Anuang'a & In Between the Trance

Fernando Anuang’a art direction and choreography

Traditional Maasai songs

SIPARIO, MAESTRO

In this new creation – In between the Trance – Anuang’a arranged the songs to honour their value and highlight their cultural importance. His minimalist approach to dance is intentional. The highlight is on the essence of every gesture to convey the message effectively, thus allowing the audience to focus on the emotions. In addition to minimalist dance, the interpreters’ deep voices play a key role. Maasai music has a predominantly vocal tradition, which is enhanced in this performance. The voices add depth and emotion to the exhibition; every note is carefully selected to convey specific moods or sensations.

Fernando Anuang'a

Fernando Anuang’a is a renowned Kenyan artist. Raised in Kitengela and Magadi, he cultivated a deep interest in Maasai dance and traditions. He is committed to preserving and evolving traditional Maasai dance while also blending it with contemporary styles. He made his debut in the dance scene in 1990 as a member of the renowned Kenyan dance group, Rarewatts, known for their unique combination of traditional Maasai dance and modern club moves. Anuang’a has also participated in masterclasses held by French choreographers Angelin Preljocaj and Carolyn Carlson to fine tune his contemporary dance skills. In 2007, he established his dance company, Maasai Vocals, which featured seven talented Maasai artists, aiming to promote Maasai culture through dance and song. Maasai Vocals have participated in various international festivals, including the Pan-African Festival in Algeria, and presented the show “Voices & Feeling” in Italy. “Traditional Future”, created in 2010 during a dance residency at Akili studio of British choreographer Wayne McGregor in Lamu, is one of Anuang’a’s most significant works. The show was produced by French fashion designer Pierre Cardin and it was staged in prestigious theatres in Paris, including Théâtre Claude Lévi-Strauss and Espace Pierre Cardin. In 2024, Anuang’a showcased “We are NOMADS,” delving into nomadism, inspired by Maasai shepherds and the ongoing dance between tradition and modernity. Besides his performances, Anuang’a has collaborated with international artists, including pianist Jean-François Zygel, and has participated in film projects, such as “Keeping Time” and “Adumu”. He has also received numerous awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the African Heritage Awards in 2012 and the Outstanding Achievement in Dance award at the MCSK Awards in 2015. His commitment to preserving and innovating Maasai dance has left an indelible mark on the Kenyan and international art scene.