Nasir Campbell, a native of Brooklyn, New York, began his formal dance training under the mentorship of Joe Antony Cavise. Inspired by his sister’s dedication to sports and activities, Nasir developed a profound passion for dance. His journey began at Dr. Susan S. McKinney Secondary School of the Arts in Brooklyn, followed by advanced studies at The University of the Arts in Philadelphia, where he trained under Donna Faye Burchfield and collaborated with notable choreographers like Thurman Katie Swords, Sidra Bell Dance New York, and Juel D Lane. Nasir's artistic growth further flourished in Europe, where he worked with distinguished choreographers from the Pina Bausch dance school.
Nasir earned a Master's degree in Arts Administration from New York University Steinhardt, adding a significant academic achievement to his extensive dance training. His teaching journey took a transformative turn when he taught dance in Uganda, enriching his global perspective on dance education. Nasir's performance history is equally impressive, having performed at B.M.S community events, HELP USA, church events, and other performances across the United States. He was honored to portray Michael Jackson in Spike Lee's annual Michael Jackson & Prince events.
Nasir's accolades include the Chancellor’s Endorsed Diploma for the Arts, Chancellor’s Rising Star award, Arts Achievements award, Legend in the Making award, and the Community Service award. He has collaborated with Disney’s The Rafiki Lion King National Tour Company, Aubrey Lynch, and Dance Africa at B.A.M. His training in George Balanchine's technique under Heather Watts and his internship at the Vail Dance Festival in Colorado under Damian Woetzel's leadership further refined his artistic expertise. As a personal assistant to the legendary Milton Myers, Nasir contributed to the dance community at IABD, Uarts, and nearly at Jacob's Pillow before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Nasir founded Maliek Dance Theater in Brooklyn, NY, with a mission to nurture artistry and develop the Maliek aesthetic—an innovative movement language exploring the body's potential through dance, storytelling, performance, and education. Maliek Dance Theater emphasizes discovering new ways of moving, understanding pleasure, letting go, bringing life to movement, and connecting to the senses. Nasir's choreographic works delve into themes of black identity, love, hope, purpose, and unity, continually pushing the boundaries of the body's capabilities.
Committed to community service, Nasir hosts a "Back to School and Let's Stay Fit" summer event and a Christmas event featuring a captivating dance show and toy giveaways. He dedicates time to local shelters, providing meals, clothing, and toys to those in need, and supports senior citizens by donating handmade socks, blankets, and other necessities.
In addition to his dance achievements, Nasir authored "The Black Boy's Journey to Dance," a book chronicling his experiences and insights into the world of dance. His relentless pursuit of artistic excellence, dedication to community service, and innovative expression continue to inspire and transform those around him.