This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
The Art of Getting Krumped
While Hustle & Flow got most of the buzz coming out of Sundance and Love & War were the themes of the two big jury prize winners, we're most excited about Dave LaChappelle's short (now a full length documentary), Krumped. After being featured in videos by Missy Elliott and the Black Eyed Peas last year, we wondered if the local dance movement was going to quickly lose its lustre but, thankfully, that doesn't seem to be the case.
Renewed interest in LaChappelle's doc now means that the 50 or so groups of clown dancersacross the country will likely grow and that can only be a good thing. Krumping has the opportunity to be the same outlet for aggression that breakdancing was for the inner-city at the dawn of hip hop. The idea of going crew against crew in clown makeup and dancing our faces off to see who's best just seems like too much fun.
Well, except for the clown makeup, maybe. LAist loves to dance; we're not so sure we could do it in a multi-colored afro and white paint.
Can't wait for the Spring release of Krumped? You're in luck because you can Get Krump now or learn the dances yourself with Krump 101.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
