MOVEMENT: An International Contemporary Dance Festival Launches in Windhoek

The French Embassy in Namibia, the Ombetja Yehinga Organisation (OYO), and the Franco-Namibian Cultural Centre (FNCC) are proud to launch MOVEMENT, a new international contemporary dance festival dedicated to strengthening, professionalising, and growing Namibia’s dance sector.

Implemented by OYO with the support of the FNCC, this ambitious year-long programme brings together dancers, choreographers, and cultural practitioners from Namibia, France (La Réunion), South Africa, and Botswana. Through artistic exchange, professional development, and public performances, MOVEMENT aims to create new opportunities for dancers while fostering regional and international collaboration.

The festival unfolds across three distinct seasons, each exploring a unique theme and featuring artists from different countries.

Season 1: BELONG

9–13 June 2026

The first season explores the theme “Belong”, focusing on inclusivity and representation. The programme welcomes South Africa’s Unmute Dance Company, renowned for its work promoting disability inclusion through dance.

Highlights include a conversation with Unmute dancer Nadine McKenzie on 12 June, offering audiences insight into her artistic journey and creative practice. The season concludes on 13 June with a special performance at the National Theatre of Namibia, marking International Albinism Awareness Day.

Season 2: BECOME

16–20 August 2026

The second season, “Become”, welcomes artists from France and La Réunion. Centred on youth, growth, and artistic development, this programme will provide opportunities for young dancers and audiences to engage with contemporary dance practices and international perspectives. The season culminates in a performance at the National Theatre of Namibia.

Season 3: BELOVED

20–24 October 2026

The final season shines a spotlight on Botswana under the theme “Beloved”, exploring questions of gender, identity, and social transformation through movement and performance.

More Than a Festival

Each season of MOVEMENT includes:

• Professional workshops for established and emerging dancers

• Conversations with Namibian dance practitioners on creative processes and artistic careers

• Community performances in Katutura, bringing contemporary dance to new audiences

• A major public performance at the National Theatre of Namibia

By creating spaces for artistic exchange, skills development, and collaboration, MOVEMENT seeks to contribute to a sustainable and vibrant future for dance in Namibia. The festival reflects the shared commitment of France and Namibia to support cultural and creative industries and to empower artists as drivers of social and economic development.

MOVEMENT is funded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and implemented through a partnership between the French Embassy in Namibia, OYO, and the FNCC. 

Tickets are available for purchase at the FNCC reception.

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