timeOUT catches up with DJ A.N.G (aka Angelo Saliba) to find out about this weekend's Stomp The Nard

Hey, Angelo, Tell me a bit about how Stomp The Nard started?

Basically, when the first Stomp the Nard kicked off it was just a chance for me to DJ, Montaj to MC and a few mates to dance on the Esplanade. But we got such a huge turnout for the first event that we decided to really take it seriously. I personally feel like there is a huge hip-hop and urban community in Cairns and that it needs an event like Stomp to show everyone how positive culture can be. Behind the scenes, it was me putting the majority of the event together and Montaj helping with MC’ing. Away from Stomp were all one big family.

How is the Cairns hip-hop and dance scene at the moment? Is it healthy?

The scene is purely amazing. I’m originally from Melbourne, but I’ve lived in Cairns for just over five years now and to me, this place has a bigger scene than Melbourne does. I mean you got ThreeSixFive crew, who deserve a major shout out, they even got into the top 100 in So You Think You Can Dance. Then there’s Stylin Techniques, AMAJ, Evident Supercrew and heaps more.

Which crews are taking part in this instalment of Stomp The Nard? Any dancers in particular we should look out for?

Honestly, there are too many to mention in one interview. But for a change this time around we will be giving out some awesome trophies for things like Most Memorable Dancer, Best Crowd Reaction, etc. My favourite from every Stomp has to be Mini Me, the dude has some serious skill and every year comes out with fresh moves. For those who don’t know who he is, check out the stomp website for some memorable moments.

Anything you’d like to say to the punters before this weekend’s show?

Definitely. I can’t stress this enough ... show up early! Everyone who’s been to a Stomp knows how quickly the seats get filled and we do our best to accommodate everyone, but it is a case of first in, best dressed. Also don’t forget, anyone can come and battle on the day and there are some awesome prizes up for grabs including an Xbox 360 signed by The Pussycat Dolls.

>> Stomp The Nard goes down at City Place on Sunday from 6pm. Entry is free. There is also a massive pre-party Stomp the Club at Fabric Nightclub on Saturday night. It features special guest DJ Nino Brown alongside DJ A.N.G. and Cairns’ finest dancers. Entry is $10. For further information, check out www.stompthenard.com

Share this article