Ashley Simon is a professional dancer who has worked with some of the biggest names in the world including, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, Will.i.am, Coldplay, and Anastacia to name just a few. Since turning professional Ashley has become a huge name in dance, being signed up to perform on shows such as Britain’s Got Talent as well as being asked to be a backing dancer for the 2012 London Olympics.
I caught up with the man himself to ask a few questions about the people he has worked with, how he became a dancer and what his future plans are.
How old were you when you first started dancing?
I was 19
Did you enter any dancing competitions as a child?
No, I was too busy playing football!
So you Didn’t always want to be a dancer then?
No. Originally I wanted to be a footballer or a barrister. Whilst I was studying law, I discovered I wanted to be a dancer.
What has been your favourite music video to shoot?
Cheryl – Crazy, Stupid Love. Great people involved with the shoot at all levels.
Which artist has been your favourite to work with?
Anastacia.
Who would you like to work with in the future?
Chris Brown, Justin Timberlake, Usher, Beyonce, Janet… the list goes on and on but there’s a fair few!
Do you also choreograph as well as perform?
Absolutely. I started off choreographing alongside Wolfgang Mwanje (of the Mix Men) as part of Parallel and I think I always will to some extent. I’m currently choreographing for a couple of emerging artists and I choreographed last years Ministry of Sound Commercial – ‘The House that Garage built.’ I also create my own choreography for the classes I teach and professional showcases.
Have you worked with any divas?
I think we all have our moments!
Would you like to see dance become a compulsory lesson in schools?
I can see arguments both for an against. Something as free spirited as dance should never be obligatory; however, I feel it is essential that students have access to the creative arts. I think the happy medium is a situation whereby dance is an optional part of the curriculum; but students are encouraged to take the opportunity to learn more about it. Much like the programme being offered in schools by the Royal Academy of Dance at the moment.
What do you plan to do when you finish dancing?
Dance is more than something I do for work, it’s part of who I am. So in that respect I will never retire from being a dancer! However, when I decide to dance a bit less – I intend to choreograph more, continue being creative and stay open minded to new adventures. Oh and ride my bike a fair bit too.
You can follow Ashley on Twitter @AshleySimonUK