(AllHipHop News) Hip Hop culture is made up of four elements. Three of those pillars, emceeing, DJing, and graffitti art, have all maintain a high level of relevance throughout the years, and now the fourth element of break dancing is set to get a large spotlight shined on it again.
The world famous Apollo Theater will be home to Breakin’ Convention: International Festival of Hip Hop Dance Theatre this month. It will be the first time the 10 year old event will take place in the United States.
Breakin Convention started at the Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London in 2004. The showcase uses Hip Hop dance to create theatrical performances.
“I think what we’re doing is breaking the conventions of how we normally see Hip Hop,” says acclaimed British dancer/emcee/playwright and Breakin’ Convention artistic director Jonzi D. “Usually we see it in a battle context or within a night club. Now what we’re doing is taking it to theater to show the development of what is real contemporary dance.”
Jonzi is one of the performers for the event. He will also join legendary female rapper MC Lyte as the festival’s hosts. Attendees will get to see dancers from around the world, attend Hip Hop workshops, and other activities.
Some of the international dance artists and crews already confirmed to perform include Boy Blue from the United Kingdom, Frank Ejara from Brazil, Project Soul Collective from South Korea, FootworKINGz from Chicago, and Next Level Squad from New York City.
“The reason why you gotta come and check out this show is because it’s showing you the origins and global evolution of this culture,” says Jonzi. “We’re paying homage to Hip Hop culture.”
Breakin’ Convention: International Festival of Hip Hop Dance Theatre will take place at Harlem’s Apollo Theater from Thursday, June 13 through Sunday, June 16.
For ticket information visit ticketmaster.com.
Watch a video about Breakin’ Convention and a performance by Next Level Squad below.
–