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.

  • Jonzi D

    Artistic Director of Breakin' Convention

  • Dr Rachel Krische

    Performer & Academic Researcher

  • Dr Laura Griffiths

    Senior Lecturer in Dance

Digital Event

World Premiere

Venue: Online

  • Admission: Listen with Digital Pass (Pay What You Can from £5), which gives you access to DU’s entire digital programme!
  • Duration: 93 minutes
  • Access: Captioned

Content: Light reference to drug use

Dance Umbrella Festival 2025 Across London & Online
2 - 31 October


Credits +

Date of recording: 1 October 2025

  • Dr Laura Taylor
    Sound Recordist
  • Dr Laura Taylor
    Editing
  • Dr Jess Blaise Ward
    Audio Accompaniment
  • Michael Ward
    Audio Accompaniement Mastering
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