It’s high energy and upbeat; it’s scrupulously non-partisan, and it creates a positive model for civic involvement. It’s the brainchild and passion project of dance-community stalwart, the agent and co-founder of MSA Agency in Hollywood, Julie McDonald. Along with a partner, Pamela Cooper, and a technology maven, Emmy Frevele, “Dance for the Vote” just went live. It’s viral, it’s sizzling, and it’s on a mission. It’s all about, get off your phone, young people, and be sure to vote this November 5.
The short film, directed and choreographed by celebrated artist Cultura, has that message in mind. Staged to a custom song, “Get Up (Dance 4 Democracy Theme Song),” written, produced, and performed by former Nickelodeon star-turned-composer Jaheem King Toombs, the film merges movement with a powerful civic message.
How did this tour de force come about? We chatted with McDonald, as she drove to her Hollywood offices. “I’m really passionate about this election and trying to do anything I can,” she explained.
“We created a similar video for the midterms, in 2018, and I decided to do something for this election. We think it turned out great. It’s an original song by Jaheem, who is a wonderful writer, and it’s inspiring people.”
With Pamela Cooper, a New York-based talent agent, the two women co-financed the venture. No “grant,” no “crowdsourcing.” Just the old-fashioned way: Pull out that checkbook and start scribbling.
The video’s choreographer is hard to miss as she dances out front in her bleach-blonde gamine haircut paired with an array of impressive tattoos.
Miami-born and Los Angeles-raised, Cultura is known for her work with top artists like Maluma, Daddy Yankee, and Becky G. Her Cuban heritage and street dance styles are on view in this film.
“I adore this choreographer, she lives in Miami,” said McDonald, a veteran talent spotter. “She is a wonderful choreographer and really something as a dancer. I called her with this project and she just said, ‘yes.'”
“She’s so androgynous, she has such a facial presence. At the end, that is her voice giving the bilingual “Don’t let your voice go unheard. Utiliza tu voz y vota.”
“We just posted it last night and already have 5,000 views,” said McDonald. “I hope it encourages young people to vote.
Dance for the Vote | Dance for Democracy.org