Brukup, also spelled Bruk up or Bruckup, is an underground dance form that combines the moves of many dance styles from several different countries. The dancer contorts into a series of moves reminiscent of a combination of mime, Thriller monster moves, raving and break dancing, krumping, and Jamaican dance hall. Another dance that Brukup incorporates is butoh, a Japanese modern dance form known as the dance of the dead.
At this time Bruk is mainly practiced in Afro-Caribbean communities, but now that mainstream music videos and YouTube have been showing the dance, it is being appreciated by a larger audience. Bruk has fans as far as Australia and China through the help of online video.
Pop culture also plays a role when choreographing the dance; references to movies such as "Lost Boys" and "Blade" have been used. Unlike other forms of street dance, dancers often wear costumes or use a few props to illustrate a theme. In the first gallery photo, dancer Drevon Washington (aka Dominus the Konqueror), sports fangs and a mask.
Hybrid Street Dances
Brukup is a Blend of Krumping and Afro-Japanese Expression
Trend Themes
1. Hybrid Street Dances - Opportunity for dancers to combine different dance styles and create unique and captivating performances.
2. Mainstream Appreciation of Brukup - Increased exposure through music videos and online platforms leads to a larger audience and global recognition.
3. Incorporation of Pop Culture References - The use of movie references and thematic costumes adds storytelling elements to street dance performances.
Industry Implications
1. Dance Entertainment - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop new dance formats that combine multiple styles and create immersive experiences for audiences.
2. Online Video Platforms - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create platforms that specifically cater to showcasing street dance performances and give dancers the opportunity to reach global audiences.
3. Costume Design and Prop Manufacturing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Provide specialized costume and prop solutions for dancers, specifically tailored to street dance styles that incorporate storytelling elements.