Participants wanted for the dance piece “À nos Combats”

Dance meets boxing – two disciplines that each combine strength, discipline and expression in their own way. Burkina Faso-born choreographer Salia Sanou combines these two worlds in “À nos Combats” (translated: our Fights) to create a poetic exploration of the body, power and community. “À nos Combats” takes its starting point in the legendary fight between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman in Kinshasa in 1974. In addition to the sport itself, it was the unique enthusiasm that this boxing match sparked that influenced choreographer Salia Sanou, who is since 2026 Director of the Centre Chorégraphique National de Nantes. “À nos Combats” subtly addresses violence, tolerance and boundaries, while also reflecting on the role of women in sport. Sensitivity, humor and energy permeate the choreography, in which bodies both fight and dance. Together with 60 amateurs, Salia Sanou transforms the ring into a stage for visibility, equality and self-assertion.

To implement the project, HELLERAU is looking for 60 people who will be part of the audience and cheer on the crowd, as well as be on stage with the performers for this interactive dance performance about the world of boxing. No previous experience in dancing or boxing is required! Participating in the project is a unique opportunity to take part in a show at HELLERAU and be there when the large hall of the Festspielhaus is transformed into a choreography arena.

“À nos Combats” is for anyone who is curious. No technical or dancing skills are required. Participation is open to anyone aged 10 and above, as well as couples and groups. Persons under the age of 16 may participate with a parent or guardian.

“À nos Combats” will conclude with two performances on 8 and 9 May 2026, both at expectedly 8 p.m. at the Festspielhaus Hellerau as part of the “Make it Pop” festival. 

What does participation mean?

• Participation in at least two workshop units of 2 hours each:
  02.05.2026: 14:00-16:00
  03.05.2026: 14:00-16:00
  05.05.2026: 18:00-20:00
  06.05.2026: 18:00-20:00
• Participation in two of the workshops is free of charge.
• Mandatory participation in the dress rehearsal on 7 May 2026 in the late afternoon, scheduled to last approximately 4 hours.
• Mandatory participation in the performances on 8 and 9 May 2026 at expectedly 8 p.m., attendance one hour before the performance, as well as 1 hour performance.
• Participants will receive an expense allowance for their participation in the two performances.
• Participants will be led and accompanied by two members of the company throughout the entire process. The company is multilingual and speaks English and French.

You can register here:

To the registration link

If you are interested, please contact:

Prior to the rehearsals, we are offering several informational Zoom meetings on 25 February 2026, 24 March 2026, and 13 April 2026, each from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., to help you learn more about the project. More information is available on our website.

If you have any further questions, please contact workshop@hellerau.org