Breaking: From Guangzhou Streets to Olympic Stage

For Tang Weisheng, a local of Guangzhou in south China’s Guangdong Province, dance is not merely an art form, but a deeply ingrained belief, a devotion that has burned brightly for nearly two decades.

The Rise of Longzai

Tang is known on stage as Longzai. “My name is Longzai, adn I am a b-boy.” Behind this simple and powerful self-introduction lies the journey of a 13-year-old who first encountered breaking in 2006 and fell instantly in love, and the persistence of a man who now juggles the roles of dancer, fashion brand owner and father. For him, breaking has long transcended a hobby; it is indeed a “spiritual anchor,” an outlet “to release emotions from within.”

Longzai’s path in dance has been marked by both the public spotlight and the hard-won glory on international stages. He first gained national attention performing on the debut season of the popular Chinese street dance competition show,Street Dance of China in 2018. He and his crew,the Flying Souls,finished as runners-up,captivating audiences with their innovative choreography and powerful performances. This exposure significantly boosted the profile of breaking in China.

Breaking’s Olympic Debut

Breaking, also known as breakdancing, will make its official debut as an olympic sport at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. This inclusion marks a significant milestone for the culture, which originated in the Bronx, New York City, in the 1970s. The decision to include breaking was driven by the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) desire to attract a younger audience and embrace more urban sports. The IOC highlighted breaking’s global appeal and its emphasis on athleticism,creativity,and inclusivity.

What is Breaking?

Breaking is a dynamic and physically demanding dance style characterized by acrobatic power moves, intricate footwork, and creative freezes.It’s one of the four pillars of hip-hop culture, alongside DJing, rapping, and graffiti art. Battles are a central element of breaking, where dancers compete head-to-head, showcasing their skills and improvisational abilities. Judges evaluate dancers based on technique, musicality, originality, and performance quality.

The Growing Popularity of Breaking in China

China has rapidly become a major force in the global breaking scene. The popularity of shows like Street Dance of China has fueled a surge in interest, leading to the establishment of numerous dance studios and crews across the country. Chinese breakers are now consistently competing at the highest levels internationally, and the nation is poised to be a strong contender at the Paris Olympics. According to a report by the China Dance Association, participation in breaking-related activities has increased by over 300% in the last five years.

Longzai’s Future and the Legacy of Breaking

Longzai continues to inspire a new generation of dancers in China. He balances his performance career with running his own fashion brand and raising a family. He views the Olympic inclusion of breaking as a validation of the culture and an opportunity to showcase its artistry to a global audience. “It’s a dream come true for all of us who have dedicated our lives to this art form,” he says. The future of breaking looks bright, with continued growth and recognition on the world stage.

Key Takeaways

• Breaking will debut as an Olympic sport at the Paris 2024 Games.
• china is emerging as a major force in the global breaking scene.
• breaking is more than just a dance style; it’s a culture with a rich history and a vibrant community.
• Dancers like Longzai are instrumental in popularizing and elevating the art form.