What was the first rap song? What’s the history of hip hop dance (and how do you do the moves)? Why does hip hop resonate across the globe as such a powerful means of self-expression? Hip Hop Lab dives into the who, what, where, when, and why of the genre and culture of hip hop. Whether you’re an expert or a curious learner, a youth or an adult, there’s something here for you to discover.
Hip Hop Lab offers:
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Performances
Watch for an expanding lineup of hip hop shows on our stages!
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Culture Talks
Learn about hip hop history and culture during discussions with artists and industry professionals.
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Camps & Classes
Learners of all ages can explore DJing, MCing, dance, graffiti, and history.
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And More!
Stay tuned for block parties and other opportunities for the community to connect through hip hop!
25/26 season: Back to the Beginning
Explore a full season of upcoming culture talks, performances, and other events celebrating the roots of hip hop culture. Events are Choose-What-You-Pay, including a $0 option.
"The essence of hip hop is you can be who you are. That's the beauty of it."
— Daniel Jones, former artistic advisor
Meet Hip Hop Lab Artistic Advisor DJ RIP
The professional hip hop artist and entrepreneur has been involved with every aspect of the music industry in his 40-year career. Born and raised in Omaha, he’s worked all over the world with artists like Kool Herc, DMC of Run-DMC, and EPMD.
DJ RIP leads the Hip Hop Lab Advisory Council, a committee of community members and O-pa staff members that guides the program.
NEW! Hip Hop Camps & Classes
Hip hop holds a lot and can teach just as much. Break down the culture and artistry and discover new outlets for self-expression and creativity while exploring the core elements of DJing, MCing, dance, graffiti, and history.
Offered at the Holland Center and Tenaska Center, hip hop camps and classes are for all ages and skill levels. Get class details and register on O-pa’s Camps & Classes Portal.
about the program
In May 2023, O-pa launched Hip Hop Lab to educate, elevate, and amplify the 50-year legacy surrounding the global impact, performance, history, and culture of hip hop. Working with local and national partners, our goal is to create opportunities for learners and artists of all ages and expertise to engage with the elements of hip hop. Working with the Hip Hop Lab Advisory Council, a committee of community members and O-pa staff, the program pairs performances from artists like Kurtis Blow, Black Violin, Robert Glasper, Ladies of Hip Hop, and others with community engagement and education events while these incredible hip hop artists are in Omaha.
When the Tenaska Center for Arts Engagement opens in 2026, we’ll be able to offer even more hip hop dance classes, youth summer camps, and professional development workshops!
sponsors
Hearst Foundation, Inc. & Nebraska Arts Council/Nebraska Cultural Endowment
In memory and honor of Daniel Jones
The late Daniel Jones was a driving force behind Hip Hop Lab and the original artistic advisor. We honor his legacy by continuing this important work in our community.
