Bio
Darren Hammond is a South African dancer best known as one of the Top 16 contestants on the second season of the SABC1 reality competition So You Think You Can Dance, in 2010.
So You Think You Can Dance Q&A
City
Grasfontein, Pretoria
What is your profession?
Manager at a Romans Pizza
Dance history / experience
Darren has danced since the age of 5. Latin American and freestyle at Beverly Hammond Dance School.
Why do you want to be South Africa's No.1 dancer?
I have the competitive edge, I'm hungry for the title and I never ever back down from a challenge.
What is your favourite dance genre?
Latin American
Any dance accolades? Trophies? Titles?
12 time South African freestyle solo champion
4 times u/12 south African Latin American champion
5th in the u/18 Latin American world championships
2nd in the under 18 freestyle world championships
2 times supreme dancer of the year champion of champions
What will you do with the R250,000 if you win?
Having an opportunity like R250,000 would be the break that takes me so much closer to conquering the dancing world and reaching my absolute full potential.
What will you bring that is different to the competition (dance technique)?
I will bring my unique style of dance, my passion and my 100% energy, performance and commitment.
Tell us and interesting story about your life/ family or background?
Four years ago, I spent 33 days in a private game reserve bordering the Kruger national park. When I came back from there I went out for dinner with my sister and I was offered gemsbok or springbok when I ordered steak. I asked for a vegetable platter instead and have been a vegetarian since then.
Did you audition in your city or did you travel from far – if so, please tell us the story?
I auditioned in Jhb.
If you weren't dancing what would you be doing?
I would without a doubt be studying nature conversation or zoology and be spending 100% of my time in the wild learning as much as possible, saving as much as possible and trying to convey this passion for wildlife that I have on to others.
When you think South African dance scene, what comes to mind?
I straight away think that we have come of the most undiscovered amazing talent in the world and we just don't get the exposure and support that we need. That is what makes shows like this so important.
What would winning this competition mean to you?
It would mean absolutely everything.
Who inspires you?
Not just one but many. Mainly my brother, my sister, my mother. I am also inspired by Bryan Watson and the late Michael Jackson.
What has been your most difficult thing you had to overcome?
Fortunately I haven't had to experience something absolutely devastating as yet, but what I always try to do when difficult situations arise, is always rise above it, never let it get me down. Use that emotion and focus it in the right places and stay strong. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger.
Who/what makes you happy?
My family, my friends, my six dogs, dancing, wildlife, parties, meeting people, food, milkshakes, learning or experiencing something I never have before, gardening, swimming, being outdoors in the south African sun...not much doesn't make me happy.
What's your message to your soon to be fans?
All I can say is that there is nothing on the planet like dancing and everyone should try it at some stage in their lives. I hope you appreciate and enjoy the performance. I will be pouring my body, mind and soul on the stage for you. Keep dancing.