You might know Kyle Van Newkirk from NBC’s World of Dance, where he joins the world’s best dancers as they battle it out for a $1 million prize. But Kyle is no stranger to the spotlight. The Nebraska native started dancing in his basement and went on to win the World Championships of Tap Dance in 2015. Now, as part of the show, he gets to share his passion and talent with the world.
In anticipation of the show’s premiere on NBC May 30 at 10/9 central, we caught up with Kyle to find out what it was like to compete, who his favorite judge is, what’s on his playlist, and more.
BTW, if you haven’t seen him in action, you can see him here:
Kyle Van Newkirk
Style: Tap: Solo
Category: Upper
From: Morrill, Neb.
WOD: What was the best part of competing in World of Dance?
There were definitely a lot of amazing things about competing in World of Dance, besides the fact of it being the biggest dance competition in the WORLD. I would say the best part of competing in World of Dance, for me, was the competitive aspect. Being in that environment, with the world’s greatest dancers of this generation, was absolutely ridiculous. It definitely challenged me to strive for greatness alongside the best dancers in the world, just because everyone pushed so hard to achieve perfection. It’s something I will never forget.
WOD: Who’s your favorite judge, and why?
My favorite judge is most definitely Derek Hough. Granted, the dude has a background in tap. The man has a work ethic within dance that is inspiring to all, as well as his numerous matured dance styles being so unique to himself. But still, Jennifer and Ne-Yo are both ridiculously amazing and inspiring!
WOD: What do you love most about dance?
The reason that I love dance is the fact of creative freedom of expression and impression. Dance, all around, is a beautiful art form that is able to please the audience visually as well as auditorily in one fell swoop of a performance without the need of special effects. Dance, truly, has no creative limits nor boundaries, it’s only limit is how much you want to push yourself in order to achieve perfection.
WOD: Why do you think the world needs dance?
The reason why the world needs dance is because dance is a universal language that can be used as either a recreational or professional art form. I have met so many people from all around the world who dance either recreationally or professionally that appreciate the art form so much, that we have an instantaneous connection. Dance is the one raw art form that is able to break language barriers and is able to bring people together.
Kyle Van Newkirk
WOD: What 5 songs are you obsessed with right now/why?
1) “Never Know” by 6LACK
This is a piece that I listen to almost every day due to the unique sounds, rhythms, and the storyline that I absolutely love.
2) “Sidewalks” by The Weeknd ft. Kendrick Lamar
This song is definitely a killer because it is so laid back with the tempo and the fact it’s able to drag you in at the beginning, and it holds you throughout the entire song.
3) “Nas Album Done ft. Nas” by DJ Khaled
The song is dope in every single way; it’s powerful, strong, and is able to move everyone in the room as soon as that beat hits you.
4) “Autumn Leaves” by Oscar Peterson Trio
This piece is killer just from the movement of how smooth Oscar is on the piano and the beauty of the phrases and the ideas that he hits throughout the piece.
5) Kings Never Die (Eminem feat. Gwen Stefani)
This is a song that I have listened to from the first day it came out. It was a song that has motivated me from the lyrics and how you can’t stop moving in order to get to your dreams in the end. Hence, kings never die due to them wanting to push for greatness.
To keep up with Kyle, follow him on Instagram @kyle_vanny and YouTube.
For more World of Dance goodness and interviews:
- Meet the competitors of World of Dance
- Q&A: Ronnie Abaldonado of Super Cr3w chats all things World of Dance
- Watch J-Lo and Derek Hough Dance Battle
- Find Out Why Jenna Dewan Tatum Wants Her Daughter to Dance
- Join the #WorldofDanceChallenge for a Chance to Appear on the Show
Remember to tune into NBC’s World of Dance May 30th at 10/9 central to see the world’s best dancers battle it out for a whopping $1 million prize. (Here’s everything you need to know about the show, from the competitors to the rules, in case you’re out of the loop). Don’t miss exclusive interviews, performances, and more from the definitive source for all things NBC World of Dance.
Comments
