Exploring Dance and Expression: The Journey of Prince Wayne
In the heart of Houston, Texas, Prince Wayne has made a name for himself in the global dance community, competing in prestigious cities like Paris and Amsterdam. His journey symbolizes passion and perseverance in dance.
Our encounter with Prince Wayne began at a MoodToMove event, where his unique style and magnetic presence captivated everyone. Inspired by his dedication, we highlight his story in our Momentum Series, celebrating the vibrant spectrum of dance music culture—from dancers to promoters, designers, DJs, and producers.
Prince Wayne, we met at the MoodToMove Event in Houston. What sparked your interest in dancing, and how were you introduced to it?
"I come from a family of artists. In fact, when I was younger, I was part of a singing group. Everyone in my family can dance, sing, and act, so I was exposed to the arts from a young age and naturally gravitated towards them. I discovered my love for music, art, and movement early on, which ultimately defined my passion for dancing."
What style of dancing did you start with?
"I was first introduced to and fascinated by breaking. Later on, I explored Dub-Step for an extended period. After that, I ventured into Hip-Hop dance, which eventually led me to Ballet, Jazz, and Contemporary styles. With experience in various forms of dance, I eventually found myself drawn to Battle-Dancing. Now, I simply love movement in all its forms."
Prince Wayne, from your beginnings to where you are now, how has the journey been for you?
"It's been a remarkably diverse and beautiful journey. Growing up in Houston with a deep passion for dancing has taken me to places around the world that I never imagined I would visit. Winning and losing both local and global battles has provided me with a rich contrast of experiences."
On a more personal level, what does dancing mean to you?
"Dancing is all about expression for me. It's my way of conveying whatever I'm feeling in the moment. It was especially meaningful during my struggles with depression growing up. My mother encouraged me to explore various outlets and art forms, and dance became my escape from a dark place. Overall, dance is about expression above all else—more than winning competitions or battles."
What emotions do you experience when you dance?
"That's a great question. It varies depending on the day and my emotions, but overall, dancing brings me a profound sense of liberation. It feels natural, like my body was meant to move. Whether I'm feeling joyful or dealing with challenges, dance always allows me to express myself fully, which is incredibly freeing."
Traveling the world and experiencing different dance music cultures, what have been some standout experiences that have shaped your views and influenced you?
"I've come to realize that dance culture varies widely from place to place, each with its own unique vibe. Some places are highly competitive, while others are more humble and community-oriented. I've learned something new from each experience. Traveling inspires me and fuels my passion for dance, reminding me that it's a universal language that transcends barriers. Even when facing language differences, dancing together creates an instant connection and understanding."
How has growing up in Houston influenced your dance style and outlook?
"Houston's vibrant energy has had a profound impact on me. It's known for its high-energy dance scenes and lively nightlife. I strive to carry that same infectious energy with me wherever I go, infusing it into my performances and interactions."
What are your thoughts on the current state of nightlife and dancing?
"Dancing has evolved significantly since I started. Initially, it was about connecting deeply with the music and community. Nowadays, with the focus on appearances and bottle service, I sometimes feel hesitant to fully let go on the dance floor. There's a concern about sweating too much or being the only one genuinely invested in dancing. I miss the old days when it was all about spontaneous freestyling and dancing throughout the night. Bringing back that genuine spirit to clubs would be wonderful—it used to foster a vibrant exchange where dancers inspired DJs to delve deeper into their music, enhancing the energy for everyone”.
