What is Street Dance?

Women and Queer Communities in Dance


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Get ready to explore the profound impact of street dance as a force for empowerment and community. We're diving into styles that served as vital safe havens, particularly for women and the LGBTQ+ community. Discover the vibrant history of Whacking, a style born in 1970s underground gay clubs, nearly lost to the AIDS crisis but heroically revived by dancers like Brian 'Footwork' Green. Witness the fierce artistry of Vogue, a phenomenon that emerged from the Harlem drag ballrooms of the late 60s, providing an essential 'oasis' for marginalized individuals. We'll also unpack the nuanced legacy of Madonna's 1990 'Vogue', celebrating its reach while confronting uncomfortable questions about cultural credit.


But the story doesn't end there. Prepare to celebrate the pioneering women who are shaping street dance. From the audacious spirit of female krumpers documented by Session Queens in Australia and Aotearoa, proving that power knows no gender, the invaluable mentorship of Rina Che and Selena Torres, and the liberating teachings of Marjorie Smarth II. These incredible women are not just moving bodies; they're moving mountains, leading, teaching, and forging pathways for authentic self-expression.

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What is Street Dance?By Street Dance Talks