A trailblazer in the world of breaking, international champion and Olympic Silver medalist Dany Dann has risen to the pinnacle of the sport, performing with boundless energy and the ambition to reach new heights. Emerging as an icon of break culture, reflecting styles from his French-Guianese and Haitian heritage, his dynamic moves have made him an inspiration and ambassador for young people exploring movement through breaking – embodying a dance that sits at the intersection of sport and culture, and as a global platform for diversity and difference.

Born Danis Civil in French Guiana, Dany first stepped into breakdance at 15, instigating a move that took him to Mainland France with hopes to escalate his chance of breaking through. Approaching breaking as an outlet for emotion after the passing of his ‘dance twin’ and best friend, performing enabled him to transform his grief into motivation, driven to shatter boundaries through his accomplishments, and inspire a new generation in the French overseas community.

“Dance is a language of joy and connection. It knows no boundaries, just like a smile. When I dance, I want people to feel the happiness and positivity that flows through me.”

Representing France at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games for Breaking’s debut on the OIympic program, Dany’s profile continues to expand with his ability to inspire. Connecting with his craft, and his role as a Reebok Europe ambassador, director Cyprien Clément-Delmas turns the lens on Dany Dann for short documentary Break'in Through: Dany Dann, created for Reebok Europe – following the first episode, documenting the Breakin Kids collective. Together with Dany Dann, Reebok Europe continues to hero greatness within the sport, supporting the journeys of current and future generations of breaking athletes. Capturing the emotional depth and originality that carries his performance, and his profound impact on the breaking community, the film illuminates the fine-tuned storytelling that roots his style – and the positive perspective still driving his career forward.

How did you first enter into breakdance?

I started breaking when I was 15. My cousin inspired me and brought me to approach this form of movement. We stayed connected, and keep on progressing together.

Do you still get an adrenaline rush from mastering new moves?

Mastering new moves is how I really motivate myself. It creates new pure energy for me. I always like to try something different, so I can be better everyday and surprise more and more people.

Where do you find inspiration? Would you say your style has evolved?

My inspiration comes from everywhere! But I take energy mainly from the people around me.

Has competing internationally changed your relationship with breakdance?

My vision of breaking changed when I started to join international events. To compete at the highest level, you need to be more and more creative, so it’s a real stimulus to push myself, try something different and improve every day.

What is your greatest motivation?

My competitors! I like the competition push, it’s pure adrenaline finding myself surrounded by the best b-boys in the world.