Lil Buck's explosive new collaboration, '1776', hits the stage like a thunderbolt, igniting a fiery passion for social justice and artistic expression. The American street dance legend has teamed up with Britain's brightest young dancers from ZooNation and Body Politic to create a stunning performance that delves into the complex history of US independence and the enduring promise of equality.
Lil Buck first electrified the world in 2011 with his jaw-dropping jookin style, showcased in a viral video collaboration with cellist Yo-Yo Ma. Since then, he's worked with music and arts giants like Madonna and Mikhail Baryshnikov, and even lent his moves to Versace campaigns.
At Oxford's state-of-the-art Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities – a hub of interdisciplinary excellence, thanks in part to a significant donation from US billionaire Stephen Schwarzman – Buck immersed himself in historical dance, jookin's evolution, and the cultural significance of footwear. '1776' is the stunning outcome of this period, a powerful fusion of history and contemporary art.
The performance dissects the founding ideals of the United States, highlighting the gulf between promise and reality. As Buck so eloquently puts it, "the idea that all men are created equal" was a broken promise, with choreography that starkly contrasts freedom for some with oppression and conformity for others. Period-inspired costumes bring authoritarian figures to life, their tightly controlled movements reflecting constraint – before the dancers burst into fluid, individualistic styles like locking, waacking, and krump, signifying the indomitable spirit of defiance.
ZooNation's Dannielle “Rhimes” Lecointe co-choreographed this breathtaking piece, featuring standout performances from young dancers including Andrew Jackson. Even Lil Buck himself takes to the stage, showcasing his gravity-defying mastery and unique ability to make the impossible seem effortless. The project is a testament to dance as a powerful tool for engaging with profound social narratives.
While debates about arts funding continue, '1776' stands out as an exemplary fusion of art and education, offering a nuanced exploration of power, freedom, and human spirit. As young dancers take solo centre stage, cheered on by Buck, the circle becomes a symbol of genuine camaraderie and freedom in movement – leaving audiences electrified.