Michael James

Michael James, born and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida, graduated from the University of South Florida where he received a BA for Modern Dance Performance.

After college, he performed in the American Stage Company’s “Shakespeare in the Park” Series for five seasons, as well as danced and choreographed for the Children’s Theater Tour.

Michael was a scholarship student at the Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival in Beckett, Massachusetts, where he studied under Linda Kent and Carolyn Adams. He also danced with The Men Dancers of Jacob’s Pillow International Touring Company, which allowed him to dance and teach in St. Petersburg, Russia. He was also a member of The Repertory Dance Theatre of Utah.

Michael began his FFCC affiliation in 1988 as the choreographer/designer for Dixie Hollins HS. In 1999, he became the “go to” choreographer for Right Guard, the instructor sponsor color guard that performed for circuit championships. After graduating from college, he began teaching at Pinellas Park HS, Largo HS, and Seminole.

As a color guard designer and choreographer, he is currently working with Oviedo HS (SO), McNeil HS (SO), Sunlake HS (2018 Sch. A Silver Medalist & 2022 Sch.Open Bronze Medalist), University of South Florida WG (2018 IA Finalist & 2022 Ind. Open Champion), Santa Clara Vanguard, Phantom Regiment, Lowndes HS, Union HS, Windemere HS, Farmington HS (Utah), and Papillion-La Vista HS (NE).

He has worked with University HS - FL, Timber Creek HS - FL, Cypress Creek HS -FL, Seminole HS - FL, Tarpon Springs HS - FL, The Company Winter Colour Guard (FL), Kennesaw Mountain HS (GA), Spring HS (TX), Miamisburg HS (OH), Pope HS (GA), Center Grove HS (IN), Northmont HS (OH), and Bingham HS (UT).

He’s also been on staff with The Cavaliers, Carolina Crown, The Cadets, Crossmen, and The Magic of Orlando. Michael’s choreography has also been viewed at Walt Disney’s Pleasure Island with the Pleasure Island Explosion Dancers, University of Central Florida’s Starlet Knights Danceline, Oracle Performance Ensemble, University of South Florida’s Herd of Thunder Color guard, and winter guard. As well as 1999’s Orlando Fringe Festival, and numerous other high schools and colleges around the country.