Jonzi D: Breakin Class Convention (Dancing Class)

In this episode of Dancing Class, pioneering hip hop artist Jonzi D shares how growing up in a creative family and discovering hip hop shaped his identity and ambitions. From early school performances to training at The Place, he reflects on navigating class and cultural barriers within the world of contemporary dance to carve his own path.

Jonzi recounts the creation of groundbreaking works like Aeroplane Man and Lyrical Theatre, which fused rap, poetry and movement, giving voice to political and social realities often absent from mainstream stages. He also discusses founding Breakin’ Convention at Sadler’s Wells, an international festival that redefined how hip hop is seen in theatre and challenged entrenched notions of “high” and “low” art, Jonzi speaks about identity, community, race, and the limitless potential he found in hip hop culture.

1. Content Guidance: Light reference to drug use
2. Recorded: 1st October 2025
3. Sound Recordist: Dr Laura Taylor
4. Editing: Dr Laura Taylor
5. Audio accompaniment: Dr Jess Blaise Ward
6. Audio accompaniment mastering: Michael Ward