The Break Forward Program is designed to open doors for young people through the arts—especially for those who may not yet realize what’s possible.

Break Forward is a multi-layered arts education initiative that integrates school-day performances, community-based workshops, and public showcases, designed to build skills, expand cultural awareness, and create real pathways for youth engagement in the arts.

Artistic Team

  • Brandon Greathouse, Co-Artistic Director of BreakForward

    Brandon Greathouse is a multidisciplinary artist, educator, and producer whose work bridges hip-hop, storytelling, and youth development. He is the creator of The Adventures of Freddy the Frog, a genre-blending performance that introduces young audiences to music, movement, and environmental themes through hip-hop. Through his work, Brandon empowers students to find focus, creativity, and real-world pathways through the arts.

  • Morris Isby, Co-artistic Director of BREAKFORWARD

    Morris “B-Boy Morris” Isby is an internationally recognized breakdancer, educator, and member of the world-renowned Rock Force Crew and the Sacramento Kings Dance Team. Known for his appearances on major stages including America’s Got Talent and Step Up 3D, he brings elite performance experience into classrooms and communities. Morris is passionate about mentoring youth, using hip-hop to teach discipline, confidence, and creative expression.

  • Matthew Flores, creator, dancer and educator

    Matthew Flores is a Sacramento-based dancer and teaching artist dedicated to sharing the power of movement and hip-hop culture with young people. His work blends performance and education, helping students build confidence, discipline, and self-expression through dance. Matthew is passionate about creating inclusive spaces where youth can connect, grow, and find their voice.

Assemblies-Student Enrichment

Break Forward school assemblies are immersive, high-energy experiences rooted in hip-hop culture, designed to engage students across TK–12 through storytelling, movement, and live performance. From The Adventures of Freddy the Frog for younger learners to The History of Hip-Hop for older students, each assembly introduces creativity, culture, and real-world pathways through the arts.

  • Hip-hop foundations: breaking, DJing, MCing, and graffiti

  • Interactive performances that build confidence, focus, and self-expression

  • Age-appropriate experiences (TK–5 storytelling + movement / 6–12 cultural history + careers)

  • Connections to SEL, eco-literacy, and creative identity

  • Exposure to real-world arts pathways and global opportunities

Community Workshops
(Skill-Building + Mentorship)

Audience: Students, families, and community members

Led by professional artists including internationally recognized performers such as B-Boy Morris, these workshops provide hands-on learning experiences rooted in authenticity, discipline, and personal expression.

Workshop Focus Areas:

  • Breaking / Movement Foundations
    Strength, rhythm, coordination, and foundational technique

  • Hip-Hop Fundamentals
    Understanding the culture, history, and values behind the art forms

  • Creative Expression + Identity
    Using movement and music as tools for storytelling and self-confidence

  • Mentorship + Life Pathways
    Artists share real-world experiences—touring, performing, and building careers through the arts

These workshops emphasize:

  • Respect, discipline, and community

  • Physical and creative skill development

  • Access to professional-level arts training

Participants engage directly with artists, gaining insight into how dedication to craft can translate into opportunity, travel, and lifelong growth.

Community Competitions & Showcases

Audience: Open to students, families, and the broader community

Each week culminates in a live community event, creating a platform for performance, celebration, and connection.

Event Components:

  • Student and community dance battles / showcases

  • Live DJ + MC-hosted event environment

  • Guest performances by professional artists

  • Opportunities for students to perform, compete, and collaborate

Outcomes:

  • Builds confidence and stage presence

  • Strengthens community engagement and pride

  • Creates a real-world application of skills learned during the week

  • Positions youth as active contributors to local culture

These events are designed to feel authentic to hip-hop culture—high-energy, inclusive, and community-driven—while remaining accessible and welcoming for all ages.

Book US!

email lindsay mcintosh, executive director

lindsay@artsfortheschools.org