Review: Eshu at the Crossroads, The Albany

First developed by Theatre-Rites in 2025 as an outdoor family show, in partnership with Without Walls and Stockton International Riverside Festival, Eshu at the Crossroads has been reworked for a short venue tour. Now aimed at ages 5+, it is presented as part of London’s Dance Umbrella Festival.

This playful, visually engaging dance piece tells the story of a traveller, Eshu (Zia Husbands), who we first meet at a crossroads, standing alone beside a simple wooden sign on an otherwise bare stage. The landscape feels like an empty wilderness of parched land, and Eshu must decide which route to take. But what seems a straightforward choice soon becomes tricky and mischievously unpredictable, thanks to a cockerel and a series of spirit creatures (Edie Edmundson and Amari Webb-Martin). Almost paralysed by indecision at first, Eshu then embarks on a journey of self-discovery, revealing that the choices we make can shape our future happiness and destiny.

Drawing on Yoruba and Afro-Cuban heritage, choreographer Miguel Altunaga creates a clever fusion of dance and storytelling, framed by a striking black, white and red aesthetic. Handheld and full-body puppets, intricately crafted costumes and large feathers by maker Naomi Oppenheim combine to create a feast of visual storytelling. The choreography is detailed, witty and nuanced, with each sequence given enough time for us to appreciate the performers’ skill and the rich mix of dance styles.

There are some lovely moments of humour and tenderness. The cockerel’s indignant reaction to having one of his tail feathers plucked is genuinely funny, as we see Eshu gradually growing in confidence, learning to play and take control of their own destiny. Later, we meet a white spirit with a beautifully carved face full of warmth and care. This dance-based encounter is a quietly moving moment, as Eshu begins to recognise their loneliness and longing for companionship, and the possibility that others can help find a way forward if their offers of help are trusted. When Eshu returns a stolen red feather to the cockerel and the pair play together as friends, we know that Eshu is now ready to move on. And they just do that – walking out into the audience with a smile and confidence.

At around 50 minutes, the piece feels a little long for some of its younger audience. Additionally, the lighting choices are occasionally too dark and shadowy. I longed for a more open, well-lit space where the action and characters can be seen, engaged with and subsequently understood more clearly – something that must have been easier to achieve in the show’s original outdoor, daylight setting. The occasional attempts to engage directly with the audience also feel underdeveloped. If this interaction were woven more consistently throughout the pre-curtain sequence, when the performers return to encourage everyone to get up, move and even join them on stage, would feel more integral to the experience.

That said, it’s a joyful way to finish, with children and adults alike relishing the chance to dance to the music beneath a rotating glitter ball. And what music! Domenico Angarano’s score is simply fabulous, moving effortlessly between salsa rhythms, traditional Cuban and African influences, and sophisticated contemporary compositions to enrich Eshu’s emotional journey. It’s the music that ultimately steals the show.

Finding adventurous dance performances for families isn’t always easy at a time when programming can feel increasingly conservative. Even if the venue version perhaps doesn’t quite capture the potential freedom and openness of its outdoor origins, Eshu at the Crossroads is nonetheless a beautifully crafted, imaginative piece. When work this distinctive is being made for young audiences, seize the opportunity to see it.

Produced by Theatre-Rites
Directed by Sue Buckmaster
Choreography by Miguel Altunaga
Composed by Domenico Angarano
Puppet Maker: Naomi Oppenheim
Lighting Design by Amelia Fenwick
Costume Supervisor: Diana Castaldi
Production Manager: Gareth Howells

Eshu at the Crossroads has completed its run at The Albany in Deptford, but continues to tour London as part of the Dance Umbrella Festival until Tuesday 27 October. You can find out more about the show in our recent interview with Miguel Altunuga.