The Exchange X8
Where studio and street dancers meet
March 18th | 12:30–4:30 pm
South Portland Community Center
$5 to battle | $10 to observe
Check out our interview with CBM faculty
and founder of The Exchange, Elizabeth Lau,
to learn more about this family-friendly event!
CBM: What is The Exchange?
Elizabeth Lau: It's a hip hop jam
CBM: Like strawberry jam?
EL: Haha! No, more like musicians getting together to jam, except for dancers
CBM: What can we expect to see at The Exchange?
EL: Live DJs, Emcees, Graffiti artists, and Bboys representing the four elements of Hip Hop. Alongside studio and other street dancers from Maine and New England battling for prizes. The day ends with a crew/team exhibition.
CBM: Why did you create The Exchange?
EL: Studio dancers often come to Hip Hop class without any context of what hip hop culture or even hip hop music is. The Exchange was created to give studio dancers in Maine a chance to experience hip hop culture and the energy cultivated when hundreds of hip hop enthusiasts gather.
CBM: Should I go to The Exchange if I'm a parent?
EL: Your teenager will tell you NO! But we say YES! Being there to witness your dancer or their peers step out in a moment of bravery to battle in the midst of a roomful of encouraging people will bond you to your dancer. So yes, show up!
CBM: Can anyone battle?
EL: Yes, and if you want to encourage your nervous dancer to battle, you can threaten to battle if they don't. JK but lots of encouragement from you will go a long way!
CBM: What can dancers win?
EL: 10 & under winner receives a week of dance camp at CBM, and the 10 & up 2v2 prize is $400
CBM: Great! We will see you at The Exchange at The South Portland Community Center on Saturday, March 18th.
EL: Don't miss the Master Class with Devin Woolridge at 11 am at The American Legion in South Portland to get into the groove before heading to The Exchange!
