Move On Up by Funkadelic Hip-Hop Dance Company (2017)
Move On Up is an uplifting dance work set to the iconic music of Curtis Mayfield. Rooted in themes of progress, unity, and collective action, the piece calls us personally and as a community to rise above stagnation and step into motion. Through a fusion of House dance, floorwork, and freestyle movement, the choreography captures the spirit of pushing past comfort zones to spark growth and change. Move On Up is a reminder that moving forward means lifting each other up, showing up for one another, and daring to get uncomfortable in pursuit of something greater.
It was a true honor to present Move On Up on the prestigious stage at Jacob’s Pillow, a place that shaped me deeply as an artist and educator through my time as an alum of The School at Jacob’s Pillow. To return as a choreographer and share this work with such passionate and purpose driven dancers was an unforgettable experience. They are now extraordinary humans that are dedicated, thoughtful, and deeply committed to making change in the world. Many of them have gone on to achieve great things in and beyond the dance field, including two who are now professional dancers. Watching them perform on that historic stage, pouring their hearts into the work, was a proud moment. I am filled with gratitude for this collaboration and the joy, care, and power they brought to Move On Up.
