Keys meet kicks: A Namibian-Japanese fusion
Resonant bodies: in motion, in sound
An experimental collaboration between Japanese pianist Yukako Yamano and Namibian dancer Gift Uzera at the Goethe-Institut Namibia
On Friday, 18 July the Goethe-Institut Namibia will host renowned Japanese pianist Yukako Yamano for an exciting showpiece called ‘Resonant Bodies: In Motion, in Sound.’ She is partnering up with Namibian dancer Gift Uzera for a unique intercultural performance, exploring the dialogue between piano and movement, blending contemporary and traditional elements.
“A duo concert by a Japanese pianist and a Namibian dancer is a rare and valuable form of international exchange. There’s no doubt that we will be moved by the birth of a new form of art”, explained Yukako Yamano. By combining Jazz and elements of classical music with contemporary and Herero dance inspired movements, both artists aim to transcend the boundaries of their respective artistic backgrounds.
Dancer Gift Uzera shares his excitement about the upcoming collaboration: “I’m really looking forward to exchanging ideas around sound and the body in their raw form, especially in exploring different artistic approaches and how they come together from an international perspective. There’s something exciting about seeing different worlds merge.”
About Gift Uzera
Gift Uzera is a well-known Namibian performer and interdisciplinary artist working across dance, theatre, music, and film. His work explores themes of queerness, decolonization, and cultural memory. He holds a bachelor’s degree in music studies, dance, and psychology from the University of Namibia. Gift’s work has spanned both local and international stages. Recently he put Namibia on the map once more as a fellow and scholar of the International Forum at the Theatertreffen in Berlin, followed by residencies in Dortmund and Dresden.
About Yukako Yamano
Yukako Yamano began studying piano at the age of three and later attended the Tokyo College of Music High School and University, majoring in classical piano. During university, she developed an interest in jazz and began performing her own compositions. She has performed internationally at numerous venues, jazz festivals, and refugee camps in over 20 countries. She is currently a piano instructor at KORG Café Style Music School DADA.
“A duo concert by a Japanese pianist and a Namibian dancer is a rare and valuable form of international exchange. There’s no doubt that we will be moved by the birth of a new form of art”, explained Yukako Yamano. By combining Jazz and elements of classical music with contemporary and Herero dance inspired movements, both artists aim to transcend the boundaries of their respective artistic backgrounds.
Dancer Gift Uzera shares his excitement about the upcoming collaboration: “I’m really looking forward to exchanging ideas around sound and the body in their raw form, especially in exploring different artistic approaches and how they come together from an international perspective. There’s something exciting about seeing different worlds merge.”
About Gift Uzera
Gift Uzera is a well-known Namibian performer and interdisciplinary artist working across dance, theatre, music, and film. His work explores themes of queerness, decolonization, and cultural memory. He holds a bachelor’s degree in music studies, dance, and psychology from the University of Namibia. Gift’s work has spanned both local and international stages. Recently he put Namibia on the map once more as a fellow and scholar of the International Forum at the Theatertreffen in Berlin, followed by residencies in Dortmund and Dresden.
About Yukako Yamano
Yukako Yamano began studying piano at the age of three and later attended the Tokyo College of Music High School and University, majoring in classical piano. During university, she developed an interest in jazz and began performing her own compositions. She has performed internationally at numerous venues, jazz festivals, and refugee camps in over 20 countries. She is currently a piano instructor at KORG Café Style Music School DADA.
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