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William KempBritish actor and dancer
Date of Birth: 29.06.1977
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- William Kemp: A Dance and Acting Virtuoso
- Ballet and Breakouts
- William Kemp on the Screen
- Film Roles
- Theatrical Engagements
- Modern Dance and Awards
- Continued Success
William Kemp: A Dance and Acting Virtuoso
Early Life and TrainingWilliam Kemp, born on June 29, 1977, in Hertfordshire, England, was the son of Rosie, a former fashion model, and Barry Kemp, a graphic designer. At the tender age of nine, Kemp's journey into the world of dance began with his mother's encouragement to pursue a class as a hobby. It quickly became apparent that Kemp possessed an extraordinary talent. He went on to train at the Royal Ballet School and, at the age of 17, joined Matthew Bourne's dance company, Adventures in Motion Pictures (AMP).
Ballet and Breakouts
Kemp's most notable ballet achievement was his leading role in the all-male cast of Matthew Bourne's "Swan Lake" from 1997 to 2000, performed both in London and on Broadway. In 2004, Kemp co-starred alongside Sarah Jessica Parker in Francis Lawrence's "Color" and "Shine." Despite a lucrative modeling contract offer from Giorgio Armani, Kemp remained committed to his primary passions: acting and dance.
William Kemp on the Screen
Early SuccessesKemp made his acting debut in the 1996 ballet adaptation of "Swan Lake" under the direction of Matthew Bourne and Peter Mumford. In 2001, he appeared in "The Car Man," set to the music of Terry Davies.
Film Roles
2004 marked a turning point in Kemp's career with his role as FBI trainee Ralpha Perry in Renny Harlin's "Mindhunters." He then collaborated with Hugh Jackman and Kate Beckinsale in Stephen Sommers' adventure-horror film, "Van Helsing," which grossed over $257 million worldwide.
Theatrical Engagements
In 2006, Kemp was cast in the musical "Pinocchio" with music by Martin Ward. In 2007, he portrayed William Shakespeare himself in Inés París's "Miguel and William." The same year, Kemp donned the mask and metal shoes of a horse named Nugget in the "West End revival of Equus," carrying Daniel Radcliffe in the title role.
Modern Dance and Awards
Kemp played Blake Collins in Jon Chu's 2008 musical film, "Step Up 2: The Streets." Throughout his career, he collaborated with Matthew Bourne on projects such as "Cinderella," "Spitfire," and "Play Without Words." For his lead performance in "Cinderella," Kemp received a Los Angeles Critics Drama Award nomination for Outstanding Featured Performer.
Continued Success
Today, William Kemp continues to excel on stage and screen, showcasing his versatility as both a dancer and an actor. His remarkable career exemplifies the power of talent, dedication, and the unwavering pursuit of artistic excellence.
