The research

This project explores the intersection of dance and migration in post-colonial Africa, focusing on the perilous journeys of African migrants crossing the Mediterranean Sea. Through the dance lens, it interrogates displacement, trauma, resilience, and resistance. Further, the research critiques Western policies and conservative ideologies that shape migration narratives, questioning the ethical and political dimensions of border control, asylum policies, and socio-economic exclusion. Migration is one of the most pressing global issues, particularly in the post-colonial African context where historical injustices, economic instability, and political turmoil drive individuals to seek refuge beyond the continent. Dance, as an embodied form of storytelling, allows for a critical examination of the lived experiences of migrants. How can dance articulate the pain, hope, and resilience of migrants who traverse the Mediterranean? How do Western immigration policies influence the narratives of African movement and settlement? This research seeks to explore these questions through the lens of choreographic studies and migration patterns.

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Migration in Africa was a dynamic and integral aspect of the continent's history, shaping the demographic, cultural, and economic landscape in profound ways. African societies experienced internal migrations and movements driven by a variety of factors, including environmental changes, slavery, trade, population pressures, age, gender and social or political disruptions. Climate variability and environmental factors also played a significant role in influencing migration patterns. Changes in rainfall patterns, desertification, or other ecological shifts could prompt communities to move in search of more sustainable environments. Nomadic pastoralist societies, in particular, engaged in seasonal migrations in response to fluctuations in grazing resources and water availability. Trade and economic opportunities were another driving force behind migration. Precolonial Africa had extensive trade networks, and individuals or groups often migrated to participate in commercial activities. The movement of people facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and technologies, contributing to the cultural richness and diversity of the continent. Social and political factors, such as conflicts and power struggles, also fueled migration. Displaced communities or individuals sometimes sought refuge in new areas, leading to the blending of different cultural elements and the formation of complex societies. Additionally, the establishment of new political entities or the collapse of existing ones could trigger population movements as people sought stability and security. It is important to note that the dynamics of migration in precolonial Africa were diverse, reflecting the vast array of cultures, languages, and ecosystems across the continent. The movement of people played a crucial role in shaping the complex tapestry of precolonial African societies, contributing to the rich mosaic of traditions, languages, and social structures that characterized the continent before external influences significantly altered its trajectory.

 

The Performance

The Migrant is an exploration of the intersection between personal history and collective experience, shedding light on the human side of migration while challenging broader societal narratives. The performance offers an immersive experience that invites the audience to reflect on the emotional impact of migration and the resilience required to navigate its challenges.

The struggle of African migrants entering Europe as a form of contention in Western socio-political discourse. Migration has become a global debate. who has the freedom of movement and who does not?. Many Western nations have implemented restrictive policies, including funding deportation airports and militarizing border control, to prevent the influx of African migrants. How do conservative Western ideologies construct African migration as a crisis rather than a consequence of colonial histories? What role do media portrayals play in dehumanizing migrants, and how can dance challenge these narratives? By juxtaposing policy analysis with performative bodies, we explore the tension between movement (migration) and restriction (borders).

Dance functions as an archive of lived experience, transmitting histories that are often erased from mainstream discourse. This choreographic work on migration integrate testimonial elements—spoken word, breath work, and gestures that reference historical trauma—to bear witness to the struggles of displaced populations. In performances like "The Refugee's Body" and "Transit," dance artists utilize repetition and improvisation to reflect the precarious existence of migrants. We examine how embodied practices serve as acts of resistance against policies that seek to immobilize African migrants.

It is a multimedia dance performance drawing upon the personal migration experiences aligned with materials gathered during the research. Performers, transform their stories into a powerful artistic expression. Through a dynamic blend of dance, multimedia elements, and oral history, the performance explores the emotional and physical journeys of migration, capturing the lived experiences of the dancers.

This research aims to provide a framework for understanding migration through performative embodiment, advocating for dance as a powerful tool of historical testimony and activism. The Migrant is an exploration of the intersection between personal history and collective experience, shedding light on the human side of migration while challenging broader societal narratives. The performance offers an immersive experience that invites the audience to reflect on the emotional impact of migration and the resilience required to navigate its challenges.

The research at the heart of this project is rooted in the oral histories and personal narratives of the performers, giving voice to their unique journeys while addressing universal themes of displacement, identity, and survival. As each dancer shares their own migration story, the performance unfolds, weaving together movement and multimedia to evoke the resilience, struggles, and hopes of those who undertake the difficult path of migration.

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Motivation

Growing up in West Africa (Nigeria), where there is a significant outflow of young people embarking on precarious journeys, we feel the urgency to address this topic and inspire actions for positive change in the Global South. This project focuses on people of color and individuals with migration backgrounds, particularly young people. The research and performance will employ a multi-faceted approach, combining artistic expression, academic research, and community engagement. The performance will integrate various art forms such as music, dance, visuals, video, and storytelling to convey the urgency of these thematic concerns.

 

Dancers

Tessy Scandy Danjuma
Uche Enechukwu Emmanuel
Adekayinsola Bakare
Femi Adebajo
Oloruniyi Zion Praise
Adebakin Blessing Adedoyin
Olumoye babatunde Eniola
Ayoola Odubona

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Sound

Simileoluwa Oyewale

Orukotan Damilola Adelokiki

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Choreography and dramaturgy

Taiwo Ojudun Jacob

 

Assistance choreography and dramaturgy

Uche Enechukwu Emmanuel

 

Status of project

The project was premiered in one of the biggest stages in Volksbuehne, one of the biggest stage in Berlin. This is was part of FESTIWALLA 2024. Festiwalla is a youth festival organised by theatre X our partner and collaborator. The migrant will be premiered in Lagos theatre 2025 and would tour Europe toward the end of the year. More details will follow soon.

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Youtube Link to the Teaser

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