The day began with a private workshop for breakdancers who had travelled from across East Africa to be taught by one of the pioneers of breaking, Crazy Legs (USA) of the Rock Steady Crew. His trip was financed by the U.S. Mission in Uganda, and he not only passed on his dance moves, but he also talked with the young African dancers about professionalism and how to manage their careers as performers and teachers.
From 3pm to 9pm, the general public was invited to watch breakdance battles and showcases at YMCA. The event got off to a late start due to rain, but then the program began with a free dance showcase by Kampala youth, followed by the 3-on-3 dance crew competition.
Uganda’s own Hit The Beat Crew – including: Mukalazi “Bboy Moze” Moses, Lutakome “Bboy Sono” Felix and Kiryowa “bboy Sky” Fahadhi - came out as winners in the 3-on-3 category. They were challenged by Bgirl Locca from Switzerland, representing the Chinese South-East Crew, who teamed up with the MC of the event, MC Jora, to battle Hit The Beat Crew all the way to the final round.
Day One of #BreakFastJam2015 also featured performances by Ugandan and Kenyan beatboxers and dance crews, and Ugandan rappers Snooty Fredo and The Mith of Klear Kut. The event attracted a diverse crowd, including Kampala youth, dancers from Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, DRC, Switzerland, Denmark and the U.S.A., as well as many bazungu and photographers.
Special guest Crazy Legs judged the 3-on-3 battle along with the founder and director of Breakdance Project Uganda, Abramz Tekya, and the chairman of Break-Fast Jam, Mark Kaweesi.
Today (Sunday Nov. 22) promises to be even bigger, with the final elimination rounds for 1-on-1 male and female breakdancers, the kids’ battle, Team Uganda vs. Team Kenya, and performances by rappers Ruyonga, St. Nellysade, Sylvester and Abramz.
The event runs from 3pm to 9pm at YMCA. Entry is 5,000 shillings for adults and free for kids 10 and below. 1,500,000 shillings in prize money is up for grabs for the winners, and some incredible performances are in store for the audience.
