This co-curricular class series, curated by dance program alum Liam Lynch ’21, develops a diverse understanding of foundational techniques in street and club dance. With an emphasis on physical techniques, the class exposes dancers to a multitude of dance styles including hip-hop, house, and popping. Through the sessions, students will understand the basic techniques of street dance and will also be challenged to synthesize elements of groove, musicality, texture, footwork, and personal expression in their own individual improvisation. All experience levels welcome.
Following his class on April 6 at 3 PM, guest artist Buddha Stretch will engage in a conversation about his experience as an elder in the hip hop community over the past 30 years.
About the Guest Teacher: Buddha Stretch
Choreographer, dancer, and teacher Buddha Stretch was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. He heavily impacted the dance world by bridging the gap between what was termed Ol’ Skool and New Skool. His dance style, known as Freestyle Hip-Hop, draws from all aspects of hip-hop culture, music, and dance. In 1989, Stretch was the first hip-hop dancer to teach hip-hop in a mainstream dance studio at New York’s Broadway Dance Center. For a decade, Stretch and his dance crew Elite Force provided the edge behind Mariah Carey’s music videos and live shows. Stretch has also worked with Diana Ross, Will Smith, Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Wyclef Jean, Boyz II Men, and others. He was nominated for MTV Awards for Best Choreography for the Will Smith videos Men In Black, Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It, and Miami. Recent credits include choreography for Aida, Heather Hadley, Angie Martinez, and Rah Diggah, and for the dance theater crew Full Circle. His trend-setting style keeps him in demand as a choreographer, dancer, teacher, and performer.
Join the Class
Classes are free and open to Princeton students, faculty, and staff. Alumni interested in participating should email Cindy Rosenfeld at cr17@princeton.edu. No advance registration required, just drop in!
Join the Conversation
The general public is invited to join the conversation with Buddha Stretch in Ellie’s Studio from 3-3:30 PM. No registration required.
Spring Class Schedule
- February 10
- February 17 — Breaking, taught by K’niin Abbrey
- February 24
- March 2
- March 23
- March 30 — House, taught by Tatiana Desardouin
- April 6 — Hip-hop, taught by Buddha Stretch
- April 13 — Waacking, taught by Nubian Néné (Essence)
Directions
Get directions to Ellie’s Studio, located on the second floor landing of the Arts Tower at the Lewis Arts complex.
Accessibility
Ellie’s Studio is an accessible venue. Visit our Venues and Studios section for accessibility information at our various locations. Guests in need of access accommodations are invited to contact the Lewis Center at 609-258-5262 or email LewisCenter@princeton.edu at least one week in advance of the event date.
