Locking, popping, charleston, the lindehop? Although these all-American avenues of dance technique are born and bred in the U.S., they have managed to travel thousands of miles to Lithuania where four young boys have taken a twist on classic dance moves and created their own style that gives a new meaning to the world ‘eclectic.’
Jokubas, Domas, Julijus and Mindaugas, together, ‘In*Beat’, have grown up following the American music scene, studying varying dance styles and rythms from T.V. and Youtube. Their unique blend of modern, techno, swing, and break dance moves put to a range of tunes from oldies to present puts them in a league of their own. With their funky dress, charisma, and heart-melting charm, the boys hope to please more than just themselves.
“The main thing is to make the people enjoy the show, to smile, to make people laugh,” Julijus said.
For five years now, the college freshman have taken to the streets, lounges, bars, and anywhere that will allow them to perform. While the typical 100 Euros these self-taught dancers pocket for performing 10 times a day may be pertinent to eating, sleeping, and getting around Europe for a month before heading back to Lithuania, the comfort the cash provides is nothing compared to the satisfaction of completing a job well done.
For each of these artists, dance is what they do; They don’t care where they are, they don’t care who watches. Even as they spin, shuffle, and sweat in the center of one of the world’s more upscale and desirable cities, Prague, the show is really all that matters.
“It’s a form of self-expression”, Domas said. “It’s about experience with the music.”
Shelley's most recent posts
- Auschwitz: A Long Walk - November 11th, 2009
- We are Backpackers - September 18th, 2009
- When you really need a shower... - September 3rd, 2009
- (Not so) Pretty Woman - August 30th, 2009
- To the Sounds of Waves - August 15th, 2009
