One of the world’s leading platforms for hip-hop theatre, Breakin’ Convention, returns in 2026 bringing together street dancers, choreographers, musicians, MCs and artists from across the culture. Founded in 2004, the platform has spent more than two decades championing the evolution of hip-hop theatre and creating space for both established international artists and emerging voices.
This September, the focus returns to London with Open Art Surgery, taking place at the Lilian Baylis Studio on Saturday 26 September. The event is the culmination of an intensive week in which emerging artists develop and experiment with new ideas alongside experienced mentors. Rather than presenting polished, finished pieces, Open Art Surgery gives artists the freedom to take creative risks, test new approaches and share work-in-progress directly with an audience.
That spirit of experimentation is central to what makes Breakin’ Convention distinctive. The programme reaches across the many elements of hip-hop culture, from breaking, popping and krump to waacking, while also embracing DJs, MCs, spoken word, graffiti and the wider creative practices that have grown from hip-hop’s foundations. It is a reminder that hip-hop dance is not a fixed form, but a constantly evolving culture shaped by movement, music, individuality and community.
And the movement continues beyond London. From 12–15 November 2026, Breakin’ Convention will take over Rotterdam, transforming venues including Nieuwe Luxor, Theater Rotterdam and Theater Zuidplein into meeting points for international and local hip-hop communities. The four-day programme will feature performances, workshops, battles, jam sessions, spoken word and a community jam, with styles ranging from breaking and waacking to hip-hop and krump.
The Rotterdam programme reflects the international reach of Breakin’ Convention while keeping its connection to grassroots culture. International crews and artists will share stages and floors with local talent, creating a space where theatre, street culture and community can meet. As the organisation puts it, the aim is to bring local and international crews together while representing the different elements of hip-hop.
With its return in 2026, Breakin’ Convention is therefore doing more than bringing another programme of dance to the stage. It is continuing to provide a platform for artists to experiment, challenge conventions and push hip-hop theatre forward — from London’s intimate development spaces to Rotterdam’s international festival programme.
Hip-hop is still moving. And Breakin’ Convention is making sure there is space for the next generation to move with it.
For more info visit – https://www.sadlerswells.com/whats-on/breakin-convention-open-art-surgery-september-2026/
