Seven Days: Vermont's Independent Voice

Get Your Cheek On

True, Burlington isn’t what most Americans would call “urban.” But the area has managed to spawn two troupes devoted to the punchy, beat-driven art of hip-hop dance, and this weekend, both are showcasing new creations. On Friday, the Vermont Elements Dance Company of Williston’s Urban Dance Complex presents “The Oz!,” their own 21st-century spin on the iconic story and its funky 1970s offshoot The Wiz. On Saturday, the six members of Cheeks Dance Company show their eclectic tastes — both in movement styles and music — with the multimedia show “stereo-TYPES.” The troupe “set out to create the ultimate playlist that we would want to dance to,” says Director Alyssa Zura. Tense big-city beats meet the mellower sounds of Motown and Marley, all enhanced by a DJ and projected images. Just pretend you’re in downtown Manhattan.