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| Photo Credit: Brian Mengini |
Rennie Harris Puremovement (RHPM) was founded in 1992 by North Philadelphia native Dr. Lorenzo (Rennie) Harris. RHPM is known as the first and longest running hip-hop dance touring company and was chosen as one of four US companies to serve as cultural ambassadors for President Obama's "Dance Motion USA".
I was very curious to see this show which featured "critically-acclaimed, bold, original hip-hop work"...
I would characterize RHPM as a "thinking man's show", meaning that there was deeper social commentary attached to each piece (that I may or may not have fully understood); however, all ages seemed to enjoy the show, myself included.
I was pleasantly surprised by the laid back "Block Party" vibe and the interaction with the audience.
"I say 'hip', you say 'hop'. Hip (Hop), HIP (HOP)!"
People felt comfortable making noise and were openly encouraged to express their appreciation toward the dancers. The dancers were extremely talented (with tremendous core strength) and each piece was different and full of interesting shapes and movement. The music was diverse and memorable and the artists continued their interaction with the audience at a Q&A session after the performance.
This show is an example of how the Ordway continues to reach out to the community at large with well-rounded, diverse projects. (And I always enjoy a show that generates conversation in the car afterward!)
Ordway Center for the Performing Arts
345 Washington Street
St. Paul, MN 55102
Ticket Office: 651.224.4222
Groups: 651.282.3111
ordway.org
I would like to thank the Ordway for providing these tickets! (A positive review was not required.)
