WorX, Lilian Baylis Studio

The night before Sadler’s Wells is invaded by the tracksuited and trainer’d best b-boys and b-girls in the land for its annual Breakin’ Convention, there’ll be an altogether different flavour in the Lilian Baylis studio.
It’s an adults only cabaret, where an intriguing collection of dance, acrobatic and music artists will provide a spicy way to kick off the bank holiday weekend, under the guidance of Sadler’s Associate Artist Jonzi D.
Billed as ‘titillating tales of temptation and desire’ the performances promise a sassy, burlesque edge to works of poetry, dance and circus. There is, of course, a hip hop bent, but with influences as wide-ranging as ballet, capoeira and afro-fusion, it’s hip hop in an entirely unexpected guise.
This is the opening event of the Convention, but unlike the street-ready weekend to follow, the evening will be a stylish affair, and glad rags are required. There’ll be a free cocktail to start off your evening, and a low-lit, speakeasy style.
Soweto Kinch, a man who blends his MC talents with a sparkling jazz career, counting two MOBO awards alongside his Mercury Prize nomination, will set the musical tone with a live jazz score.
He’ll be joined by Brixton singer and spoken word artist Lara Lee, otherwise known as Floetic Lara, and at time of writing enjoying success as a contestant on BBC talent show The Voice.
Expect power and elegance in equal measure, and plenty of burlesque fun.
This event is only open to over-21s, and the dress code is smart only.