The African Dream: Program

The Dance Centre presents
ISAAC GASANGWA
THE AFRICAN DREAM
Premiere: September 16, 2023

Pre-show
Red carpet 7:30PM – 8PM
DJ Set 7PM – 8PM

Overview
SET 1: IGITARAMO
8PM – 8:30PM

• Video documentary – Rwanda
• Rwanda Traditional dance

SET 2: FIRST TIME IN AMERICA
8:45PM – 9:20PM

• Afrobeats (Konto, Azonto, Hypelife)
• Afrohouse ( Kuduro)
• Afrocongo (ndombolo, coupe décalé)
• Amapiano

Intermission
8:31PM – 9.19PM

The African Dream is a powerful and inspiring performance that tells the story of a young man’s journey 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 is aiming 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.

T.A.D

SET 1 – Program

7:30PM
Pre-Show | Red carpet
Photos & coat check

7:50PM
Event starts!
Talk: Land acknowledgment
Speech & introduction

7:55PM
Izo introduction
Speech & introduction

8:00PM
SET 1. Visit Rwanda video
Campaign to promote tourism in Rwanda

8:02PM
Genocide | mini documentary
What event do u associate your whole on

8:06PM
Welcoming ( murakaza) the white man (umuzungu).
Song: Murakaza – Ruti Joel
3:53 min

8:10PM
Food & Drinks
Kwakira abashyitsi
Song: Musomandera – Ruti Joel
3:35 min

8:14
Amaraba
Song: Marebe – Cecile Kayirebwa
3:12 min

8:17PM
Rwandan culture
Umuco nyarwanda
Song: Ibihame – Ruti Joel
6:45 min

8:23PM
The Queen is dead. Homage to the last queen Gicanda Rosalie
Song:
4:33 min

8:28
Ending

Intermission

SET 1 – IGITARAMO

IGITARAMO holds a special place in Rwandan culture as a night of assembly, where leaders, artists, and warriors come together to showcase their talents and acts. The nighttime setting adds a sense of intimacy and camaraderie, and the participation of various individuals with diff erent skills and roles likely contributes to a rich and diverse cultural experience.

The idea of sharing food and drinks around a fire after the performances further emphasizes the communal nature of IGITARAMO. This part of the tradition brings people together physically and symbolizes the warmth of human connection, storytelling, and cultural preservation.

Overall, IGITARAMO showcases the importance of preserving traditions, fostering community ties, and celebrating the arts as a means of cultural expression and connection. It’s a beautiful example of how cultures can weave together various elements to create meaningful and enduring traditions that hold signifi cance for generations.

INTERMISSION | 8.30PM – 8.45PM

T.A.D

SET 2 – Program
8:45PM
Introduction – Fly to Vancouver
Animation
30 sec

8:46PM
It is a feeling of disorientation and unease that arises from encountering unfamiliar customs, language, and social norms. The initial excitement of being in a new place can quickly give way to feelings of confusion, frustration, and homesickness. However, culture shock is also an opportunity for personal growth, as it forces us to challenge our own beliefs and broaden our perspectives
Song: First time in America – Naira Marley
3:20 min

8:49PM
From making lifelong friends and exploring new passions to navigating academic demands and finding your place in the world, college is a transformative chapter in your life.
My touch – Eugy
1 min

8:50PM
Darkness can represent various challenges, struggles, or difficult times in our lives. It can be a period of uncertainty, fear, or sadness. However, it is often during these dark moments that we discover our inner strength, resilience, and the ability to grow. Just as the night sky is adorned with stars, our darkest times can lead us to find the light within ourselves and our surroundings.
Song: So so (church version)
3 min

8:53PM
In the shadow of your former self, lies the potential for growth and transformation.
So so – Omah Lay
2 min

8:55PM
Financial resources provide individuals and organizations with the ability to exert influence, make choices, and have control over certain circumstances.
Money=power
Song: Sability remix
1 min

