“Breaking,” which is also called breakdancing or bboying (bgirling), is a style of hip hop where dancers move to the “break” part of the music. It is influenced by various forms of dance such as Tap, Salsa, Native American folk dances, Capoiera and more. Breaking originated from New York, but is alive and well in London, Ontario. A group of individuals, known as the Ill at Will Crew, is sharing the knowledge of hip hop and breaking locally.
Ill at Will (IAW) was formed in 2008 with members from Windsor, Toronto and London. This Canadian breaking crew pride themselves with the work they have done towards community and youth empowerment, which include hosting breaking competitions or “jams”, inner city workshops, public speaking engagements and hip hop awareness campaigns. In addition, they have made regular appearances in local events such as Beerfest and Dundas Street Festival. Foundation to breaking lessons and open practice sessions are currently held at their home studio, O.N.E. Hip Hop Dance Studio (236 Dundas Street). Being in the downtown location has opened their eyes to the abundance of talent the city has to offer, but also to the need for a greater sense of community in London.
This year, IAW is going to hold events that will celebrate the four elements of hip hop (Breaking, MC-ing/rapping, DJ-ing, and Graffiti writing) and explore its influences in art, wellness and fashion starting with the Stay Hungry & Stay Humble Brand Launch Party on March 25, 2017 at O.N.E. Hip Hop Dance Studio. Stay Hungry & Stay Humble is not just a clothing line, it is a collective movement that will foster a more cohesive creative community in London, Ontario.
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