Hailing from Burkina Faso, choreographer and composer Olivier Tarpaga presents Once the dust settles, flowers bloom, an evening-length work that gives voice to the refugees of his homeland. Tarpaga addresses the fragility of individual autonomy in the wake of religious extremism, chronicling stories of women and children fighting against oppressive systems of violence. Performed to a live score composed by Tarpaga, Once the dust settles, flowers bloom offers the promise of hope through unity.  

The Joyce’s presentation of Olivier Tarpaga Dance Project is a HARKNESS FIRST Joyce Theater debut, generously supported by The Harkness Foundation for Dance.

Curtain Chat: Wed, Oct 4

Family Matinee: Sat, Oct 7 at 2pm (recommended for ages 14+)

Read the digital program here.

The Joyce’s presentation of Olivier Tarpaga Dance Project is part of the French Institute Alliance Française's (FIAF) Crossing The Line Festival.

Funding Credits

Major support generously provided by the Rockefeller Brothers Fund.  Residency support provided by a partnership project with Catskill Mountain Foundation. Commissioning support provided, in part, by The Joyce Theater Foundation's Stephen and Cathy Weinroth Fund for New Work. Support for The Joyce’s presentation of international dance provided by the R. Britton Fisher and Family Gift for International Dance.