Merseyside Break Dancing History: Stories, Photos and Memories

Break Dancing and Body Popping were everywhere in the 1980s — on TV, in schools, youth clubs, community centres, town centres and family parties.

But a lot of the local story was never written down.

This Heritage Open Days event is a chance to look back at the Break Dancing, Body Popping and Hip Hop history of Merseyside, St Helens and the wider North West.

We’ll be sharing old stories, photos, flyers, videos and memories from the people and places that helped shape the culture. We’d also love to hear from anyone who remembers local crews, battles, DJs, graffiti, youth clubs, school performances, community events or people who were part of the scene.

You don’t need to have been a dancer to get involved. Parents, friends, youth workers, teachers, photographers, DJs, former breakers, body poppers and anyone with a memory or photo to share is welcome.

Powered by Hip Hop is collecting these stories as part of our Breaking Heritage Ambassadors project, supported through European Heritage Days. The aim is simple: to make sure this part of our local culture is not forgotten.

Pop in, have a look, share a memory, or just find out why Break Dancing history matters.

While you’re here, why not also visit the other Heritage Open Days events and activities taking place at The World of Glass?

Timings

Sunday 13 September:

11:00 - 16:00 – Heritage exhibition, story-sharing stall, activities and performances

Wednesday 16 September:

12:00 - 16:00 - Heritage exhibition and story-sharing stall

Location & directions

World of Glass, Chalon Way East, St. Helens, Merseyside, WA10 1BX

Directions:

The event will be inside The World of Glass. Please come in through the main entrance and ask at reception, or follow the Heritage Open Days / Powered by Hip Hop signs.

Contact on day:

Tom Glynn

Telephone number:

+447771594524

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

This is a drop-in event inside The World of Glass. Visitors can stay for as long or as little as they like. Some activities and performances may take place at set times during the day.

Additional information

This is a relaxed drop-in event inside The World of Glass. Come along for a quick look, stay for longer, watch a performance, try an activity, or share a memory. You do not need any dance experience. We would especially love to hear from people who remember Break Dancing, Body Popping, Electric Boogie, DJing, graffiti or local Hip Hop culture of St Helens, Merseyside and the North West region. If you have old photos, flyers, names, places or stories, please come and say hello. Copies or photos of original items are ideal.

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