October 2023

Tchina Ndjidda sees himself as an activist and describes the problem of illegal immigration and its roots in colonisation, education and social standing in his solo piece. "CROSS" is a dance performance based on Ndjidda's own experiences and tells the story of a young dancer in search of a career in Europe. After frustration and many failed attempts, he returns to his country and his family to talk about a utopian world. The solo piece moves from a melancholic and tragic storyline in search of pride and love to an encounter with frustration, anger, sadness and loss. His experience creates a new strength that gives him hope to face his future and his dream. The dance is a combination of contemporary hip-hop, mixing jerky and flowing energy, and ritual, therapeutic and traditional dances from Northern Cameroon (Tchawal and Badag) that guide the dead and put them in a trance that celebrates life and hope.

Together with the choreographers and dancers Asanda Ruda and Bibata Ibrahim Maiga, Tchina Ndjidda took part in the residency programme of HELLERAU as the winner of the fourth edition of the "Africa Simply the Best" festival. "Africa Simply the Best" is a dance platform initiated by choreographer Serge Aimé Coulibaly and a competition for solo performances. This pan-African cultural event, which promotes creativity, innovation and originality, honours the best African solo choreographers every two years.

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