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London Battle

Following Saturday’s fire in one part of Somerset House, our focus is on allowing London Fire Brigade the space to do their work.
The Daytimers x RepresentAsian event will not be taking place today and Somerset House will remain closed until further notice. The Courtauld Gallery has not been directly impacted by the fire and it will remain open.
The safety and well-being of artists, visitors and staff is paramount to Somerset House. We apologise for any inconvenience this change of circumstances may cause.

Returning for a second triumphant year, London Battle takes over Somerset House’s iconic open-air courtyard with a day of dance and breaking showcases, workshops, live DJs and a big outdoor party, all culminating in a head-to-head dance battle between the four corners of London.

Archived Event

DatesSat 17 Aug 2024
Times14.00 - 20.30
SpaceEdmond J. Safra Fountain Court
PriceFree

Celebrating breaking’s inaugural appearance at the Paris Olympic Games in 2024, Somerset House and Dance Umbrella are bringing together some of the most exciting talent from the four corners of London to go head-to-head across a diverse range of styles.

Someone break dancing. They are stood on their hands, with their legs suspended in the air.

Curated by choreographer Jade Hackett, who has performed with some of the UK’s leading hip hop dance theatre companies, including Boy Blue and ZooNation, you'll be the judge, deciding which neighbourhood of our global city brings the best dance flavour on the day. Who will be crowned champion? Will it be north, south, east or west London that takes the honours?

This is a family friendly event and we welcome people of all ages. However, we recommend carers provide ear defenders for those with a higher sensitivity to amplified music.
This is a standing event. There will be an access area side of stage for wheelchair users and for good sightlines. The event will be BSL interpreted by Gary Morgan and Rebekah Spencer.

Schedule

Host: Jade Hackett
DJ for the Workshops and Battle: Josh Costanzo

Workshops | 14.00 – 17.00
ZooNation repertoire with Natasha Gooden
Waacking with Mademoiselle Ginger
Afro with Patience J
Hip Hop with Kloé Dean
All abilities welcome

Showcases and London Battle | 17.00 – 19.00
A series of performances from some of London’s most exciting dance talent featuring:
AfroQueens
Aretha Jay
Boy Blue
London Battle
Four teams hailing from the four corners of London meet in Somerset House courtyard to slog it out for the London crown. Who will be the best?
North Team
Captain: Jonny Vieco
Battlers: Rory, Lorena
South Team
Captain: Caine
Battlers: Clara, Omni
East Team
Captain: Turbo
Battlers: Kieran Lai, Malachi
West Team
Captain: Vendetta
Battlers: Abisoula, Quake
Judges
Rhimes
Amanda Pefkou aka Siren
Kloé Dean
Outdoor Party with Mister S on the decks | 19.00 – 20.30
Once the winners are crowned, there’ll be a celebration of hip hop bringing all the elements of the day together in one big party.

Presented by Somerset House in partnership with Dance Umbrella

Dance Umbrella is London’s international dance festival, taking place every October across the capital and online.
Find out more at www.danceumbrella.co.uk.