Dance pioneer Reggie (Regg Roc) Gray, visionary director Peter Sellars, and members of the D.R.E.A.M. Ring return to the Armory for FLEXN Evolution, re-envisioned with newly created scenes since the Armory premiere in 2015 that embody the next steps in a form that breaks news from the artistic and political front lines. The performances feature a series of self-choreographed and improvisational scenes by 16 dance-activists from the D.R.E.A.M. Ring, a creative engine of acclaimed artists that unite communities through movement for social change around the world. Using the flex dance vocabulary—characterized by sharp, rhythmic contortion, pausing, snapping, gliding, bone-breaking, and animated showmanship—the dance-activists confront issues of social justice and racial equality within our nation’s law enforcement and judicial systems.

D.R.E.A.M. Ring FLEXN Tour Benefit
On the final day of the performances (Sunday, May 21), there will be special celebration of FLEXN, Gray, and the D.R.E.A.M. Ring’s own evolution from one-on-one dance combatants to an international touring troupe of dance activists. Following the 3:00 pm matinee, special events will include a D.R.E.A.M. Ringmaster event where two-man and tag-team performances are showcased as well as demonstrations by the OGs (Original Generation) of flex, tracing the growth of the movement from its roots in the Jamaican bruk-up style popular in dance halls and reggae clubs of Brooklyn in the 1990s, to its performances now.

“A New Vision for Justice in America” Conversation Series
Going into the heart of issues that are only more urgent and more intense two years later, each performance will begin with an onstage conversation organized in collaboration with Common Justice. Entitled “A New Vision for Justice in America,” the series, moderated by Gray and Sellars brings into dialogue collective problem-solving approaches with many of the leading intellectuals, community leaders, and dedicated innovators in the field of justice in America today.

Madd Pain: A Photography Exhibit by Carol Dragon
Also on display during the Armory performances will be an installation of photographs by Carol Dragon in the Colonels Room. Dragon, who has been following the flex movement for many years, will display her portraits of the dancers participating in the show to allow another unique look at their movement and style as documented through portraiture.

Stay Late for Armory After Hours!
Join us for conversation and libations Thursday–Saturday in our after-hours bar. Plus, learn about the history of the dance movement and watch demonstrations by the OGs (Original Generation) of flex in this up-close, intimate setting.

Originally commissioned by Park Avenue Armory

A Collaboration of Reggie (Regg Roc) Gray, Peter Sellars,
and members of the FLEXN Community
Ben Zamora, Light Sculpture & Lighting Designer
Angela Wendt, Costume Design
Epic B, Music Mix