In conjunction with youth week at The ACT, a troupe of street performers, Bboyizm, will push the boundaries in a performance for a Maple Ridge audience.

In a movement to empower people worldwide to express themselves, choreographer-dancer Crazy Smooth, Yvon Soglo, presents IZM, an investigation into the very nature of artistic expression, developing interplay between the artist's intentions and the viewer's desires, challenging both dancers and the audience.

On May 4, IZM will bring together 10 of Canada's most talented performers of the genre, in a piece that evokes the essential nature of pure street dance with all its intricacy and passion.

IZM transcends age, race, and gender, reaching below the surface where emotions live.

"Whether you are intimately connected to dance or you are simply looking to enjoy something new, IZM will be an awe-inspiring experience," said Lindy Sisson, executive director of the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows Arts Council.

With extraordinary street dance moves and heavy beats, the troupe performs with amazing creativity, always emanating their motto, "Dance to express! Not to impress!"

The crew's mandate is to preserve the honesty and authenticity of street dancing under the belief that "if one is truly expressing oneself, their dance will most definitely be impressive."

Deeply rooted in authenticity, Crazy Smooth explores street dance tradition in a modern production setting, pushing current popular boundaries of the dance spectrum.

Drawing on the technical background in two hip-hop dance styles (rocking and b-boying), Bboyizm showcases performers Melly Mel, Chilly, Crazy Smooth, and more - each epitomizing this cool form of dancing.

The urban roots of street dance embrace individualism and social aspects of this modern folk dance, and ultimately translate beautifully to an exciting stage performance.

The 60-minute performance includes an open discussion with the audience challenging ideas about dance and dancers. This performance is suitable for ages eight and older.

Bboyizm is also part of Youth Week at The ACT and on Thursday, May 3 where youth are provided with access to experts in the area of songwriting, street dance, spoken word, and more. For more information on Youth Week, go to www.theactmapleridge.org/youthweek.

Bboyizm will perform at The ACT on May 4 at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at The ACT in person, or by calling 604-476-2787, by going to www.theactmapleridge.org.