Bio
JJ Heuvel is a South African dancer best known as one of the Top 16 contestants on the second season of the SABC1 reality competition So You Think You Can Dance, in 2010.
So You Think You Can Dance Q&A
City
Cape Town
What is your profession in detail?
I am a full time freelance dancer. I teach at various institutions and gyms such as UCT, CPUT, and Virgin Active Gyms. I also perform on various stages around the country and work with various people and choreographers.
Tell us about your dance history
I have been actively dancing for 7 years. My first 3 years I was learning at various studios and learnt extensively from the teachers. I earned my various levels of dancing to achieve my teaching certificates in hip-hop. After gaining my experience I decided to dance independently and start my own dance school.
Why should you be SA's favourite dancer?
I try and keep everything I do real, fresh and make sure whoever is watching can make some sort of connection or have an understanding of what is being performed. My passion for dance is demonstrated in everything I do.
What is your favourite dance genre?
My favourite dance style is Hip-Hop. I also have the love for all other dance genres, because they are all an art of dance as a whole.
Any dance accolades? Trophies? Titles?
I have entered various dance competitions during my ears of dancing and have won on different levels whether getting 1st, 2nd or 3rd place. Quitting was never and will never be an option for me until I reach my goal.
What will you do with the R250,000 if you win?
I would definitely help assist my mom. I would love to open my own clothing store, with a dance studio. The money will be of great help to promote dancing and also to further my career in dancing too. My wish is also to assist all cultural activities within my communities. My money would also be donated to the church because to spread the Word of God is very important and as well to help build the potential of all upcoming dancers and for the less privileged youngster who would like to learn.
What will you bring that is different to the competition (dance technique etc)?
Firstly I will bring truth, reality, emotion, me. My passion for dancing will bring something that makes people think and, something that they or whoever is watching can make a connection to it, no matter how significant. True expression “body and heartfelt”. I am open to learn as much techniques within the competition especially the contemporary dancing.
Tell us an interesting story about your life / family and background?
I grew up as an only child with my mom and attended a Boy's school most of my schooling career expect grade 11 and grade 12 where I attended a co-ed school. I was very much involved in sports and was always a sportsman until I found my real passion which is dancing. My mom was very much against my dancing when I started at junior school because she thought of me to go more into academics. I enrolled myself at a dancing school and explained my situation to the head of the dance school where my love for dancing just blossomed.
Auditions – did you audition in your city or did you travel from far – if so, please tell us the story?
I auditioned in my city, Cape Town. This is my second time I am entering for You Can Dance.
If you weren't dancing, what would you be doing?
If I did not find my passion for dancing, I would do Event Planning or Film Entertainment. But surely I would study part time on Event Management.
When you think South African dance scene, what comes to mind?
I would think Hip-Hop and Ball Room Dancing. (It's all about passion, creativity, heart, love, peace, greatness and legacy).
What would winning So You Think You Can Dance mean to you?
It would mean everything to me, thus I say my Goal is fulfilled and I will just strive to go on higher levels.
Who inspires you?
Hard working and self-motivated people. An artist that has really been inspiring to me lately is Drake, his showing me that there is always more to be done and change, prosperity comes from hard work and never giving up.
What has been your most difficult experience you had to overcome?
Making my mom and important people in my life believe in me and my dancing and learning very hard how to dance. I am also finding the right path to take in life and making sure it's the right path, one where I can be inspired and be an inspiration for the Youth in South Africa.
Who/ what makes you happy?
My love for God, good people, life, dancing and comedians.
What's your message to your soon to be fans?
Dreams and aspirations should be your forte. Never stop dreaming; giving up is never an option. You are your own obstacle no one can set boundaries for you. Let there be no boundaries and reach for the stars with humility.
Is there a South African charity or cause that is close to your heart?
SOS Children's Villages South Africa