Today we’d like to introduce you to Ferdinand De Jesus.
Hi Ferdinand, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Ferdinand De Jesus known to many as Freddie and/or Fredi XTRAVAGANZA , is a world renowned dancer , artist , creative , and fierce ass human , who has been active in the arts and lgbtq community for over 30 years. Freddie’s love for writing and creative expression led him to study in NYC s finest arts institutions as a very young boy who was raised in NYC. Making his way to Florida in the mid 80s he continued his journey as a professional dancer with many prestigious dance companies and choreographers. De Jesus has also had a thriving commercial /industrial career that gave him opportunities to travel the globe as a dancer and performer .
In 2011 FrediDanceProject was born as a not for profit organization , a dance company , training program and scholarship foundation. In 2016 De Jesus became Co owner to ULTIMATE DANCE CENTER Lakeland, where he leads a team of amazing instructors, choreographers and dancers to BRING THE BEST IN DANCE to central Florida and the world! UDC is the top dance training center in Polk county and is home to many awesome dance classes and groups. FrediDanceProject and Ultimate Dance Center are safe spaces within the growing LGBTQ community of central Florida. They also host events like THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW @ The Polk Theatre, LEGENDS Cabaret, WithLove Productions, PunkBox AfterDark , Nate Crosby Events and many more. De Jesus has recently been awarded by the Puerto Rican Hispanic Chamber of Polk County , Florida Heritage Ballroom Awards , Florida Dance Educators Organization and NYC Union Street Settlement Community EnrichmentAward
Freddie’s role in his community is to share his love of the arts with everyone he meets. To offer inspiration , education and opportunity to anyone seeking to connect with the Arts. Mr De Jesus is also an adjunct professor at Florida Southern College Department of Theater and Dance . FrediDanceProject is not for profit organization founded by De Jesus 15 years ago , this program offers scholarships annually to over 150 students to study the art of dance . FrediDanceProject Summer intensive takes place every July @ Ultimate Dance Center, where students are trained and challenged to meet their maximum potential in their dance experience. FrediDance Project has performed throughout the U.S. , in New York, Miami, Tampa,,Orlando Philadelphia, Connecticut , and California. De Jesus is relegated as one of the leading professionals in the industry as a dance leader.
De Jesus is currently working on a book of memoirs DANCE THROUGH FIRE depicting his journey through the world of dance , giving him so many life altering experiences. The book means to inspire and uplift artists struggling in a post pandemic world , where the arts were and still are a lifeline to strengthening the human spirit. His story is his testimony , and journey to victory while Turning PAIN in to PURPOSE.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m known for my work in the art of dance primarily.
I’m an educator , choreographer and artistic director.
I’m most proud of my work in bringing dance to the community here in central Florida. I’m proudest of sharing dance within the community spaces that would otherwise not have the opportunity to experience the art of dance .
What sets me apart is my individuality and confidence. I encourage every dancer I meet to be their authentic self and to be confident
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Staying active in your community. Attending events and participating in different groups/organizations that connect and create partnerships.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.udclakeland.com
- Email: info@fredidanceproject.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freddie_dejesus_
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17V96M9y5B/
- Other: https://linktr.ee/freddiedejesus
Image Credits
Beth Carter
