Breakin’ Convention, Sadler’s Wells, review: A platform for big personalities and amazing moves

(Paul Hampartsoumian)

One of the joys of Breakin’ Convention is its sheer range. The international festival of hip hop dance goes from sharp political theatre to child-friendly workshops and the rock star glamour of Les Twins. It’s a platform for big personalities and amazing moves.

Les Twins, French artists Larry and Laurent Bourgeois, dance regularly for Beyoncé. Long, lean and chiselled, they have a teasing style, playing around with their remarkable technique. Slinking to a saxophone solo, they let their bodies stutter when the record jumps. Fluid lines freeze into sharp edges. They’ll dip back until their shoulders touch the floor, then straighten up in a single silky motion.

Spanish crew Iron Skulls Co erupt out of the audience, faces distorted by gas masks, then shudder and twitch through explosive steps. One flips into a crab position, then hops unnervingly about. UK dancer Cindy Claes shows a woman dealing with ambition and romance. Her tough krumping might become shimmying dancehall when her boyfriend rings, but something has to give.

Flockey, from Germany, has a commanding presence in a solo about addiction. There’s a cool repose to his dancing, an authority that makes his quicksilver twists even more spectacular.

Until 4 May. Box office 0844 412 4300