The Infancy of Hip Hop Throwdown

Zedric Bembry and the Live and In Color Dance Company present a dance performance exploring the origins of hip hop in recognition of the United States’ 250th anniversary. Taking place Saturday, August 15 at the Sandrell Rivers Theater, the production traces the early development of the genre through movement and music.

The program highlights key elements of hip hop’s foundation, including the use of extended drum breaks, turntable techniques and DJ-driven sound. Set to music associated with pioneers such as Grandmaster Flash, the performance reflects the genre’s evolution from its early innovations to a global cultural influence.

Presented as part of the Joseph Caleb Auditorium’s Caleb Around Town “Black Birth of Music Series,” the event situates hip hop within a broader historical context, connecting its origins to the wider story of American music.