Hans Abelard Pierre Creator of Thesis

“Florida is the birthplace of my dance in all aspects. Moving here in 2006, I was submerged into the art of dance in so many ways. My introduction to the authentic Hip Hop dance culture, the first place I'd ever taken a hip hop dance class, where I did my first large scale performance, etc. All of my biggest moments in dance branched back to FL. In 2015 I put my long considered plans of moving to LA to further my career in dance into action. But before I left, I had this event with the intention of putting together all of what I had learned from all of my time living in Florida. What I learned about performance from being in them, seeing them, what it took to produce them etc. This was copped with what I learned from the battle scene from battling, what makes a good jam, organization, etc. I also included what I learned from having workshops from being a teacher, going to workshops as a student and planning various events, etc.

Thesis was my last big event putting everything I learned into one event for the community and to my surprise… it ended up being bigger than I ever imagined it to be. I thought it was going to be a one time thing. I was WRONG lol. But after a second and third event, I realized Thesis was something bigger than me and means so much to so many people. I plan on continuing this for as long as I can for the growth and development of the artist in my home state and one day, all around the world.”

Brandon J. Patrick Producer

“My encounter with Thesis may be a little different than most people’s. I experienced the event right away with a behind the scenes view. Hans, the events creator, is a close friend of mine so I had heard quite a bit about how the event was being put together. From searching for a venue to booking flights, I had a front seat view of how much work was being put in. But somehow, I am surprised every time at how flawless the event seems and how well the event is received. The way that the Florida community, not just dancers, comes out to support the event is incredible. Seeing the venue full, maybe even past, capacity makes me not only proud of my friend but the Florida dance community and how it comes together to support each other, learn more, and grow.”

Erica Velez chief of production

“My first experience with Thesis was in 2015, the year that this event started. I performed with my crew, eXist, and I knew from that moment that this was a one-of-a-kind event. For the first time I felt this was the perfect platform for dancers to unite and truly invest in each others’ craft. To push, motivate and inspire each other through dance. The Florida dance community comes together as a family and truly grows at Thesis. I’ve made unforgettable bonds with every dancer at this event and I know that in the future years, the bond will only become stronger amongst us all. I wanted to be a part of this event because I truly believe in it and everything that it stands for. I want to continue to present these amazing opportunities to these incredibly talented dancers who deserve it!

As a dancer/performer of 10 years and an Event Management major, I know that this is the area of work that I want to pursue and I am certain that Thesis will be one of the top events in the South.”