Dancers' Paradise: Not From Here dancers target unsaved youth

Sporting coordinated outfits, including skinny jeans and bandanas, Not From Here dance group puts the ‘S’ in swag without neglecting their ministry.

Yes, this four-member ensemble reps for Jesus Christ, and it is the official dance group for gospel rapper Lucas Musiq.

Formed in 2016 with founding members Leroy Cooper and Kamal Anderson, Not From Here caters to everyone, with much emphasis on the unsaved youth.

“As much as there might be Christians in the crowd, we target the unsaved, especially young people who are unsaved,” Anderson told THE WEEKEND STAR.

“We try to let them know that Christian life is not just this boring thing that people describe it as. We show that you can have fun, and as young dancers, minister to them so they know they can enjoy their Christian life,” added fellow member Anthony Hines. The other group member is Tajay Bough.

Hines, 22, was raised in Manchester, and he said that his affinity for dance goes back to his childhood, as he competed in events hosted by the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), and later Dancin’ Dynamites, while he attended Christiana High School.

He was recommended by a friend of Lucas to join the group, and showcased his skills at a video shoot for the artiste in 2017.

“He said he rated how mi dance and from there gave me a list of shows where we would perform,” he said. “When I met the other dancers, they really made me feel at home, like they knew me from long time. Now they are like my brothers, and we enjoy dancing together.”

Their passion for ministering is evident, as they often abandon the stage and interact with patrons. This enthusiasm does not go unnoticed, as Hines said they are sometimes approached by other artistes.

“Artistes will come to us and say they love our vibes and ask if we can go on stage and vibes up dem thing for them when they perform. Sometimes other people will flock us after a performance and ask us questions, wanting to know how to do the dances. Even older people approach us and say we bring a difference to gospel and we should continue,” he said.

Although they are open for bookings, Anderson declared they would not perform with a secular act, as it would send the wrong message.

The 19-year-old former Calabar High School student said he was raised in St Andrew, where he honed his skills in the performing arts. He is also a past contestant in JCDC competitions.

“I started out singing as a child, but I really grew fond of dancing when I was in grade eight,” he said. “Dancing initially started as a hobby for me, but I want to expand, and travel and explore different types of genres. Just like being a Christian, the journey as a dancer gets rough, but nevertheless we still hold the faith, keep it strong, and keep moving.”

He hopes to pursue a degree in marine biology in the future.

Meanwhile, Hines is completing his first year at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, and hopes to teach music beyond the academic space.