Last Friday, I had a chance to check out the Breakoff, a free breakdancing class for youth of ages 12 to 18. No experience is necessary so don’t be afraid to come out and join other youth in this unique way of expressing yourself. Classes run from 4 – 7 p.m. every Friday. Click here for the Google map.
The class started with stretching and warm ups. The thing that I find most difficult when I’m in a room full of people I’ve never met is that I’m self- conscious and shy. But the instructors, Antonio Rein and John Rawkit, really encouraged everyone to let loose and have fun because we all naturally feel a little silly when we’re trying something new. After doing some simple exercises to warm up, the class moved onto learning some basic moves, to cover the foundation. Again, the instructors encouraged each individual to add in their own styles.
The last hour of class is “free hour” where youth are given the chance to freely express themselves and try out anything they’d like, with help from the instructors of course.
The classes also offer an additional aspect to breakdancing: its history. Instead of merely attending the classes and learning to break, the instructors discuss and show short films on the history of breakdancing and how it came to be.
You can drop in anytime. There are no judgements, so don’t be afraid! John has been breakdancing for over three years and Antonio has been teaching, not just breakdancing but other styles of dance as well, for over 10 years. They enjoy teaching youth to introduce them to a unique form of expression and to encourage them to be creative. I’d strongly recommend for anyone to come out and give it a try!
For more information, click here.
So just in case I didn’t make it clear for you all… get off your couch and get breakin’!