MARIAGE

Mariage is a unique celebration of connection through dance and the creation of new traditions. During open workshops in public spaces, you can participate in dance, music, and scenography.

Credits

Concept Leon

Choreografie Seppe Baeyens, Fanny Vandesande, Adnane Lamarti, Yacine Sangara, Martha Balthazar, Evy Van Hoydonck, Bianca Kruppa, Kristin Rogghe

Cast Deelnemers Atelier Leon, vrijwilligers en passanten

Scenografie en kostuums Lena van Drie, Isabelle Azaïs

Muziek Stef Heeren, Hussein Rassim, Saif Al-Qaissy, Ayman Naama

Techniek Laurens Ingels, Pepijn Mesure

Productieleiding Sam De Wit, Isabelle Azaïs

Communicatie Emma Ducheyne

Partners MOLENFEST - Molenbeek for Brussels 2030 & KANAL

Windroos, Cardijnschool, Kunsthumaniora Brussel

Met dank aan Zonnelied, Huis van Culturen en Sociale Samenhang

Met de steun van Vlaamse Overheid, Vlaamse Gemeenschapscommissie (VGC)

"Reflecting on Public Space: The Power of Connection and Engagement"

"This project made me reflect on what I find valuable in public spaces: which elements are present or absent, and the impact this has. Through our exchange, we discovered each other's worlds and perceptions, which created a sense of connection. It heightened my awareness of our relationship with public spaces and made it clear that we can all actively contribute to these spaces simply by engaging with them."

"The collaboration with our friends at the SIBIKWA Art Centre was incredibly inspiring. The exchange gave me a deeper, more personal insight into the people of South Africa and Flanders. I realized that we have much in common, but there is also so much we can learn from each other."

"The personal stories about South Africa's colonial history held up a mirror to our own Belgian history and how it subtly continues to influence public spaces today. It made me think about how we both experience space – as safe or as our own – and how those experiences have been shaped."

"It was incredibly enriching to witness a slice of life from young people living a similar life, but in a completely different context. It gave me a new perspective on what we have in Belgium and how public spaces are organized elsewhere. At the same time, it inspired me to bring South African enthusiasm and spontaneous energy to the streets of Ghent."

"In 'You, Me and Democracy,' I learned more about public spaces and the political situation in South Africa through personal stories. The creative exchange reminded me of how powerful joy, presence, and resilience can be, especially in difficult political circumstances. This energy is essential for making small changes in how things 'are.'"

"I was reminded during this process that I always have a voice, a body, a space, and a space for action – even in situations that seem overwhelming. Ultimate freedom lies in imagination: democracy is a child who believes it can walk on clouds, jumping from one cloud to the next."

An intercultural and participatory arts project fostering youth engagement in placemaking and societal transformation.

Project Overview:
Launched in January 2024, You, Me, and Democracy is a collaborative initiative between Flemish and South African youth artists, facilitated by the Delegation of the Embassy of Flanders in South Africa, Sibikwa Arts Centre, and choreographer Fanny Vandesande. The project engages young artists from both regions in exploring identity, belonging, and public space through artistic exchange. With online workshops, collaborative tasks, and cultural dialogue, the artists co-created a poem that serves as the basis for an interactive performance, advocating for inclusive, accessible public spaces.

The You, Me & Democracy project highlighted the transformative impact of cross-cultural youth exchange, bringing together young people from Flanders and South Africa to explore the concept of democracy through art. Through storytelling, participatory actions, and public engagement, the project fostered empathy and critical dialogue. Participants reimagined public spaces in relation to identity, belonging, and shared values, co-creating poetry and an augmented reality poster that sparked meaningful community discussions on participation and expression.

The exchange also facilitated a deeper understanding of both Flemish and South African cultures, providing new perspectives on social challenges such as inclusivity, community cohesion, and economic disparities. The project's creative approach successfully engaged communities on complex issues, breaking down barriers and creating accessible, emotive entry points for dialogue. This allowed diverse voices to connect, reflecting on democracy in a meaningful way.

Ultimately, You, Me & Democracy demonstrated that democracy thrives when diverse voices collaborate, empowering youth to envision more inclusive futures. It also deepened public appreciation for the role of art in driving social change and fostering unity.