SWEAT! Hard work rooted in Hip Hop principles!

by Alexandra Paul
I attended Emerson Urban Dance Theater’s dress rehearsal for their SWEAT performance. The biggest thing I learned about EUDT is its deep emphasis on community and connection. Emerson Urban Dance Theater was founded in 2006 by Michael Love, a 2010 Emerson graduate. The company was created to give students of color a space to express themselves through dance—specifically hip-hop, tap, and contemporary styles.

This was my third EUDT show, and it was by far my favorite. I cried, laughed, and felt completely in awe throughout the entire performance. In each piece, I could see every dancer’s unique personality and passion. Every movement felt intentional. The precision and continuity among the company was phenomenal to watch, and I found myself impressed again and again. Visually, the production was stunning. The lighting and staging continually added depth to the numerous pieces and helped carry the story.

Because EUDT was founded as a space for people of color to shine through dance, I took time prior to the show to speak with dancers and choreographers about how the company continues to honor that mission—and what the theme of SWEAT meant to them personally. Alexa Ortiz, EUDT’s Contemporary Director, shared: “SWEAT, to me, is about hard work, determination, perseverance, and recognizing who dominates professional sports. It’s about acknowledging dance as a sport and understanding that all the work we put in is for a bigger purpose. Yeah, it’s sexy, yeah, it’s fun, yeah, it’s sweaty—but it’s also about shedding light on Black and Brown voices that are usually silenced in professional settings.”

Many dancers expressed that EUDT gave them a space to fully express themselves and their cultures. Serenity Holland, EUDT’s Artistic Director, spoke about the company’s cultural impact moving forward: “I think we’re going to start diving in headfirst, honestly—in the best way. I think we’re becoming less afraid and less timid about it. We’re stepping into who we are and being authentically ourselves without apology.” Company members also shared how meaningful it is to see people of color succeed and have opportunities to showcase their artistry.

EUDT consistently emphasizes keeping hip-hop close to its roots and honoring the culture that created it. Tehminah and Jamie bring their extensive hip-hop backgrounds from New York and Baltimore, keeping the choreography authentic and grounded in respect for the pioneers of the genre.The technique, diversity, and excellence that Michael Love originally envisioned still shine through the company’s work—every piece radiates cultural influence and artistry.
A key priority across all EUDT choreographers is intentionality. When I spoke with Averie Morren, previous Artistic Director and senior, said: “We need to relate the music to the theme, but we also want to keep everything culturally appropriate. We’re mindful of where the music and styles come from. You have to respect the root of the culture as you’re pitching and dancing.”

Ultimately, EUDT is a special community built by people from diverse backgrounds who are connected through their love of dance and movement. Three major takeaways from speaking with the dancers and choreographers is that the people, the training, and the growth they experience are what keep them in the company. EUDT pushes its artists, helps them become more versatile movers, and teaches them to understand how music feels—and how to express
those feelings through dance.