MOVEMENT festival spotlights dance talent through three seasons

Namibia's dance industry is set to receive a major boost through the launch of MOVEMENT, a new international contemporary dance festival backed by approximately N$1.3 million in French funding.

The festival, launched at the Franco-Namibian Cultural Centre (FNCC) in Windhoek on Monday, is a partnership between the French Embassy in Namibia, the FNCC and OYO Dance Troupe.

Organisers say the initiative aims to strengthen and professionalise Namibia's dance sector through international collaboration, training opportunities and performances.

French Ambassador Cécile Vigneau said the project aligns with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah's vision of developing Namibia's creative and cultural industries.

"The creative and cultural industries have been named a priority area by the president of the Republic of Namibia," Vigneau said.

She announced that the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs has allocated nearly 70 000 euros (approximately N$1.3 million) to support the initiative.

The year-long programme will bring together dancers, choreographers and cultural practitioners from Namibia, South Africa, Botswana and France's Réunion Island through workshops, performances, exchanges and professional development opportunities.

OYO Dance Troupe director Dr Philippe Talavera said the festival is designed to help create a more sustainable future for dance in Namibia.

"Having established the OYO Dance Troupe in 2009, we always try to find ways to develop the dance sector in Namibia. This project presents the perfect opportunity," he said.

Seasonal expressions

The festival will be divided into three themed seasons: Belong in June, focusing on inclusivity; Become in August, focusing on youth; and Beloved in October, exploring gender-related themes.

Each season will feature professional workshops, public discussions with visiting artists, community performances in Katutura and a showcase at the National Theatre of Namibia.

The inaugural season, Belong, will coincide with International Albinism Awareness Day and International Day of Deaf-blindness, highlighting inclusivity in the performing arts.

It will feature South Africa's Unmute Dance Company, an internationally recognised inclusive dance organisation that works with artists with disabilities, as well as the premiere of OYO's new production, Hear Me, which includes performers with varying abilities.

Talavera said the first edition raises important questions about accessibility and representation within Namibia's growing creative sector.

"While there is a push to develop the Cultural and Creative Industries in Namibia, is this push tailored to accommodate our gifted artists with different abilities?" he asked.

United dancers

FNCC director Martin Beyer described dance as a powerful artistic language capable of addressing social issues, creating awareness and fostering dialogue.

He said Namibia has talented dancers and choreographers but that the sector remains fragmented, making collaboration and networking essential for future growth.

"Via the Festival MOVEMENT, the French Embassy and FNCC want to share this experience and expertise to promote and professionalise dance in Namibia," Beyer said.

He added that the festival seeks to connect Namibian artists with international expertise while creating new opportunities for local dancers, choreographers and audiences.

The first public performance of MOVEMENT will take place at the National Theatre of Namibia on 13 June, while the second and third editions are scheduled for 20 August and 24 October respectively.