7:30pm
See new work created by Liverpool-based artists from the African Diaspora:
Ithalia Johnson
Ithalia Johnson presents The Untold Stories of a Carnival Queen, A Celebration of Female Identity, Community & Empowerment.
Premiering at Leap Dance Festival, The Untold Stories of a Carnival Queen is a semi-biographical multidisciplinary performance by Ithalia Johnson and the Dancing Queens. Rooted in community engagement, the show explores female empowerment, resilience, and self-discovery through African dance, music, and storytelling.
Drawing from historical narratives and lived experiences of diverse Black women, the performance highlights themes of discrimination, sexual exploitation, neurodiversity, and reclaiming space. It celebrates Yoruba deities and the rich traditions of carnival as an act of resistance and joy. Supported by Arts Council England, rehearsals take place at Toxteth TV Studios.
Ithalia has collaborated with a distinguished team of artists, including movement directors, choreographers, researchers, and vocal coaches, to bring these powerful stories to life: Tamara Josephine, Professor Emily Zobel Marshall, Ophelia Omoyele Balogun, Shea Best, Whispered Tales (Esther Simpson & Steve Gibbs), Jennifer John and Rhian Kempadoo Millar.
Afro Dance Academy
A performance sharing African culture through movement, showcasing the richness and diversity of Afro dance styles, including Afro House, Afrodance, and Amapiano.
Ruvimbo Bliss Munodawafa
Musikana Webasa (House Girl) is a performance examining the role and treatment of young female domestic workers in Zimbabwe, using contemporary dance theatre to highlight issues of disparity, depression, loneliness, abuse, the traditional gaze, aims, hope, ambitions and dreams.
New works by Afrodance and Ruvimbo Bliss Munodawafa have been commissioned by Culture Liverpool, funded by UKSPF, for Leap Dance Festival.
Part of Leap Dance Festival 2025; Liverpool City Region’s leading dance event, showcasing the work of local artists, community groups and young people.