A+U: Wahe - Hip Hop: Modern Folklore of the USA

Introduction to urban styles led by instructor and choreographer Wahe Akopyan.

This lecture and workshop explores hip hop dance as a cultural phenomenon born in American communities - from original street forms to contemporary expressions on the battle scene, in theatre, and in commercial contexts. The theoretical section covers the historical context of hip hop culture, individual dance styles, and their evolution under the influence of social, musical, and media changes.

The practical portion translates these principles directly into movement: working with groove, rhythm, musicality, freestyle, and authentic expression. The focus is on understanding the origins of movement, making conscious choices as a dancer, and developing your own identity while respecting the roots of the culture.