Red Bull's BC One World Is Giving Female Breakdancers the Platform They Deserve

Typically, when it comes to breakdancing, not many things matter more than the sharp-coordinated movements of the body. Head spinning, leg holding and body jerking have all iconically dominated the appeal of breakdancing since its inception. However, as the dance style matures, so has its focus and the people who dominate the field and what they’re wearing. The lineup for the 15th annual Red Bull BC One World breakdancing competition reveals an even more beautiful side of breakdancing: representation. This year, the event places a spotlight on the female break dancers, who are often overlooked on mainstream stages.

For the first time ever, 16 B-girls (female breakdancers) have been invited to the BC One World Stage to battle in the highly competitive B-Girl World Final. Each one of the 16 ladies will compete this Saturday in Zurich, Switzerland for the chance to be crowned BC One's number one female break dancer. The event is much more than just a competition bringing together the best breakers from around the world; it's also a celebration of hip-hop culture, the art form that birthed breakdancing. Just like with anything attached to hip-hop, all eyes will also be on the competitors' style, which reflects a minimal and leisurely aesthetic. The introduction of women’s B-girl fashion will reveal the best of trendy athleisure mixed with classic silhouettes and a fiercely feminine edge.

In the past, the BC One World Final had been dominated by men. It wasn't until last year, when B-girl Ayumi competed in the 2017 BC One World Final, that a woman had ever touched the final's stage. The introduction of a dedicated women's competition has made room for more women to be recognized for their talents in a space that has not always represented them. This opportunity has brought back 2017 finalist Ayumi, and her sister, Narumi, who will both compete in the women’s final. Narumi will also serve as the first-ever female judge of the b-boy competition. In another salute to women, female-dance crew, Femme Fatale, will host a breaking workshop and perform during the competition.

During a time when diversity and representation are at the forefront of change, events such as the BC One B-Girl Wold final is helping cast a much-needed spotlight on women operating within a male-dominated field. In hip-hop culture, where women are often pitted against one another, this competition is not only important it is necessary to forge healthy and constructive competition among hip-hop's women.

Stream the Red Bull BC One World Stage competition live September 29, at 3:30 PM EST on Red Bull TV.

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