“The African Dream” is a powerful and inspiring performance that tells the story of a young man growing up in the aftermath of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi people in Rwanda. The blend of African dance styles, including Rwanda’s traditional dance and African street dance, along with text and storytelling, creates a multi-dimensional experience that explores themes of resilience, hope, and the transformative power of art.
Using dance as a medium, “The African Dream” aims to communicate emotions, experiences, and narratives that might be difficult to convey through words alone. The choreography, combining different dance forms, likely provides a unique and visually captivating way to engage audiences while honouring Rwanda and Africa’s cultural heritage.
Furthermore, the performance’s emphasis is on Black resilience and hope. It speaks to broader themes of overcoming adversity and seeking positive change in the face of oppression and racism. Art has long been recognized as a means to shed light on important social issues, challenge prevailing narratives, and inspire reflection and action. By telling Isaac’s story through dance and storytelling, “The African Dream” aims to create a meaningful connection between the audience and the experiences it portrays.
“The African Dream” is a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit, the importance of preserving cultural heritage, and the role of art in fostering understanding and change.
Isaac Gasangwa – Afrobeats Van
Isaac Gasangwa – Artistic Director/Choreographer
Lys K. Gasangwa – Stage Manager
Ariane Gaboury – Captain
Mario Matias – Co-Captain
Eugenia Vasquez – Dancer
Taylor McKee – Dancer
Shania Prasad – Dancer
Hélène Ferreira – Dancer
Tomi Olugofeku – Dancer
Theresa – Dancer
Margarita – Dancer
Sold out show at Scotiabank Dance Centre – Sept 2023
Winner: Pinnacle Impact award at BVAN 2024
‘’Educational and inspirational’’ – Kenny 2023
Content Warnings:
Sudden Loud Noises, Strobe Lighting, Smoke, haze, or scents, Death
Venue
Historic Theatre
70 minutes
Local - Vancouver, BC
- May 25 @ 8:00 pm
- May 26 @ 5:00 pm
Festival Venue
The Cultch, 1895 Venables Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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