OTJOMUISE LIVE ARTS FESTIVAL (OLAF) Returns
The Goethe-Institut Namibia and the National Theatre of Namibia will host the fourth edition of the Otjomuise Live Arts Festival (OLAF), supported by the National Arts Council of Namibia (NACN).
The 2024 OLAF, MOVE! Edition, will take place from 09 to 12 October in Windhoek. The festival will feature dance showcases, workshops, and a dance battle with cash prizes. The event aims to promote community through the power of dance, empower local artists, share their stories, and enhance the cultural landscape of Windhoek.
Michelle Namases, Festival Co-Director, stated, “OLAF 2024 MOVE! Edition is more than just a festival—it’s a celebration of how dance connects us and enriches our community. By showcasing a range of innovative performances and engaging workshops, this edition hopes to inspire, unite, and elevate the art of dance in the city.”
Stanley Mareka added, “This year’s edition of OLAF Festival 2024 brings the true essence of empowering unseen and unknown-passionate performers through movement that can define the purpose of the community to understand what talent can do by appreciating and supporting their own households. Connecting with the mute youth in the streets.”
The festival will kick off with a Pantsula Dance Showcase on Thursday, 9th October. This showcase aims to highlight pantsula as a legitimate contemporary dance force in Namibia and will be facilitated and mentored by OLAF Alumni artists, Xallamo Pantsula Duo.
Over the four days of the festival, attendees will experience an array of vibrant performances, creative workshops, and interactive installations featuring local talent.
Nelago Shilongoh, Festival Co-Director, commented, “OLAF 2024 MOVE! Edition hopes to create interesting impulses in the cultural lifeline of Windhoek city. The program will breathe life into public spaces, empowering artists to share stories that resonate with local audiences. By bringing dance to the heart of the city, they inspire innovation and remind us of the unifying power of art in shaping Namibia’s contemporary cultural landscape.”
With the National Arts Council of Namibia (NACN) being a proud sponsor, its vision is to unlock the creative potential of the nation, thereby contributing to a rich Namibian identity. By supporting OLAF, the NACN plays a crucial role in empowering artists to share their stories with local audiences. The sponsorship not only highlights the power of dance to shape Namibia’s future but also demonstrates a commitment to preserving and uplifting the country’s rich cultural heritage and creative potential
The festival will conclude on Saturday, the 12th of October with an exhilarating Dance Battle that is open to the public. Join us for this dynamic closing event and witness the energy and creativity of our local dance community. Dance and movement artists are encouraged to register for the battle at www.olafnamibia.com.na. T&C’s apply
The program promises a family-friendly and free showcases curated across 17 public sites with over 70 participating artists. Mark your calendars and be part of a festival that celebrates and cultivates community through the art of movement.