John O'Connell is best known as the choreographer for the films 'Moulin Rouge', 'Shall we Dance?' and 'Strictly Ballroom'. Apart from his film career, he is constantly in demand as a choreographer for musicals, theatre, commercials and video clips, and this year choreographed for the Oscars awards in Hollywood. He is the choreographer of 'Keating, the Musical', which is in the middle of an Australian tour, and also of 'The Rocky Horror Show', presently playing at Star City in Sydney.
What was your first public performance?
It was as Prince Charming when I was aged six in Cinderella at the Thirroul RSL.
Who have been your main influences?
Mickey Rooney, Fred Astaire and Chrissie Koltai.
What is your proudest moment?
Receiving the American Choreography Award for Film for Moulin Rouge.
What has been your most unusual commission?
Choreographing S&M Bar in Matrix.
What is the worst mistake a choreographer can make?
Not to follow their instinct.
What do you always bring with you to a rehearsal?
My sense of humour.
What place does music have in choreography?
It is almost everything – the beginning from which to build the number and inspire you… or not!
What is your favourite dance style?
After MGM musicals, anything that moves.
How do you think your colleagues perceive you?
As a dazzlingly gifted and humble artist.
What annoys you about yourself?
My procrastination.
What is your pet hate?
Bureaucracy.
What makes you sad?
My inability to articulate an answer to that question.
What occupation would be furthest from your true nature?
A bank teller.
How would you describe your feet?
As two jewels from heaven.
