Breakdancing in your 50s: ‘My body can still do everything

The cast of Canadian B-boy Crazy Smooth’s new show on their breathtaking moves, their multiple surgeries and why hip-hop needs ‘living libraries’ of experience

“When everybody strips off and we’re all in our boxers, you can’t tell who’s 50,” says Canadian B-boy Crazy Smooth. “We’re all dancers, we’re all ripped,” he laughs. “Tash is a five-times grandmother, she’s got four kids, and she’s got a six-pack.”

Smooth, AKA Yvon Soglo, is talking about his latest show, In My Body, and its cast of hip-hop dancers who range from their 20s to late 50s. It’s a piece that tackles the reality of being an ageing B-boy in a culture that’s often associated with youth – witness the ultra-athletic, acrobatic moves from the breakers (the proper term for breakdancers) debuting at this year’s Olympics.