You may know it as break dancing, but it’s now known as B-boy. The young guys taking up the challenge congregate around the BTS station near MBK after 6 pm. That’s where we met Tanaporn “Ja-mez” Somkul, 20, and Phisut “Game” Poonklag, 18, two of the members of B-boy team DMC.

BK:How did you get into B-boy dancing?

Ja-mez: Three years ago I watched an ad for Panasonic, and I thought, “That’s cool!” And then I tried to practice by myself, but I couldn’t do it. So I searched online to find out where they danced, and I came by to learn with them.
Game: I was a stuntman at Baa-Ram-Ewe since I was 16. A colleague, who is a B-boy dancer, invited me to join him, and I loved it.

BK: What’s unique about this kind of dance?

Ja-mez: The spinning, which goes well with the music, and the use of strength in each posture. Every posture is a way to show your skill.

BK: Do you ever get paid to perform? 

Game: Yes, we get B1,500 or more per person. It depends on what they want us to do.

BK: Your family—are they worried about your hobby?

Ja-mez: At first they were, but not now. I convinced them that I’m not hanging out with the wrong kind of people or doing something bad, which is what they used to think.
Game: Yes, we have reasons why we go home late. Now, they understand and support us.

BK: How do you feel when you dance on the street?

Ja-mez: Everyone is usually shy when they perform at a public place. Me too, I used to be shy. But if I were still shy, I wouldn’t be as skilled. 

BK: Have you ever won a competition?

Game: We won a street dance competition at Ratchada Soi 8.

BK: Which competition do you like the most?

Game: Singha Battle of the Year. I like it because it’s a big challenge. If we win, we go to the Asia Regional Competition and then to the World Class. It usually happens in May. We will be in the coming one.

BK:  Any accidents? 

Ja-mez: Just a little. Disjointed wrist, heel, something like that. It’s usually better the next day.

BK: Any advice for beginners?

Ja-mez: Don’t be shy—join us. I used to be like you. Don’t be afraid of dirt—you’ll have to get very dirty to reach your goal.
Game: You should wear long jeans and sneakers that fit well. Safety pads to protect your knees and elbows are also necessary for beginners.