BOOM. POW. WHACK.
These aren’t just sounds from your favorite comic books; they’re the very essence of Waacking (originally spelled Whacking), a dynamic dance style known for its sharp, rhythmic arm movements, striking poses, and intricate footwork.
Want to dive deeper into the vibrant history and origins of Waacking Dance? Let’s explore its fascinating journey.
The Genesis of Waacking: Born in the 1970s Underground
Waacking emerged in the electrifying atmosphere of 1970s gay clubs in Los Angeles. Amidst the pulsating beats of funk and disco music, these clubs became sanctuaries for marginalized communities, particularly Black, Latino, and Asian men. In these spaces, individuals facing daily oppression discovered liberation through movement, giving birth to a powerful form of self-expression: Waacking dance.
Initially termed “Punking,” Waacking arose as a dance style deeply rooted in empowerment and resilience. The term “Punk,” initially derogatory, was reclaimed by the gay community, transforming it into a symbol of agency and strength.
“Punking means to make something your b*tch. Instead of being defeated by a person or thing or situation, punking is how we flipped the script to make it our own.”
– Viktor Manoel
waacking and voguing
Image: A dynamic performance showcasing Waacking and Voguing dance styles, highlighting the expressive arm movements and poses characteristic of both genres.
Punking, the foundation of Waacking dance, drew inspiration from a rich tapestry of cultural influences. The dramatic flair of classic Hollywood actresses, the exaggerated action sequences of 1960s comic book superheroes, and the swift, precise motions of 1970s martial arts films all contributed to its unique vocabulary. Notably, the arm rolls frequently seen in Waacking routines and freestyles, originating from the shoulder, elbow, or wrist and flowing over the head and back, are directly inspired by the iconic nunchucks. (as noted by Viktor Manoel).
Waacking’s influence extended beyond the underground club scene, reaching mainstream audiences through platforms like Soul Train. Original “Punks” like Arthur, Tinker, and Andrew brought the style to a wider audience, showcasing its energy and innovation. You can witness their impact in this video.
Tragically, the HIV/AIDS epidemic of the 1980s and violence decimated the original Punk community, leaving Viktor Manoel as a vital link to the style’s origins. Consequently, Waacking dance faded from mainstream visibility throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
The Waacking Renaissance: A New Generation Ignites the Style
The resurgence of Waacking began in 2003 when dancer and choreographer Brian “Footwork” Green started teaching Waacking as a formalized dance discipline. This marked the dawn of a new era, igniting passion in a younger generation of Waackers.
Following Brian’s pioneering efforts, other original Waacking elders stepped forward to share their knowledge, leading to an explosive growth in Waacking choreography and community.
While contemporary Waacking is often seen in choreographed performances, it’s crucial to remember its roots in freestyle jams and battles. Whether meticulously planned or spontaneously expressed, Waacking dance continues to embody core values: celebrating individuality, fostering self-expression, narrative storytelling through movement, and powerful performance.
Decoding the “Whack”: The Signature Move of Waacking Dance
The fundamental “Whack,” the namesake of Waacking, is an arm movement characterized by its striking, percussive quality. Imagine literally hitting or “whacking” something with your arms!
To understand the basic “whack” in action, this video provides a visual demonstration: [Insert Video Link Here – if available, otherwise remove this line]
The name itself is a nod to the onomatopoeic words—WHACK, BOOM, POW—emblazoned across the pages of classic comic books like Batman and Robin.
While “Punking” was the original identifier for the style, “Whacking/Waacking” gained prominence as the preferred term, particularly as the dance form resonated with a broader audience beyond its original community. The double “a” spelling, “Waacking,” was intentionally adopted to differentiate the dance from the negative connotations associated with the slang term “wack.”
Beyond the signature “whack,” Waacking technique encompasses a range of elements: hair flicks and brushes, extensions of the body, dynamic posing, and rapid footwork. Underpinning all these elements is a strong emphasis on musicality, the dancer’s deep connection and responsiveness to the music. Explore more about musicality in dance here.
Immerse Yourself in Waacking Dance
Inspired to explore the world of Waacking dance firsthand?
Consider taking Lorena Valenzuela’s Beginner Waacking Program on STEEZY Studio. Her program offers a comprehensive introduction to the essentials of Waacking/Waacking, designed specifically for beginners.
Click here to embark on your Waacking journey for free.
Waacking’s Enduring Cultural Impact
Despite the passage of decades since its inception, the technique and profound cultural significance of Waacking dance have been meticulously preserved and nurtured by its dedicated communities.
Today, Waacking dancers continually push creative boundaries, exploring fresh avenues of expression by experimenting with diverse musical genres and incorporating personal stylistic flourishes.
While Waacking originated as a powerful voice for people of color within the LGBTQIA+ community, its transformative energy has transcended boundaries, inspiring younger generations of dancers from all backgrounds across the globe.
Editor’s Note: The facts presented in this article are based on thorough research conducted by the author and insights gleaned from interviews with Viktor Manoel, a pivotal figure in the origins of Punking and Waacking.
