Biography: Michael “Rukus 45” Sulit
Michael Sulit, famously known as Rukus 45, was born on June 9, 1982, in the vibrant city of Winnipeg, Manitoba. His journey in the world of music and hip-hop began at an early age and has since become a significant narrative in the industry.
Rukus 45’s artistic odyssey commenced during his adolescent years, as he delved into the art of breakdancing between the ages of 13 and 14. This initial step paved the way for a multifaceted career that would span various creative realms. As he matured, he ventured into beatboxing, captivating audiences with his rhythmic prowess, and eventually transitioned into emceeing, demonstrating his lyrical dexterity.
Around the period of 1998 to 2000, Rukus 45’s artistic palette expanded further as he began crafting his own songs. This marked the inception of his exploration into the realms of DJing, beat production, video creation, and editing. His artistic evolution continued to unfold, reflecting his dedication and passion for the craft.
Presently, Rukus 45 hosts the acclaimed radio show “The Crazy Kut Cklassics Hip Hop 101” on 101.5fm, where he shares his love for hip-hop with a wide audience. Amidst his radio endeavors, Rukus 45 has etched his name into the annals of the battle rap scene, a journey that ignited in the early 2000s and continues to this day. His prowess as a battle rapper has not waned, remaining a formidable force in recent times.
With an impressive discography that includes the release of two albums, several singles, and mixtapes, Rukus 45’s musical legacy is cemented across various platforms. His captivating music videos, showcased on platforms such as YouTube and other social media channels, stand as a testament to his artistic innovation.
Recognized as one of the city’s preeminent lyricists, Rukus 45’s influence endures, as he continues to craft music that resonates with audiences. His unwavering dedication to his craft has solidified his status as a pioneer within the Filipino community, particularly within the battle rap scene over the past two decades.
In sum, Michael “Rukus 45” Sulit’s journey from breakdancing to battle rapping, and from beatboxing to becoming a radio host and prolific artist, paints a portrait of an individual who has not only shaped his local artistic community but has also left an indelible mark on the broader world of hip-hop.
Biography: Abby Sagun – Nurturing the Rhythm of Hip Hop
Abby Sagun’s journey into the world of dance commenced when she was just 14 years old, igniting a passion that would shape her artistic path. A high school student at the time, Abby played a pivotal role in creating the dynamic dance team known as “Reality Check.” This early venture marked the first steps of her remarkable dance odyssey.
At the age of 16, Abby’s talents led her to join the esteemed UN1TE dance company. For an impressive span of five years, she lent her energy and creativity to the team’s performances, becoming not only a valued dancer but also evolving into one of their esteemed choreographers during her final years with them. This experience solidified her expertise and laid the foundation for her future leadership in the world of dance.
Even as a teenager, Abby’s dedication to dance extended beyond her own performances. At just 19 years old, she stepped into the role of coaching and choreographing for her high school dance team, a testament to her commitment to nurturing the talents of the next generation.
In 2014, a new chapter unfolded for Abby as she embarked on a journey with SIKAT. Joining the group, she immediately became an integral part of their creative process, contributing not only as a dancer but also as a choreographer. Her artistic fingerprints began to shape the team’s performances, adding her unique flair to their dynamic routines.
Further expanding her impact, Abby found herself in the role of a Hip Hop teacher at Kickit Dance Studio in 2015. Through this position, she has been imparting her expertise and passion to eager students, cultivating a new generation of dancers who share her love for the art form.
Abby’s dedication to dance has led her down numerous paths, including the exhilarating world of competitions. With SIKAT by her side, she has graced the stages of prestigious competitions like World of Dance in San Diego, as well as Artists Emerge in Edmonton and Vancouver. Beyond competitions, Abby has also taken on the role of educator, leading workshops and conventions, including the renowned Stepz!
As the years continue to unfold, Abby remains steadfast in her commitment to her craft. She persists in her roles as a dance instructor at Kickit and a creative force within SIKAT, ensuring that her passion for Hip Hop remains alive in both her students and the burgeoning generation of dancers.
Abby Sagun’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of dance. From a high school dance team founder to a seasoned choreographer, educator, and performer, she embodies the essence of Hip Hop and continues to illuminate the dance world with her rhythm and creativity.
Biography: Maribeth Manalaysay Tabanera – Navigating Artistic Dimensions
Maribeth Manalaysay Tabanera, also known as Kilusan, is a captivating force within the realm of art, education, and community engagement. Hailing from the Tagalog Visayan Filipinx heritage, Maribeth is a non-binary individual who has cultivated a multi-faceted identity that spans various creative expressions.
Born and raised on the sacred land of Treaty No. 1 Territory in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Maribeth’s roots are deeply intertwined with the community that has nurtured their growth for over 35 years.
Maribeth’s artistic journey has been marked by a dynamic range of pursuits. With an impressive legacy of street style dance training spanning more than two and a half decades, their movement vocabulary is a testament to their dedication and passion. In recent times, they have channeled their focus towards Vogue Femme, honing their skills through immersive experiences such as a dance residency alongside Matthew “Snoopy” Cuff in Toronto.
In 2018, Maribeth embarked on a new artistic exploration, taking on the role of an open-format DJ. Their musical talents have graced stages alongside notable figures like Kimmortal, Scratch Bastid, and DJ Maseo of De La Soul, showcasing their ability to command both movement and sound.
The year 2022 marked a significant milestone for Maribeth as they unveiled Kilusan Productions, a manifestation of their vision and creativity. This platform serves as a testament to their dedication to the arts and community, enabling them to curate meaningful experiences that resonate with audiences.
Maribeth’s contributions to the artistic community have not gone unnoticed. They were chosen as a Canadian Alliance of Dance Artists/West Chapter – BIPOC Dance Resident, a recognition of their impact and innovation within the dance landscape. Additionally, they received the Manitoba Arts Council Support Arts Leaders Grant, underscoring their commitment to fostering artistic leadership.
Their influence extends beyond the local stage, as Maribeth has shared their expertise as an educator, dancer, and DJ across Turtle Island (North America). As the journey continues, Maribeth’s pursuit of knowledge and advocacy deepens. In September 2023, they will embark on a new chapter, pursuing a Master of Education in Social Justice Education at the esteemed University of Toronto in Tsi Tkarón:Tó (Toronto, Ontario).
For more insights into the world of Maribeth Manalaysay Tabanera and Kilusan, you can explore their journey through their official website: www.maribethtabanera.com. Through their boundless creativity, tireless advocacy, and dedication to education, Maribeth continues to leave an indelible mark on the artistic landscape and beyond.
