Cameron Janson has had a heck of a 12 months. After profitable Excellent Dancer at New York Metropolis Dance Alliance and Dancer of the Yr at Tremaine Dance Conference in 2024, the 18-year-old spent his weekends from November to Could touring with each competitions throughout the U.S. On prime of that, he’s been auditioning for skilled gigs, and he simply graduated highschool.
Janson, who grew up in metro Detroit, Michigan, began taking hip-hop at age 5 after he couldn’t sit nonetheless ready for his sister to complete her personal dance courses. “I instantly fell in love,” he says. After shifting to Dance Dynamics, the place different boys in his courses impressed him to take his coaching extra significantly, he later studied at Inventive Conservatory of Dance and Performing Arts. He quickly grew to become a daily within the comp circuit, and in 2021 joined Tremaine’s efficiency firm.
As for his wins at NYCDA and Tremaine final summer time, “I used to be not anticipating it in any respect,” he says. “I had no intention of profitable them each—I simply wished to take full benefit of what these competitions provided. Strolling away with each nationwide titles blew my thoughts.”
Dance Spirit chatted with Janson about balancing his busy 12 months, his favourite combo, dance idols, and extra.
How did you handle your schedule this 12 months?
I used to be in public college, so I did three in-person courses and three on-line for some flexibility.
My dance courses had been Monday via Thursday from 1–8 pm. Fridays had been largely journey days—I did 18 totally different weekends between the 2 conventions—then, [on] Saturday and Sunday, we had been aiding in workshop courses and dealing the competitors. It was like that, nonstop, for weeks. However I’ll by no means take it as a right, as a result of it was the perfect expertise I’ve ever had.
What are some highlights of your dance journey to this point?
Profitable each nationwide titles. That’s just about unparalleled!
I additionally did [MSA talent agency’s] The Camp intensive final 12 months in Los Angeles. It was one of the crucial eye-opening experiences to get to coach with such big-name choreographers who’re at present working within the business.
Do you could have a signature style?
Positively modern. However I additionally love musical-theater jazz second.
What about your signature step?
Both a again phantasm or skater turns. Every time I’m choreographing, I at all times throw these in there.
What’s one thing that’s been difficult for you as a dancer?
Confidence in myself. Particularly when persons are standing there watching you dance at conventions. I are likely to surprise what they’re pondering, and I get in my head, like “What in the event that they suppose I’m dangerous?” or “What in the event that they don’t like the way in which that I’m doing this combo?” I’m engaged on that.
Do you could have a favourite combo?
I did one with Danny Garden final summer time [to 112’s “Dance With Me”], and I believe it should follow me for the remainder of my life. It was certainly one of his actually large combos final summer time, and I’d seen it throughout Instagram. When he taught it at The Camp, I used to be over the moon.
What’s your backstage important?
An Alani Nu (my favourite taste is Cotton Sweet) and AirPods. In case you give me these two and say, “You go onstage in half-hour,” I’d be greater than prepared.
Do you could have any dance pet peeves?
In-class distractions. And if you happen to blatantly disrespect the trainer, I draw the road.
What are your largest dance objectives?
My dream is to be on Broadway. And later, I need to be a choreographer.
Who’s somebody you’d like to work with sooner or later?
I might like to work with Paris Cavanagh—she’s my idol, and I’ve been following her for years. Her choreography speaks to me in a approach I’d by no means felt earlier than.
#TiltTuesday or #TurnTuesday?
Positively #TurnTuesday!
Favourite meals or drink?
In all probability a Belgian waffle. And I like a caramel macchiato.
What are you listening to proper now?
Fairly a mixture of issues, truly. Tate McRae, and I’m additionally obsessive about the brand new Lorde album. I like rap home vibe. Some nation, too. It will depend on the day, and I can take heed to something. I believe I dance in so many kinds that I would like some versatility in music!
What recommendation would you give to your youthful self?
Titles don’t outline you. You don’t should have a title to be knowledgeable dancer or work within the business. By no means take something as a right. And be true to your self, as a result of individuals will settle for you for you—not a clone of another person.
What’s your favourite factor about dance?
I believe my favourite factor is the group and the buddies you make. They’re such nice connections, and also you meet individuals you’ll have in your nook for the remainder of your life. I believe that’s such a particular factor you actually can’t get anyplace exterior of the dance world.
