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The History of Break Dancing at The Eurovision Song Contest

Posted on 18 May, 2023

Get ready to witness an electrifying fusion of rhythm, movement, and sheer talent! Since 1994, Break Dancing has been rocking the stage at the renowned Eurovision Song Contest, igniting the atmosphere like never before. But the captivating story of Break Dancing’s connection to Eurovision might just stretch back even further, shrouded in the mysteries of its vibrant past.

Picture this: as the melodies soar and the crowd pulses with anticipation, a storm of Break Dancers explodes onto the stage, infusing the performance with an awe-inspiring display of acrobatics and gravity-defying moves. Their bodies become a mesmerizing symphony, seamlessly harmonizing with the music, creating an explosive fusion that sends shockwaves through the audience.

Beyond the stage, the host city itself becomes a playground for the celebration of Eurovision. The pulsating rhythm of Break Dancing echoes through the streets, as workshops, exhibitions, and jaw-dropping showcases fill the air with pure adrenaline. Everywhere you turn, the spirit of Break Dancing infuses the atmosphere, creating an infectious energy that unites people from all walks of life.

So, get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Break Dancing at Eurovision. It’s an experience that transcends boundaries, pushing the limits of human potential, and leaving an indelible mark on the stage, the performers, and the audience alike.

Eurovision legacy Break Dancing Competition in St Helens, Liverpool City Region

2023 Eurovision Song Contest - United Kingdom

Inspired by the Eurovision theme of being United by Music, Powered by Hip Hop (UC Crew) they have taken their creative genius to new heights by organising a groundbreaking Break Dancing and Hip Hop event in St. Helens. Prepare to witness a collision of cultures and an explosion of artistic expression as talented dancers from all walks of life come together to celebrate the unifying power of music.

They previously toured Liverpool City Centre on the run-up to the Eurovision Final providing Break Dancer performers with dancers from Liverpool, Warrington and St Helens

2022 Eurovision Song Contest - Italy

With a music piece titled “Stefania,” Kalush Orchestra struck a chord deep within the hearts of audiences worldwide. Imagine a rap lullaby-like no other, a harmonious blend of traditional Ukrainian folk melodies and cutting-edge hip-hop rhythms. It’s a groundbreaking collaboration that intertwines the rich tapestry of Ukraine’s musical heritage with the vibrant energy of modern beats, creating an extraordinary musical masterpiece.

At the forefront of this breathtaking performance is none other than Vlad Kurochka, known by his stage name MC KylymMen, which intriguingly translates to CarpetMan in English. A true virtuoso of movement, Vlad Kurochka brings his breakdancing prowess to the stage, captivating audiences with his explosive style and unmatched skill. With each spin, twist, and gravity-defying flip, he transforms the very essence of the performance, infusing it with an electrifying energy that leaves spectators in awe.

2022 Eurovision Song Contest - Netherlands

Prepare to be blown away by a groundbreaking collaboration that pushed the boundaries of performance and delivered a truly unforgettable experience! Enter the world of Redo (Redouan Ait Chitt), an extraordinary BBoy/Break Dancer, as he takes the stage alongside the sensational Dutch singer, Eefje de Visser. This dynamic duo had the tremendous honour of opening the second semi-final of the iconic Eurovision Song Contest in the vibrant city of Rotterdam.

Break Dance and Spoken Word Performances as part of the Host City Programme as part of the Louvri Festival.

Be inspired, moved, and amazed as Breaking and spoken word merge into a singular, awe-inspiring performance. as part of the Louvri Festival.

The video encapsulates the essence of the Eurovision Song Contest’s theme ‘Open Up,’ reminding us of the transformative power of unity and collaboration. Together, we can go further than we ever could alone, and this extraordinary display of talent serves as a testament to the magic that happens when artists unite in pursuit of a shared vision. So open your mind, open your heart, and immerse yourself in this truly remarkable artistic experience.

The video shows a performance by Rotterdam Break Dancers and spoken word artists accompanied by Chris Steijlen and Quardin.

The Breaking and spoken word blended together as one under the artistic direction of Lloyd Marengo.

This unprecedented collaboration between Hip Hop and Musuems showcases the incredible versatility of Break Dancing as an art form, bridging the gap between the past and the present, tradition and modernity. It’s a celebration of movement and rhythm, where the rich history of Rotterdam’s museums merges with the pulsating energy of Break Dancing, creating a performance that is as awe-inspiring as it is groundbreaking.

The perfomances wa part of the Louvri Festival and the Eurovision Programe

2017 Eurovision Song Contest - Ukraine

In 2017 Italy’s electrifying performance at Eurovision takes centre stage! Francesco Gabbani’s mesmerizing hit “Occidentali’s Karma” is sung in Kyiv.

Hip Hop dancer Filippo Ranaldi takes the spotlight, donned a captivating Gorilla Costume and performed a catch dance routine for audiences to follow but he did demonstrate knee rock and a knee spin, which effortlessly pays homage to the rich history of Break Dancing, channelling the spirit and moves that originated in the dynamic era of the 1980s.

2015 Eurovision Song Contest - Austria

The incorporation of Break Dancing power moves into the UK’s Electro Velvet - Still in Love performance added an exhilarating twist to the performance, infusing it with dynamic energy and showcasing the versatility of their dance style. It was a moment that epitomized the fusion of tradition and innovation, as the power moves flares became a captivating highlight, representing the evolution of dance and the boundless creativity that Eurovision celebrates.

You can see the dancers flares at 1 minute 50 seconds

2006 Junior Eurovision Song Contest - Romania

This dance battle showcased the incredible talent and dedication of both the Kollash Dancers and the Break Dancers, leaving a lasting impact on the Junior Eurovision Song Contest of 2006. It was a moment that exemplified the power of dance to unite, inspire, and create unforgettable memories. You can view the dancing at 1 hour 30 minutes.

1994 Eurovision Song Contest - Austria

Get ready to step into a time capsule that will transport you back to the vibrant music scene of the past! As CatCat, Finland’s representatives at Eurovision took the stage with their song “Bye Bye Baby,” sources from the time say that the backing dancers were Break Dancers but this Hip Hop dance style now would be considered new jack swing, although it does take some movements from Breaking.

Notes:

It is not known whether Break Dancing was involved in earlier any other performances but we would love to find out and make a record of its involvement to support the history of Break Dancing at Eurovision.

Please get in touch here if you find any more examples

Funding:

This research was funded by the National Heritage Lottery food and administered by Liverpool City Council as part of the Eurovision Legacy progamme - Eurofest