JUMP: The Philly Music Project

Illstyle & Peace Productions: Philly’s Dance Ambassadors.

June 5, 2014 10:45 am

Text by Shauna Bannan. Images by Michael Bucher.

If you looked up any definition of dancing, you’ll find that most dictionaries simplify the term to moving rhythmically. But for Illstyle & Peace Productions, the art form isn’t only about movement. It’s about inspiration.

Founded in 2002 by artistic director Brandon “Peace” Albright, the multicultural company incorporates contemporary dance with hip-hop moves, along with West African steps and a variety of other dance styles – from tap to ballet and beyond.

“Movement can make a difference,” Albright says. “Movement can make change. Movement can make a career out of somebody. Movement can bring forth peace, love and respect for everyone.”

Picked by the U.S. State Department’s Dance Motion series in 2013, Illstyle & Peace Productions represented the country as a cultural ambassador in Ukraine, Belarus and Russia last year.

Albright, who has danced for artists including Will Smith, LL Cool J, Run-DMC and the Beach Boys, brought Illstyle to critical national and international acclaim through his most recent work, “Same Spirit Different Movement I & II and IMpossible, IZZpossible,” a sundry fusion of locking, popping, modern jazz, hip-hop, belly-dancing, African dance, singing and tap.

His overall mission? To inspire and motivate the world through the rhythmic expression of spirit and dance.

The dancer, choreographer and actor also offers high-energy workshops, master classes and educational program shows like “Become Your Dreams: The History of Hip-Hop,” “Hip-Hop Add It Up,” a math lecture demonstration program, and “No Bullying, Stop-Bullying,” a lesson that teaches students about positivity, fairness, working together, acceptance and communication.

Albright says his work is about sharing each other’s spirit and providing an opportunity not just for a moment, but for a lifetime.

“You can achieve it,” he says. “Dreams can come true.”