It’s November which means that the Thanksgiving Parade Spectacular is around the corner and that includes an audience favorite – dance students of the Locust Performing Arts Center.
Jimmy Locust has worked with top entertainment industry stars such as Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Paula Abdul, Quincy Jones and Debbie Allen. He has performed at the Grammy Awards, Academy Awards and MTV Video Music Awards. Mr. Locust was one of the head choreographers for the 1996 Atlanta Olympics (opening and closing ceremonies). He has choreographed projects for Nicholas Cage, Justin Bieber, Joe Jonas, Nelly and Gloria Estefan. He is the Artistic Director/Owner of Locust Performing Arts Center in Stamford and the Founder/Director of Harmony Nation, an educational anti-bullying program that performs for schools and youth organizations. He also directs Locust Contemporary Dance Works, a youth company which performs in New York City. Most recently, he founded The Locust Foundation, a non-profit that provides free and affordable arts education for youth.
Having a world-renowned artist like Mr. Locust in our backyard is a gift. His enthusiasm and kindness are infectious. His talent is exceptional and his uplifting impact on youths is empowering.
Jimmy was inspired by his mom who taught him to never give up on his dreams. He thought he would be a computer engineer until his childhood friend, Nic Arp, introduced him to dance. It is through dance that Jimmy found his personal confidence and a powerful and creative way to navigate life.
Jimmy never let the word “No” stop him from achieving his goals. Never in his wildest dreams did he expect to use his artistic ability to create a business as well as launch a nonprofit to benefit children. One of the greatest moments for Jimmy was to dance alongside Michael and Janet Jackson as well as performing on the Academy Awards. He hopes to one day collaborate with the Alvin Ailey Dance Company.
In August he reconnected with Paula Abdul in Hartford while she was opening for New Kids on the Block. Jimmy is one of the most loved people in the business. His relationships continue well past the project, production, or event. Yet, his impressive resume working with so many industry greats is only one part of the man. His ability to foster confidence in youths helping them to believe in themselves is what feeds his soul. His nonprofit, The Locust Foundation, established in 2021, is giving back to our community. Their Mission is to give youth free and affordable arts education and dance classes locally and nationally. Last year, The Locust Foundation supported students in need by donating over $19,000 in scholarships.
Jimmy admires kindness and compassion. Not surprising that he is a reflection of the same. When asked what the best advice he received, “Be kind to everyone as you never know what they have been through or facing at the time you are with them.”
“Be kind to everyone as you never know what they have been through or facing at the time you are with them.”