Breakin' Convention brings international hip-hop icons and local talent to Rotterdam

Breakin’ Convention has grown from its London roots into an international phenomenon and is coming to Rotterdam from 12 to 15 November. Jonzi D’s world-famous international festival of hip-hop dance theatre will take over the city for four days, showcasing hip-hop culture in all its forms. From spectacular dance performances and razor-sharp rap to battles, workshops and jam sessions. At Luxor, Theater Rotterdam and Theater Zuidplein, international stars will share the stage with artists from the Rotterdam scene. With showcases at Rotterdam Central Station, the festival’s energy will also be felt right in the heart of the city.

The programme is packed with international names and home-grown talent. During a spectacular evening of hip-hop dance theatre, seven acts will come together, ranging from breaking and waacking to krump and hip-hop. Featuring, amongst others, Traplord, Crime Time, World of Afro and Until Further Notice. B-boys Redo and Samuka, part of the world-renowned ILL-Abilities, will premiere their new duet during this programme.

An international rap night will feature O’hene Savánt, Stogie T, Lady Leshurr and Rotterdam’s own Kay Slice. Rotterdam DJ Cutnice will kick off the evening with hip-hop bangers, and the night will conclude with an explosive Kossa Kossa jam session featuring live musicians.

Olivier Award-winning choreographer Botis Seva brings his poignant solo *Sing Child sing* to the festival. The performance is a raw and personal story about identity, healing and what is passed down through the generations.

Get involved yourself

During workshops, battles, open mics and jam sessions, there will be opportunities for visitors to get involved. The programme includes workshops led by Stogie T and Mounia, a 1-on-1 Open Style Battle organised by Pigeons Crew, an Open Mic hosted by Cult North, and contributions from Housejam and Tapes & Tories. Breakin’ Convention will also be taking place outside the theatres. From 2 to 6 November, various showcases will be open to the public free of charge in the concourse of Rotterdam Central Station.