The Department of Music and Dance and the William J. Cooper Foundation at Swarthmore College present Rennie Harris Puremovement (RHPM) on Friday, February 17th at 8:00pm in the Pearson-Hall Theatre, Lang Performing Arts Center (LPAC) at Swarthmore College.
This exciting evening may include performances of Rennie Harris Puremovement (RHPM)’s unique repertory program and will be an excellent balance of old and new works. Audiences can look forward to a flirty, infectious romp set to the rhythms of Marvin Gaye and Nina Simone in Something to Do with Love, Volume I and the rhythmic motions of P-Funk, which focuses on the individuality and group dynamics of Harris’ athletic male dancers. Revel in an early classic from the nineties, Students of the Asphalt Jungle, which reflects and incorporates the energy and influence of African movement, gymnastics, Capoeira and other hallmarks of hip-hop into a riveting dance showcase. This event is free and open to the public without advance reservations.
Rennie Harris Puremovement (RHPM) was founded in 1992 by North Philadelphia native, Dr. Rennie Harris. Rennie Harris Puremovement (RHPM) was conceived with the vision for sharing an appreciation for diversity and is dedicated to preserving and disseminating hip-hop culture through workshops, classes, lecture demonstrations, dance residencies, mentoring programs and public performances. Dr. Harris formed the company on the belief that hip-hop is the most important original expression of a new generation, with the unique ability to express universal themes that extend beyond racial, religious, and economic boundaries. The company’s goal is to provide audiences with a sincere view of the essence and spirit of hip-hop, rather than the commercially exploited stereotypes most often presented by the media. RHPM continues to flourish beyond its 15th Anniversary Season as they emerge as an international hip-hop dance ambassador and surviving senior member in the world of organized hip-hop dance theater. In a society where hip-hop is often portrayed as a violent, undisciplined counterculture, RHPM deconstructs popular perception of this medium, expanding and challenging the boundaries and definitions of hip-hop in general. As hip-hop continues to be chosen as the modern generation’s medium of expression, RHPM works to honor its history, explore its ideas, and further its contributions to the surrounding community.
RHPM will be offering a Master Class on Thursday, February 16th at 4:30pm in Troy Dance Lab (LPAC 002) of the Lang Performing Arts Center. The event is free and open to everyone, but please contact Susan Grossi (sgrossi1@swarthmore.edu) Administrative Assistant for Music and Dance (LPAC 004) at x2019 to reserve a space.
For further information about the performance, contact Tara Webb at lpacevents@swarthmore.edu or call 610-328-8260.