Meet Zeke Titus

Today we’d like to introduce you to Zeke Titus.

Zeke, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started dancing right after high school. I was born in Buffalo, NY with my mother and five siblings. I’ve always wanted to be a dancer ever since I could understand how to pick up choreography from music videos when I was a kid. I would dance to Michael and Janet Jackson, JLo, NSync, Missy Elliot, Aaliyah, Britney Spears and so many more. The crazy part was that I was so shy, that I wouldn’t even allow my family to take pictures of me; let alone let them know I wanted to be a dancer. I was so shy, and a nerd, bullied and picked on because of my size. When I got to college, I decided to turn over a new leaf and build my confidence up. I took part in a talent show during my freshman year in college at Niagara University. I would have never thought I was going to win first place, but when I did, I knew right then and there that dancing was going to be the dream I wanted to fulfill. When I became a junior, I decided to transfer schools back home to Buffalo State College, just so that I could join a dance and step team. I remember my first time hitting a real stage. When I walked out and starting dancing, the crowd cheered so loud, I got goosebumps. “Give it up for Big Boy doing his thing.” the host said. My confidence from there on was at an all time high in the most humbling way.

After Dancing, stepping and graduating with a Bachelor’s in Media Productions/Communications in 2011, I decided to move to NYC in 2012 when I couldn’t find work. I left abruptly because I knew that my mother wouldn’t understand. She has always supported me, but I felt to just up and leave with no plan was irresponsible in her eyes. But I needed to take a chance on myself if I wanted to make things happen. I felt in my heart God and the universe would have my back. I made it to NYC and trained with some of the best industry teachers at Broadway Dance Center. I had finally found myself a job as an assistant, and an apartment with 5 other roommates. After months of working to become stable. I was asked to come home by my mother because my aunt got really sick and she needed help taking care of her. A few months of returning home, she passed away and I had no choice but to be there for my family for as long as they needed me.

In 2016, after years of teaching dance at home and traveling to other states to take classes, I felt it was time for me to live for myself fully again, and make my dreams as a professional dancer come true. Back in 2015, I was in a horrible car accident where I was injured for a year and couldn’t dance, let alone walk. I realized that life can change in the blink of an eye, and I didn’t want to take any more chances to not make things happen. On October 3rd, 2016, I moved to Los Angeles, California, the farthest I’ve ever been from home. It was the toughest time of my entire life. It was hard to prove to other dancers and teachers how bad I wanted this career. Besides, there were so many hard times were I was homeless, sleeping in train stations, cars, Santa Monica Beach, new friends couches and floors; figuring out what my next meal was going to be. In the midst of everything happening, what kept me going was signs from God that If I didn’t give up, my dreams would come true. Regardless if I didn’t have food to eat or a place to stay, I always found a way to be in someone’s dance class daily.

Over the past three years, I’ve built friendships, gained mentors in the industry, but most importantly, gained the love and respect from my peers for my talent….not just my plus size figure. Right now, I’m currently a dancer with Norwegian Cruise Line, sailing at sea and traveling the world. Inspiring others that even plus size men like myself can work in the professional world as a dancer, especially in the mist of all the stereotypes we get daily.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Oh, it has not been an easy journey. However, I do not regret anything that has happened to get me to where I am. Like I mentioned, I’ve been homeless, worrying about when would be my next meal. Or even when I did have a place to stay; how would I pay my rent without a good paying job. Also, when would someone see my talent and worth and give me a chance with a professional gig. Those struggles have taught me about patience, staying positive, and just never giving up. There’s always a way out of no way. You just have to be willing and ready to take advantage and make those changes happen when the timing is right.

Tell us more about your work.
I’m proud to say that I am an Independent contractor in the dance industry. I’m not signed with a talent agency because every time I tried and auditioned over the years, I was overlooked. Which is okay because I knew in my heart that I wouldn’t allow “no” representation to hinder my goals or my grind. When I’m not touring on the cruise ships, I teach “Performance Ready” dance workshops and private sessions throughout the US. I incorporate stage presence with hip hop, jazz funk, heels, and how to be camera ready for any gig. In addition, I also teach classes In Los Angeles every time I have a chance to come home. I’ve had the chance to work on the BET Awards with Meek Miil, Miguel, performed for Amber Rose, music videos with Jiggly Caliente from RuPaul’s Drag Race, artist Glowie, Gryffin and so much more. What sets me apart from other dancers is that I decided not to just accept the minimal opportunities given to me, when I knew I was worth so much more. And with doing so, I’ve become a public figure for plus size men and women all over the world. Inspiring and showing them that size does not matter. Keep striving and you shall achieve positive results.

Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
It’s crazy because I never used the term, or even believed in “luck.” I feel like the universe works in mysterious ways based on how we treat each other, including ourselves. Treating others the way you want to be treated is a huge part of my life, especially in this cut throat industry. Also, God is apart of my life and I don’t consider that luck, but a daily blessing. Both of these things have continued to show me that with having a positive mindset, being passionate about your dreams and goals, and consistency… All things are possible.

Contact Info:

• Email: game.time2289@gmail.com
• Instagram: @gametime2289
• Facebook: Zeke Titus
• Other: Youtube: Zeke Titus

  Image Credit:
@fdimages and @NorwegianCruiseLine

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