KPAG in Mombassa

Kenya Performing Arts Group consists of 8 dancers, selected from different regions of Kenya to learn professional dance and theater, guided by Odak (Theatre Sciences) and Saskia (Professional Dancer). They have been training for 9 months in Nairobi, resulting in a great show.

When sitting in the darkness of Little Theater in Mombassa, my heart opens of joy while I watch KPAG perform their show “Evolutions”. This is what I experienced:

Elements of earth, wind, fire and water and the first life forms evolve. They become creatures that learn with each other how to grow and develop towards a new species. This results in a kind of monkey’s moving around by using hands and feet but who show the first signs of “human” behavior. The mimics and costumes of the dancers make the show very enjoyable to watch and I found myself laughing. The “creatures” use their voices, they play and they see how to learn from their own and each others experiences which finally results in the ability to stand up straight. Also their appearances change, they become more “naked” and vulnerable. Uncertainty and fear results in the wish to control their environments and the need to fight for your place on earth. Finally the element of happiness and playfulness brings about togetherness that helps evolution towards human beings. Then there is no need to wear masks anymore, and the “real” faces of the members become more visible as well as their individual talents. I see KPAG.

Spending the evening and next day together with this group I start to feel so much positive energy again. My passion for dance is shared, on the streets, in the bus, on the beach. Movements we make as part of the daily living become dances. The people we meet enjoy and become audiences while not even given a “real” show. I feel how this group has succeeded in the creation of their new family. One in which you are welcome to share whatever you feel you can share with them. My playfulness and happiness are reflected and return to me.

KPAG is on tour in Holland from mid September to mid November! It is the first time to travel outside of Kenya for all performers. They will be happy to perform for you the show “Evolutions”, their individual dances or give workshops. For information you can go to the website: www.kenyaarts.com
If you know a theater, festival, school or party where KPAG can be invited to perform, please contact me (nienja@hotmail.com) or KPAG (infokpag@yahoo.com). You will thereby not only enjoy watching their show or learn from them in a workshop but also support them into the realization of their dream; to be able to make a living out of their passion for dance and theater.

Thank you KPAG for the great time in Mombassa and sharing dancing!!