Hamilton will host a vibrant celebration of hip-hop culture this weekend, with dancers from various regions coming together to showcase their talent on the city’s streets. The event, known as 73 ‘Til Infinity: Outdoor Dance Series, was launched in 2023 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, paying homage to the genre’s roots in 1973.
Now in its fourth year, the event offers a range of activities including dance performances, workshops, a block party, and an all-styles dance battle. According to Josh Taylor, the artistic director of Defining Movement Dance and the curator of 73 ‘Til Infinity, the event aims to highlight street dance culture and put dancers in the spotlight.
The festivities kicked off on Tuesday, coinciding with hip-hop’s birthday, featuring free workshops on King William Street. The celebration will continue with a block party on Friday and a dance battle on Saturday. Claris and Amelia Menjivar, who have been involved with 73 ‘Til Infinity since its inception, emphasize the importance of not only showcasing dancers but also educating the public about the cultural significance of hip-hop.
The weekend will feature various street-dance styles such as breaking, locking, popping, and whacking, with Claris underlining the importance of understanding the history and roots of hip-hop culture. The event will also include a one-on-one dance battle judged by Suga Pop, a renowned street dancer known for his contributions to the culture, including teaching dance to Michael Jackson.
Taylor highlights the thriving dance community in Hamilton, acknowledging that while it may be overshadowed by Toronto, the city boasts a vibrant and supportive dance scene across various genres. 73 ‘Til Infinity aims to showcase this sense of community and inclusivity, providing a space for everyone to participate and appreciate hip-hop culture, regardless of their dance experience.