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

Contact information

gasangwa.isaac@yahoo.ca

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