Breakin’ Convention, the world’s biggest festival of hip hop dance theatre, returns June 1-2 to the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts. Presented by Civic Theatres Toronto, in association with Sadler’s Wells Breakin’ Convention, Breakin’ Convention is curated and hosted by U.K. hip hop pioneer Jonzi D. Joining Jonzi D, will be Toronto local rep Judi Lopez. The two have collaborated previously on two editions of Open Art Surgery, most recently at the Toronto Centre for the Arts.
Breakin’ Convention is an awe inspiring weekend of exceptional performances from world champion b-boy and b-girl crews to cutting edge street dance companies – live on stage. In addition, spilling off stage and taking over the whole building, dance workshops, graffiti, DJs, and freestyle sessions make Breakin’ Convention an unforgettable experience for the entire family.
Headline programming includes two evenings of main stage performances featuring some of Canada’s best hip-hop companies performing alongside renowned international acts.
Confirmed international acts include:
The Ruggeds (Netherlands) • Adrenaline
- Choreography: The Company
- Performers: Duzk, Jazzy Gypz, Niek Traa, Squarez, Stepper, Skychief, Virgil
- Filled with acrobatics, risks, music and energy, Adrenaline is an exploration of our relationship with adrenaline. Taking part in battles all over the world, The Ruggeds are currently one of the most active b-boy crews in Europe and well-known for its members’ different styles and influences.
Compagnie Antoinette Gomis (France)• Images
- Choreographers: Antoinette Gomis, Liz Gomis, Cyriol Machenaud
- Performer: Antoinette Gomis
- Using the words of a Waring Cuney poem sung by Nina Simone, Images deals with the lack of pride black women suffered throughout history. Dance, chorographer and model, Antoinette Gomis is a leading dancer in the French street dance scene.
Far From The Norm (UK) • 60 Sec
- Choreographer: Botis Seva
- Performers: Lee Griffiths, Victoria Shulungu, Jordan Douglas, Joshua Nash, Ezra Owen, Shangomola Edunjobi
- Established in May 2009, Far From The Norm was founded by artistic director Botis Seva and is a collective of dance artists renowned for experimenting with hip hop form whilst tackling socio-political concerns.
- More event highlights will be announced at a later date including a day of free outdoor programming.
This project has been made possible in part by the Government of Canada with support from the Ontario Arts Council.
Tickets range from $21-$26 and go on sale to the public Saturday, March 17, 10AM
Tickets are available at the door, online at sonycentre.ca, by calling 1-855-872-SONY (7669), in person at the Sony Centre Box Office, Monday – Friday 12PM – 5PM or at the door (if available).
Additional services and/or delivery fees may apply. Ticketmaster phone lines operate 9:30AM – 8PM Monday to Saturday, 12noon to 8PM Sundays and holidays. On-line sales operate 24 hours per day. Ticketmaster outlet hours vary.
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