The Festival 321, initiated by the Compagnie Rary, is a biennial event that aims to promote contemporary dance and provide a platform for choreographers to showcase their work. This year's edition will feature a variety of performances, including dance, slam, photography, and percussion, at different venues in Tana, including the no comment bar in Isoraka on August 24. The festival has been running since 2014 and has become a significant event in the Malagasy arts scene.
The festival's founders, Ariry, Njara Rasami, and Adrien Rakotozafy, who form Karibo Indray, have been working together to organize the event. They aim to provide a program that supports choreographers in creating innovative pieces. According to Ariry, the focus is on small pieces that do not exceed three dancers on stage, due to the challenges of transporting larger groups. The festival also aims to promote the work of young choreographers and provide them with guidance and support.
The festival's concept is centered around the idea of "danse de création," which emphasizes the creation of new and innovative dance pieces. The organizers work with young choreographers to help them develop their ideas and provide them with the necessary tools to bring their visions to life. This approach has enabled the festival to become a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talents.
One of the challenges faced by the festival organizers is the lack of infrastructure and resources for the performing arts in Madagascar. The country has limited venues that can accommodate large-scale performances, and the cost of transporting dancers and equipment is high. Despite these challenges, the festival has managed to attract a significant following and has become an important event in the Malagasy arts calendar.
This year's festival will feature 30 participants, including national and international dancers from countries such as Mauritius and Rodrigues. The event aims to promote cultural exchange and provide a platform for artists to share their experiences and learn from each other. The festival's program includes a range of activities, including workshops, performances, and exhibitions.
The festival's impact extends beyond the event itself, as it aims to promote the development of contemporary dance in Madagascar and the region. According to Ariry, the goal is not necessarily to become a global phenomenon but to establish a strong presence in the national and regional arts scenes. The festival has already made a significant contribution to the development of contemporary dance in Madagascar.
The fifth edition of Festival 321 promises to be an exciting event that showcases the best of contemporary dance in Madagascar and beyond. With its focus on innovation, creativity, and cultural exchange, the festival is set to continue its tradition of promoting the arts and providing a platform for emerging artists to shine.
Key points
- The festival features 30 national and international dancers and aims to promote contemporary dance in Madagascar and the region.
