Filey-born dancer Philip Birchall, who has worked with Kylie and Little Mix, has sights set on LA

Philip Birchall is now living in London and working with new choreographers.

“Growing up in Filey was great. I had huge support from my surrounding family and friends but I knew that I would have to leave Yorkshire to pursue the career path I chose,” said Philip.

He started dancing at the age of three at Pat Lindley’s School of Dancing, and then moved on to train with competition tutor Zoe Ruston at the Garage dance studios in the town.

At 14, Philip went to Hatton School of Performing Arts in Scarborough, where he gained a full government grant to Laine Theatre Arts.

Principal of the school, Julie Hatton, said: “Phil quickly discovered a passion for dance and with his physicality and his drive, it was clear to me that he would become a natural performer.

Philip has worked with Rita Ora, Little Mix, Cheryl Cole, and Brian Friedman, one of the biggest choreographers in the world.

Philip said: “My experience at Hatton’s was incredible, it really prepared me for the industry I now work in.

“I went there six days a week training crazy hours at a young age, but Julie Hatton knows exactly what it takes to make a professional dancer.

“I love coming back to pass on everything I’ve learnt throughout my career and inspire others to push and work harder than ever in order to make it happen.”

Philip trained in most styles including Latin, ballroom, contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, ballet, tap, and all forms of commercial dance.

“I really love all styles the same, I tend to work a lot more in the jazz funk, hip hop field but I also love contemporary and partner work,” Philip said.

Philip’s ambitions are “to switch over to choreography and creative director for artists and TV shows like the ones I work on as a dancer now."

“I love travelling so the most memorable moment of my career so far, as well as performing with amazing artists, would be the experiences of being able to see and learn so many different cultures through the travel,” he said.

“I have worked with Kylie Minogue a couple of times but the highlight was at Hyde Park Festival performing to 100,000 people.

“Rita Ora, I worked with very closely for four years as her dance captain and assistant.

“I travelled a lot of the world with her performing at various festivals and TV shows.

“My advice for anyone who wants to work in the dance industry is to stay true to who you are, have a thick skin and never stop learning”.