Born to Protest is a deliberately challenging piece of dance that asks the audience to question their own assumptions about the black male and female figure.
The unfolding story explores ideas of intimidation and isolation, but also fragility, vulnerability and a constant battle to prove oneself.
The cast perform to an energetic soundtrack with Hip Hop beats and voice over, creating a powerful performance that will stay with you long after the applause ends.
Born to Protest is Choreographer Joseph’s Toonga’s first outdoor work for his company @justusdancetheatre and is part of a Hip Hop dance theatre trilogy called Born to Manifest.
Guidance
The performance deals with issues of racism and violence which may be more suitable for those aged 12+. There is a trigger warning for monkey chanting, which is loud, and also for the use of ‘gun fingers’ as part of the choreography.
Access
The performance is mainly dance, however there is music and sound that forms part of the narrative to the piece, and the dancers also speak at points. Both performances are Audio Described.
Where to see it
See Born to Protest outside the Old Town Hall (map point 9) on Friday at 1.30pm (AD) & 4.30pm (AD). Performances last 30 minutes.
Credits
Choreographer: Joseph Toonga
Music: Michael ‘Mikey J’ Asante
Images: Nuria Boleda & Jean Phillipse
Born to Protest is a Stomping Ground commission which is an initiative of The Place, DanceEast, DanceXchange and Greenwich & Docklands International Festival. The work is also supported by Redbridge Drama Centre and the Arts Council England.
