Bollywood on The Block presents: A blast from the past

Performers from UR’s two dance groups, Bollywood Jhatkas and Block Crew, filled Camp Concert Hall for a two-part dance experience  "Bollywood on The Block" on Saturday March 29, taking the audience through the temporal evolution of multiple dance styles.

The theme of the show was “Blast from the Past” where both groups highlighted the unique dance styles of each decade, starting from the 80s to the 2010s. The South Asian fusion dance team, Bollywood Jhatkas, opened the show with a story performance of two teens who are transported to the past, where they learn to appreciate the Bollywood films that their parents grew up watching. Reeja Khan and Neha Kalwala played the role of the two teens immersing themselves in the different eras in an attempt to make it back to the present and see their parents again.

There were multiple costume changes throughout the show, and performers Khan and Kalwala kept the audience entertained between each dance with comedic dialogue. 

“The outfit changes were amazing," junior Myanna Hightower said. “I think they reflected each era to a T. It was a really good performance honestly,” 

Bollywood Jhatkas spent a lot of rehearsal time perfecting their choreography and transitions. Seniors of the group described preparation as difficult but completely worth it and were especially invested in making their final show with the group memorable.

“It's kind of bittersweet because we worked so hard for the showcase this year and we’re kind of glad it's over and the hard work is done.” Kalwala said. “At the same time we’re very sad because it’s our last time performing together.” 

Following the Bollywood Jhatkas was the Block Crew, opening their set with their members filling the entire stage. This year, the hip-hop group celebrates the 15th anniversary of its formation. Block Crew performed a total of 20 dances from multiple different choreography styles, including K-Pop, afrobeats and hip-hop songs.

Through each transition, emcee Doro, a senior, introduced the performances and their choreographers. Doro’s commentary was met with laughter and cheering from the audience. 

“I wish I could have done a dance with them, but look I don’t think I have the coordination for that,” Doro said jokingly right before joining the group for “Agora Hills” by Doja Cat.

Block Crew also put together a video tribute to Christopher Elvin, honoring his legacy. He was described by many to be an avid supporter of the group, who always attended shows to cheer on his friends. The video featured several clips of the group dancing and concluded with photos of Elvin in celebration of his life.

“The memorial for Chris was very touching and very emotional,” sophomore DaCaahri Obey said. “I’m really happy that they did that.” 

Towards the end of their set, Block Crew celebrated their graduating seniors with choreography to “Luther” by Kendrick Lamar and SZA. The crowd erupted in applause in support of the seniors’ final showcase with the group. 

“We’re heartbroken to see them go,” Obey said.“They’ve been long standing members of Block Crew, but also our larger campus community,” 

Block Crew closed with heartfelt goodbyes from emcee Doro and the president of Block Crew, Asia Garcia. Both expressed their pride in being a part of Bollywood on the Block and sadness in having to wish the group goodbye. Garcia shared how much of a family Block Crew had been for her during her time at Richmond.

“This is really special for me,” Garcia said in a tearful speech. “I’ve been in Block Crew all 4 years I’ve been here.”

This performance marked the fourth year of Bollywood on the Block, and both groups shared they hope to continue the collaboration for years to come. The event highlighted not only the talent of the performers but also deep appreciation for the seniors in their final showcase.

Contact lifestyle writer Jessica Khan at jessica.khan@richmond.edu