In Aurora, Colorado, a vibrant hip-hop dance culture thrives at the School of Breaking, a dedicated studio where students of all ages gather to learn and practice breaking, also known as breakdancing. Since its founding in 2012, the School of Breaking has become a key institution in promoting the art form and hip-hop culture within the local community. The studio is located at the 1400 Dallas Arts space, where the sounds of energetic funk music fill the room as dancers stomp, spin, and slide with passion and skill.
Chase Evered, who goes by B-Boy Chase ‘Em Down, is the owner, program director, and an instructor at the school. He emphasizes that breaking offers more than just dance; it serves as a positive outlet for youth to channel their energy and emotions. “This is a way to transcend gang culture and to turn into something positive,” Evered explains. He highlights how breaking allows young people to express themselves freely, releasing anger and frustration through movement rather than violence.
While many dance studios have started teaching breaking, only a few focus exclusively on this art form. The School of Breaking stands alongside organizations like Bboy Factory in Colorado as one of the rare spaces dedicated solely to preserving and developing breaking culture. These schools are instrumental in keeping alive the roots of hip-hop dance, which originated in urban communities as a creative response to social challenges.
Breaking is more than just a style of dance; it is an important cultural expression within the broader hip-hop movement. The culture includes not only dance but also music, art, fashion, and community values. At the School of Breaking, students learn not only technique but also the history and philosophy behind breaking. This education helps foster respect for the culture’s origins while encouraging innovation and personal growth.
The impact of such institutions extends beyond dance floors. By providing a safe space for youth engagement, they help build community pride and offer alternatives to negative influences. The School of Breaking’s mission is to inspire confidence, discipline, and creativity among its students while strengthening ties within Aurora’s hip-hop scene.
As hip-hop continues to gain global recognition as a cultural force, places like the School of Breaking ensure that its foundational elements remain authentic and accessible. Through dedicated instruction and community support, breaking culture evolves while honoring its past. This ongoing development demonstrates that hip-hop is much more than entertainment—it is a dynamic culture that empowers individuals and connects communities.
