Festival returns to Montpellier

The Art2rue festival is set to return to Montpellier from October 15 to October 25, offering free activities in schools, community centers known as Maisons pour tous, and public squares throughout the city, which is the capital of the Hérault department. This ninth edition aims to be more ambitious than previous years, as stated in the city's official press release.

Bboy Junior named patron

Bboy Junior, a prominent figure in the dance style known as breaking and a former winner of the television show La France a un incroyable talent, has been appointed as the patron of the event. This role signifies his influence and recognition within the hip-hop community and the festival's themes.

Streetball and DJ battle events

The first major event of the festival will be a streetball tournament scheduled for October 17 at the Lahoucine Zemmouri sports plateau. Following the matches, a DJ battle will take place, described in the festival brochure as a chance to share knowledge and experience around mixing, scratching, and hip-hop music culture.

Dance and graffiti sessions

On October 18, visitors can attend an event at the Rosa Parks Maison pour tous where they can try dance under the guidance of Campanita, a double French champion in breaking. The event will include a battle in front of a panel of professionals, as well as a session introducing graffiti.

Hip-hop focus with Bboy Junior

Hip-hop will be a central theme of the festival, with events planned at the François Villon Maison pour tous. Both beginners and experienced dancers will have the opportunity to exchange ideas with breakeur Bboy Junior, who will also deliver a speech to the participants on October 21.

Closing events and workshops

Art2rue will close on October 25 with various workshops, including a session on rap led by Damys, an artist who gained recognition on the show Nouvelle école. A round table discussion on transitioning from street culture to professional show business will also take place. In the evening, the Bernard-Jouanique Gymnase will host several concerts featuring a mix of hip-hop, afro, dancehall, amapiano, and urban music styles.