Hamilton’s streets will transform into a vibrant stage this weekend as dancers from various regions converge to honor hip-hop culture. The 73 ‘Til Infinity: Outdoor Dance Series was initiated in 2023 to commemorate hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, paying homage to 1973, the pivotal year in hip-hop’s origins.
In its fourth year, this free event offers an array of 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, described the event as a celebration of street dance culture.
Kicking off on hip-hop’s birthday, the festivities began with free workshops on King William Street this Tuesday. The weekend will feature a block party on Friday and a dance battle on Saturday, putting the spotlight firmly on the talented dancers.
Claris and Amelia Menjivar, sisters deeply ingrained in the event since its inception, emphasized the importance of showcasing dancers and educating the audience about the cultural essence of hip-hop. They highlighted the need to understand the history behind the dance forms as a means of connecting with the culture established by Black and marginalized communities.
The event will showcase various street-dance styles like breaking, locking, popping, and whacking, each representing a unique facet of hip-hop culture. Claris stressed the significance of learning the history of hip-hop to truly engage with the art form and its roots.
Friday’s block party will feature performances by dancers from Hamilton and the Greater Toronto Area, while Saturday will host the main event—a one-on-one dance battle judged by the legendary Suga Pop. The battle promises an electrifying display of improvisational skills as dancers respond to live music by DJ English, with the winner taking home a cash prize.
Despite Hamilton’s dance scene often being overshadowed by Toronto, Taylor highlighted the city’s vibrant dance community encompassing various styles like street dance, salsa, and commercial hip-hop. The smaller size of Hamilton’s community fosters a supportive environment where dancers can thrive and collaborate.
73 ‘Til Infinity aims to showcase this sense of community and inclusivity, providing a platform for all individuals, regardless of their dance experience, to partake in the celebration of hip-hop culture. Whether a seasoned dancer or a curious observer, everyone is encouraged to join in and experience the energy and vibrancy of the event firsthand.