Anthony Burrell

Anthony Burrell is dance. His love for dance started at the age of 9 and has not stopped. Born and raised in Philadelphia, he found the world of dance as a way to not only escape the trappings of his tough surroundings, but to express himself in a way that only truly gifted artists can. By the time he was a teenager, Anthony was developing into an exceptional dancer and joined the prestigious Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater – setting the path that would take him to where he is today…

Anthony landed his first commercial break as a virtual unknown for Beyonce’s performance at the 2003 MTV Video Music Awards. With his natural charisma, physicality, and stunning technique, he quickly became one of the most exciting and sought-after dancers in the business. Over the last decade, he has worked alongside some of the biggest artists in music, including Beyonce, Katy Perry, Mariah Carey, Alicia Keys, Destiny’s Child, Brandy, Kelly Rowland, Mary J Blige and others. As he continually ignited the stage and screen as a dancer, he began to bring his own vision and creativity to the other side as a choreographer for numerous live television appearances, awards shows, music videos, and concert tours. Television viewers should also recognize Anthony from his standout performance of Season 7 of So You Think You Can Dance where he was noted by judges as “Best Dancer in New York City”.

​In addition to touring the world with pop icons, Anthony had the honor of performing for President Barack Obama as a principal dancer touring with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. He also starred in the Broadway touring company of “Come Fly Away”, a Twyla Tharp choreographed musical, set to the music of Frank Sinatra. Following the success of that show, Anthony became a choreographer on Lifetime’s TV Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition and Dance Moms.

​​Anthony ​has also established a name for himself as an actor, having appeared in the hit TV show GLEE and co-starred in the independent feature film The Skinny.  He also appeared in several music videos including Rihanna’s Unfaithful. Recently, he has choreographed Paramount Pictures’ film Bad Grandpa, as well as the music videos MINE and GHOST on Beyonce’s highly acclaimed latest self-titled visual album. Anthony is currently choreographing the revamped legendary Las Vegas production Donn Arden’s  Jubilee – under the direction of Frank Gatson Jr.

When he’s not choreographing for the stars, Anthony devotes his time teaching and choreographing at schools, conventions, and universities around the U.S. He has also served as faculty for Jacobs Pillow Dance Festival and believes in reaching back to inspire others achieve their dreams. Dance is Anthony’s gift and he strives to continually share that gift with the entire world.

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was a little boy, I’d always had aspiration of becoming an obstetrician. It was always a dream of mine to deliver newborns. I love life and pro creation.

Did you always want to do what you’re doing now?

I never dreamed I will be in the position to inspire hundreds of dancers weekly teaching. I’ve never been one to enjoy teaching, until recently I see how the students are rejuvenated with the love and true spirit of dance.

Favorite Things to eat?

Im a one who only eats seafood/shellfish fish, I love green veggies like broccolini, brussels sprouts, Potato chips and Candy…

Favorite Books?

48 laws of power, The four agreements, Bible, anything revolving around self help…

Favorite Movies?

Serial mom, Face off

Favorite Dance Piece or Show/Musical or both?

My FavoriteDance Piece would have to be Revelations/and Favorite Musical would have to be “Come Fly Away,” and yes I starred in both of them.

I like dancers who…

I like dancers who are unpredictable, gutsy, confident, risk taker and last but not least a storyteller on stage.

I am afraid of…

Im afraid of loving my career so much that I forget to live, and enjoy the amazing opportunities Ive been blessed to experiences.

A dance piece should

A dance piece should make you feel!!! Its should make you happy, sad, excited. Dance is an inaudible art, and a piece should give me enough to create my own storyline whether their is one or not.

Something you like to do other than dancing?

I love Eating!!! Cooking and eating are such a big part of my day activities —

One of the happiest moments in your life?

Becoming a father has got to be the most happiest I’ve ever been.

One of your most unusual or coolest expierences?

I Choreographed my first featured Jackass Presents “Bad Grandpa”. Being a fan of the series, Which made the gig even cooler.

One of the most embarrassing moments in your professional career?

I had a choreographer number where I dropped my pant mid routine down to my boxers, but when I noticed a breeze I immediately covered myself.

Who has been the most influential person/people in your life? or Career? and why?

The Browns(Donna and Alfred) are my legal guardians/Guardian angels they help shaped me as a man. Desmond Richardson, Gary Delotch, Matthew Rushing and Judith Jamison are all dancers that have inspired/influenced me as an artist.

One of the hardest things about being a director/Performer?

The hardest thing about performing is making it fresh, new night after night. Its times the mind and body won’t be aligned.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

In ten years I will be Executive Artistic Director of AB Project, World Renowned Tv/Film Choreographer.

Three words to describe yourself….

Father, Artist, Creator

A question you want to know the answer to: Is art my true love?

A piece of advice for aspiring artists? Pray, Prepare, and proceed…