Currently, not booking programs until after February 2026.
JOSEPH ‘MN JOE’ TRAN is a founding member of BRKFST Dance Company based in the Twin Cities, MN and is a former member of the world-renowned breaking crew Knuckleheads Cali, respected for their uniquely intricate and non-traditional methods of movement. Tran is known for his signature moves which have earned him multiple first-place victories in breaking competitions across the US, Europe, and South America. Tran is the recipient of the 2023 Jerome Hill Artist Fellowship for Dance and 2019 McKnight Dancer Fellowship. He has choreographed multiple original works which have premiered at various venues such as The Walker Art Center, Southern Theater, and Orchestra Hall with the Minnesota Orchestra. He has toured with BRKFST internationally to Dublin, Ireland for Dance 2 Connect Festival, to Vancouver, BC for the Vancouver International Dance Festival, and nationally to Hartford, CT with the Hartford Symphony Orchestra and Des Moines, IA with the Des Moines Symphony. As a competitive breaker, Tran has been invited to London, Belgium, the Netherlands, Japan, Colombia, Italy, and France. He has set repertoire with BRKFST at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Dance Ireland, Carleton College, St. Olaf College and Bates Dance Festival. From 2007-2019, Tran was a dancer and choreographer for the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves “First Avenue Breakers.”
Teaching Artist Statement:
I believe there are times when words aren’t enough for artistic expression. Dancers have the ability to express emotions and creativity through movement that words sometimes cannot manifest. Each body is unique, and by learning how to use it artistically, it is possible to build values of gratitude, compassion and confidence. Students learn the basics of breaking (breakdancing) through individual coaching and group activities. I encourage the discovery and development of exploring unique ideas and movements which foster individuality, identity and personal style. I focus both on form and creativity while allowing the students to share ideas and inspire each other.
Program Offerings
Workshop
Intro to Breaking
Participants will learn the history of breaking and the basic 5 elements of the dance including: Toprock, Go-Downs, Footwork, Powermoves, and Freezes. Students are encouraged to add their unique flair and create their own combinations of moves. (5th-12th grade, limited to 1.5 hours)
Residency
Each One Teach One
This residency will be focused around the Hip Hop motto “Each One Teach One” which describes: no matter your age, gender, background or experience, we are all both teacher and student. Participants will first learn basic breaking moves followed by activities that encourage creativity. Students will collaborate with each other and have opportunities to act as teachers to their peers. Depending on community needs, this residency can also include performance art/theater work. Sessions will conclude with a showcase performed by the students. (5th-12th grade, 3-5 sessions, 1-1.5 hours per session)
