World-renowned dancer, Michael “Boogaloo Shrimp” Chambers, “popped” into Rio Hondo College for an inspirational artist talk. He made his big break in 1984’s Breakin’, a box office success that put West Coast hip hop street dancers on a world stage. Chambers has used the power of dance and the beats and sound of Los Angeles to build community and inspire the next generation of creatives.
It all began in Wilmington, where Chambers was raised in a multicultural neighborhood. “I thank my brothers and sisters from San Gabriel and East Los because people may not realize it, but Latinos had a hand in building hip hop dance. I was always learning, taking notes and watching their footwork,” he shares. Dance became a tool to make connections, build relationships and look past differences. “It was infectious because we used dance as a peace treaty,” he reveals.
In the early 80s, “before Instagram, the only way to showcase was to go to parties.” As a young teen, the first competition Chambers joined took place locally, off of Carmenita Road and Painter Avenue in Santa Fe Springs. Soon, his moves gained the attention of pop icons like Michael Jackson and Paula Abdul. Chambers recalls being invited to meet and perform for the Jackson family. He nervously showcased his flavor of popping and breaking, techniques that inspired many of Michael Jackson’s most famous moves.
Chambers demonstrates captivating moves like ticking, waving and backsliding. But he isn’t just a dancer, he’s also an actor, singer and comedian. His storytelling and sense of humor bring about roaring laughter from the standing-room-only audience.
Students have the opportunity to ask questions and are eager to learn more about his creative process. Chambers describes his passion for bringing joy to the people he loves, and the hard work that goes into making your dreams a reality. “I practiced so much!” he exclaims. “It’s so important to have and to protect your creative space. Find your niche and find the time and space to devote to your art.”
These days, Chambers has ventured into a new realm of creative expression. His children’s book, Aqua Boogie, inspires the next generation to care for our local waterways. A nod to his hometown of Wilmington and invitation to young people to care for and contribute to their community.
Crowned as one of the great innovators of dance, Chambers continues to bring people together through his passion for dance and culture. Students left feeling inspired and ready to take on their next creative endeavor!
