Breakin' Convention tour to (hip) hop onto Tyneside
Blending world class performers with local talent, a venue takeover is planned for the Tyne Theatre and Opera House in May
A major celebration of hip hop culture is heading to Tyne Theatre & Opera House next month (May), as the Breakin’ Convention Tour 2026 promises an evening of dance, music and creativity to the city.
Founded at Sadler’s Wells in 2004 and led by Jonzi D, Breakin’ Convention has become a internationally recognised festival of hip hop dance theatre, showcasing artists from around the world alongside local talent.
The Newcastle event promises more than a traditional theatre show, with the venue set to be transformed from the moment audiences arrive. Pre-show activity will include live graffiti art and freestyle dance sessions, creating an immersive experience that celebrates hip hop culture in an open and interactive way.
On stage, audiences can expect a high-energy line-up featuring Olivier Award-winning TRAPLORD by Ivan Michael Blackstock, alongside international performers including Femme Fatale and members of ILL-ABILITIES.
Local artists Gribz, Dance Jam and Ruff Diamond will also perform, offering a platform for homegrown talent to share the stage with globally recognised acts.
Tour producer Lisa Parkes said: “There’s a strong cultural pulse in the city, and over the years we’ve built real connections with audiences here. There’s an openness to Newcastle crowds – people show up, they’re present, and they connect with the honesty of the work.
“Bringing Breakin’ Convention back in 2026 felt like a no brainer and when we were looking for a theatre to partner with, the Tyne Theatre & Opera House stood out.
“It’s a venue with real history and character, and that matters to us - because hip hop has its own deep roots and stories, and it deserves to sit in spaces that carry that same sense of legacy.”
Tickets for the event, which will take place on May 12 are available via the Tyne Theatre and Opera House website.