This course provides an introduction to the theory, practice, aesthetics, and historical foundations of hip hop dance. Students will explore the roots of funk and hip hop dance in the social fabric of African, Caribbean, and Afro-Latin cultures while examining reinventions of ragtime, swing, and rock n' roll throughout the 20th century in America. Students will experience hip hop's manifestations across media by viewing dance films, listening to music, and reading essays and books. Historical and philosophical perspectives will be integrated into movement activities. Through movement, students will be introduced to the basic Laban principles of time, space, energy and the kinesphere. Students will explore personal, social, and cultural dynamics of race and the diversity of hip hop culture in the United States as well as political, social, and economic issues in hip hop abroad.