Creating access for novice dancers and women at Sleigh da Funk

This past December, we had the privilege of hosting Sleigh da Funk, our inaugural novice popping battle. The event was designed to foster new talent and provide an entry point for dancers taking their first steps into the competitive world of popping. For many participants, it was a chance to test their skills, measure their progress, and gain invaluable experience in a supportive and welcoming environment. The values at the heart of Sleigh da Funk were on full display throughout the night, making it a resounding success.

Sleigh da Funk also served as a powerful testament to the progress we’ve made in building inclusive spaces for women. All of our top 4 finalists were women, a significant achievement in a male-dominated dance scene. During the event, Executive Director Jude “Jinx” Brummett shared an inspiring takeaway: “Representation at the bottom begets representation at the top.” This reflects our belief that showcasing diverse talent in entry-level events like Sleigh da Funk paves the way for greater representation and leadership at higher levels. Seeing women excel and rise through the ranks is a vital step in ensuring that all dancers, regardless of gender, can thrive in these art forms.

Equally important is creating spaces where dancers can begin and grow. Events like Sleigh da Funk serve a critical role as stepping stones for those who might find larger battles daunting and intimidating. By offering a smaller, more intimate setting that encourages risk taking and exploration, dancers can gain confidence and build the skills needed to succeed in more competitive arenas. This emphasis on accessibility helps bridge the gaps that often limit participation and representation in our broader dance community.

Sleigh da Funk highlighted the importance of intentional spaces within the popping community. By focusing on accessibility and inclusivity, the event created opportunities for new voices to shine and set the stage for continued growth.

All battles from the event are now available to watch on our YouTube channel. Tune in to see the progress and growth of our local dance community in action.