My Trip to Breakin' Convention 2013

So once again that time of the year hit us. It sits in my calendar each year like Christmas or my very own birthday. That’s right Breakin' Convention 2013 happened. And was the ten year anniversary good?? You bet!

So I have this dilemma each year. Breakin' Convention, as many of you will know, is really a different show running each night from Saturday to Monday. If only I had the time to go and see each one. In the end I had to settle for Saturday night, not least because one of Innovation Dance’s teachers was performing in the opening act!

So the atmosphere as always was brilliant. Over the years it is noticeable how diverse and varied the audience has become. In the Foyer children were all standing together, eager to be taught a move or two. I went to the merchandise area to get my annual T-Shirt and made my way to the first circle. As I took my seat the excitement was palpable. As always the show started late, but to no-one’s disappointment or inconvenience.  Jonzi D (Artistic director) walks out on to the stage to absolute uproar and pumped the crowd up.

After a short intro Nomadic Souls came out on to the stage to perform one of the most interesting and forward thinking dances I have seen. Innovation Dance studio’s  very own hip hop teacher PJ came out with her fellow Souls and started dancing in the Locking style associated with the funk of the 70’s. This was accompanied by an eclectic soundtrack some of which was live. It was great to see one my favourite dance styles refreshed in this different and interesting way.  

After a few more dances all of which were epic PPL came out on to the stage. I am told by the programme Peace, Positivity, Love are all young dancers London. I was blown away by the raw emotion thrown on the stage by these young people. One of the performers Dani used to teach with us and it is great to see his talent really shine on stage. PPL did not just dance but performed wonderfully invoking emotion in the form of stunned silence followed by rapturous applause.

The piece that truly took my breath away was ILL –Ability. This crew of disabled dancers stunned audiences with their incredible stories. Each Bboy came out individually explaining what their disability is. This lead to some unbelievable stunts and tricks from individuals who showed us what overcoming adversity really means. I was amazed by Bboy Kujo’s ability to keep time with no music and Bboy Checho’s huge arm power. Bboy Redo’s fluid dance style was unparalleled throughout the whole show. When Bboy Tommy Guns started his piece it was initially not clear what his disability was. He seemed to be simply a very talented and fast moving breaker. When he removed his prosthetic leg I was truly in awe. Finally Bboy Lazylegz came out and showed that his inability to walk was not going to stop him dancing. He was inspiring. When, at the climax of the piece, he in fact did walk, the entire theatre erupted. I know I will not have been the only one suddenly getting something in my eye. Unbelievable.

This convention only gets better each year. It was stunning and I feel very lucky to see some of the most progressive dancers each year. I have not mentioned every dance in this but needless to say there was no weak link. I am immensely proud that one of Innovation Dance’s very own performed and PJ you were outstanding!!! I recommend you each mark the May Day bank holiday in your 2014 calendar and join us next year.

Author:  Zoe Newell from Innovation Dance.

Check Breakin' Convention out at http://breakinconvention.com/

Tweet them @BConvention