MATTHEW KOON - Billy Elliot

My name is Matthew Koon and I am 12. I have an older 14 year old sister and we live in Salford with my mum, my dad, my three cats and two Roborovski hamsters. I was born in England but my parents were from Hong Kong. I have always been very active. When I was about 2, I used to run around while my sister had her dance class. It was then when Alyson Livesey, her dance teacher, invited me to join in. Although I attended classes every week, I did not start thinking seriously about dancing till I was 10. At that time I was a Royal Ballet School junior associate, training at Leeds every Saturday with Miss Melanie Agar. My strength and interest in dancing grew greatly since I started training with Caroline Wright and Darren Middleton at Centrepointe. Through the various competitions I was encouraged to take part, Miss Wight and Darren helped me to develop my stamina and stage craft. I still remember my first audition for Billy Elliot in February 2005. It was at the Zion Centre in Manchester, it was amazing to see so many boys who were interested in dancing. All the training for this show gave me the opportunity to learn from many experienced teachers and dance with other young people who enjoy dancing as much as I do. I have learnt so much in dancing, singing, acting and gymnastics. While it is true to say that dancing is my passion, I also have other interests: I enjoy playing with my pets, drawing and internet games and having fun with friends.
Special thanks to Ellen Kane who taught me my ballet routines. It is great to train with such a strong, inspiring and kind teacher. Thanks also to Nikki Belsher for her patience and sense of fun; Ryan for teaching me about acting. I would like to dedicate my performance to my loving parents and my dear sister.



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