Founder & Artistic Director

Nasir Campbell, a native of Brooklyn, New York, began his formal dance training under the mentorship of Joe Antony Cavise and Trevi Booker Pershay. Inspired by his sister, Noricia Campbell, Nasir developed a profound passion for dance, mirroring her pursuits in sports and activities with dedication and perseverance. As the youngest of five children, Nasir's dance journey started at the tender age of three in his father's church, Action Prayer Tabernacle.

A graduate of Dr. Susan S. McKinney Secondary School of the Arts in Brooklyn, Nasir continued his education at The University of the Arts in Philadelphia under the direction of Donna Faye Burchfield. There, he collaborated with renowned choreographers such as Thurman Katie Swords, Sidra Bell Dance New York, Juel D. Lane, Paz, Maria Jimena, Douglas Becker, Sheridan Michael, and Gary W. Jeter II. His quest for artistic growth led him to Europe, where he worked with distinguished choreographers from the Pina Bausch dance school, including Daniel Condamine and Dominique Stringer. Recently, Nasir earned a Master's degree in Arts Administration from New York University Steinhardt and experienced a transformative journey teaching dance in Uganda under Deborah Damast's leadership.

Nasir's performance history is extensive, having graced stages at B.M.S community events, Atlanta, Los Angeles, HELP USA, and various church events. He was notably asked to portray Michael Jackson in Spike Lee's annual Michael Jackson & Prince events. His 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. In 2016, Nasir worked with the Disney The Rafiki Lion King National Tour Company, Aubrey Lynch, and Dance Africa at B.A.M. His training includes studying George Balanchine's technique with Heather Watts and interning at the Vail Dance Festival in Colorado under Damian Woetzel's leadership. He also served as a personal assistant to the legendary Milton Myers, assisting him at IABD, Uarts, and nearly traveling to Jacob's Pillow before the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020.

Nasir founded Maliek Dance Theater in Brooklyn, NY, with a mission to nurture artistry and develop the Maliek aesthetic—an innovative movement language that explores the body's potential through dance, storytelling, performance, and education. Maliek Dance Theater is dedicated to investing in imagination, recognizing that art lives within everyone, and realizing a place of multiplicity and creativity.

The Maliek aesthetic, developed by Nasir, emphasizes discovering new ways of moving, understanding pleasure, letting go, bringing life to movement, and connecting to the senses. It’s about sensitive hands with gestures, applying force, and experiencing freedom and possibilities.

Nasir is driven by a deep dedication, passion, and determination to live and breathe the arts. His choreographic works focus on themes of black identity, love, hope, purpose, and unity, alongside an ongoing exploration of the body's capabilities. He is committed to giving back to his community and aims to build a home for Maliek Dance Theater and an MDT school for the next generation.

Nasir's community involvement includes hosting a "Back to School and Let's Stay Fit" summer event in August, where children engage in dance, play, and fitness while receiving essential school supplies. During the holiday season, he organizes a Christmas event featuring a captivating dance show and toy giveaways, spreading joy and festive cheer. Throughout the year, Nasir dedicates time to local shelters, providing meals, clothing, and toys to those in need. He also extends his compassion to senior citizens, donating handmade socks, blankets, and other necessities, enhancing their lives with warmth and practical support.

In addition to his dance achievements, Nasir has authored a book titled "The Black Boy's Journey to Dance." His relentless pursuit of artistic excellence, dedication to community service, and innovative expression continue to inspire and transform those around him.