Robin Tuariki has some flexible dance moves up his sleeve. 34325
By Jade Lawton
ROBIN Tuariki is popping, locking and gliding his way to success.
The Year 11 Pakenham Secondary College student has adopted a unique dance style that he is now teaching a new generation of dancers.
Popping is a move derived from street dancing, locking involves locking the joints and gliding uses moves similar to Michael Jackson’s moonwalk.
Robin also sings soul and RnB love ballads, which he writes himself from his own life experiences.
“I’ve been singing all my life,” Robin said. “I started dancing in Year 8 – but I wouldn’t really consider that dancing, because I was hopeless. In Year 9, I was krumping, and in Year 10 I started popping, locking and gliding.
“When I’ve got music in my ear, I’m never shy.”
Robin learns his moves from Youtube and dance movies, and has not taken singing or dancing lessons, although now he has started teaching his moves to younger dancers at Pakenham Hall. Robin is a big fan of Michael Jackson, and was devastated when he heard the King of Pop had died.
“I cried,” Robin admitted.
“His voice was unbelievable, his dancing was unique and he inspired the world. He was a gifted man with so much talent,” he said.
Robin has performed at the Fountain Gate Christmas Carols, local production Shadows on the Footpath and at his church, Casey City Church, and at various school functions.
He practises his dancing every day and is currently writing a new song.
Robin’s favourite dance act is Jabbawockeez, a Californian hip-hop troupe that won America’s Best Dance Crew in 2008.
“In three years time, I want to get Jabbawockeez to my 21st. They have really inspired me to continue on; they are a really unique dance crew. I am a big fan,” he said.
Robin also plans to audition for Australian Idol next year. Ultimately, it’s not fame and fortune Robin is after – he would prefer to inspire young people like himself.
“I want to be a school role model. Set what’s right and be there for everyone,” he said.
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