Hamilton’s streets are set to transform into a vibrant stage this weekend, uniting dancers from various regions to honor 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 hip-hop emerged. This annual event, now in its fourth year, showcases 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. The festivities kicked off on Tuesday, coinciding with hip-hop’s birthday, with free workshops on King William Street. The event will continue with a block party on Friday and a dance battle on Saturday.
Claris and Amelia Menjivar, who have been part of 73 ‘Til Infinity since its inception, highlighted the importance of understanding the culture behind hip-hop. They emphasized that hip-hop culture, rooted in Black and marginalized communities, offers a platform for connection and expression.
The weekend event will feature various street-dance styles such as breaking, locking, popping, and waacking, each representing a unique facet of hip-hop culture. Claris emphasized the significance of learning the history of hip-hop to truly engage with the culture it represents.
The highlight of the weekend will be the all-styles, one-on-one dance battle on Saturday, judged by Suga Pop, a renowned street dancer with a rich history in the industry. The event aims to shine a spotlight on Hamilton’s vibrant dance community, showcasing the talent and camaraderie within the city.
Josh Taylor emphasized the supportive and inclusive nature of Hamilton’s dance scene, noting that while it may be smaller compared to Toronto, it boasts a thriving community of dancers across various genres. The essence of community is at the heart of 73 ‘Til Infinity, creating a welcoming space for dancers of all levels to come together and celebrate hip-hop culture.