‘Peacemaker’ Choreographer Reveals Which Cast Members Surprised Her With Their Dance Moves
variety.comJazz Tangcay Artisans EditorWhen James Gunn was conjuring up the opening credit sequence for HBO’s “Peacemaker,” he and his creative team had one goal: to make it so interesting, engaging and funny that people wouldn’t want to skip it.And they succeeded — the show’s opening sequence is a viral sensation.Choreographer Charissa Barton recalls that the catchy ear worm “Do Ya Wanna Taste It” by Wig Wam was in the script and early drafts, and to prep the dance moves she listened to it on repeat.
Gunn’s suggestion to her was, “think of the 1960s and 1970s variety shows for inspiration.”Barton says, “I went home and spent the whole night drawing things out.
A pile of Lamborghinis with bombs sticking out of the back, three wolves just howling at the moon and other ideas.” She kept in mind that she would be working with non-dancers and her ensemble would feature the show’s cast: John Cena, Danielle Brooks, Freddie Stroma, Jennifer Holland, Steve Agee, Chukwudi Iwuji and Robert Patrick, as well as recurring actors like Elizabeth Ludlow, who plays Adebayo’s wife.
Barton says, “I found what felt right, accessible and attainable. It started in my body. I shot moves and sent James footage with the song over the top.”With Gunn giving her the green light, Barton’s challenge was taking it to the actors — but before that, she tried it out on her husband, Alan Tudyk.
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