Krump is a high-energy and expressive street dance style that originated in South Central Los Angeles in the early 2000s. It is characterized by its aggressive and highly physical movements, which are often accompanied by intense facial expressions and vocalizations. Krump has been described as a form of "ghetto ballet" due to its blend of fluidity and explosiveness.
The 2005 documentary film "Rize" explores the origins and cultural significance of krump through the stories of several dancers in the Los Angeles area. The film also showcases the broader krump community, including battles and competitions between rival groups. "Rize" was directed by David LaChapelle, a renowned fashion and celebrity photographer, and includes interviews with several prominent krump dancers, including Tommy "The Clown" Johnson and Tight Eyez.
The film highlights the importance of krump as a form of creative expression and a means of escape from difficult circumstances. It also touches on the social and political context that gave rise to krump, including the aftermath of the Rodney King riots and the ongoing struggles of inner-city communities. "Rize" is a powerful and visually stunning tribute to the transformative power of dance and the resilience of the human spirit.
A dance performance by members of the Ghana Krump Community will follow shortly after the screening of the documentary film.