Othello Week One

Haven't managed to blog properly about the project I'm currently working on so here's a brief update  I’m in the middle of a really exciting and absorbing that is being put together and will showcase at at HIFA (Harare International Festival of the Arts) in a few weeks time.  Sponsored by the British Council, I participated in an intensive 2 week project in Bulawayo in September which led to a performance of Othello at the National Art Gallery.  On those foundations, a company has come together and in Harare, through a process of workshops in schools/universities/community groups and rehearsals, we’re developing a full-scale professional production.

What’s unique about this project is the underlying ethos.  The concept is the brainchild of Patrice Naiambana, as a truly pan-African production which has a diaspora dimension to it.  Patrice himself is from Sierra Leone, but currently based in the UK, the choreographer Harold George is based in Belgium and also from Sierra Leone, while the Musical director Juwon Ogungbe is originally from Nigeria, but living in London. 

The underlying mission is to deepen understanding of cultureprenuership - and the functional dimension of African Theatre - through a creative process of 'Hothausing' which offer participants experience in many areas including performing and production management. 

 It's a dream job for me, working with high calibre Director, Choreographer & Musical Director.  I couldn't ask for a more ideal scenario in which to realise my ambition to perform (theatre) at HIFA.  The whole ethos of an 100% collaborative, physical theatre piece, building on something Bulawayo (and London) birthed, that I've already journeyed with - it's perfect! It’s also very intense.  6 day weeks, long hours, working (and living) together in a different city as a company.  Not to mention the physical demands of devising a highly physical, interactive performance.  I know I'm up for the challenge and the chance to demonstrate something creatively organic, vibrant and diverse.