Impasse by Mufutau Yusuf

Impasse explores the diasporic experience, particularly the black African diaspora. It questions what it means to be a diasporic entity, how one inhabits spaces in which their existence is not clearly marked, and how memory becomes critical to one’s identity. Impasse is an attempt to understand the nuances and complexities around the autonomy and self-determination of black bodies.

In this powerful work, two performers confront the biased narratives etched onto Black bodies throughout history. These narratives, steeped in cultural imperialism, violence, exploitation, marginalisation, and powerlessness, are laid bare with raw physicality and emotional intensity. But Impasse goes beyond mere exploration, its performance unveiling power, grace, sensuality, tenderness, intelligence, and love, and in turn invites a reshaping of our sense of self and community.

Funded by The Arts Council and commissioned by Liz Roche Company, Impasse is supported by Solstice Arts Centre, Dance Cork Firkin Crane, Irish Arts Centre, Ultima Vez, Uillinn West Cork Arts Centre, Dublin Dance Festival, Maison de la Danse, Lyon – Pôle européen de creation, and Centre National de la Danse.