Michael ‘Bagsy’ Oladele is a walking embodiment of the transformative power of dance, blending his technical prowess with profound emotional expression. His journey from an aeronautical engineer to a celebrated dancer and choreographer is both inspiring and emblematic of the passion that drives true artists.
Early Life and Academic Pursuits
Born and raised in South London, Oladele’s early aspirations were rooted in science and engineering. He pursued these interests diligently, culminating in a Master’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Loughborough University. His academic excellence led him to a position at Rolls Royce plc in Bristol, where he contributed to the design and development of the F-135 liftfan gas turbine engine for the Joint Strike Fighter.
Introduction to Dance
At the age of 18, Oladele’s path took an unexpected turn when he discovered dance. Initially, he delved into street dance styles, studying Locking under Jimmy Williams at Pineapple Studios. His passion and curiosity propelled him to explore other genres, including Popping and Hip Hop, which he largely taught himself. His dedication to mastering these styles led him to train with renowned instructors such as Clara Bajado, Brian Green, and Hiro, further enriching his dance repertoire.
Mastery of Waacking
Oladele’s encounter with Waacking marked an inflection point in his dance journey. Initially unfamiliar with the style, his perspective shifted after training with Ana ‘Lollipop’ Sanchez, a distinguished dancer and choreographer. Through her mentorship, Oladele was introduced to the rich cultural tapestry of Waacking and Punking, leading him to study under the legendary Archie Burnett. This immersion cemented his appreciation of dance as an artform, but also helped to nurture his ability to utilize it as a medium for storytelling and personal expression.
Global Training and Influences
To refine his craft, Oladele embarked on international journeys, training in dance hubs like Los Angeles, New York, and Japan. These experiences provided him with diverse perspectives and techniques, as he learned from pioneers such as The Go Go Brothers, Hurricane, Cebo, Caleaf, Tony McGregor, and Sekou. This global exposure enriched his understanding and execution of various dance styles, including House, Locking, and Waacking.
Teaching and Mentorship
Beyond performance, Oladele is deeply committed to education. He serves as a House Dance instructor at Danceworks Studios, where he imparts his knowledge to aspiring dancers. His workshops are comprehensive, encompassing technique training, freestyle development, choreography, and insights into the cultural contexts of the dances. Participants benefit from his holistic approach, gaining both technical skills and a deeper appreciation for the art form.
Performance and Competitions
Oladele’s dynamic presence has graced numerous high-profile dance competitions, including Juste Debout in Paris and Streetstar in Sweden. His performances are characterized by a unique blend of technical precision and emotive storytelling, captivating audiences and judges alike. In addition to dancing, he is also a DJ, bringing his deep love for music to major events and further showcasing his versatility within the dance community.
Philosophy and Impact
For Oladele, dance transcends mere movement; it is a conduit for emotion and narrative. He views each performance as an opportunity to gift the audience with a memorable experience, putting his focus on authenticity and connection at each event. His journey from engineering to dance provides a profound message about following one’s passion and the transformative power of the arts. Additionally, his innovative approach to contemporary dance, rooted in personal experiences and cultural narratives, continues to inspire and resonate with audiences globally. As he forges ahead, Oladele stands as a beacon of creativity and dedication, enriching the dance community with his contributions.