DDF News — 17 May 2025
DDF Blog: OFFSTAGE with Re:INCARNATION
As Re:INCARNATION gets ready to make its Irish premiere at the Abbey Theatre on May 20, excitement is building in Dublin. After touring across England and leaving audiences energised and inspired, Qudus Onikeku now brings this pulsating celebration of Nigerian culture to Irish audiences for the very first time.
Get a closer look at the process and philosophy behind the production
Ahead of the show, dive deeper into the world of Re:INCARNATION through exclusive behind-the-scenes content and personal reflections from the choreographer himself.
About Creating Re:INCARNATION
Go inside the rehearsal room and hear how this vibrant work was born – from Yoruba philosophy to youth culture, and the constant reinvention of identity.
About The QDance Company, founded by Qudus Onikeku
Discover the vision and mission behind Qudus’s Lagos-based company, which merges contemporary dance with traditional Nigerian forms and the pulse of Afrobeats.
Lunchtime Talk & Masterclass
On Tues 20 May, 10:30am at DanceHouse, Qudus Onikeku will lead a dynamic Masterclass for dancers and movement practitioners.
This workshop offers an in-depth introduction to Onikeku’s powerful movement language, blending explosive choreographic technique with influences from kinesthetic practice and Yoruba traditions.
Participants will be guided through a unique exploration of the body – grounded, expressive, and alive with energy. Whether you're a performer or creative mover, this is an unmissable opportunity to train with a globally renowned artist at the forefront of contemporary African dance.
As part of DDF’s Interspaces series, Qudus Onikeku will also be in conversation with Tobi Omoteso for a Lunchtime Talk on Wed 21 May at 12:30PM, sharing more about his artistic practice, inspirations, and how he brings Lagos’s chaos and joy to the stage.
This is a unique opportunity to hear directly from one of Africa’s most influential contemporary choreographers – not to be missed if you're interested in dance, culture, or creative expression. Plus, enjoy a light lunch with coffee or tea as part of this relaxed midday session (included in the ticket price).
Why Dublin Can’t Wait for Re:INCARNATION
Re:INCARNATION is more than a show, it’s a full-body experience. With a cast of ten dancers and two musicians, brightly coloured costumes, and a soundtrack blending Afrobeats, funk, jazz, and soul, this show captures the spirit of a generation rewriting their narrative through joy, movement and memory.
From Lagos to Dublin, this is a celebration of rebirth, resistance, and rhythm.
Bonus: Don’t miss the exclusive DJ Set with Qudus Onikeku after the performance on Tues 20 May in the Abbey Bar. Included in your ticket!
Re:INCARNATION will take place at the Abbey Theatre on Tues 20 & Wed 21 May 2025 at 7:30pm.