“Do it scared. Do it with fear because the payout is almost always much better than the risk that you’re taking.”
These words, spoken by Jason James, sum up a philosophy that carried him from his hometown of Waterbury, Connecticut, to dancing to the competitive beat of Los Angeles’ dance streets. For Jason fear is merely a signpost pointing toward growth.
Jason moved to L.A. in 2021 and steadily built his name as a top dancer. He faced challenges, from finding his first studio, Millennium Dance Complex in Studio City, to overcoming imposter syndrome.
“When I first moved out here, I couldn’t fully call myself a dancer,” Jason admits. “One of the biggest lessons that I had to learn was not to stack myself up against everybody else,” he adds.
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His love for dance is grounded in the icons who inspired him as a child.
“I was a die-hard Michael and Janet Jackson fan,” he recalls. Their precision, showmanship, and ability to tell a story through movement captivated him.
“I studied every routine, every nuance.” That early admiration laid the foundation for a smooth, deliberate, and deeply expressive style.
Adjusting to the rhythm of L.A. life and facing the physical demands of rigorous training have tested his stamina and mental resolve.
“I’m not in my twenties anymore, so recovery takes a bit longer,” he laughs. Yet, Jason remains committed to his craft, balancing full-time work with late-night studio sessions.
A crucial moment in Jason’s journey came during his first class in L.A. Crossing the street to Millennium, he spotted one of his idols, Usher, standing outside.
“I was stunned,” Jason says. “It felt like a sign that I was exactly where I needed to be.”
From that day, he embraced every opportunity to refine his technique and build connections within the dance community.
Jason’s dedication has earned him the respect of his peers and the mentorship of renowned choreographer James Marino.
“We’ve built a dance family,” Jason says. This support and camaraderie in Millennium fuel his growth and sense of belonging.
Booking a tour with none other than Beyoncé is his ultimate dream. “That’s the goal,” he says, his eyes lighting up.
Attending the Renaissance tour reignited his fire. “Seeing those performers reminded me I’m capable of that level of excellence,” he shares.
Jason is a team player who consistently offers guidance and support.
“Hollywood and Los Angeles is like a sink or swim,” he says. “I like to make sure that everyone’s comfortable and understands what’s going on and no one’s left behind. And I feel like, we could always use more of that in the industry and the entertainment industry in general.”
When asked what sets him apart, Jason points to his inclusivity and his ability to balance grace with power.
“I’ve always been told I dance with my neck a lot,” he jokes. “It’s my signature. But I pride myself on making the moves effective without overdoing it.”
For those questioning their path, Jason advises embracing the fear as it is part of the process. He echoes Audre Lorde’s powerful words: “When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid.”
With every step, turn, and leap, Jason brings this philosophy to life, proving that courage and growth often emerge from the embrace of fear.
Follow Jason James’s journey on Instagram @mrjasonjames.
