Meet The Breakin’ Convention Team
Breakin' Convention's work is made possible thanks to a dedicated team of talented individuals. Together, our backgrounds and expertise continue to push frontiers, create new opportunities, and advocate for the future of hip hop theatre in the UK and beyond.
Jonzi D
Artistic Director
is the founder, ambassador, mentor, host and driving force behind Breakin' Convention.
He shapes every aspect of our work with his creative input, from curating our festival and events to steering our education and professional development programmes.
Michelle Norton
Director
Michelle’s career at Breakin’ Convention began at the very first edition in 2004. With a background in performance and arts management, Michelle progressed from Festival Volunteer to Projects Coordinator, to her current role as Director leading the organisation.
Michelle is the embodiment of Breakin’ Convention, having worked the festival inside and out from its genesis.
Contact Michelle for:
Productions | Collaborations | London festival | Artist performance enquiries - michelle@breakinconvention.com
Shay Rafati
Learning Projects Manager
Shay D is a rapper, poet and event promoter who has been providing a platform for artist for over a decade. Working with the leading practitioners in the field of hip hop education, Shay is at the forefront of Breakin’ Convention’s push for developing the confidence and skills of young people and accrediting hip hop theatre as a recognised qualification, working towards our hip hop academy.
As an artist, Shay D champions women in music and works actively in balancing out the female voice in rap music.
Contact: shay@breakinconvention.com
Lisa Parkes
Tour Producer &
Interim Program Manager
Lisa comes to Breakin' Convention with over 15 years' experience in arts and entertainment, with a background in dance touring, producing and festival management. She is passionate about accessible art and the power it holds to both challenge and support social change and help influence the world we want to see.