South African Choreographer Lee-Ché Janecke Rides ‘Water‘ Wave to Global Ambitions
JOHANNESBURG – South African choreographer Lee-Ché Janecke, whose work propelled tyla‘s “Water” to viral sensation and a global dance challenge, is setting his sights on a broader international stage. The 24-year-old is actively pursuing representation in the United States and aiming to collaborate with major artists including Dua Lipa, Doechii, Beyoncé, and Madonna, alongside exploring opportunities in K-pop, advertising, and musical theater.
Janecke’s choreography for “Water,” released in July 2023, sparked a TikTok dance craze that saw millions worldwide attempting the intricate footwork.The success has positioned him as a rising star in the choreography world, but also highlighted the challenges faced by creatives seeking to build enduring careers within South Africa’s entertainment industry. He hopes to leverage this momentum to establish himself as a leading choreographer on a global scale, while remaining deeply connected to his South African roots.
Janecke credits the virality of “Water” with realizing a long-held ambition. “My African dream got a dance done by the whole world,” he stated, emphasizing the meaning of the moment for both his personal journey and the recognition of African talent. He views his success as a platform to elevate other South African creatives and reshape the global conversation around dance and music.
The choreographer has already set high benchmarks for his future work, citing Robbie Blue – known for choreographing Gap’s autumn 2025 advert featuring Katseye and Doechii’s 2025 VMA-winning “Anxiety” music video – as an example of the level of achievement he aspires to. Janecke intends to continue collaborating with tyla, describing her as “my girl for life” and praising her dedication to innovative music creation.
Despite his ambitions abroad, Janecke acknowledges the limitations within South Africa’s creative ecosystem. He expressed frustration with the lack of a streamlined, professional working environment comparable to that of the US, but remains steadfast in his South African identity. His ultimate goal is to build a career that bridges both worlds,showcasing African talent on an international platform while continuing to contribute to the growth of the industry at home.
