Birmingham’s Sensational Hip-Hop Dance Crew Continues to Impress the Masses
The electrifying Birmingham-based hip hop dance crew, BhamBeatBullyz, continues to dazzle audiences as they impressively push the boundaries of Alabama’s dance world. Famed for their captivating moves, raw talent, and infectious energy, these ten dynamic performers are well on their way to becoming a cultural phenomenon within the local entertainment scene.
A Sold-out Performance
The BhamBeatBullyz recently delivered a high-energy performance at the Family and Friends Night at UniverSoul Circus’s 10-day run held at Birmingham’s Legion Field. With the stage illuminated by their magnetic presence, they enthralled a sold-out crowd with their remarkable dance routines and flawless synchronization.
The Crew Behind the Magic
The crew, founded in 2022 by the driven artistic visionary Christopher Pugh, consists of five male and five female dancers who have managed to create an amicable fusion of versatility, ardour, and uniqueness. Each with their distinctive dance style, these performers possess the ability to transform routines into visual narratives—a testament to their passion for dance and the hip-hop culture.
A Tribute to the Hip-Hop Culture
What differentiates the BhamBeatBullyz from other performing acts is their commitment to keeping the classic New York City era hip-hop alive—a dance style that rose to prominence during the late 1970s. Drawn from the original techniques and aesthetics of the vibrant hip-hop culture, their dances incorporate adaptable funk styles and elements from the dynamic world of street dance.
A Journey Within The Dance Scene
Christopher Pugh’s dedication towards pioneering a unique dance group in Birmingham’s entertainment scene can be traced back to his initial years of teaching at Magic City Dance Studio. Pugh, a seasoned dancer in the local dance scene, had the idea to establish his group while working as the hip-hop dance coach at the studio’s receptive competition team.
Fast-forward to 2021, with a group formed, the goal was tangible; they aimed to not only represent Birmingham towards a broader audience but also to foster a dance culture which enables participants to “bully the music”—a testament to their vision to be in control of their moves and stay loyal to their distinctive dance style.
Purpose and Passion in Dance
Today, being the guide and mentor for such a spirited and limitless crew, Pugh couldn’t be prouder. His view on the key elements that define the success of a dance crew includes application of discipline, intentionality, and of course, an unwavering optimism. His mantra for the crew: “Dance on purpose, with purpose.”
Creating Safe Spaces for Dancers
Peterson, a member of the dance crew, shares her experience of how the BhamBeatBullyz provided a safe and nurturing environment for dancers like her, who had previously been detached from the dance scene for years. Similarly, Carroll accredits her joining the crew to her mentor, who had recommended it to her after a dance event.
The crew focuses on dancers aged 18 and older, providing a space where they can showcase their creative expression within the hip-hop dance genre. Christopher’s goal of creating this the crew was to cater to contemporary dancers, by providing safe and open environments for them to explore their talents.
The direction and hard work behind BhamBeatBullyz give its performers the chance to shine on stages such as the World Games, the Birmingham Museum of Art’s Art on The Rocks, and the Sidewalk Film Festival’s award show, contributing tremendously to the growth of the dance culture in Birmingham.