JACOB JONAS, FLYING HIGH IN DANCE

From The Excess Issue

Jacob Jonas, the creative force behind the acclaimed Company that shares his name, has been pushing the limits of dance through his unique blend of storytelling and innovation. In this interview, he reflects on his journey and the deep relationship between art and life.

You just concluded a residency at Orsolina28 Art Foundation. Tell me about your project there.
J.J. We gathered for creation and teaching. It’s a magical place. I’m designing a trilogy called To Begin Again, my first post-illness work. The first piece is about life before illness, the second explores the cancer battle and the third is about rebirth. We also worked on two films.

What’s your process when developing new work?
J.J. The work comes from within. I listen to what the piece wants to become and who should be involved. It’s not about good or bad—just commitment. We’re a family documenting time. The work feels complete when we’re full and the sun sets.

You’ve been open about being a cancer survivor. How has this shaped your practice?
J.J. Last year, I battled stage 4 cancer. I spent 48 days hospitalized, facing mortality. It taught me that health is everything. Cancer gave me maturity, a deeper understanding of life. It’s a privilege to be here with you now.

There’s increasing focus on art centered on care. Does this come from vulnerability?
J.J. Yes, the wounded child inside fuels my work. Healing requires introspection.
Art can heal, especially when we create together. Now more than ever, art is essential.

You’re currently touring for your Summer Intensive…
J.J. It’s a somatic movement practice that helps find freedom in both mind and body, focusing on the sun, spine, and the power of stillness.

Any advice for aspiring choreographers?
J.J. Understand the business. Be rebellious. Disrupt the old models and create new ones.

I can’t imagine discussing dance without mentioning music.
J.J. I’ve been lucky to work with incredible artists. Rick Rubin talks about inspiration flowing when you slow down. I agree. Lately, I meditate to nature sounds—Gordon Hempton’s work and Jon Hopkins’ Music for Psychedelic Therapy are favorites.

Accessibility has always been central to your research. You started #CamerasandDancers ten years ago. How do you reflect on that now?
J.J. I launched it in 2014 to make dance visible as social media was growing. Though platforms now foster loneliness, I’m proud of the relationships we forged, bringing together top artists and institutions at the intersection of mediums.

You love the relationship between moving image and dance. What is Films.Dance?
J.J. It evolved from #CamerasandDancers during the pandemic. We’ve produced 40 short films blending dance, music and film. It’s become a global community, and we’re looking to grow through new partnerships and digital projects.

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word discipline?
J.J. I was raised by concrete. Discipline is sweat, tears and hard work. It’s about perseverance and community. Being an artist is a battle, and I’m fully committed.

How about freedom?
J.J. The ocean. The redwoods. Clear PET Scans. My grandmother’s wrinkles. Honey. Tears of joy. My dog. The rise and fall of our rib cages. Fungi, psilocybin. Witnessing my community thrive. Naked bodies. The sun.

Would you say you have a distinctive style in dance?
J.J. My work is autobiographical, informed by nature and my mentors. At first, it was about discovering a physical language. Now, it’s about bringing bigger ideas to life. Dance is my therapy.

What’s your idea of collaboration?
J.J. It’s family—about growth and gratitude. I’ve worked with amazing people,
from Jill Wilson and Emma Rosenzweig-Bock to Kanye West and Rosalía. Every experience has shaped my work. I really like Rosalía. She’s like the sun—a true gift. I’ve learned so much from her. She embodies our time.

What’s coming up next for you?
J.J. Tomorrow’s sunrise.

Have you thought about your legacy?
J.J. I want to change the world. I’ve spent a decade building work and systems. My goal is to create a space for performance, teaching, and a global creative studio in LA. Legacy is about artist-philanthropist relationships. We need strong backing to inspire and foster a sense of belonging.

There’s a cliché that dancers can express only through movement. What’s your take?
J.J. Dance needs more value in society—it can reduce war, loneliness and negativity.
While choreography is at my core, I see myself as an artist beyond one medium.

Has a creative risk ever led to a breakthrough?
J.J. Yes—investing in myself and new projects always opens doors. The biggest risk is
honesty, but it brings the most authentic results.

If you weren’t a choreographer, what would you be?
J.J. I’m just someone asking questions.

Which talent would you most love to have?
J.J. Fundraising—to create more opportunities for the arts.

And what’s the best thing in life?
J.J. Freedom in nature. Capturing moments so one day we can look back and smile.

Let’s close with a wish.
J.J. I’ll close my eyes for that. Give me a moment.