Impasse

Mufutau Yusuf’s Impasse is a stunning, charged duet that seeks to understand the politics and representation of the Black body in contemporary western society. Mixing sounds of the choreographer's Yoruba roots with Bach and hip-hop, the performers challenge historical racial projections of blackness—steeped in cultural imperialism, violence, exploitation, marginalization, and powerlessness—to reclaim its humanity and self-determination.

Mufutau returns to Irish Arts Center following his 2022 world premiere of Òwe.

Please note that the performance contains brief nudity and flashing lights.

Choreography / Set Design Mufutau (Junior) Yusuf 
Performers Mufutau Yusuf, Shafiki Sseggayi
Composition Tom Lane 
Sound Mick Donohoe 
Relighter / Chief Lighting Designer Kevin Murphy
Costume Design Alison Brown 
Text Ikenna Anyabuike 
Production Manager Lisa Mahoney 
Deputy Production Manager Michael Cummins
Stage Manager / Set Consultant Lisa Krugel 
Stage Manager Alison O'Shea
Photography Pato Cassinoni 

Impasse was commissioned by Liz Roche Company and supported by Solstice Arts Centre, Dance Cork Firkin Crane, Irish Arts Centre, Ultima Vez, Dublin Dance Festival, Uillinn West Cork Arts Centre, Maison de la Danse, Lyon, Le Pôle européen de création, and Centre National de la Danse. 

The creation of Impasse was funded by the Arts Council of Ireland/An Chomhairle Ealaíon.  

The tour of Impasse is produced by Luail, Ireland's National Dance Company, and supported by Culture Ireland. 

Presented with generous support from Culture Ireland and the Arnhold Foundation.