Dancers and enthusiasts from across Texas will converge in Bastrop for a free, one-day celebration, showcase and competition to celebrate breaking—commonly referred to as break dancing—debuting in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

The setup

Funded by the Bastrop Cultural Arts Commission, local resident Patrick “Pac Man” Perez will host the inaugural event featuring a dance showcase, breaking and all-styles dance competitions, and more, accompanied by San Antonio-based DJ AceThunda.
A closer look

Perez said immersive dance panels from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. will allow dancers from a range of styles, abilities and backgrounds to discuss the influence dancing had on their lives so far, while also teaching attendees a few moves.

Spanish and American Sign Language interpretations will be available during the discussions.


Following the panels, the dance battles will kick off with breaking and all-styles competitions.

In their own words

"We're thrilled breaking is receiving this recognition [at the Olympics]," Perez said. "This event celebrates our differences and the unique style our differences bring to dance. There’s flavor and flare in our differences, and that’s powerful."
  • Aug. 17, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
  • Free (admission and competition)
  • Jerry Fay Wilhelm Center for the Performing Arts, 1401 Cedar St., Bastrop
  • www.bailaandbeats.com
The dance event will kick off on Aug. 17 from 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. at Jerry Fay Wilhelm Center for the Performing Arts, 1401 Cedar St. in Bastrop. (Courtesy Patrick Perez)
The dance event will kick off on Aug. 17 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at Jerry Fay Wilhelm Center for the Performing Arts, 1401 Cedar St. in Bastrop. (Courtesy Patrick Perez)