Think Breaking by Professor Niels ‘Storm’ Robitzky is a comprehensive analysis and guide for interpreting dance performances, particularly in the style of Breaking. The author, an experienced dancer and teacher, combines personal experiences with theoretical knowledge, providing deep insights into the art of dance. The book covers topics such as the psychological foundations for neutral interpretation, the philosophical bases of the dance style Breaking, and the significance of musicality, performance, technique and variety, in dance performance, as well as the creative and personal development of a dancer. It serves as a guide for dancers, trainers, organizers, judges, and critics, to develop a thorough understanding of the art of Breaking and its interpretation.
Professor Niels ‘Storm’ Robitzky, serving at the Anton Bruckner Private University, is a distinguished figure in the world of Breaking. He has significantly contributed to establishing and promoting this dance style on the global stage over decades. Beginning in the mid-1980s, he, along with a few colleagues, started building a worldwide network for Breaking, significantly aiding in its recognition as a serious and respected art form.
Another significant contribution of Professor Robitzky was the development of the judging system for Breaking at the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires in 2018. Together with his colleagues, he created a scoring system that meets the unique requirements and aesthetics of Breaking, marking an important step in the acknowledgment of this dance form in international sports events.
Since 1992, Professor Robitzky has significantly shaped the genre of ‘HipHop Dance Theatre’. Through his creative and innovative stage works, he has contributed not only to the development of this genre but also changed how dance is understood and appreciated as a form of expression.
In 2000, Storm reached a remarkable milestone in his career by publishing the book From Swipe to Storm. As the first Breaker to release such a work, he offered deep insights into the world of Breaking in Germany and shared his personal journey and experiences within this dynamic art form. His pioneering spirit was again evident in 2004 when he produced the learning DVD Footwork Fundamentals, the first of its kind. This educational tool aimed to make the complex techniques of Breaking accessible to a wider audience.
In his role as a professor at the Anton Bruckner Private University, Professor Robitzky continues his commitment to the art of Breaking. He shares his extensive knowledge and experiences with the next generation of dancers, and his influence extends far beyond the dance floor. His achievements as a dancer, educator, and cultural actor have made him a legendary figure in the world of dance, whose work will inspire generations of dancers and dance enthusiasts for a long time.
