Rhythm Hoppers was founded in 2013 with the vision of spreading African American Jazz dances in Greece and internationally. Committed to honoring the cultural roots and creators of these dances, the group aims to cultivate a space that celebrates Jazz culture, emphasizing rhythm, improvisation, self-expression, community, and inclusivity.

The core of Rhythm Hoppers began with Vassia Panagiotou and Avgoustinos Tran, whose passion and dedication laid the foundation for the group’s mission. Later, Vassiliki Papadopoulou and Alexandros Velentzas joined the team, bringing their energy and expertise to further the vision. Together, they approach these dances not just as an art form but as a living piece of cultural history, deeply rooted in its historical and social context.

Beyond teaching dance, Rhythm Hoppers organize events to educate and raise awareness about African American culture. Their efforts include fostering appreciation and respect for cultural heritage. In September 2023, they launched “What is Jazz,” a community-focused project featuring presentations, screenings, and discussions on Jazz culture and the individuals who have shaped its legacy.

With Athens Rhythm Hop, they seek to bring together dancers and musicians from the global community to connect, interact, and celebrate the rich legacy of Jazz culture. The festival also aims to invite dancers from other African diaspora dance communities to join, share their experiences, and engage in artistic exchange. Through this, they strive to create a vibrant space for collaboration, fostering unity, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the shared roots of African American and African diasporic dance traditions.