Batalo East, one of Africa’s top dance productions renowned for its unique fusion of traditional and urban arts, has announced its theatre dance masterpiece, ‘Moving Murals.’
‘Moving Murals’ is a unique site-specific dance theatre piece that celebrates the rich diversity of humanity.
Through a vibrant fusion of painting, traditional, and urban dance, the production explores the intricate beauty found in Uganda’s varied colors, races, ethnicities, religions, and sexualities.
Choreographed by Elvis Elasu (Levy) and performed by Street Dance Force Crew members, ‘Moving Murals’ delves deep into Elasu’s profound appreciation of human appearance, colorism and the concept of beauty.
“Levy envisions the world as an expansive art gallery, where an invisible, multidimensional artist has meticulously crafted each element of our existence. In his imaginative realm, every individual is a moving mural, living art that transcends boundaries. Each person embodies a unique style, inspiration, and a distinct expression of beauty,” said Rachael Nakato, Batalo East’s communications officer.
The production prompts us to question: What defines beauty? How do we perceive ourselves and others? Does skin tone influence societal hierarchies? It challenges us to reflect on the definitions imposed by science, religion, and history, and invites the audience to embrace and cherish the beauty within themselves and others.”
The dance theatre features a diverse cast of five dancers, each bringing their unique ethnic backgrounds, skin tones, and body structures to the stage. The performance runs for 45 minutes and is designed to inspire admiration and respect for humanity.
Moving Murals cast consists of; Elvis Elasu (Levy) – Choreographer and Dancer, Bwambale Shafik – Dancer and Costume Designer, Dancers Walusansa Derickson, Kasoga Winnifred and Matovu Bashir.
The event is scheduled to happen at the Hangout in Jinja City from Friday, November 1, to Saturday, November 2, 2024, starting from 7:00 to 8:30 PM. The audience will have to part with only Shs25,000 for Early bird tickets and Shs30,000 at the gate, while the Children will only pay Shs20,000. Entrance is free for children age 3 years and below.
Batalo East is renowned for its unique fusion of traditional and urban arts, with a vision to nurture “Generations of innovative Africans and artists who are aware and proud of their identity.”
It has consistently created full-length, socially relevant dance theatre pieces that shape societal intellect. With a team of highly skilled expert artists renowned within the Eastern African region, including some members from Tabu Flo Dance Co, a Ugandan company that, was reported by CNN International and, has pushed breakdance into Ugandan and international mainstream.
