Dancer who performed with Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston teaches moves to local youth (WITH VIDEO)

After years on the big stage and performing with celebrities across the country, Dante Henderson wants to share his passion and knowledge of dance with youth.

With a big smile and electric enthusiasm, Henderson bobs and weaves among 22 young students at the Move and Motions Studios on Hilton Head Island, providing them with support and encouragement.

Henderson spent the beginning part of his career touring and traveling alongside celebrities such as Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Jason Mraz, TLC and Mary J. Blige.

But now, he wants to direct his attention to working with kids who share the same dream he had when he was young.

"Nothing makes me happier as a teacher than when I see one of my students light up when they have achieved something they have never done before," Henderson said. "That's always amazing to see, and that is something that will bring tears to my eyes."

This summer, Henderson has teamed up with Don Hite, a Hilton Head director and producer, for a two-week performing arts master class. The class for the newly established Broadway Carolina YouthCenter Stage and Performing Arts Conservatory began June 22 and ends July 3. Hite said the conservatory will produce musicals and plays and develop new works. Hite and Henderson have worked together on productions at Hilton Head Preparatory School.

Henderson said teaching young dancers is just as rewarding as performing for thousands of people.

"I'm not here just to make money and teach the kids a little something and then move on," he said. "I want them to grow, and I want to be part of that experience."

Hite said that he enjoys working with Henderson because he understands how to teach kids all styles of dance.

"He knows how to lay down the steps and teach them the right way," Hite said. "He also just has that charm and charisma that you need when you are in this profession."

Like many of his students, Henderson found his passion for dance in grade school.

Henderson studied at Hollywood High School in Los Angeles and later received a scholarship to the California Institute of the Arts, where he was discovered by actress and choreographer Debbie Allen.

When he is not visiting and teaching in the Lowcountry, Henderson resides in Detroit and instructs students at Marygrove College.

Even after years of dedicating his career to teaching, Henderson said, he still looks forward to performing on the big stage.

"I'm not done performing, but I also don't want to be behind someone on stage anymore," he said. "I want them to be behind me."

Follow Carolyn Rennix on Twitter at twitter.com/carolynrennix

This story was originally published June 26, 2015 at 2:12 PM with the headline "Dancer who performed with Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston teaches moves to local youth (WITH VIDEO)."