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J.R. McNeil
Artist Statement
J.R. McNeil is a Canadian Permanent Resident and American Citizen who is a performance-based dancer, circus artist and actor. Stylistically, his work is very ingrained in Authentic/Vernacular Jazz and the history behind it that goes back to West African traditions. Staying historically informed, J.R. enjoys pushing the euro-centric idea of performing arts that is commonly found aside to focus on the roots of his main discipline, dance. Exploring circus and theatre/acting is essential to J.R. as a performer as he is passionate about maintaining a certain level of versatility. J.R. is known for being extremely open to learning new skills (such as custom aerial apparatus' like the aerial cube) and being thrown into the deep end of challenges. Unapologetically, truthfully, and living in the moment is the best way to describe how J.R. approaches performing and living as an artist.
Main Demo Videos
Dance and Circus
AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST
Notable Experiences
Cirque Du Soleil's NexGen Training
J.R. received the great privilege of training in Cirque Du Soleil's NexGen Talent Development Program in Maia, Portugal for Trampwall. Training with one of the founders of this awesome circus discipline (Wellington Lima), JR recieved much 1 on 1 time that resulted in a strong knowledge of the basic technique in this field. JR is now taking the knowledge he gained from this workshop and is allowing it to change the way he goes about this discipline.
Trailblazer (2019 Grandstand show)
Produced by Emmy Award Winner Dave Pierce. This jaw dropping show included performers such as Tap Dancing duo Joseph and Josette Wigan, the Mlambo Gauchos, MZ Lazer and many more. J.R.'s role in the show was as a Senior Dancer/Singer as a part of the Young Canadians. Clips from the show are available on YouTube provided by some of the 150,000 audience members
Footprints
Footprints is an annual show done through Decidedly Jazz Danceworks (DJD) that features dancers of the Professional Training Program. Each year this show is completely changed and features old repertoire work of the DJD company, as well as new works set on the dancers created by the program directors, the artistic director of DJD, as well as some new works by company members of DJD. J.R. performed in the 2022 and 2023 versions
Anthem
Performed in Disneyland (Anaheim), this stunning show was choreographed by the award winning Angela Benson. This show was an electric performance that showcased anthems that catered to every generation. J.R.'s role in the show was as a dancer and singer as part of the Senior Young Canadian ensemble.
Current Projects
J.R. and his friend Logan Shaffner have recently created a duo group titled "LJ Production YYC" and are in the works of their first show titled "Media".
Upcoming Projects/opportunities
J.R.'s upcoming projects are through Greenfools Theatre Society and Little Red Ball Company (both Circus), as well as any exciting work his agent (Lime Entertainment) throws his way.
Acting Demo Videos
AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST
Singing Demo Videos
AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST
Contact
Have any questions or wish to see more? Feel free to contact J.R. using any method provided below!
Agent (for cruise lines only): Lime Entertainment
(Email - casting@limemusicentertainment.com Phone - 757-439-5128)
Personal email: Jrmcneil@shaw.ca
J.R._McNeil (Personal) or JR_The_Ginger_Performer (Performing Arts Account)