There is no place like the 313 and there is no dance like Jit. An innovative dance form, more popular today than when it first appeared in the 70s, Jit came to life in Detroit while Popping and Locking had a home on the West Coast and House Dance thrived in the underground clubs of New York. Jit is a unique compilation of different street dances that when executed correctly, seem to magically fit together to create a stunning routine with smooth transitions. Choreography for the dance was developed by The Jitterbugs, a young local group that got their start entertaining audiences at backyard parties and breaking through stages attempting backflips. When their performance spaces weren’t in pieces, the Jitterbugs would hustle to book gigs in front of large crowds at Downtown Detroit’s Hart Plaza, leading to their TV debut on The Scene – a local telecast that gave the floor to up-and-coming talent shooting for stardom within the community. The Jitterbugs’ efforts paved the way for contemporary Jit to rise in popularity as the re-worked dance featured a faster pace, more floorwork, and free-flowing movements including sharp turns, wiggles, and leg kicks. With Jit firmly entrenched in Detroit’s culture and our dedication to celebrating the dancers of D-Town, it was only fitting that the SNIPES 313 Day Dance Jam promote Jitting and many other mind-blowing dance routines in a celebration unlike any other.
On Sunday, March 13, the Dance Jam’s doors opened with performers, competitors, and spectators filling the space to watch and participate in a 1v1 dance battle with winnings of $1,000 on the line. Our dance battle contestants left it all on the floor in the first dance competition hosted by SNIPES USA where each participant had the chance to showcase their finest footwork. Partnering with adidas and local dance collective Jit Happens, this open styles event put various dance forms into the spotlight including Krumping, Breaking, and New Style Hip Hop. With an open bar, free food, and a special performance from Detroit rapper Sada Baby , everyone could get into a groove whether they were going for gold or just enjoying the vibes. After Sada Baby’s set, we announced the winner of the dance battle and handed over the grand prize, but all the dancers that came out had a very special part to play in the success of this event. Thanks to our partners and contest participants, the 313 Day Dance Jam won’t soon be forgotten as the energy in the room had the power to carry on and inspire future D-town celebrations. From the iconic steps of the 70s to the modern movements of this millennium, dance has grown deep roots within the heart of Detroit and those that can’t stand still will always find a home in the 313.
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