When Tiffany “Jimini” Bong, founding executive director and artistic director of UniverSOUL Hip Hop Dance Company, was developing WonderLAnd! with her company, they asked themselves, “What does the community and city of L.A. need right now?” The answer was wonder, and it wiggled its way throughout the immersive cultural celebration at The Ford Amphitheatre on August 17, 2025 as part of its LA Soundscapes Family Concerts series.
“We are intentionally creating a sensory-friendly space for all people to experience wonder again,” Bong stated on Instagram, “to reconnect with their joy with themselves and with each other.”
The concert was billed as best for ages 3-11; however, the skill level and artistry of the dancers were ready-made for all ages. The cast consisted of: Bong as the sparrow, Rebekah “Beks” Denegal as the Leader, Darrel “Friidom” Dunn as the artist and father, Jaylin Sanders as the prodigal son, Mariah Stevens as the spirit, Kirk “Patches” Viloria in the role of the friend and Tai Ryan White as the warrior. Each dancer, and most double as teaching artists with UniverSOUL, brought their own unique movement talents to the production—all hip-hop and most rooted in L.A. culture. On brilliant display were Campbellocking, waving and animation. . . .
Read the entire article at LA Dance Chronicle.
Jessica Koslow 