Dance without borders: Skillz Festival celebrates African unity

0
A dance group performs at the Launch of the Skillz Dance Fest at British Council

Africa’s most anticipated dance celebration, Skillz Dance Fest, returns for its 7th edition from October 18-20, 2024 bringing together dancers, choreographers, and enthusiasts from across the continent. This electrifying event promises three action-packed days of intense dance battles, cultural exchange, and social awareness.

The Skillz Dance Festival 2024 is going to be an epic celebration of dance, culture, and community! This year’s edition, launched at the British Council in Kamwokya, promises three days of intense activities and vibrant performances. The festival is part of the British Council’s Festival Connects Fund grants, which supports African festivals in building connections with other festivals across Africa and internationally.

The launch event already gave us a glimpse of what’s to come, with collective dance crews and troupes performing thought-provoking routines about climate change and corruption. Sosolya Udungu, a troupe mainly composed of children, recited poems and performed a creative dance about environmental abuse. Another performance highlighted the impact of fashion on climate degradation, which is particularly relevant given the festival’s partnership with IGC Fashion to raise awareness about fashion’s contribution to the waste crisis.

Skillz Dance Fest has become a pivotal platform for the East African dance community, showcasing breathtaking talent and fostering connections. Four major dance battles will take center stage: Ultimate Skillz, Afro-Fusion, Urban Freestyle, and Next Move. Additional highlights include freestyle crew battles, krump battles, and breaking power move exhibitions.

Beyond the competitions, Skillz Dance Fest offers immersive workshops, dance classes, and non-stop parties. Renowned instructors will share their expertise, while dancers will exchange ideas and showcase their unique styles.

This year’s festival tackles pressing social issues through powerful performances. Climate change, corruption, and sustainable fashion take center stage, emphasizing the impact of individual choices. IGC Fashion joins forces with Skillz Dance Fest to raise awareness about fashion’s environmental footprint.

Recognized and supported by the British Council, Skillz Dance Fest has gained international acclaim. Selected as one of seven African festivals to receive a grant from the Festival Connects Fund, this acknowledgment underscores Skillz Dance Fest’s influence on the continent.

As the festival approaches, anticipation builds. Dancers, choreographers, and enthusiasts eagerly prepare for an unforgettable experience. Skillz Dance Fest 2024 is more than a celebration of movement – it’s a platform for unity, social change, and cultural exchange.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here