Published: Nov 11, 2011
The television choreographer Simeon Qsyea has conjured up a fresh blast of hip-hop for LIPA's forthcoming dance production.
Simeon, who works on So You Think You Can Dance and directs Britain’s Got Talent 2010 semi-finalists the Ruby Girls, has taught the moves to third-year students who will perform them in LIPA Dance Presents…The Classics, which runs from 17 to 19 November 2011 and is a montage of eight pieces masterminded by industry professionals.
The 27-year-old, who has also devised No.1 music videos for JLS and Alexandra Burke, explained: “I’ve choreographed a hip-hop number that’s fun, funky and fresh and that will appeal to a wide audience.”
Londoner Simeon, pictured, spent three days this month setting the choreography, choosing to depart from the standard hip-hop practice of using a composite backing track.
The former MOBO, MTV and DV8 dancer explained: “We’ve chosen just one track, which is rare in the hip-hop world. There are usually three or more tracks chopped up to keep audiences on their toes. I want to change that idea – use one track and still keep my audience entertained. I want to keep people engaged primarily through the choreography instead of the music.”
The five-minute piece, accompanied by the song Showgirl by pop/soul vocalist Bluey Robinson, also includes elements of aahehop, tutting, house, breakin’ and new jack swing dance styles.
Performed in the Paul McCartney Auditorium this month, LIPA Dance Presents…The Classics is a unique look at those prominent creations and individuals from the arts world that have a “timeless” appeal. The piece devised by Simeon – who is also director of contemporary dance company Birdgang – is inspired by modern classics from the stage and the silver screen. Other dance styles in the show include ballet, commercial, contemporary, jazz and tap.
Third-year BA (Hons) Dance student Alisha Dee Flintham, 21, from Sheffield, commented: “Working with Simeon was a unique experience, as was learning about how he was brought up and the styles that have influenced him.
“As the piece has a light and fun vibe and storyline, creating it was very enjoyable. And showing audiences how much we are enjoying ourselves on stage is what Simeon wants. The piece was challenging to learn, though, more so the style and the way of moving than the steps, which are very old school.”
LIPA’s Head of Dance, Sarah E Baker, who is directing the production, enthused: “Bringing in choreographers like Simeon complements our training programme and enables audiences to experience their unique industry styles through the medium of LIPA third-year dancers.”
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