“Hands Up” is a CKDS signature modern dance piece that has been performed by dancers of all ages many times throughout Brooklyn and beyond (Costa Rica, 2019). Choreographed by Cynthia King in 2016 and inspired by the music of Janelle Monáe (“Hell You Talmbout”), “Hands Up” brings the issue of police brutality to the forefront of our performances and showcases the formidable strength and perseverance of our dancers and community.
A professional dancer since 1978, Cynthia King has been teaching and choreographing since 1986. Training extensively at the Boston Conservatory and The Ailey School, King honed her skills under the tutelage of legendary dancers including Emiko and Yasuko Tokunaga, Carmen DeLavallade, Diane McIntyre, and Rod Rodgers (of whose dance company she became a member). She has taught dance in Brooklyn at P.S. 315, Poly Prep, and I.S. 62 in addition to Cynthia King Dance Studio (CKDS).