Aslama
Dance & Physical Theatre / PJ'S

Aslama is a poignant and thought-provoking contemporary dance performance that explores the heart-wrenching challenges faced by individuals in war-torn Syria.

 

Through a captivating blend of movement and emotion, this show illuminates the actual experiences of Syrian citizens enduring the harsh realities of violence, while highlighting their resilience amid adversity.

 

In a world marked by division and conflict, "ASLAMA" stands as a beacon of unity and understanding, reminding us of the importance of compassion and empathy in the face of tragedy. Through the universal language of dance, this performance transcends borders and cultures, fostering a sense of global solidarity and reminding us of our shared humanity.

Production Credits

Directed & Choreographed by Yaseen Manuel

Performed by Yaseen Manuel & Keishia Solomon

About the Artists

Yaseen Manuel

(Director/Choreographer/Performer)

Yaseen is a creative who values consistency and has a strong visual and artistic approach. He has drawn from his experiences as a dance trainee, teacher, director, and choreographer to become a well-rounded artist. Yaseen has worked with influential artists both nationally and internationally, taking advantage of each opportunity to learn, workshop ideas, and share knowledge. He is passionate about universal dance exchanges, integrating dance, and collaborating with others. Through his experiences, he has gained a broad understanding of the arts.

 

Along with Yaseen's dancing and choreography, he is also a mentor and teacher of youth, working in both training and outreach programs. He's passionate about cultivating a love for dance and the arts in South Africa's young people, believing that they are the future of the industry. Yaseen sees the youth as a "boiling pot" of creativity, and believes that with the right guidance, they can achieve great things and create a bright future for themselves and their communities.

 

In Yaseen's younger years, he did not receive much dance practice as he was occupied with religion and religious studies. However, after 10 years of dancing, he felt that something was missing and decided to incorporate his religious background into his personal works. This integration has had a positive spiritual outcome for him.

 

Yaseen's choreographic style is based on contemporary dance, improvisation, and neo- classical elements. Research and religious studies are also fundamental to his practice, and his movement is inspired by real-life situations such as the Syrian massacre that inspired his work 'Aslama'. Music is an essential element in his choreography and serves as an aid in emotion rather than leading the movement.

 

All in all, Yaseen is passionate about his craft and aims to create works that reflects his life and inspire audience member worldwide.

 

Keishia Solomon

(Performer)

Keishia Solomon is a highly trained professional dancer and ballet instructor with a passion for various dance styles. She holds a Diploma in the Cecchetti ballet method and has trained in Ballet, Modern, Hip- Hop, Contemporary, Latin, Salsa, and Strength act. Keishia's talent has taken her far and wide, including intensive ballet programs in Germany and America.

 

For over a decade, Keishia was the head teacher and choreographer at the On Pointe School of Ballet, where she showcased her creativity and attention to detail in choreographed performances. Her career as a dancer has been successful, as she has performed for numerous companies and events, including being a member of the DHL Stormers cheerleading squad since 2016.

 

Keishia's recent works encompass a diverse range of performances. She danced in the Cirque de Soir show in Accra, Ghana, cheered for IPL and T20 cricket in India and South Africa, participated in productions like "Minerva" and "La Burlesque" in Cape Town, and recently appeared as a dancer and puppeteer in Janni Younges' production "Aci, Galatea and Polifemo" in Berlin. Moreover, she has contributed her talents to numerous film and commercial projects, including appearances in Hollywood's "The Kissing Booth 3" and Netflix series like "Resident Evil" and "The Power" as a dancer, actress, and stunt double.

 

Currently, Keishia has completed a guest performer contract with MSC ships as part of the Outlore productions and is now involved in dancing and choreographing for various corporate events in Cape Town.

 

  • Venue: PJ'S
  • Location: Hoerskool P.J. Olivier
  • Ticket price: ZAR 120.00
  • Programme type: Curated Programme
  • Genre: Dance & Physical Theatre
  • Duration: 45 mins
  • Ages: 16+

There are no performances for this show.