HipHop club is one of the oldest and most beloved clubs on campus here at GHS. Not only is it one of the most inclusive clubs at Granada, but it is also an awesome way to make new friends, learn life skills, and have tons of fun dancing! Since before 2002, HHC has always exceeded expectations and been an exciting watch during rallies. They never fail to hype up the crowd with their unique and thrilling performances. However, what makes the club truly special and stand out from others is how it provides its members with a sense of community, a positive, zero judgement atmosphere, and an instant family with lifelong friendships.
A couple of members made statements about how much Hip-Hop club has meant to them since joining.
Malika Gautam (sophomore), voiced that “the club has been such an important and healthy lifeline for me throughout highschool so far… I love this club, I love the people, and I love how much more confident I’ve become because of it!”
Additionally, Anita Izidorio stated that she “used to dance a lot but then quit and ever since joining HHC [her] love for performing has come back because they truly make it so fun.”
Stella Ramos, who choreographed the piece performed by her group at the showcase, claimed that she was “so excited for the showcase because this is the second dance [she’s] ever made and [she’s] so happy to be doing it with a few of [her] close friends… The club and the people in it hold a huge place in my heart.”
At 6 PM last Saturday, January 11, HHC hosted their first showcase of the new year where all members who created their own pieces alone or in groups performed on stage in our school’s little theater. Senior and President of HHC, Diya Mitragotri, stated in an interview that she was so excited for the showcase because it allowed her “hippity-hoppers to show off their talents with their own choreography.” Afterwards, they also hosted a quick Senior Night to recognize and show appreciation to all the active senior members/officers for their commitment and everything they’ve contributed to the club over the years.
Mitragotri said that they usually “host showcases at least two times a year,” however most of them are private. This was the first time the officers decided to put together a larger, public show for anyone wanting to watch. Because of this, many more people decided to join in to make the showcase extra special, and it was a hit. A full crowd of supportive parents, family, and friends filled almost every seat in the theater with anticipation for the excitement of the show.
The night started off with JJ Huang and Maleah Okamoto, the two head choreographers, performing an explosive duet. The rest of the dancers following them kept the energy up by showcasing their talents with killer presentations that demonstrated their individuality as dancers.
The last performance before the intermission was an improv contemporary piece created by Maleah Okamoto. Her solo was extremely moving and so emotion-filled that it touched the hearts of every attendee and nearly brought the audience to tears. Okamoto stated that her display holds a very special place in her heart, explaining afterwards that, “I wanted my improv piece to be a tribute to not only my members, but also their families and friends in the audience. The song I used, Cherry Blossoms by Lana del Ray, was sung to me at my first HHC holiday party and I feel like it encapsulates how I feel about this club. I came into my officer position wanting to create and teach, but now I come to practice with the intention to make connections and share a space that encourages bravery and risks. I have probably taught over 500 hours of choreography in my three years of being choreographer, but these kids have taught me more about preservation, openness, and relentless support than those 500 hours will ever allow. I will be forever grateful that they accept me for who I am and allow me to witness who they are day in and day out. To say in short: what my kids don’t tell no one, they can tell me.”
After the short intermission, during which snacks and water were provided for free, the show continued with Gennie Langshaw who showed off her singing talent. The rest of the groups succeeding her performed various styles of dance from traditional bollywood pieces to modern hip-hop styles paired with several hit songs, such as Sticky by Tyler The Creator and Breakin’ Dishes by Rihanna. Overall, the Showcase was a huge success and gave spectators a great idea of what their kids have learned while being part of this amazing club.
The night ended with a quick tribute to the Seniors who will graduate at the end of the 2025 school year, consisting of Isabel Bustamante, JJ Huang, Diya Mitragotri, Maleah Okamoto, Metzli Santamaria, Anshika Shah, and Jamie Yi. Heartwarming speeches were made and all the senior members were given surprise gift baskets to show gratitude for everything they’ve done for the club during their time here. Bittersweet is the best word to describe the emotions emulating around the room.
JJ Huang concluded the speeches, advocating for how, “being a part of this club is really life changing. Growing up with Hip Hop club and meeting my closest friends as we danced was truly a one of a kind experience. And now, watching [the current members] grow into incredible dancers and human beings has been a gift. Honestly, I have no idea what I’m going to do without my second family, but without a doubt, I can say that our club will be in the best hands possible to continue our legacy.” Huang left us with one final piece of advice: “always be your true and authentic self, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”
