Today we’d like to introduce you to Jason Dang and Joel Rivera.
Hi Jason and Joel, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
KnowBreaks started as a simple idea to create/conduct dance classes for the community and to pursue our passion to teach. Both Jason and Joel have 40+ years of extensive breaking experience. KnowBreaks is a Houston-based movement training program dedicated to illuminating dance, culture, art, and movement. We strive to provide quality classes without restrictions that limit most individuals’ potential, in addition to focusing on individual needs. We believe a good challenge, consistent growth, and a nurturing environment can inspire individuals to do great things in dance, movement, and life.
Dang: Since 2006, I discovered my passion for Hip Hop, particularly Breaking. I thrived to craft my technique, artistry, and musicality in the culture. Movement mastery led me to train and perform cirque arts, mainly hand balancing. After many hours of balance, I was inspired to acquire my Yoga Teacher certification. After completing my collegiate dance training, I continue to teach dance/movement in the Houston surrounding area.
Rivera: With over 22 years of experience, I developed an immense passion for the arts. With Hip Hop as my primary dance background, teaching and advocating naturally became my passion. Having a hefty knowledge of Hip Hop culture, combined with a seasoned teaching experience and collegiate training, gives me a unique perspective in dance and in teaching. Whether it’s in a cypher, studio, a battle or an a proscenium stage; my goal is to provide quality movement and teachings that promotes growth, adaptation and confidence.
Currently a company member for Social Movement Contemporary Dance and pursuing my own career, I continue my artistic pursuit and passion as an artist, and a teacher.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
After graduating university, we became teachers at local Houston schools but always dreamed of operating our own facility/school. In order to make this happen, we are juggling between multiple jobs, conquering financial struggles, and whilst pursuing our own personal goals. We’re both new to the business aspects of dance so it has been a huge learning curve.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
We’re profesional dancers/educators that specialize in Hip Hop movement and the culture behind it. We’re known for developing individualistic movement and character development by teaching basic foundations of Hip Hop movement while providing a nurturing environment. Our bread and butter are Breakin, something that we are deeply passionate about and we also specialize in Acrobatics/Balancing, House, Yoga, Contemporary, and our new class additions, Fitbreak and Northbeast. We are proud of our passionate students and the opportunity to teach in our community. We believe what sets us apart is our broad experience in movement and the ability to create a positive learning environment.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Risk taking is how we got to where we are today, from following our passions as our careers to becoming co-owners of a business. The major risks we took were to take a leap of faith in creating a community space to nurture and cultivate dancers of all ages. This is something we have talked about since 2013. What we do may seem like a risk to others, but everyone is a risk-taker in their own respective ways.
Pricing:
- 30$ for Unlimited Drop-ins for 30 days (Introductory offer for new clients!)
- 30$ for Drop-in Class
- 75$ for Private Lesson
- 180$ for (8) Drop-in Punch Card
- 95$/month for 1 class/week
Contact Info:
- Website: KnowBreaks.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/KnowBreaks
- Facebook: Facebook.com/KnowBreaks
- Youtube: Youtube.com/@knowbreaks
Image Credits
Francois Achan
KnowBreaks
