BREAKIN’ CONVENTION – MAY 29-30

The search is on for East Anglia’s freshest talent and finest hip hop performers as the internationally renowned festival Breakin’ Convention returns to the region.
Dancers, MC’s, beat-boxers and graffiti artists are all being invited to come off the streets and into Norwich Theatre Royal for two days in 2020 to showcase and celebrate their culture.
Norwich-based breaker and teacher Kel FX is leading the search. She said: “We are after crews or individuals. You can be a break dancer, street dancer or hip hop dancer and be involved either in the stage show or performances around the Theatre Royal.”
Auditions are being held in early December and would-be participants will get the opportunity to showcase their skills in front of a panel of hip hop experts including Breakin’ Convention’s founder and hip hop performer/DJ Jonzi D, and Kel.
Some will get the opportunity to share the Norwich Theatre Royal stage on May 29 and 30 with top international hip hop acts who will be flying into the city, while others will take up residence in and around the theatre which will become the hub of the hip hop festival across the two days hosting performances, showcases and workshops.
Kel FX explained: “You don’t need to audition the final piece or the piece you will actually perform here in May but we just need to get the concept of your abilities and skills.
“You can showcase anything that is a hip hop art form. We just want you to come down, see your skills and represent what is going on in Norwich and Norfolk in general. Whatever you have got to contribute and offer, this is the chance to show everyone what you can do.”
To apply, just log onto https://www.breakinconvention.com/festival/apply
It is the second time the theatre has hosted Breakin’ Convention. Back in 2018, a busy day of activities culminated in an evening performance again featuring top global names from the hip hop world and local performers. Kel FX said: “It was fantastic. We had an incredible turn out. We had young people and families along, people trying out their skills for the first time, and dance fans who just want to see world class performances. We had a jam packed day full of incredible artistic endeavour. Ever since, I have had people asking me ‘when is it happening again?”

Listing:
Breakin’ Convention, Friday 29-Saturday 30 May at 7.30pm. Tickets £10-£25.50. Discounts for Friends, Early Birds and Under-18s.
To book, log onto www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk or call the box office on 01603 630000.