8:56PM
Believe in yourself and your abilities, for you are capable of achieving great things. Trust in the journey and have faith that everything will work out for the best. Stay positive, keep smiling, and let your positive vibes radiate to those around you.
Carry me – TayC
2 min

9:00PM
Just DANCE
Song: terminator – King Promise
2 min

9:01PM
Amapiano is a popular genre of music that originated in South Africa and has gained international recognition for its infectious beats and catchy melodies.
Amapiano documentary from BBC
2 min

9:02PM
Party serves various purposes. It’s a way for people to come together and celebrate something, like a birthday, graduation, or holiday. It’s also an opportunity for people to socialize, meet new friends, and strengthen bonds with existing ones. Parties can also be a great way to unwind, relax, and enjoy good food, music, and dancing. They can create fun memories and provide a break from daily routines. So, whether it’s a small gathering or a big festivity, the main goal is usually to enjoy and have a good time.
Amapiano world.
Song:

1. MONALISA
2. AMAPIANO BREAKFAST
3. AMAPIANO MIX

3:35 min

9:05PM
Ndombolo world
Afrocongo
Song:

1. ACHII
2. NO WAHALA REMIX

3 min

9:08PM
Party serves various purposes. It’s a way for people to come together and celebrate something, like a birthday, graduation, or holiday. It’s also an opportunity for people to socialize, meet new friends, and strengthen bonds with existing ones. Parties can also be a great way to unwind, relax, and enjoy good food, music, and dancing. They can create fun memories and provide a break from daily routines. So, whether it’s a small gathering or a big festivity, the main goal is usually to enjoy and have a good time.
Konto & Azonto
Song:

1. Gazo
2. Confam
3. Tossmitoss

3 min

9:16PM
Choreography
Afrohouse kuduro
Song:

1. Bad to me
2. Tambarruna

3 min

End of the show – closing ceremonies | 9:20PM
5 min

SET 2 – Life in America

Life in Canada for an African person can be a complex and multifaceted experience, influenced by factors such as cultural background, personal circumstances, socioeconomic status, and individual aspirations.

The African Dream show explore these key aspects:

1. Cultural Identity: African individuals often carry a unique cultural identity with them to Canada. They may find themselves navigating between their African heritage and the Canadian culture they encounter, leading to a rich blend of traditions, languages, and perspectives.

2. Diversity: Just as Africa is incredibly diverse, so is the experience of African individuals in Canada. Canada is home to people from all over the world, and African immigrants bring their own cultural diversity to the mix.

3. Challenges: African immigrants can face various challenges, such as adapting to a new culture, language barriers, and potential discrimination. They might encounter misconceptions about Africa, stereotyping, and instances of racism.

4. Education and Career: Many African immigrants come to Canada seeking educational and career opportunities. They may pursue higher education or specialized training to achieve their professional goals.

5. Community Support: African communities often form tight-knit networks to provide support for one another. These communities can be a source of familiarity, comfort, and assistance in navigating the challenges of a new country.

6. Contributions to Society: African immigrants contribute to the cultural mosaic of Canada through their traditions, food, arts, and other aspects of their heritage. They also contribute economically, socially, and intellectually to their communities.

7. Dual Identity: African immigrants may develop a dual identity that reflects both their African roots and their Canadian experiences. This can lead to a sense of belonging to multiple cultures.

9. Cultural Celebrations: African immigrants often celebrate their cultural events, holidays, and traditions within their communities, while also sharing aspects of their culture with a broader audience.
10. Challenges of Acculturation: Acculturation—the process of adapting to a new culture—can be challenging.

Point of Contact

For questions and clarifications, please reach out to the Event Project Manager:

Artistic Director
ISAAC GASANGWA – Izo
Email: info[at]afrobeatsvan.com
gasangwa.isaac[at]yahoo.ca
Phone: 778-522-2454

The African Dream was produced by Afrobeats Van and presented by The Dance Centre. Funded by the City of Vancouver Cultural Programs, Communities and Artists Shifting Culture (CASC), as well as individual donations to Afrobeats Van. Supported by Dance West Network.