Homer Hans Bryant's hybrid dance style fuses hip-hop and ballet
Creator of hiplet, Homer Hans Bryant, designed a hybrid dance style that combines elements of ballet and hip-hop. Bryant describes the dance "like classical ballet, African hip-hop, all done to the discipline and strength of being on pointe." Hiplet began in the 90s as a way to fuse rap music and ballet. Today, videos of hiplet dancers hold millions of views on social media.
"Black girls in pink tights. It's a terrible disconnect," Bryant points out. In order to tackle this issue, the hiplet creator suggests that dance schools encourage students to wear tights that match the colour of their skin. Bryant says "it's a very empowering thing if you look in the mirror and you see yourself." This is what hiplet is all about.
WEB EXTRA | Watch the hiplet dance Tom refers to below.
Comments
To encourage thoughtful and respectful conversations, first and last names will appear with each submission to CBC/Radio-Canada's online communities (except in children and youth-oriented communities). Pseudonyms will no longer be permitted.
By submitting a comment, you accept that CBC has the right to reproduce and publish that comment in whole or in part, in any manner CBC chooses. Please note that CBC does not endorse the opinions expressed in comments. Comments on this story are moderated according to our Submission Guidelines. Comments are welcome while open. We reserve the right to close comments at any time.
Become a CBC Member
Join the conversation Create account
Already have an account?