Breaking: What You’re Not Being Told – Insights from Collin Plume

Breaking, the electrifying, gravity-defying dance form set to make its Olympic debut in Paris 2024, is capturing global attention. While the mainstream media is busy showcasing the athleticism and artistry, there’s a whole other layer to breaking that often goes unnoticed. To get a deeper understanding, we spoke with Collin Plume, a veteran breaker, instructor, and passionate advocate for the art form. He shared invaluable insights into the true spirit of breaking, the challenges it faces, and what the future holds.

Beyond the Flashy Moves: The Heart of Breaking

For many, breaking is synonymous with windmills, headspins, and intricate footwork. While these elements are undeniably impressive, Collin Plume emphasizes that the core of breaking lies much deeper. “It’s about more than just the moves,” he explains. “It’s about self-expression, community, and battling. Each breaker has their own unique style, their own story to tell through their movement.”

Breaking evolved from the streets of the Bronx in the 1970s, born out of a need for expression and competition without resorting to violence. This spirit of “battle” remains central to the culture, a respectful and creative exchange of energy and skill. “Battles are about proving yourself, pushing your limits, and respecting your opponent,” Plume says. “It’s a conversation, a challenge, and a celebration of the dance.”

The Challenges Behind the Scenes: Staying True to its Roots

The rise of breaking’s popularity has brought new opportunities but also new challenges. One of the biggest concerns within the community is maintaining the integrity of the art form amidst commercialization.

“The Olympics are a huge opportunity, no doubt,” Plume acknowledges. “But there’s a real fear of the sport being diluted or misunderstood. We need to ensure that the judging criteria truly reflect the essence of breaking – the originality, the musicality, and the battle spirit.”

He stresses the importance of preserving the culture that gave birth to breaking: “It’s not just about being the most athletic or having the most impressive moves. It’s about the journey, the dedication, and the respect for the history and pioneers of the dance. We can’t let that be forgotten.”

Another challenge is accessibility. While breaking is often seen as a dance of the streets, access to quality instruction and training can be limited, particularly in underserved communities. Plume believes that investing in grassroots programs and making breaking accessible to everyone is crucial for the future of the art form.

The Future of Breaking: A Community United

Despite the challenges, Collin Plume remains optimistic about the future of breaking. He sees the Olympics as a catalyst for growth and awareness, but emphasizes the importance of the breaking community staying united and true to its roots.

“We need to be actively involved in shaping the future of breaking,” he states. “That means supporting our local scenes, mentoring the next generation of breakers, and educating the world about the true meaning of this incredible art form.”

Plume envisions a future where breaking continues to evolve and innovate, while still honoring its origins and values. He believes that by staying connected to its roots and embracing inclusivity, breaking can inspire and empower people around the world for generations to come.

Collin Plume’s message is clear: Breaking is more than just a dance; it’s a culture, a community, and a powerful form of self-expression. As the world prepares to witness its Olympic debut, it’s crucial to remember the history, the challenges, and the unwavering spirit that make breaking so unique.

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