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Rasta Thomas and Bad Boys of Dance visit L.I.
Dance sensation Rasta Thomas has re-energized the dance world since he emerged on the scene with Bad Boys of Dance in 2007. Thomas – a native Californian, raised in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – has electrified audiences with his dynamic, high-energy show that is just as much theater as dance.
His company of versatile dancers makes their Long Island debut when they visit Tilles Center on Friday. His troupe combines the best of ballet, Broadway, gymnastics, martial arts, tango, and hip hop in a showcase of dance virtuosity.
The versatile and talented Bad Boys stretch the bounds of male dancing with athletic jumps, endless turns and technical precision. Thomas and his troupe have been described as a combination of “the best of Baryshnikov, Bruce Lee and Michael Jackson.”
Their mission is to push the boundaries of male dancing and deliver the most exciting dance shows in the world. And judging by the enthusiastic audience response and international acclaim, the Bad Boys of Dance are succeeding.
Thomas made dance competition history with numerous honors, including the Special Jury Prize from the 1994 Paris International Dance Competition. In 2001, he became the first American member of the Kirov Ballet in St. Petersburg, Russia and then in 2003 he joined Dance Theatre of Harlem. Thomas has also starred on Broadway in Twyla Tharp’s hit musical, “Movin’ Out.” In 2007, he performed as a guest artist in “Othello” in the title role with American Ballet Theatre.
Following their Tilles Center appearance, the Bad Boys of Dance will perform at Manhattan’s Joyce Theater for a three-week engagement, Dec. 15-Jan. 3.
When: Friday, Dec. 11, 8 p.m. $55, $40, $25.
Where: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, C.W. Post Campus, Rte. 25A, Brookville. (516) 299-3100 or (800) 745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com.
