Spotlight On: Keenan Fletcher
Keenan Fletcher (He/Him, Kingston, Jamaica) began his formal dance education at the Vickers Dance Studio based in Kingston, Jamaica. He was then awarded a scholarship to train the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS) Modern Ballet programme in partnership with Scottish Ballet based in Glasgow, Scotland from 2016-2018. In his final year, he performed on tour with Scottish Ballet in Peter Darrell’s The Nutcracker before landing a coveted spot in the highly acclaimed Matthew Bourne’s “Swan Lake”. Choreographed by Sir Matthew Bourne OBE, “Swan Lake” toured multiple theaters throughout the U.K. including a run at the Sadler’s Wells theatre for 2 months. The production then toured internationally China, Japan and South Korea and the U.S. becoming the cover Prince. In 2021-2022, he performed with Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker! on their U.K. tour. Keenan also performed at Plie for the Arts Jamaica International Dance Festival Gala in July 2023.
Tell us a little about yourself!
I like to think of myself of just a laid back guy from Jamaica, who is inquisitive about movement its simplest and most complex forms and how they are processed/understood by humans
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month to me means a celebration of a people who share a deep common ancestry. These people see the world though a special perspective bred through past and current struggles but instead of sinking in sorrow, thrive in their(our) existence and fervour for impartiality
Who are some black artists (dance or non-dance) you find inspirational and why?
Carlos Acosta CBE- He needs no introduction, but he’s an inspiration because of the boundaries he overcame to become one of the greatest classical dancers of our time.
Kirven Douthit-Boyd- I’m cheating , since he’s my boss. But his commitment to his artform. The passionate research and investigation in which he lives in is quite inspiring.
All black dancers (esp black ballet dancers)- yes the career of a dancer isn’t easy and not saying it only happens to us. But to be overlooked, to be told you only got a role because…and not needing a prompt to feel like a token BUT still pushing, inspiring and giving their heart on a daily
Favorite Black-owned business in St. Louis?
I’m new here so I got to do some research or any recommendations?
Free write! Anything else you want to share?
Regardless of class or creed we all just want to belong…so be kind
Ways to connect with Keenan:
The Big Muddy Dance Company: https://www.thebigmuddydanceco.org/
IG: @keenfletch
Are you a black dance artist in St. Louis? We would love to feature you this Black History Month! Please complete this form >>>