We had the good fortune of connecting with Charlie Kingston and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Charlie, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
‘Don’t chase the butterfly, mend your garden and the butterflies will come’
I read this in a book once and it has always stuck with me. When we really want something in life we often feel the need to do the absolute most to chase it and make it ours, but people can feel desperation and energy doesn’t lie. Without realising it sometimes we are actually pushing that thing further away. Of course we need to set goals and work hard but it’s a great reminder that its ok to take a step back, take a deep breath and relax into what it is we are doing. Work on being the best version of yourself and you will naturally attract these things quicker than you think.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m a professional dancer and creative, originally from London. I started coming out to LA in 2015 and instantly fell in love with the city and all it offers. For years i have been dancing with artists on stage, music videos and tours all around the world and yet i quickly found myself so inspired here that my creativity expanded in ways i had never experienced before. I’m very much inspired by music and movement itself but also life experience and all that is around me. I believe this sets me apart from others- the way i exude passion, life, emotion and even vulnerability through my art and movement. I don’t compare myself to others and i pride myself on creating from my most authentic self. Don’t get me wrong, this hasn’t always been the case. Comparison and doubt was once a big challenge i would often face and for that i am so proud of the work i’ve put in over years, mentally, to get to this place i am today. Work on loving yourself first and everything else will fall into place.
I want the world to know that if i’ve been able to make my dreams come true and live this life, that often feels like a dream, then anyone can. It sounds cliche but if you’re passionate enough to do what you love, set the goals, put in the work, trust the universe and believe in yourself then theres no way you won’t get to where you want to be in life.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Ahhh this question excites me!! The nature out here has me in awe every single day and so i would be showing them the best of outdoors. My favourite morning is waking up early and hiking Runyon Canyon; theres something so special about sitting up the top and watching the city as it moves below whilst soaking in all the beautiful nature around you. I also love to sit behind the Hollywood sign for a more challenging hike and to visit the Wisdom Tree! The notes from strangers up there are so special and inspiring to read. Griffith Observatory is also a must, you have to go a little before sunset so you can experience day time, golden hour and night time- its so special. El Matador, Malibu is my favourite beach so that would be a must, whilst also taking a trip over to Venice Beach for the LA experience and great sunsets. Melrose Trading Post is one of my favourite Sundays. Taking a stroll around the markets, drinking coffee and eating good food…
Another thing about me, i LOVE to eat! aha.. so you already know i’m taking you to the best food spots. Sugar Taco on melrose for the nicest vegan tacos, Lemonade for their truffle Mac n Cheese, Soho House for the great food, vibes and stunning views of the city, Mama Shelter for a cute evening.. oh you’re making me want to go eat! There are so many places i genuinely want to start a blog- Watch this space.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have such a special friendship group that i genuinely call family and i’m so grateful for them and all the support they give me; both in my career and personal life. A big shoutout to my best friend Ben Hukin, he recently made the big move out to LA and it inspired me so much that i finally took the steps to do so too.
My great friend Abi Oliver, another dancer and choreographer out here from the UK, England. She moved out here about 9 years ago now and is absolutely smashing life. She inspires me so much to put myself out there and do everything i say i’m going to. Its so important to have these kind of people around you, pushing you in a healthy way.
Marvin Brown- creative director and choreographer, he moved here years ago now from the UK, he is beyond living his dream and creating the life he was always destined for. He has helped me creatively in certain areas that i needed to get to be here today and i’m so grateful for him and his support.
Finally but absolutely not least, choreographer and creative director Brian Nicholson- They have given me opportunities in my career that i will never quite be able to put into words. Thank you for trusting me, believing in me and all that you are as a human before anything else. I’m so grateful for them.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charliekingston_/?hl=en-gb
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlie.kingston.7/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@charliekingston5630
Other: Foodie/Cooking Page- Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/cks_kitchen_/?hl=en-gb