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Greenwich and Docklands International Festival
Vibrant, acrobatic, inspiring storytelling for all the familySummary
Rating
Good
Upswing contemporary dance company and Unlimited Theatre have their London premiere of Ancient Futures as part of the Greenwich and Docklands International Festival (GDIF).
This year marks the twenty-eighth edition of the Festival. For seventeen days London will host an exciting array of free attractions such as robotic swans, dancing on the side of St Paul’s Cathedral, tightrope walking, immersive theatre and visual art taking place across the Greenwich area.
The theme for GDIF is ‘Acts of Hope’, chosen to “address a real need for uplifting moments of celebration, wonder and togetherness”. Thirty-five unique, fun and thought-provoking events are showcased, from artists spanning the globe.
Ancient Futures is described as a “dance party combining circus, storytelling and sound system culture”. Conceived and co-directed by J Spooner (Unlimited) and Vicki Dela Amedume (Upswing) the production is a visually arresting, other-worldly performance. A mixture of indigenous folklore and science fiction, the show certainly fits with its title.
We are introduced to The Afrinauts, a troupe of galactic visitors from another world who have chosen London as the place to share their message. It’s an epic tale of overcoming disillusionment, fear and doubt, in order to embrace our inner strength and collective splendour. At thirty minutes in duration, the production jam-packs a multitude of disciplines, with the performers skilfully traversing the stage. They present acrobatics, voguing, African dance and spoken word, all to the infectious music pumping from the giant sound system framing them.
A highlight of the show are sections specifically inspired by the African diaspora. From the powerful ceremonial blessing of the stage to the striking masquerade attire, the futuristic take on these traditions is done with both respect and originality.
GDIF strive to make art free everywhere and accessible for all. Fittingly, Ancient Futures is staged within a housing estate in Thamesmead, taking the festival straight into the centre of this often underrepresented community. It was heartwarming to see how much joy this production brought to local residents and it stands as an example of why it’s important for the creative arts to be open for all.
Ancient Futures is an entertaining, colourful and captivating show that will appeal to all ages. If you miss its short run in London be sure to see the other exciting events featured in the Greenwich and Docklands Festival this year. You’re guaranteed to be awe-inspired.
Produced by Unlimited Theatre and Upswing
Music by Afrikan Boy
Spoken Word written by Oneness Sankara
Dance choreography by Kofi Mingo
Movement Direction by Vicki Dela Amedume
Set design by Becky Minto
Costume design by Izzy Jones-Rigby
Sound design by Thor McIntyre-Burnie
Greenwich and Docklands Festival runs until 10 September, 2023. Further information can be found here.
Ancient Futures can be seen at Leeds on 2-3 September. Further information available here.
