Collab between HOS NRW and SAMA Street Vibe, African Movement

Bridging Steps Residency – ‘Nion Far’ Performance in public space

2023, Düsseldorf

The project organized by Daria Nazarenko and supported by her Crew HOS builds upon previous research conducted in May 2023, where performative tools were explored and shared with artists in the street dance community. A subsequent trip to Senegal in August revealed the deep cultural significance of the Cypher, a fundamental learning structure in Hip Hop culture, and its variations across different global contexts. A key component of the residency is the inclusion of anti-racist awareness workshops paired with empowering bodywork. These sessions aim to raise awareness both within the dance community and on an individual level, addressing important social issues through the medium of dance. The project also welcomes guests from France and Belgium who have strong connections to
Dakar's vibrant dance scene, further enriching the international flavor of the exchange. While there are
14 core participants from Senegal and Germany, the residency emphasizes creating performative spaces that can include anyone interested in joining the performance, embodying the inclusive spirit of urban dance culture. ‘Bridging Steps’ Residency acknowledges the rich dance traditions of Senegal, including the renowned Sabar dance and drumming, which many urban dancers in Dakar also practice. By incorporating these elements, the project aims to showcase how dance serves as a vital tool for community building and cultural preservation.

This initiative represents a significant step in postcolonial discourse within the arts, emphasizing the importance of reciprocal travel and exchange rather than a one-directional flow of cultural influence. 

Artistic direction by Daria Nazarenko
project management Nasrin Torabi and Lisa Jones

Performers:
Daniel Bertrand Maloum Faye
Moise Daouda Fall
Ndeye Fatou Faye
Mamadou Lamarana Barry
Arama Seybiya Gomis
Veronica Dulce Semedo
Ruby aka Diana
Lisa Jones
Waithera Lena Schreyeck
Daria Nazarenko
Lisa Jones
Nasrin Torabi

Video by STIFTER STUDIO: https://www.stifter.studio

THANKS FOR THE WONDERFUL FINANCIAL AND INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT:
tanzhaus nrw and NEUER KUNSTRAUM Düsseldorf

Photos by đào bình minh

Collab between HOS NRW and SAMA Street Vibe, African Movement

Bridging Steps Residency – ‘Nion Far’ Performance in public space

2023, Düsseldorf

The project organized by Daria Nazarenko and supported by her Crew HOS builds upon previous research conducted in May 2023, where performative tools were explored and shared with artists in the street dance community. A subsequent trip to Senegal in August revealed the deep cultural significance of the Cypher, a fundamental learning structure in Hip Hop culture, and its variations across different global contexts. A key component of the residency is the inclusion of anti-racist awareness workshops paired with empowering bodywork. These sessions aim to raise awareness both within the dance community and on an individual level, addressing important social issues through the medium of dance. The project also welcomes guests from France and Belgium who have strong connections to
Dakar's vibrant dance scene, further enriching the international flavor of the exchange. While there are
14 core participants from Senegal and Germany, the residency emphasizes creating performative spaces that can include anyone interested in joining the performance, embodying the inclusive spirit of urban dance culture. ‘Bridging Steps’ Residency acknowledges the rich dance traditions of Senegal, including the renowned Sabar dance and drumming, which many urban dancers in Dakar also practice. By incorporating these elements, the project aims to showcase how dance serves as a vital tool for community building and cultural preservation.

This initiative represents a significant step in postcolonial discourse within the arts, emphasizing the importance of reciprocal travel and exchange rather than a one-directional flow of cultural influence. 

Photos by đào bình minh