Star behind Michael Jackson's iconic Moonwalk coming to Halesowen

Performer Jeffrey Daniel - who was MTV’s first street dance choreographer - will stop by in Halesowen for the rare appearance after getting in touch with Next Level Dance Academy.

The 63-year-old, who sold 25 million records with soul group Shalamar, taught Jackson the Moonwalk and invented the lean for his 'Smooth Criminal' music video.

Charlie Jones, co-owner of the Manor Lane dance school, said: "It's brilliant for our dance school and the surrounding area.

"A lot of the parents are quite excited about him coming. I think they're big fans.

"I think it's going to be inspiring. The children are all interested in dance and some of them want to have a career in the industry."

Daniel, who co-choreographed the 'Smooth Criminal' and 'Bad' videos, will host two 90-minute dance master classes and a 30-minute Q&A session when he drops by at Haden Hill Leisure Centre on December 2.

It comes after the star's team got in touch with the dance school to ask if they wanted to meet Daniel.

It will be the second time dancers at the school, which launched four years ago, have been treated to a special visit from dance royalty.

Ashley Banjo, best known for being the leader of dance troupe Diversity, also popped down with some of his fellow performers for a one-off workshop.

Ms Jones, who runs the school with business partner Emma Skett, added: "It's good opportunity for the children. They probably haven't done anything like this before. Its something different rather than a dance teacher teaching them.

"Every child looks up to Michael Jackson and all of his moves, so to have someone who worked so closely with him, it's exciting.

"We will pick his brains and freshen up our dance moves, and ask lots of questions."

Daniel had a string of hits with group Shalamar including floor-fillers 'A Night to Remember,' 'There It Is', and 'I Can Make You Feel Good'.

Shalamar collected no fewer than 100 gold, silver and platinum awards after rising to fame in the 1970s and 80s

The event is open to the public and will cost £30. Contact nextleveldance@sky.com