Brandon Mitchell Thinks He Can Dance
Kansas City, Kan. — So You Think You Can Dance is a huge summer hit show right here on FOX. And if you’re a fan then you already know a dancer named to the top 20 is representing Kansas City. Brandon Mitchell is known as the first step dancer ever named to the show.
His family says Brandon’s been dancing since he was a little kid. Dad Mark Mitchell says when Brandon was four years old he did the MC Hammer dance at a wedding and blew everyone way with how good it was.
But now, watching him on So You Think You Can Dance is overwhelming for his family, because they know it’s a dream come true for Brandon.
Brandon graduated from Sumner Academy in 2003.
“He was voted most influential student at Sumner and that’s the one he talks about the most,” says Mark.
At Florida A&M University Brandon joined the Strikers, and stepping became his passion. But college is also where Brandon learned the value of hard work and dedication.
“He had some hard times,” says Mark, “there were time me and his mother couldn’t support him, and he really had to grind it out. I think he was there for 5 years grinding and trying to get that degree.”
His degree is in Computer Information Systems. But he hasn’t really needed it yet. Brandon’s had a successful career in Hollywood so far, he’ll be in the movie Step Up Revolution, opening next week, and he’s worked with singers like Jennifer Lopez and Kelly Rowland. But success doesn’t come easy. Brandon recently called his dad after a frustrating day of rehearsals.
“He said ‘dad today is a rough day’” says Mark, “people think success is handed to you and it isn’t. He’s been working hard for so long.”
Mark says his son wants to do Kansas City proud on the show but he also hopes to inspire.
“I think he shows a lot of young people we underestimate ourselves, what we can do and what we can achieve in our lives,” says Mark, “and he’s been successful and it’s because of the work ethic the work he puts in behind it.”
Mark plans to go to LA to see the show next week. Brandon’s sister Jasmine has been to every show so far, she’s also a dancer. Brandon’s littlest sister, 10 year-old Martayah, is also a dancer and plans to try out for the show someday.
