In a distant land known as Anchorage, a young man named Jeremy Viray, also called B-Boy Icey Ives, set out on a quest that would forever alter the dance scene in Alaska. Standing in his lively Midtown Anchorage dance studio, he exuded an infectious energy as he honed his breaking moves, each step a testament to his unyielding dedication to the art form.
His love for breaking was sparked in 2007 when a group of kids at a local recreation center piqued his curiosity. From that moment on, a fire burned within him, driving him to compete on national and international stages, showcasing his talents in over 20 countries. In 2019, he etched his name in breaking history as the first Alaskan to claim victory at the Red Bull BC One championship.
As breaking made its way into the esteemed grounds of the Olympic Games, Ives set his sights on Paris 2024, drawing inspiration from the vibrant dance community in Alaska. Although he narrowly missed the mark for Olympic qualification, his determination remained unshaken, his heart still committed to his beloved sport. Despite the setback, he continued to refine his craft, serving as a guiding light for aspiring dancers in Alaska.
Together with fellow dancer Billy Fuller, Ives played a pivotal role in nurturing the burgeoning dance scene in Alaska, fostering a tight-knit community that embraces dancers of all skill levels. They introduced the formidable Sahvanna Thompson, also known as ‘shakT’, to the exhilarating world of dance battles when she was in eighth grade. As she returned to Anchorage to judge a local jam, she marveled at the growing vibrancy of Alaska’s hip-hop dance community, a safe haven for creative souls to thrive.
Ives’s dream culminated in the establishment of Flow Zone, a dance studio that serves as a sanctuary for young dancers, free from the limitations he faced in his early years. Despite enduring a shoulder injury, Ives remains a symbol of hope, showcasing that dance transcends physical barriers and opens doors to endless possibilities.
With his gaze fixed on the future, Ives desires to impart his knowledge to the next generation of dancers, nurturing their talents and fueling their passion for the art. His collaboration with the Anchorage School District aims to ignite the hearts of young children, planting a seed of love for dance that will endure for years to come.
As the vibrant pulse of Alaska’s dance community grows stronger, Ives envisions a future where dancers unite under a common banner, sharing their values and wisdom with the world. The upcoming “style your flow concept jam” promises an exhilarating celebration of dance, open to all styles and brimming with untold potential.
In the realm of dance, where the body becomes a conduit for expression, Ives serves as a living testament to the unwavering spirit that propels dancers to aim for the stars. His journey, a story of resilience and relentless passion, transcends the constraints of time, leaving an indelible mark on the colorful tapestry of Alaska’s dance culture.
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