Young dancers battle to victory at Jacksons Lane

Young dance students, aged 13–19, from ten groups from across London and Essex took part in dance event ‘Battle’, performing in solo, duo, and crew battles, at Jacksons Lane Arts Centre, last month.

Battle is an annual celebration of hip-hop dance organised by Step into Dance, the UK’s largest inclusive dance programme which is run by the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and funded by the Jack Petchey Foundation.

The event gives young dancers the opportunity to come together and share their passion and flare for dance, whilst battling it out in front of their friends for the chance to be named champions.

The day featured workshops in house and breaking, rounds of knock out battles, and showcases. Students also benefited from developing other life skills such as collaboration, creativity, discipline, and expressing their individuality.

The event was hosted by hip-hop choreographer, dancer and teacher,Yami Löfvenberg, alongside music from DJ DBO.

The judging panel, formed of professional dancers, Olu Alatise, Hakim Saber, and Roxane Hackwood, selected the winners.

RAD’s artistic director, Gerard Charles, presented the awards to: Zoonation Youth Company (All Styles Crew); Praxis Performing Arts (Breaking Crew); D’jon Mcternan (Solo Winner), and Caine Harrison (Duo Winner).

Gerard said: “I always enjoy attending Step into Dance’s Battle as it is such a positive and energising event. It is a fantastic showcase of talented young people and a great chance for them to meet each other, to share their skills, enthusiasm, and also to encourage each other.

“It is a true celebration of dance and how it brings people of all ages and backgrounds together. It was so exciting to see the dancers participate in workshops, and most importantly to have fun.”