Just a little less than three years ago, April 17, 2017 to be exact, Complexions Contemporary Ballet's Desmond Richardson performed “IMPRINT/MAYA,” choreography set to words by Dr. Maya Angelou with jazz accompaniment, in the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Desmond, the sole performer, stood center stage in a darkened room illuminated by the spotlight above. His movements, equally gracefully and commanding, each rhythmic motion seamlessly falling into next, a voiceless narration juxtaposed the words of Maya Angelou, created a harmonic, yet gut-wrenching ambiance - a performance worthy of great acclaim.

Desmond, hailed by The New York Times as “one of the greatest modern dancers of his time,” is fueled by passion and grit. His lexicon spans and intersects across multiple disciplines, ranging from Hip Hop pop locking, to classical and contemporary ballet.

Desmond talks with Jejune about his career, thoughts towards dance, and upcoming projects. Please read more to learn more about Desmond and his works.

Where are you based?
New York

How did you get into dancing?
I started in Hip Hop pop locking.

You have mastered many disciplines of dance. Do you have a favorite?
My all time favorite is “House Dancing“. I’m a big House Head and enjoy being one with the beat.

In 1996 you became the first African-American principal dancer of the American Ballet Theatre. What was that like at that time?
Being the First African American principal dancer of American Ballet Theater in the 90’s was beyond an honor and a lot of hard work.

Did you get praise/backlash?
Thankfully, I did not receive any backlash as my personality would not have that in the least, yet I did get much praise from my family, friends and dance community.

Ballet is known for using one stereotypical look for its dancers. What are your thoughts on that?
The Ballet atheistic has changed over the years, yet there is a stereotypical look that is still present in ballet and, in my opinion, a necessary one in terms of the technique, form and clarity.

Do you think that has changed over the years?
I do feel the ballet stereotype has changed over the years and has continued to evolve like it should though.

Do you feel it is easier to be an African American dancer now?
I do feel it is easier to be an AFRICAN American dancer now as many dancers of color are engaging in learning classical ballet and excelling.

You have also performed worldwide, including venues like The Metropolitan Opera and The Paris Opera. How has your experience overseas been?
My overseas experiences have been absolutely amazing. Introducing those audiences to American dance, our boldness and attack has been inspiring.

How does it compare to performing in the U.S.?
Performing in Europe is pretty magical due to most of the theaters there have historical significance.

Can you tell us a little bit about your experience working on Broadway?
Working on Broadway has been a dream come true. Never did I think I would have the opportunity to share in this experience.

Why is musical theatre so important to you?
Musical Theater has always meant so much to me. When I was a young dancer, all I wanted to do was to sing and dance.

Can you tell us a little bit about about Complexions Contemporary Ballet, and what inspired you to start it?
My friend and collaborator Dwight Rhoden and I, while dancing together at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, decided to create Complexions as we felt we wanted to blend many styles together and create a diverse group of extraordinary dancers to do so.

What is it like for you to direct dancers instead of doing the dancing?
It is an absolute honor and pleasure to direct my dancers. I’ve had, and continue to have, many opportunities to share my gifts, and helping other dancers understand and hone their craft gives me great satisfaction.

You were recently in the new movie “High Strung Free Dance”. Can you tell us a little bit about this movie and your character, Sammy?
High Strung Free Dance is a dance film that tells the story of three young artists following theirs dreams and finding love while doing so.

My character Sammy lends his experience to one of the lead characters, Zander Raines, played by Thomas Doherty, to help get the show he is creating to fruition.

Are you looking to get more into film?
I am looking forward to doing more films, for sure.

What advice do you have for young dancers?
My advice to young dancers is to follow your dreams and do not let go of your passion, and remember — your passion can shift and morph, so stay open.

What is your motto in life?
To be the very best person I can be and continue to inspire those I work with.

To learn more about Desmond Richardson, please follow him via the below platforms:
Instagram: desmondrich7
Twitter: DesRich
Facebook: Desmond Richardson

Also, HIGH STRUNG FREE DANCE releases on Blu-ray, DVD and VOD tomorrow, Feb 4th. Check it out!

Team Credits:
Photographer: Jim Lafferty
Stylist: Carlton Jones
Groomer: Ames Amore

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