German embassy funds OYO dance video

STAFF REPORTER WINDHOEK The German embassy Windhoek has funded the production and video recording of a dance piece by the Ombetja Yehinga Organisation Trust (OYO) to the tune of N$76 000. The dance troupe is currently rehearsing for the recording the piece, The Moirai, for online broadcast. “The aim of the piece is to encourage discussion around gender-based violence (GBV) to contribute to the dialogue as well as to share information about services available and encourage survivors to break free from the cycle of violence. The piece will be broadcast online at the end of the year,” a statement by the organization read. Preserving art OYO director Philippe Talavera said: “2020 has been a very challenging year for performers. Since March, we haven't been able to have any live performances. The risk with extensive periods with no performance is for a company to lose its repertoire. We are therefore thankful to the German embassy in Windhoek. Thanks to their support, one of our key pieces, The Moirai, will be preserved.” Talavera added that since they cannot currently reach audiences on stage, the funding will allow them to share the piece with as many people as possible. “Online screening allows for some exchange, as people can share, comment and argue. Addressing GBV in the current environment is more than ever of vital importance. “The restrictions imposed onto us are frustrating and unfortunately we observe an increase in the number of GBV cases. We therefore hope the piece will give some hope to many people affected by this scourge,” he said. Hitting sector hard On a visit to a rehearsal, German embassy Chargée d' Affaires, Ellen Gölz, said the Covid-19 pandemic is hitting the cultural sector hard as live events in front of spectators are not possible. “Supporting the arts during these times is an important aspect of the cultural foreign policy of the Federal Foreign Office. OYO's ability to use art as an instrument to promote pressing social issues is admirable.” OYO is a Namibian non-governmental organisation aiming to use the arts to create social awareness.

German embassy funds OYO dance video

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-02

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German embassy funds OYO dance video

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-02

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