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The Power of the Circle: Where Bboys, Bgirls, and Breakers Unite

5/16/2024

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Breakdancing, also known as breaking, rocking , getting down, go off or b-boying / b-girling isn't just a collection of impressive moves. It's a vibrant culture built on community, respect, and a shared passion for expression. And at the heart of this culture lies what we call in Hip Hop, the Cypher. A Cypher is a circular formation of people--in this case dancers-- where the magic truly happens.

" The concept of the cypher was introduced by an Islamic-based organization, the Five Percent Nation, also known as the Nation of Gods and Earth, which was an offshoot of the Nation of Islam and formed in Harlem during the mid-1960s. - The Dallas Observer
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For the novice stepping into their first breaking class, the cypher might seem intimidating. But for seasoned B-girls and B-boys, it's a sacred space pulsating with energy, history, and the raw essence of breaking. This blog dives deep into the significance of the cypher, exploring not just what it is, but what it represents for the breaking community

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Breaking Down the Walls: Community and Unity in the Circle

Imagine a vibrant group of people, pulsating with the beat of hip-hop. In the center, a circle forms, not to exclude, but to welcome. This circle is the cypher, and within its boundaries, all are equal.
For B-girls and B-boys, the cypher transcends age, race, and skill level. It's a space where passion for breaking unites individuals, fostering a strong sense of community. Whether you're a beginner mastering your first windmill or a seasoned veteran dropping jaws with mind-blowing footwork, the cypher welcomes you.

Respect the Circle, Respect the Craft: Stepping Up to the Challenge

Entering the cypher isn't just about showcasing your moves. It's an act of respect for the space and the dancers already there. It's a silent acknowledgement of their dedication and an unspoken agreement to uphold the spirit of breaking.
But the cypher is more than just respect - it's a challenge. It's your chance to step into the spotlight and unleash your creativity. Here, you can push your limits, experiment with new moves, and leave the audience breathless with your skill. It's a nerve-wracking but exhilarating experience that fuels growth and camaraderie

Image of Cypher In The Hood Event

Turning Up the Volume: The Flow and Call and Response of the Cypher

The circular format of the cypher isn't just symbolic. It creates a natural flow for dancers to take turns in the center,showcasing their unique styles. One dancer finishes their throw down, go down, set, routine, the energy builds, and another steps in, seamlessly picking up the rhythm.
This creates a beautiful call and response dynamic. The dancers build off each other's energy, their moves feeding into one another, creating an improvised masterpiece that's greater than the sum of its parts.

A Legacy in Motion: History and Tradition in the Circle

The cypher isn't just a modern phenomenon. It's a cornerstone of breaking's history, dating back to its birth in the New York City streets of the 1970s. The founders of breaking used the cypher as a platform for expression, battling for bragging rights and pushing the boundaries of the dance form.
Today, dancing in a cypher connects B-girls and B-boys to this rich legacy. It's a tangible link to the pioneers who paved the way. Every cypher becomes a living testament to breaking's evolution, a space where the past inspires the present and shapes the future.

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More Than Moves: The Supportive Energy of the Cypher

While the spotlight shines on the dancers in the center, the true magic of the cypher extends beyond them. Surrounding the circle stands the crew - the B-girls, B-boys, and supporters who form the backbone of the breaking community.
Their cheers, claps, and words of encouragement create a symphony of support. The cypher becomes a breeding ground for positive energy, pushing dancers to break their limits and celebrate each other's triumphs. It's a safe space to experiment, fail, and rise again, all with the unwavering support of your breaking family.

Image of young practitioners learning about the dance circle also known as the Cypher

Join the Circle, Find Your Voice

The cypher is more than just a dance floor. It's a community center, a battleground, and a historical landmark. It's a space where respect meets challenge, tradition meets innovation, and support fuels growth.
So, whether you're a curious newcomer or a seasoned breaker, the cypher welcomes you. Step into the circle, find your voice, and let your body tell your story.

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Ready to Break Into the Community?
This blog has just scratched the surface of the cypher's significance. The breaking community is vast and welcoming. Here are some ways to get involved:

Find a local breaking class: Many community centers and dance studios offer breaking classes for all skill levels.
Seek out cyphers in your area: Check online forums or social media groups.

Key Take Aways:

Dancing in a circle, also called a cypher, holds a deep significance for Bgirls and Bboys for a few reasons:

Community and Unity: The circle creates a shared space for dancers to come together, regardless of background or skill level. It fosters a sense of community and belonging within the breaking culture.
Respect and Challenge: Entering the cypher shows respect for the space and the dancers already there. It's also a challenge, an opportunity to showcase your skills and creativity in front of your peers.
Turn Taking and Flow: The circular format allows for a natural flow of dancers taking turns in the center to showcase their moves. It creates a call and response energy, where dancers can build off each other's energy.
History and Tradition: Cyphers were a core element of breakdancing's origins in New York City. Dancing in a circle connects Bgirls and Bboys to the history and tradition of the art form.
Support and Encouragement: Those outside the circle provide encouragement and hype for the dancers in the center. It's a supportive environment for Bgirls and Bboys to push their boundaries and grow as dancers.