100 MIFG: Ricky Carranza – Street Dance Legend

100 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Ricky Carranza – Street Dance Legend

A legend in the Philippines, Ricky Carranza’s contributions to the Pinoy dance scenes across the world have inspired the masses and pushed the boundaries of street dance itself. His recent encounter with Filipinos in the emirates has not only brought entertainment but most importantly inspired a relatively obscure community of dance enthusiasts.

Ricky, also known as ‘3ki Riki’, was a famous personality on dance shows “Penthouse 7” and “Dance 10” in his younger days.  His natural talent for movement, as well as his hunger and ambition, made him into one of the most prominent dancers of the Philippines.  “I was always looking for more. Call it what you want – passion, craziness, or obsession. I wanted to learn and see more of that new style of dance – that funk style.”

In his three decades of choreographing and teaching, 3ki Riki trained some of the most prominent Filipino celebrities, the most prominent of which is Gary Valenciano. His dance career has taken him to around the world, backing up movements in Italy and even creating his label in Finland – “Style Dance Industry.”

As a film director and producer, the Dubai screening of Ricky’s latest documentary, “Beyond the Block” supported by the Philippine Consulate General, and his inspiring presence via workshops, has energized and brought together the growing, but often unrecognized Pinoy street dance crowd. Ricky’s local involvement has virtually vitalized the spirit of street dance in the community, proving that indeed, Hip Hop is alive and well among Filipinos in the Middle East.

Ricky’s ultimate goal is one of a strengthened culture united in the spirit of togetherness. His plans include producing numerous film projects, some in the UAE and laying out the groundwork for the Philippine’s first street dance institution.

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Photography by: Maija Astikainen

Illustrado 100 was made possible by sponsors: Giordano, Liali Jewellery, Mitsubishi UAE- Al Habtoor Motors, Michael Cinco Couture, Mapúa Institute of Technology, Centro – Amwaj Rotana Hotel , Max’s Restaurant Middle East and GVER – Your Friendly MarketPlace for Sharing

Co-Sponsors: Herschel Supply Co., Rove Hotels, The Medical City – Dubai , Filipino Institute UAE, MPQ Tourism, JAMES Travel and Tours Dubai, Off the Hook Seafood Restaurant, The Original Barrio Fiesta Restaurant – Dubai and Tapa King UAE.

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