This year with contributions from Ontario Arts Council, DareArts, Theatre Ontario and various high schools we ran the program in eight different high schools across the GTA, particularly teens in high risk areas. The Dare to B project is 14 week breakdancing (b-boy/b-girl) youth inspiration program and just this year we have inspired over a hundred teens to express themselves through dance.

The goal of the program is to:
• Guide the students to learning dance and being physically active and healthy
• Give an outlet of expression in an environment of respect and discipline
• Award recognition of accomplishments and give thoughtful, constructive personal critiques
• Provide opportunities for participants to shine in front of their peers (in a showcase) and in doing so encourage others to make similar positive constructive choices
• Provide an opportunity at the end of term event for participants to compete against other members of the program across the city in a positive and encouraging manner
• Encourage a network of DARE to B graduates who teach others and support dance initiatives in their own community

The students have formed teams similar to a sports team under the instruction of professional dance instructors and are proud to represent their school. They will be competing on behalf of school at the city championship while their friends and family cheer them on.

For information on the Dare to B program please click here

The Breaking in Leaders program identifies youth in the GTA that show exceptional leadership qualities. Thanks to the funding provided by Arts in the Hood, we help these teens develop and refine their skill sets, and apply it their passion for dance. Meeting with the 20 leaders we provide them with a comfortable environment to network with other students from different areas of the city, guide them to identify community issues and encourage them to create plans for social change. Thanks to the connection with hipTix we also bring them to various theatre/dance performances in order help them develop a better understanding of the professional community.

The students continue to learn how to mature their confidence both socially and professionally. With assignments like finding, sustaining and promoting a youth practice space in their community; writing personal portfolios; giving presentations; assisting with the Dare to B program and more, these students will proudly fill their high school volunteer hours while having fun in a positive relatable educational atmosphere.

Contributions from Ontario Arts Council, Toronto Arts Council and Fresh Grounds at Harbourfront have set the stage for a 2010 and 2011 theatre production featuring the best bboy, bgirls and hip hop dancers from all over Toronto including: Supernaturalz, DoDat, Twisted Ankles, Gadfly and more.

With well known Toronto based playwright, Joseph Jomo Pierre's involvement the project is sure to be a ground-breaking success. Pierre is known for his writing of Born Ready and Pusha-Man and his style will be an extreme compliment to Toronto's finest choreographers and freestylers.