Business Details
34 Years
experience
Tommy The Clown Hip Hop Academy | Learn Krumping & Dance
Founded in 1992 by Thomas Johnson, known as Tommy the Clown, our organization has dedicated over three decades to transforming inner-city youth through the power of hip hop dance. What began as a birthday party act evolved into a global movement centered on krumping, a high-energy dance style that provides emotional expression and community connection. Our Hip Hop Academy offers classes in krumping, popping, locking, and breakdancing to all skill levels, taught by instructors deeply rooted in hip hop culture. We organize performances, competitions, and educational workshops, partnering with schools to align with academic standards.Recognized internationally through documentaries like RIZE and social media platforms, we emphasize personal accountability, education, and creative alternatives to gang violence. With a 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation, we instill confidence in youth while maintaining strict community guidelines against drugs and gangs. Our global outreach includes performances for celebrities and educational programs that have impacted millions. We remain committed to using dance as a therapeutic tool for youth development in South Los Angeles and beyond.
Services
Krumping Classes
Hip Hop Workshops
Dance Competitions
Community Events
T-Squad Membership
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience creating positive youth development through dance.
- Our instructors pioneered krumping, a globally recognized hip hop dance style.
- We maintain strict community guidelines requiring academic success and no gang activity.
- Our nonprofit foundation partners with schools to align dance programs with education standards.
- We've hosted international dance battles and been featured in award-winning documentaries.
What people say
Life-changing mentorship
Positive alternative to gangs
Professional dance opportunities
Educational partnerships
Global recognition
Services
Krumping Classes
Our krumping classes teach high-energy movements and freestyle expression to all skill levels. Instructors with decades of experience guide students through foundational techniques while encouraging personal creativity. Classes emphasize emotional release and physical fitness through this Los Angeles-born dance style.
Hip Hop Workshops
These workshops combine dance training with hip hop history lessons. Participants learn popping, locking, and choreography while understanding the cultural significance of each style. Programs align with California education standards for school partnerships.
Dance Competitions
We host weekly battles and annual competitions showcasing local and professional talent. Events like Battle Zone feature audience-judged performances that helped launch the RIZE documentary. Competitions promote healthy competition and community engagement.
Community Programs
Our nonprofit foundation provides after-school programs focusing on education, personal accountability, and creative expression. Initiatives include in-school workshops and mentorship opportunities through the T-Squad dance team.
Event Performances
Tommy and his crew perform at private events including birthdays, weddings, and corporate functions. Bookings include interactive dance experiences where guests learn basic krumping moves during the performance.
People
Thomas Johnson
Founder & CEO
Known as Tommy the Clown, he created krumping in 1992 after prison release. Developed dance battles to prevent youth gang activity. Featured in RIZE documentary and performed for global celebrities. Holds academy classes at 13626 S Normandie Ave.
Eliasha Mitchell
T-Squad Member
Joined TSQUAD at 14, now 20-year-old college student studying kinesiology. Uses dance platform to mentor youth. Featured in social media content with millions of views. Maintains 3.7 GPA while performing globally.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We specialize in krumping, popping, locking, breakdancing, and hip hop choreography for all skill levels.
How can my child join the T-Squad?
Auditions occur at our Gardena academy. Members must maintain good grades and follow our no-gang, no-drug policy.
Do you offer school programs?
Yes, we partner with LA Unified School District for in-school workshops aligned with state education standards.
Can I book performances outside LA?
Our crew travels nationally and internationally for events. Contact us for availability and rates.
Is financial assistance available?
As a nonprofit, we offer scholarships for academy classes and event participation.
