„My mother Esther Meeme Nalubanda is a descendent from a long line of rainmakers. I remember when I was little; she used to perform rituals to stop (bad) rains or to call for it when droughts hit. As I grew older, she stopped practicing these rituals. When she stopped, my childhood ended.” (Michael Kaddu)

This interdisciplinary performance explores the role of rituals in relation to people and the environment. How can body knowledge and various dance traditions be employed to foster a more mindful connection with nature and ecological systems?

Rainmaking rituals are a tradition that is slowly disappearing in Africa, like many other traditional customs. However, a great deal of knowledge about observing nature and a deep understanding of how various weather factors interact and affect the local environment still exists. This knowledge is expressed through a wide range of dances, songs and rituals, as well as in the relationships between people and nature. Spiritual ceremonies reflect people’s connection to nature, and narratives such as „things that were once in contact continue to influence each other” and „like produces like” emerge.

Concept, choreography, performance: Michael Kaddu
Costume: Catherin & Michael Kaddu
Dramaturgical advice: Esther Meeme Nalubanda
Music: Emyoyo by Michael Kaddu & Pirimo Hamuza, Furuti by Hukwe Zawose & John Mponda, DIp 2.1 byWilliam Basinski, Strato by Hannes Bieger