The always incredible Breakin’ Convention is rolling into the Tyne Theatre & Opera House in May and the line-up is straight outta the top drawer. Check this little lot out.

The Breakin’ Convention has been wowing punters in the north-east for many a year now and with good reason, because they always pull a handful of aces out of the pack. The mover and groover behind the whole enterprise is Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Jonzi D, and, as ever, he will be hosting this extraordinary extravaganza of DJs, graffiti artists, and freestyle sessions. And alongside world-renowned troupes will be crews and artists that have been especially selected from around the region. Among the headline events this year is the Olivier Award-winning TRAPLORD, which was created by the prolific artist and choreographer Ivan Blackstock. His innovative body of work includes collaborations with artists such as Beyoncé, and he’s also been responsible for some show-stopping solo performances, film stuff, and plenty more besides. Exploring masculinity and mental health TRAPLOAD is an explosive fusion of movement and storytelling challenging racial stereotypes of Black men. Also making a splash in 2026 will be the Los Angeles-based trio Femme Fatale (pictured) who are of French, Mexican and Korean origin. Renowned for their slick and timeless performances, stylish musicality and razor-sharp moves, Femme Fatale’s appearances at Breakin’ Convention in recent years have been acclaimed by audiences and critics alike. Another headline addition to this year’s bash is the trailblazing collective ILL-Abilities. This all-star crew of differently abled b-boys hail from the Netherlands and Brazil and are returning to Breakin’ Convention on a wave of popular demand. By refusing to accept any perceived limitations, their remarkable skills have generated headlines and packed-out venues right from the get-go. If you’re not au fait with all the good will and heat that Breakin’ Convention has generated, then you should know that it all started back in 2004. Helmed by the estimable Jonzi D and Michelle Norton, the pair have been at the forefront of the global hip-hop dance theatre movement and have made it their aim to showcase artists and connect communities through the power of dance, music and storytelling. They run an annual festival at Sadler’s Wells (this year it’s taking place between 1-4 May) but these tours help bring their vision to the rest of the UK – and the Tyneside events are always very popular. As Jonzi D, Artist Director of Breakin’ Convention, commented: “Our latest UK tour features new venues, award winning conceptual work, an international popping trio and the most unique breakers in the world. We never stop breakin’ convention!” Listen to Jonzi D. He knows.

Breakin’ Convention, Tuesday 12 May, Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Newcastle, 7.30pm, £25 (under 16s, over 60s, students, unwaged £23),