February 1 – 16, 2025
Various Locations
Step into a dynamic fusion of movement as Krump meets Contemporary Dance at Harbourfront Centre, part of the milestone Kuumba30 celebration. This electrifying performance brings together the raw, explosive energy of Krump—a street dance style rooted in self-expression and resilience—with the fluid, emotive storytelling of contemporary dance. The result is a unique experience showcasing the power of movement to break barriers, tell stories, and build cultural bridges.
As Kuumba celebrates its 30th anniversary, this performance pays homage to its mission of amplifying Black voices and artistry. Set against the stunning backdrop of Toronto’s waterfront, audiences will witness a boundary-pushing collaboration between diverse artists, each bringing their unique style and perspective. It’s a celebration of innovation, community, and the limitless possibilities of dance.
Highlight Events
365 Steps: Of Sea and Colour
February 1, 2025 | 8:00 – 9:30 pm | Harbourfront Centre Theatre
Celebrated dancers and choreographers Lua Shayenne, Katlyn Addison, Syreeta Hector and Esie Mensah perform the world premiere of their commissioned solo piece, inspired by this season’s exhibitions at The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery.
From the Olympics to Fleck Dance Theatre
February 14 – 15, 2025 | 7:30 – 8:20 pm | Fleck Dance Theatre, Queen’s Quay Terminal
After a successful European tour, Maud Le Pladec’s Silent Legacy brings two generations of dancers together on stage for an intense encounter of contemporary dance and Krump. Witness this fierce urban street dance that emerged from the streets of South Central Los Angeles and into hip-hop and pop culture.
Maud Le Pladec, the esteemed head of dance and choreographer of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games Opening and Closing Ceremonies (who also choreographed Lady Gaga’s headlining show), brings two generations of dancers on stage for an intense encounter of contemporary dance and Krump. Silent Legacy showcases young krumping prodigy Adeline Kerry Cruz and celebrated contemporary dancer Siaska Chareyre for a performance of unparalleled artistry.
Rock Harder Day 1: Youth & Preliminaries
February 15, 2025 | 11 am – 8 pm | Lakeside Terrace
Setting the stage for a high-energy start, Breaking Canada presents a showcase of young talent, with breakers vying for top spots. In the Preliminary Rounds, teams battle on the floor for a coveted place in the Top 16, and the winners will advance to the epic main event, The Final Battles. (Youth Battles start at 11 am. Preliminary Rounds start at 6 pm.)
Rock Harder Day 2: The Final Battles
February 16, 2025 | 5 – 10 pm | Harbourfront Centre Theatre
The Final Battles take centre stage, hosting an intense lineup of international talent competing for top honours. In the You Be ILL and the You Be ELLE International Championships, B-boys and B-girls headline the elite divisions. At the same time, the inaugural Bonnie & Clyde Championships features mixed teams, bringing dynamic duos to the floor.
Special guests include: Keimar (Toronto), Hijack (Hawaii), Mighty Jimm (Belgium), Stray Curt (Vancouver), Profo (California), Roxy (UK) and Switch B (Toronto).
A Celebration of Unity and Expression
As the curtain falls on Krump Meets Contemporary Dance, audiences are left with a powerful reminder of dance’s ability to transcend boundaries and unite diverse voices. This captivating collaboration perfectly embodies the spirit of Kuumba30, celebrating creativity, resilience, and cultural exchange. By blending the raw intensity of Krump with the fluid artistry of contemporary dance, this performance highlights the beauty of shared stories and collective expression. Harbourfront Centre has once again proven itself as a stage for innovation, inviting audiences to connect, reflect, and celebrate through the universal language of movement.
