Youth breaks out with new session

Windsor Recreation is bursting forth with something completely different. The department is starting up free break dancing sessions at the gazebo in Victoria Park July 24-25 for all interested youth.

Windsor Recreation youth worker Anthony Wood says brainstorming for new ideas in recreation is important because having more options gets more people involved.

Recreation spans such a big gap and some people just don’t like the common sports, Wood said. “Break dancing is something new and exciting for this community.”

It would be neat to get a scene of breaking boys and girls in Windsor, Wood added. “I’ll even enjoy participating. How could I not? It’s too fun, and I like being a kid, too.”

The workshop will run from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on both days, and anyone interested can register by contacting Wood at 792-1948. Rain location will be the Windsor Community Centre.

Dartmouth resident Chris Beck will conduct the workshop with fellow Koala Corp break dance crewmember Tony Ingram. Some history of the dance, aspects of competitive breaking and basic foundation moves and routines will features of the session.

Many people have the misconception that break dancing is just a bunch of tricks and spins, Beck said. “Which is partially true, but we also move and dance to the music while incorporating some acrobatics and different moves you wouldn’t normally see.”

It is a fun and energetic way of expression, Beck said. “It is a great way to stay active.

“I first became involved in breaking when I was in high school,” Beck said. “There was a lunch-time break dancing class offered, and I got involved with a few of my peers. “Since then, I have been involved with breaking consistently for the past seven years.”

Breaking presents an appreciation of all art forms and teaches the importance of setting goals, Beck noted. “It has really kept me healthy and taught me the importance of being involved with the community.

“Breaking has influenced my life significantly,” Beck said. “Any opportunity I have to get some people interested -- with hopes of helping the scene -- I try to take advantage of.”

Break dancing can teach young kids about what it means to work together, Beck pointed out. It is great for at-risk kids who don’t necessarily have an interest in sports or other activities, and it is a fun chance to learn something new. “I think it really helps bring people together.”