'Break Out' tells of the hip-hop evolution of man

NEW YORK—Who knew that in ancient Rome, the gladiators were really b-boys?

This little-known interpretation of history is brought to you by the likable new nonverbal, hip-hop dance comedy, "Break Out," in which a magical book falls to Earth and contains stories about the alleged hip-hop evolution of mankind.

The book finds its way into the hands of five male prisoners, already inclined to mock their captors. Emboldened by this enchanted text, they are soon tunneling their way out of jail.

Styling itself as an extreme dance comedy, "Break Out" is a fond send-up of prison-escape film cliches, with a modern twist: These jailbirds, clad in outlandish striped prison togs, are experts at hip-hop, break dancing and beat-box (vocal percussion).

The producers of "Jump" have focused the talents of their latest Korean cast -- 10 of the best b-boys and b-girls in Asia -- into a slapstick-laden, cops-and-robbers show, choreographed by the SevenSense Creative Team.

The plot follows the prisoners' escapades on the run, which at first are fast and funny, culminating in a chase scene through a hospital. The tunneling-out scene is particularly entertaining, as each character wears a little puppet version of his body while simulating "tunneling" to freedom.

Another fun device is that anyone who touches the book begins to dance hip-hop style, whether they want to or not. This provides much merriment when the pursuing prison guards, or the hitherto serious doctors and nurses, begin to uncontrollably dance.

The show could use a lot more showcasing of the energetic dance and acrobatic talents of the cast, and less slapstick, rubber-truncheon-wielding, and time-wasting scenes such as one where the action comes to a full stop, while the characters are just laying around staring at a projection of palm trees.

Thereafter, things really slow down, as the prisoners take refuge in a church, where hungry young nuns and the prisoners are all tempted by baked goods, reserved for holy purposes, which are guarded by a senior nun. But this gentle comedy is a jarring departure from the previous fast-moving scenes.

An impressive, giant version of the magical book, designed by Tae-Young Kim, provides an appropriately mystical scenic backdrop, with characters turning the pages to fresh projections as they advance on their adventures. Hee-Ju Kim's pajamalike prison outfits, some with cool vests, could render these five men the hippest-looking prisoners ever.

This production is suitable for all ages. Young children in the audience loved all the running around, and laughed along with adults at the cleverly mimed humor.

The too-few dance sequences were truly electrifying, proving that high-class hip-hop dance can be a world-class entertainment. Go see "Break Out" for the dancing, but be aware that it's not the only feature of the show.