South African breakdancer Courtnaé Paul says her event ‘It Takes Two’ is her way of giving back to the dance community.
Paul is one of the most successful breakdancers in the country, having also represented the nation in the Olympic Qualifiers in 2024 and also crowned the 1vs1 B-Girl AfroBreak International Champion in Accra, Ghana in 2024.
Speaking to SABC Sport, the Redbull BC One champion explains how this event will focus on both breakdancing and Hip Hop.
"It Takes Two is a 2v2 street dance competition that brings Breaking and Hip Hop Freestyle together in a format that starts in the cypher and builds teams on the day," said Paul.
"There are two open cyphers running at the same time, one for breakers and one for freestyle dancers, and dancers can step in as many times as they like. Judges watch the session and select the dancers who stand out.
"Once you qualify, you don’t come in with a pre-made team. You choose your partner from the other style, and from there it’s 2v2 knockouts until one team takes it.
"The idea is to put the focus back on chemistry, adaptability, and collaboration, rather than just repeating the same formulas we’re used to seeing.
"I want this event to feel like a real meeting point for the culture, something that challenges dancers but also brings the scene closer together."
The Durbanite got into the breakdancing scene after having done gymnastics as well as played football as a child. Now 33 years old, she says it has always been her dream to give back to the dance community.
“It’s very important to me to give back to the community and the culture that gave me so much," she added.
"Breaking and hip hop freestyle come from the same roots, but they don’t always get enough chances to really work together in a meaningful way, especially in competitive spaces.
"This event is about creating that bridge and giving dancers a reason to collaborate, not just coexist. I also want to make sure that the relationships and connections I’ve built over almost 20 years in the industry can support creating more opportunities for the scene.
"For me, it’s about building platforms, not just moments, and helping create spaces where dancers can grow, connect, and share the culture that means so much to us all.”
South Africa dominated at the 2025 Dance World Cup in Spain winning 62 medals, including 22 golds, 21 silvers, and 19 bronzes, with massive wins in the Senior Street Dance, Junior/Senior Hip Hop, and Senior Commercial groups categories.
