On Fire

The Berlin-based Argentine choreographer Constanza Macras is organizing an extensive project that addresses subjects which are prevalent throughout South Africa, but are rarely discussed in public. Her project deals with the rights of lesbians, gays, bi-, trans- and intersexuals. Macras focuses on the social contempt particularly toward women and HIV-related issues. The project is divided into two sections. In the first, South African female artists in the areas of dance, theatre, performance and photography have been invited to Berlin to guest perform and participate in a workshop. This provided German audiences a chance to become acquainted with the lesser-known aspects of life in Africa which stand in stark contrast to our images of luxurious resorts, exquisite vineyards and golf outings on the Cape. In the second project phase, the dance company Constanza Macras/Dorky Park will explore the same thematic complex together with South African female artists in Johannesburg. By applying methods used in documentary theatre, performance and modern dance theatre, Macras will accentuate the problematic health policies in South Africa regarding those living with HIV or suffering from AIDS.

Artistic director: Constanza Macras
Curators: Georgina Thomson, Dance Umbrella / Johannesburg (ZA), Jay Panther, Live Art / Gordon Institute for Performing and Creative Arts / Cape Town (ZA), Gallery Momo / Johannesburg (ZA)
Artists: Dance Forum / Newtown (ZA), Alfred Hinkel, Jazzart Dance Theatre / Northern Cape (ZA), The Forgotten Angle Theatre Collaborative / Selcourt (ZA), Athena Mazarakis (ZA), Mmakgosi Kgabi (BW) and others.