as a freshman. I would practice with them every chance I got in hopes of one day being able to move like him. I learned a lot from Anthony. We used to call him “Diddy” because his passion and business sense reminded us of Puff Daddy. We knew he would do big things, even back then.

He is an extraordinary dancer and a great choreographer as well. I would just watch him move and wonder how someone could be so precise with all parts of their body. He is a positive soul. In a performance, you could see that he loves to dance. At LaGuardia, no matter what type of dancer you considered yourself, we were all classically trained. We took ballet and Graham technique everyday. This is visible in Anthony’s choreography – he has an eye for patterns and shapes unlike someone who has just studied hip hop. His style is unique and unusual. I had the opportunity to perform with the AmountBoyz on stage in our school talent show! It was a great experience and I never forgot it.

That was the early days of the group the “AmountBoyz”, who are still going strong today. They have made quite a name for themselves in the dance world and the commercial Industry. Even though we have trained together, Anthony lives a life very different from mine. A life filled with tours with recording artists, music videos, appearances in feature films, and most recently work as a choreographer assisting Tanisha Scott on the NOTORIOUS film. He has also worked on The Alicia Keys World Tour and Madonna’s Sticky and Sweet Tour (…which he gave my wife and I VIP tickets to in Munich! Amazing!)

It doesn’t stop there. I went to see his Urban Dance League event in NYC this past summer – it was fantastic. This is going to be something really great. A hard worker, a great artist, an inspiration. I am excited to present to you AntBoogie……………………………….

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up? Did you always want to do what you’re doing now?

I wanted to be an astronaut because I like space and aliens. But once I got a little older, I wanted to be a dancer. Hip hop was my main focus. I had the vision of doing tours, TV shows, movies, etc, so, yes I’m blessed to have had the chance to follow my heart and dreams.

Antboogie’s Favorite things

Things to eat?

Probably pizza, because its quick and I can keep it moving while eating haha…

Books?

I would have to say Russell Simmons (Super Rich).

 Movies?

It would have to be “Transformers”.

 Songs?

My favorite song? Hard to say, but lets roll with Rock With You by Michael Jackson.

I like dancers who…

I like dancers who think about their career and not the jobs for the moment. I think its important for dancers to understand why are they dancing. What is their goal. On a dance tip, I like dancers who are versatile and can pick up choreography quickly.

I am Afraid of…

I’m afraid of heights and hate flying. I have been all over the world, but each time I get on a plane I’m afraid.

Something you like to do other than dance?

I loveeeeeeeeeeee video games!

One of the the happiest moments in your life?

Dancing with my crew, The AmountBoyz, on the Scream 3 Tour.

One of the most embarrasing moments in your career?

Diddy screaming at us at the 2005 VMA’s because we started the wrong way (which wasn’t our fault).

Who has been the most influential person in your career?

Micheal Jackson

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Being the creator of a new sport called the Urban Dance League.

Three words to describe yourself.

Funny, Focused, Trustworthy

A question you want to know the answer to.

What is the meaning of life?

Dear aspiring artists?

I would say spend less time online watching others and remain true to what you like. Follow your heart because styles and moods change very quickly in entertainment.

–Anthony Antboogie Rue II

Anything else you would like to mention?

I think its very important for artists to know the history of the craft they are following. It plays a huge roll in helping you understand what your place is in the landscape of that craft. It also helps you define where you might be headed.

Photo Journal

To find out more about Antboogie, visit his cool webpage! www.antboogieworld.com

Have you worked with Antboogie? Have you seen him perform? Help me say thank you by sharing your stories in the comments below. Thank YOU for reading!