Theatre / ibt15
Preview: IBT15 – Niyizi
‘Genocide, survival and laughter’ is the striking strapline In Between Time have given this arresting solo performance.
Ishimwa – Rwandan dancer, poet and graduate of the Rambert School of Ballet and Contemporary Dance – uses his body and voice to channel his memories of Rwanda, examining the wholly irrational religious ideas he adopted as a child, in order to survive and cope with the death of his mother. Niyizi means ‘he knows’ in Rwandan, and the piece is poignant study of identity, survival and genocide.
While this may sound like a thoroughly depressing choreographic concept, Ishimwa uses gentle humour throughout the performance. Perhaps this is to offset the serious issues being depicted, perhaps to emphasise that he is expressing the memories of his childhood.
One of the most exciting talents in contemporary performance, Ishimwa leaves even the toughest audiences and critics wanting more. This is likely to be one of the weekend’s hottest tickets.
“A cabaret-like carousel of ideas – more please,” enthused The Times.
Niyizi Saturday, February 14, Wickham Theatre, Cantocks Close, off Woodland Rd, Bristol. For more info and to book tickets, visit ibt15.co.uk/niyizi
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