CULTURE: KNOCKOUT
Images: Jade D'Amico (@jadedamico)
The creative heads at OPNSRC.CO and Casula Powerhouse came together on the 24th of August to present a night dedicated to unifying hip-hop cultures within Western Sydney. The multi-faceted event featured a three-part tournament consisting of all styles of dance, beatboxing, and breakdancing, all aiming to provide a safe and positive space for local creatives and hip-hop lovers.
Image: Jade D'Amico (@jadedamico)
Good vibes were brought with performances from local artists such as DJ Naiki, Gibrillah, V and yvngcweed.
Image: Jade D'Amico (@jadedamico)
The Western was blown away by the sounds coming out of the beatboxers, and it was definitely a tough call for judges Genesis, Warlock, and Zman to make. In the end, Rex Le reigned supreme and brought the winning title home.
Image: Jade D'Amico (@jadedamico)
Kandy Devlillan championed the All Dance Styles festivities, and it was not an easy decision to make for judges Arisse, Derry, and Poppin Jack. So many fierce participants brought their A-game, but Kandy slayed the competition with a waacking routine - a dance style most prominent in ballroom and haus culture. Kandy has been dancing for over three years, and worked herself to the bone in the lead up to the competition. In an almost cruel twist of fate, Kandy was pitted against her boyfriend in the final round - and the two battled it out in true Romeo and Juliet style. Kandy expressed how nerve-wracking it was, going up against someone who taught her so much about the dance world. She mentions how her nerves came from him being her ‘teacher. He taught me all I know for battling and etiquette, he’s my personal trainer and life coach. So going up against him was good pressure’. Kandy is one of many great female dancers we hope to see more of out on the dancefloor.
Image: Jade D'Amico (@jadedamico)
A special shout out to Chico, who topped the breakdancing tournament. Chico has competed overseas with his SKB, and has represented Australia and the Philippines in different countries. He has won titles in 1v1 Top Rock and Crew 4v4 battles.
There was so much positive energy throughout the night - you couldn’t help but watch with high intensity and awe. More events like this is much needed in the West, where performers and creatives alike can express themselves in unique and powerful ways. We look forward to more events and platforms from the great minds at OPNSRC.CO and Casual Powerhouse.
Check out the highlight video by Maxed out films:
