MAINSTAGE 2025
IT’S UP TO US
ELITE SQUAD
IT’S UP TO US
It's a compelling and educational dance-theatre performance that delves deeper into the historical and ongoing impacts of the 1884 Berlin Conference, exploring its legacy of division in Africa and connecting it to contemporary global issues of unity, self-determination, and collective action. The show aims to empower audiences to recognize their role in shaping a more equitable future.
ELITE SQUAD
Forged from a passion for rhythm and a deep love for African culture, Elite Squad (E-Squad) stands as one of Vancouver's premier Afrodance teams. Founded by visionary Rwandan-Canadian dancer and choreographer Isaac "Izo" Gasangwa, the group has become a dynamic force in the global dance community, celebrated for its electrifying energy and authentic choreography.
Izo created E-Squad to build a platform where the vibrant cultures of Africa could be shared through the powerful medium of dance. The team serves as a creative hub for dancers passionate about rhythms from contemporary Afrobeats and Amapiano to the foundational movements of Ndombolo and Coupé-Décalé.
E-Squad is renowned for high-octane performances that are both technically precise and spiritually uplifting, marked by intricate footwork and infectious joy. Beyond the stage, they are a community-focused movement, dedicated to educating and inspiring new dancers through sold-out workshops and classes that foster cultural awareness and unity.
With a powerful online presence, their portfolio includes major festivals and three sold-out, full-length theatre shows: "The African Dream," "Unity Rhythms," and "It's Up 2 Us." As cultural ambassadors, they use movement to tell stories, bridge communities, and share Africa's vibrant spirit, aiming to create a new theatre show annually to expand their artistic impact.
Performance History & Upcoming Performances
Premiere December 7th, 2025 at the Scotiabank Dance Centre.
Project Created by: ISAAC GASANGWA - IZO
Key Artistic Collaborators: Olena, Sahaj, Maria, David, Ali, Mairi, Narmatha, Blanca, Izo
Performance type: THIS WORK IS ADAPTABLE TO THEATRE OR OUTDOORS OR ALTERNATE VENUES /SPACES
How do you define this work: DANCE/THEATRE
Length of performance: 70 MINUTES
Audience type: General Audience
General Technical Requirements: lighting, projection, haze machine, sound system
Required amount of time for tech set up: 180 minutes
Alternative Venues: Theatre performance
Number of Performers on tour (including choreographer): 10
Number of Support Staff on Tour: 2
Availabilities: 2026/27 SEASON
Project Details
Community Engagement
Yes, if the budget is low, an alternative is to use local talents to be part of the performance.
Outreach Activities
Workshop, exhibition, masterclass, talkbacks