Fly Dance Company redefines performance art by masterfully fusing the structured elegance of symphonic music with the raw, dynamic energy of hip-hop. This innovative approach showcases a powerful message: our shared humanity transcends cultural divides. Through the captivating language of dance, FLY illustrates how love and unity can bridge gaps between races, beliefs, and nations.
Prepare to be enthralled by a diverse program featuring groundbreaking new pieces from the celebrated choreographer Lorenzo Rennie Harris. Known for his pioneering work in bringing street dances to the formal concert stage, Harris’s contributions promise to be a highlight. Founder Kathy Wood will present her inspiring signature piece, “Do You Believe,” alongside selections from her groundbreaking orchestral collaborations. Adding to the dynamic program, Jorge Casco will unveil “Deeply Rooted,” a piece that masterfully blends the grit of hip-hop with subtle symphonic undertones and the distinct flavor of Houston street culture. This piece is notably influenced by both Rennie and Kathy, creating a rich tapestry of movement. Audiences will also be treated to “PRIMYE” by special guest Olympian and FLY alumnus Jeffrey Louis “BBoy Jeffro.” This electrifying performance embodies the spirit of self-championing, drawing from Haitian and hip-hop roots to celebrate a champion’s journey of heritage and unwavering determination.
Adding another layer of artistry to the performance, Houston’s acclaimed street artist GONZO247 will create a brand-new mural live on stage, providing a visually stunning backdrop to the dynamic movements of FLY Dance Company.
This performance marks a significant moment for the world-class Broadway venue, the Hobby Center, as it embraces hip-hop as a vital and evolving art form, solidifying its place within this prestigious space.
The Hobby Center: Where Hip-Hop truly belongs.
FLY Dance Company’s residency at the Hobby Center is part of a new annual initiative designed to champion and support local artists who enrich Houston’s cultural landscape. Embodying the spirit of “Houston is Inspired,” this program reinforces the Hobby Center’s core mission: to connect artists and audiences, fostering community and shared experiences.
About FLY Dance Company: The Gentlemen of Hip Hop
The story of FLY Dance Company began with Kathy Wood, a dance educator with over four decades of passion for movement. In 1993, a chance encounter at Houston’s Westheimer Street Festival led her to a group of talented street dancers seeking rehearsal space. Kathy opened her home studio, and an extraordinary collaboration began. She integrated their raw hip-hop style with classical music and the unexpected elegance of tuxedo coats, creating a unique performance style that captivated local audiences. This fusion became the foundation of FLY Dance Company’s distinctive “fly dance” approach.
Since its inception, FLY Dance Company has soared to national and international acclaim, gracing the stages of esteemed venues such as Washington’s Kennedy Center, Miller Outdoor Theatre, Jacob’s Pillow, Lincoln Center, and the Bob Hope Theater. A landmark moment arrived in 2005 when FLY was distinguished as the sole hip-hop dance company invited to the prestigious Vail International Ballet Festival, underscoring their unique position in the dance world. Their reputation as innovators in “fly dance” is further cemented by their collaborations with symphonies across the United States. They have shared the stage with renowned orchestras including the Baltimore Symphony, Cincinnati Symphony, Charlotte Symphony, Cleveland Pops Orchestra, Florida Symphony Orchestra, Toledo Symphony, Fort Worth Symphony, and Victoria Symphony, among many others.
Beyond their symphonic performances, FLY has served as cultural ambassadors for the U.S. State Department, taking their dynamic programs to over 20 countries. A notable highlight was their extensive 25-city tour across Germany and Hungary in 2019, demonstrating the global appeal of their “fly dance” style.
Rebranding themselves as “The Gentlemen of Hip Hop,” FLY Dance Company has revitalized their image and repertoire, consistently earning standing ovations and setting the stage for an exciting future filled with groundbreaking performances. Their journey exemplifies how “fly dance” can transcend genres and connect with audiences worldwide.
