isi bhakhomen

isi bhakhomen is a writer of Afro-Peruvian and Nigerian descent. Their varied works explore themes of black femme power, ancestral memory, humour and absurdity. Through stories they aim to build worlds that give Black folks the freedom to breathe, to laugh and to heal. A dub poet once described them as “a fiercely blossoming independent artist.” A loving teacher stated that they were “a force to be reckoned with both as a performer and as a writer.” And their formerly estranged father now calls them “brilliant.”

isi graduated from the National Theatre School of Canada’s acting program in 2021. Currently they are based in downtown Toronto.

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Tierra Negra

Tierra Negra is a dance-play that explores the joys and frustrations of moving through the Western world in a Black, Fat, Queer, Femme and Latinx body.

Rather than creating explicitly testimonial work or seeking sympathy, isi wants to create a space for release — through both softness and intensity. To be able to go to the food bank in peace. To build a universe where only Black femmes are invited to eat, ferociously.

Through a first-time collaboration with a krump dancer, the research will focus on developing the project’s physical and expressive vocabulary beyond dramaturgical text. This approach is grounded in an experimental and DIY sensibility, drawing on movement, sound, found objects and sonic world-building to create the layering effects of a collage.

Through these elements, the artist seeks to create a ritual space where diasporic Black Femme Rage can emerge — a protest against the enduring legacy of misogynoir.

©Henry Chan

CREDITS

Team

Creation, Text and Performance
isi bhakhomen

Movement and Performance
Gloria Mampuya

Dramaturgy
Kalale Dalton-Lutale