For over two decades, Krump legend and battle zone creator Thomas “Tommy the Clown” Johnson and his dance crew, the T-Squad, have entertained crazed fans and performed in front of sold-out crowds at the Inglewood Forum.
When the Los Angeles Sentinel last spoke with Tommy the Clown about his 25 year legacy, he and his crew were preparing for a performance at the University Southern California (USC) Galen Center.
Now, the iconic dance industry figure is continuing the celebration with the “Battle Zone 25 Year Conclusion.”
What began as inner-city youth choosing the art of dance over drugs and gangs, blossomed into a dance crew who is now hired to travel and perform for crowds all over the world, including London, Japan, Germany, and Hong Kong.
“I love God with all my heart; I keep Him first. When you are trying to help teenagers and kids stop and really help them,” said Johnson. “Starting back from 1992 to 2017, the turn up is still real, the energy is there, it hasn’t changed. You have people saying, ‘he’s still around, ain’t he played out?’ Nah, you moved out, we still here representing, doing what we do, keeping it in the hood where it’s all good.”
In honor of the 25-year celebration, Tommy and his crew invite the community to join them Saturday, October 7, from 5-9 p.m. at Southwest Community College to experience another great show. Watch Tommy the Clown and the T-Squad go head-to-head against the Boom Squad in a high intensity dance battle. Who will win? You will decide at the “Battle Zone 25th Year Conclusion.”
All proceeds will go towards free dance classes and afterschool programs for inner-city students to strengthen their communication with one another and provide a safe place for youth.
Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door on first come, first serve basis. Advance tickets can be purchased at brownpaperbagtickets.com or by calling (323) 750-5555.
