Portland’s group of breakdancers may not be representing Maine at the Olympics, but they will be competing in the Maine Hip-Hop Summit. Breakdancing, a new Olympic sport, has given these dancers a safe space to express themselves. Using stage names, the breakers view their dance skills as badges of honor. Breakdancing originated in New York City in the late 1960s and early 70s, serving as an outlet for kids who had nothing but their dance moves. Breakers like J Theory find that breakdancing makes them feel alive, like a fire burning deep inside on beat.
For breakers like Will Trix, hip-hop and breakdancing have been a shield from trouble, keeping them grounded and focused. While watching their idols represent the U.S. at the Olympics, Maine breakers hope that the art of breakdancing will not be commercialized and retain its originality and creativity. Olympic judges will need to evaluate breakdancers based on their improvisational skills rather than routines, something that Trix believes cannot be tallied by a point system.
Trix believes that unifying through hip-hop and dance can help address the trauma in today’s world, with breaking being a beautiful art form to share. The Portland breakdancers will be participating in the Maine Hip-Hop Summit on August 31. The group aims to showcase their talent and love for breakdancing while staying true to its cultural roots. Attendees can expect to witness incredible displays of skill and creativity at the event.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=videoseries
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Photo credit www.newscentermaine.com