When I met with Lila Chen, I could feel her passion about dancing and her group from the very beginning. The dancers make hard work with her at Swarm Studios, and their performance in Christchurch, Ray Blank Park was really marvelous.
“Behind every spotlight moment, there’s laughter, tears, and real moments. Hip-hop should be about embracing diversity and inclusivity, and Mea’s lens caught all that raw emotion.
Thank you for being amazing, thank you for supporting our dancers!”
(Lila Chen)
How did it start?
CREATE WITH PASSION,
INSPIRE WITH ART,
SHOW LOVE THROUGH DANCE.
– Lila Chen
The Start of Making Moves
I asked Lila to tell me more about this fantastic journey with the dancers.
“When I first began planning the Making Moves Hip-Hop Project, I saw many talented dancers struggling financially to afford classes. And, some dancers who had the potential were struggling to find a platform where they could train, grow, and showcase their talents.
It pained me deeply, as my passion lies in Hip-Hop.
Fortunately, with the support of the Arts Foundation and the Christchurch City Council, I was able to put together a training program and bring a team together to work towards video projects and performances.
Collaboration is at the Heart of What We Do
Collaboration is the essence of our project. We believe that by uniting and blending our artistic talents and ideas, we can forge something truly remarkable and unforgettable.
Our dancers and choreographers come from different countries and backgrounds. Through these collaborations, we aim to celebrate the richness and diversity of Hip-Hop culture within our local community.
Performing for our community and connecting with our locals always touches our hearts profoundly. It’s in these moments, when we share our art and witness its impact on others, that we are reminded of the true power and purpose of what we are doing. These performances are not just displays of skill but are our love letters to the community that supports and inspires us.
From studio to stage, through Mea’s lens.
Throughout this journey, I have met so many incredible individuals: dancers, choreographers, singers, beat makers, videographers, and photographers.
We had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with documentary photographer Mea Baráth during our rehearsals and performance for Culture Galore organised by Christchurch City Council.
Working with an artist who shares our passion made every captured moment even more special.
I am forever grateful for this team.
For Making Moves, together, we can make something truly special.”
