Philippine Hip-hop Dance Scene

CEBU, Philippines - Hip-hop dance is a popular street dance style, popular among the youth, usually performed to its own genre of music. It comprises a variety of styles, mainly the so-called b-boying, locking and popping.  It has evolved from the sub-culture popularized by dance groups in the United States.

In the Philippines, hip-hop has since become a significant highlight in the contemporary dance scene. Numerous hip-hop dance groups have been formed in different parts of the country since the early 2000s, when the dance firs became popular in the country.

Local dance competitions are held everywhere as a form of community entertainment. These events give the so-called hip-hop dance crews to attain a certain degree of fame.  The completion often goes from region to region, gathering huge crowds at every stop along the way.

International hip-hop dance competitions are also held, giving Philippine hip-hop dance groups mainstream exposure. At international hip-hop events, the dance develops further from the exchange of styles among dance crews from different parts of the world presenting their visual artistry.

There have also emerge sub-genres within the main hip-hop genre, like vogue femme and waacking, some of the latest enhancements to Philippine hip-hop choreography, which add a feminine touch to the dance. These choreographies put a strong emphasis on musicality and interpretation of the music and its rhythm. Krumping and lyrical hip-hop are other sub-genres that enhance the standard hip-hop choreography.

Meanwhile, famous international hip-hop choreographers also hold dance workshops in the Philippines to share and influence their style to the Filipinos.  The workshops all the more bring the Philippine hip-hop at par with international standards.

For Philippine hip-hop dancers, the dance is not just a hobby, but a lifestyle. There have sprouted fashion and behavior unique among them. They are a league of their own.

(FREEMAN)