ABOUT OXYGEN THE CONVENTION

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OXYGEN is a two-day dance convention that replaces the traditional studio environment with a custom sand arena, removes mirrors from training, and puts every attendee in the same uniform. Here is how each element works and why it is part of the format.

THE TRAINING SURFACE

All classes take place in a custom-built arena filled with fine sand, called THE DIRT. Sand is an unstable surface, which requires approximately 30% more muscle activation from stabilizer muscles in the ankles, knees, hips, and core compared to a standard studio floor. This builds functional strength that transfers to all other surfaces. Dancers who train on sand and return to a hard floor consistently report feeling lighter and more controlled.

Sand also has lower impact force than wood or concrete, reducing soreness and the repetitive stress that comes with high-volume training. Because falls are softer, dancers are able to experiment with movement and take physical risks that a hard floor would discourage.

 

THE UNIFORM

Every attendee receives a personalized black jumpsuit at check-in. The jumpsuit includes the dancer's name and the company or studio they choose to represent. All dancers wear the same uniform throughout the event.

The uniform serves a specific function. It removes visual indicators economic background, and brand association. Faculty evaluate dancers based solely on what they observe in movement during classes and events.

Dancers who are identified by faculty and staff for exceptional talent and leadership throughout the event are selected to receive the beige jumpsuit. The beige jumpsuit carries a full scholarship to all future OXYGEN events. The selection is based entirely on performance and conduct during the event.

THE FACULTY

OXYGEN's 2026 faculty includes Sean Lew, Jaja Vankova, Talia Favia, and Kristian Mensa. All are working industry choreographers and teachers. In addition to teaching, faculty observe and assess dancers throughout the event.

Agents, scouts, and choreographers from the professional dance industry attend OXYGEN events. Cash prizes and full sponsorships are awarded at the conclusion of each event based on performance.

THE TANK

THE TANK is a battle format held inside the dirt arena. Dancers are selected throughout the event to compete in head-to-head rounds for cash prizes. One dancer is named Tank Champion at the end of the event.

The Artistic Execution Battle is a separate competition focused on creativity. Dancers are given live challenges and judged on storytelling, authenticity, and originality.

THE SCHEDULE

The event schedule with class times and event blocks is released one week before each event and sent via email and posted on OXYGEN's Instagram. Choreographer assignments for each class are not included in the schedule. Dancers find out which choreographer is teaching each session when they arrive at the event.

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