Jim Beam Homegrown: World Class Talent Gets Set To Perform On The Precision Live Dance Stage

Aotearoa’s best street and break dancing talent will burst onto the Precision Live Dance Stage at Jim Beam Homegrown at Claudelands Oval in Kirikiriroa, Hamilton this year, the first time the dance stage has been within the Festival itself.

From gravity-defying breakers, including Aron Mahuika aka ‘Bboy AKORN’ and Leerok Gonzales to freestyle legends and rising street dance talent, Jim Beam Homegrown’s Precision Live Dance Stage is set to deliver a high-energy spectacle that celebrates the depth of New Zealand’s dance scene. The Open Styles Kids’ category, which features Stacy Meng aka 8face, will also be one to watch.

Andrew Tuck, Jim Beam Homegrown chief executive and managing director, says the Festival has always had a deep connection with the dance community, having showcased dancers from the days of X-Air, but 2026 marks a major milestone.

“This year will be the first time dance will take centre stage inside the festival itself, with a dedicated performance arena set in front of a 1,000-seat grandstand. Bringing this culture into the heart of the Festival is something really special and we’re hoping, much like our music stages, that the Precision Live Dance Stage is a launchpad for incredible Kiwi talent.”

Dujon Cullingford and Shadae Cullingford, Precision Live Dance Stage managers and Waikato dancers themselves, say the stage is a true celebration of New Zealand’s street dance and break dance culture.

“This year is going to be epic for dancers who get the opportunity to battle it out, and perform, on a national stage. We’ll see some emerging talent but also some experienced Kiwi dancers and breakers who have performed on the global stage. Expect bigger battles, bigger crowds, and bigger energy.”

Between competitions on the dance floor, the Precision Live Dance Stage will transform into a street dance playground for festival goers.