The Body Black Festival: Joy isn't always Joy

British choreographer Joseph Toonga invites you into the inner world of young Black people who often hide their pain behind a smile. Especially young men of colour frequently carry invisible wounds. Toonga’s work always fuses the social and the artistic. With a bold movement language and spoken word, he addresses themes such as identity, mental health and systemic inequality. In 'The Body Black Festival: Joy Isn’t Always Joy', he gives space to stories and feelings that usually remain unspoken — and invites you to confront your own vulnerability.

Toonga previously appeared at Theaterfestival Boulevard with his trilogy 'Born to Manifest' (2021), 'Born to Protest' (2021) and 'Born to Exist' (2022).

This performance will have its opening night at Wednesday 13 August during Boulevard.

About the artist
Joseph Toonga [UK] is a choreographer, dancer and artistic director. He founded Just Us Dance Theatre, a hip hop organisation that supports emerging artists in their development. His signature is a unique blend of hip hop dance and contemporary theatre, resulting in socially engaged and emotionally resonant performances. At the heart of his work lies a commitment to authentic storytelling, often rooted in the lived experiences of Black and Brown communities. His performances have toured internationally and are co-produced by organisations such as the Royal Opera House, Ballet BC and Theaterfestival Boulevard. Joseph actively advocates for the recognition of hip hop in contemporary theatre and strives to amplify marginalised voices.