Impasse
Mufutau Yusuf | Luail
Impasse is a compelling exploration of ethnicity, identity and the experience of the Black diaspora.
In this powerful work,mixing the sounds of Africa with Bach and hip-hop, two performers confront the biased narratives etched onto Black bodies throughout history. These narratives, steeped in cultural imperialism, are laid bare with raw physicality and emotional intensity.
By challenging the historical racial projections of blackness – its crudeness, threat, sexuality, rage and immorality – the performance unveils its power, grace, sensuality, tenderness, intelligence and love.
Impasse goes beyond mere exploration and invites a reshaping of our sense of self and community. It reclaims our humanity and celebrates the autonomy and self-determination of Black bodies.
This performance of Impasse marks the first presentation of work in Northern Ireland produced with Luail, Ireland’s National Dance Company.
Age recommendation: 12 Yrs +
This production contains partial nudity.
Credits
Choreographer/performer/set designer: Mufutau (Junior) Yusuf
Performer: Lucas Katangila
Sound & Composition: Tom Lane and Mick Donohoe
Lighting Design: Matt Burke
Costume Design: Alison Brown
Text: Ikenna Anyabuike
Production Manager: Lisa Mahoney
Stage Manager/Set consultant: Lisa Krugel
Photography: Pato Cassinoni
Funded by The Arts Council/An Chomhairle Ealaíon and Culture Ireland.
Tour produced by Luail, Ireland’s National Dance Company.
Commissioned by Liz Roche Company.
Supported by: Solstice Arts Centre, Dance Cork Firkin Crane, Irish Arts Centre New York, Ultima Vez, Dublin Dance Festival, Uillinn West Cork Arts Centre, Maison de la Danse, Lyon, Le Pôle européen de création, Centre National de la Danse.
....sharp, detailed, full of grace,... Original and impressive, it marks Yusuf as a choreographer to watch....
When the charismatic Mufutau Yusuf is on stage, it’s hard to look anywhere else.