Get ready for a night (or afternoon) that promises to linger in your heart! DanceHouse, in collaboration with the Blackout Art Society and the Vancouver Latin American Cultural Centre, is bringing the enchanting magic of Sankofa Danzafro’s The City of Others (La Ciudad de los Otros) to the Vancouver Playhouse this February. With shows on February 21 at 8 pm and February 22 at 2 pm and 8 pm, this electrifying performance is making its Vancouver debut—and believe me, you won’t want to miss this incredible experience!
Choreographed by the legendary Rafael Palacios, Artistic Director of Sankofa Danzafro, The City of Others is a vibrant celebration of Colombia’s 159th anniversary of the abolition of slavery. But it’s more than just a history lesson—this show is all about flipping the script on cities as places of loneliness or exclusion and imagining them as spaces for connection, empowerment, and joy. Palacios brings his personal experiences of racism and oppression to the stage, transforming pain into a powerful celebration of resilience and unity.
“We’re beyond excited to share this incredible company with Vancouver,” says Jim Smith, Artistic and Executive Director of DanceHouse. “With breathtaking choreography and live music, The City of Others turns the stage into a dazzling space of hope and democracy. It’s an experience that will leave you inspired.”
And inspired you will be! Ten sensational dancers light up the stage with high-energy moves, blending contemporary dance with hip-hop beats, Latin rhythms, and traditional Colombian music. Think Vallenato, Bullerengue, Currulao, and Abozao—all coming together in a kaleidoscope of sound and movement that will have you tapping your toes and maybe even dancing in your seat. The New York Times called it “exhilarating” and praised its bold mix of tradition and modernity. This is urban life reimagined—a celebration of resilience, grit, and joy.
The company’s name, Sankofa Danzafro, is inspired by the Akan word “Sankofa,” which means “to return to the root.” It’s more than a name; it’s a philosophy that guides everything they do. Founded in 1997 in Medellín, Colombia, by Palacios, Sankofa Danzafro’s mission is to use dance and music to connect African diaspora communities in Colombia and beyond. They’re all about reclaiming traditions and using them to create a brighter, more inclusive future.
But wait, there’s more! Before the evening performances, arrive early for pre-show talks at 7:15 pm (or 1:15 pm for the matinee) in the Upper Lobby to dive deeper into the show’s themes and artistry. And if you’re attending the Friday night performance, stick around for a post-show Social in the Salon—the perfect chance to mingle and chat about the show’s powerful messages.
Tickets start at just $35, making this an affordable and unforgettable outing for the whole family. Snag your seats now at dancehouse.ca or give them a call at 604.801.6225. This is your chance to experience a performance that’s equal parts thought-provoking and wildly entertaining. Grab your crew, your partner, or even treat yourself—because this is one show you’ll be talking about for weeks.
Event Details:
- What: DanceHouse presents Sankofa Danzafro’s The City of Others
- When: February 21-22, 2025, at 8 pm; February 22, 2025, at 2 pm
- Where: Vancouver Playhouse, 600 Hamilton St, Vancouver
- Tickets: Starting at $35 at dancehouse.ca or call 604.801.6225
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s turn February into a month of culture, connection, and pure joy. See you at the Playhouse!