Overview
I created dance videos that highlight an immersive dance workshop led by Yanis Marshall, the internationally renowned choreographer and performer celebrated for his groundbreaking work in high-heel choreography. Known for pushing artistic boundaries and empowering dancers to embrace confidence and individuality, Yanis brought his distinctive style to the workshop, blending technical mastery with fearless self-expression.
Yanis Marshall
Yanis Marshall is a choreographer and dance performer from France known for his unique style rooted in classical ballet and jazz techniques. He first gained international attention as a finalist on *Britain’s Got Talent* with his all-male high-heel dance trio. Since then, he has toured globally, teaching workshops, headlining performances, and collaborating with major artists including Céline Dion, Mariah Carey, and Beyoncé.
Marshall is celebrated not only for his technical brilliance but also for his commitment to inclusivity and empowerment through dance. His workshops challenge traditional gender norms and inspire dancers of all identities to embody confidence, individuality, and strength.
My Skills Applied
Skills used for this project include:
- Videography: Professionally recording Yanis' workshop in a creative and informative way.
- Video Editing: Selecting, cutting, and arranging raw footage to create a polished and engaging final video.
- Communication: Ensuring I filmed what was intended without interrupting the class environment.
- Camera Framing: Keeping Yanis and the dancers properly framed and in focus throughout recording.
Goals
The workshop was designed to teach dancers how to perform Yanis Marshall’s choreography in heels with confidence and technique.
- Empowerment: Creating an inclusive space where dancers could explore self-expression through movement.
- Balance: Teaching dancers how to move confidently in heels.
- Choreography: Guiding participants through Yanis’ signature movement style in both solo and group formats.
- Style: Incorporating ballet and jazz fundamentals to achieve Yanis’ distinctive technique.
- Performance Experience: Giving dancers the opportunity to learn and perform in a professional environment.
Workshop Experience
- Warm-Up & Foundations: The session began with technical warm-ups focused on alignment, strength, and balance — all essential for performing in heels.
- Choreography Instruction: Yanis taught an original routine featuring sharp yet fluid motions, musicality, and a blend of sensuality and power.
- Performance Coaching: He emphasized stage presence, emotional connection, and the confidence needed to command a room.
- Community Atmosphere: The workshop offered a supportive environment where dancers encouraged one another through challenging combinations.
Challenges
- Dancing in Heels: Many dancers faced the technical challenge of balancing performance quality with heel technique.
- Pushing Comfort Zones: Yanis encouraged dancers to explore unfamiliar movement styles, requiring both vulnerability and boldness.
Achievements & Impact
Yanis Marshall’s workshop reinforced his status as a global leader in redefining performance and gender expression in dance. For participants, it was not only a technical masterclass but also a transformative experience — one that expanded their artistry, confidence, and personal identity.
Britain's Got Talent (2014)
Yanis Marshall, along with two male dancers, gained significant recognition as a finalist on the eighth season of the show, known for his innovative heels choreography.
Dancing with the Stars
He served as an artistic coach on the French version of the popular dance competition show.
So You Think You Can Dance
He choreographed for the Ukrainian version of the show, showcasing his versatility and talent.
Cirque du Soleil
Yanis Marshall became the choreographer for the Las Vegas show Zumanity, expanding his influence in large-scale productions.