Hamilton’s streets are set to transform into a vibrant stage this weekend as dancers from various areas come together to honor the essence of hip-hop culture. The 73 ‘Til Infinity: Outdoor Dance Series was initiated in 2023 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, paying homage to the pivotal year of 1973 when the genre emerged.
Now in its fourth year, this free event offers a platform for dance performances, workshops, a block party, and an all-styles dance battle. Josh Taylor, the artistic director of Defining Movement Dance and the curator of 73 ‘Til Infinity, describes it as a celebration highlighting street dance culture.
The festivities kicked off on Tuesday, coinciding with hip-hop’s birthday, featuring complimentary workshops on King William Street. The event will culminate with a block party on Friday and a dance battle on Saturday. Taylor emphasizes that the event aims to shine a spotlight on dancers and various dance styles, showcasing their talent and creativity.
Claris and Amelia Menjivar, integral members of 73 ‘Til Infinity since its inception, share a deep connection with hip-hop through their upbringing and involvement in dance. They emphasize the importance of understanding the cultural roots of hip-hop and how it has been shaped by Black and marginalized communities.
The weekend’s lineup includes street-dance styles like breaking, locking, popping, and whacking, the latter originating in 1970s Los Angeles within 2SLGBTQ+ communities. Claris stresses that participating in hip-hop culture entails learning its history and recognizing its origins in marginalized communities.
The event will feature performances, workshops, and a one-on-one dance battle judged by renowned street dancer Suga Pop, known for his contributions to the culture and his work with iconic figures like Michael Jackson. The competition promises an electrifying showcase of talent as dancers improvise to music played live by DJ English.
Despite Toronto’s prominence in the dance scene, Hamilton boasts a vibrant dance community encompassing various styles like street dance, salsa, and commercial hip-hop. Taylor underscores the supportive and tight-knit nature of Hamilton’s dance community, emphasizing the camaraderie and inclusivity that define the city’s dance scene.