Harlem is the Place, Shane Sparks is the Name…

Harlem, New York has always set the stage for revivals, kicking off in the 20’s with the Harlem Renaissance. Lately a new revival of sorts has dominated the arts scene. A new and fresh rendition of the Dreamgirls play recently opened at the legendary Apollo Theater, with thunderous applause and standing ovations.

Set to show in Harlem for a limited time throughout December, the play is directed by Robert Longbottom (Bye, Bye , Birdie). Breathing new life into the overall theme of “making it,” the production doesn’t duplicate the 1981 Broadway stage play starring Jennifer Holiday or the 2006 film with Oscar winning talent, Jennifer Hudson. Praised by critics for its fresh - faced talent and production quality- all those involved will surely experience an instant career boost.

One of the showstopping elements within the play is the choreography. Ocean Splash had the privilege of speaking one on one with Emmy Award –nominated choreographer, Shane Sparks. As one of the most in-demand choreographers in the biz, Sparks (yes, that’s his real last name) has not only worked with the likes of Corbin Bleu, Omarion, Lindsay Lohan and the cast of 90210, but he’s also a judge on MTV’s hit "America's Best Dance Crew". Last year Sparks won an Emmy nomination for his work on FOX’s “So You Think You Can Dance.”

When approached for his current creative venture, Sparks says that he was simply amazed. “The girls (Syesha Mercado (Deena), Moya Angela (Effie), Adrienne Warren (Lorrell)) are blowing me away, Jimmy Early is killin’ it, Moya is killin’ it…I met them without knowing anyone’s talent,” comments Sparks.

OS: How does your background in Hip-Hop dance influence this modern take on Dreamgirls?

SS: I mix lots of slow, lyrical, fast, rock and hip hop moves together. I just wanted to update the steps, not change them, but rather put my flair on it.

OS: What’s your process like?

SS: I’ve always been an on the spot person. It’s good to be prepared, but I am prepared only 30% of the time. I need to meet the dancers, see how they move - their weaknesses and strengths and then I know what direction to go in. I had some initial concepts, but choreographing up to the first premiere allowed there to be some powerful changes. I’m always trying to improve, even up until the last moment.

OS: How has working on Dreamgirls, America’s Best Dance Crew and So You Think You Can Dance inspired you for the future?

SS: I would like to do a couple of musicals that change the world. The stories that I would tell would be stories all can relate to; ones of poverty, struggle, ostracism, loneliness, perseverance and of course, success. I’ve accomplished so much more in my time than others in the dance world. I see them and they’re still trying to find themselves.

OS: What fueled you forward?

SS: I don’t know why. I feel like I’m a chosen one. It could have been anyone. Some people are better dancers or have more talent and they’re still struggling. Sometimes I still wake up and I’m like, “who am I ???” What’s the difference between them and I? Maybe my personality, my spirit?! I try to make the most out of any situation and always have an applause at the end. I’m not saying that I’m the best. I just have something special.

OS: When judging or working with someone, what do you look for?

SS: Fire, hunger, individuality - a person that’s unique, daring and someone that isn’t afraid to try anything. All of those make up an entertainer. So many dancers are stuck. They may have grown up in the streets and will only dance a certain way. You have to be open to change. Study as much as you can so when those changes come, you’re ready.

OS: Tips for dancers trying to “make it”

SS: If you’re dope and creative -put yourself on tape, do shows and videos, document your work. People don’t know what you can do until they see it...

OS: Tips for those trying to spice up their moves at the holiday office party?

SS: Hire a private dance teacher, or fly me out!! I do everything from the Roger Rabbit to The Jerk...

After the Apollo run, Dreamgirls will hit the national tour circuit through 2010, reportedly returning to Broadway within a year. In addition to the show, Sparks is also busy putting the final touches on his DVD, Shane Sparks Dance Styles, sold on his website (www.shanesparks.com) in January. To check out Dreamgirls logon to: www.dreamgirlsonstage.com