Hatched Ensemble is a new work motivated by Mamela Nyamza’s highly acclaimed solo work Hatched created in 2007, an autobiographical work which the Choreographer reflected on her life as a mother and artist. Hatched was Nyamza’s first work to kick-start her artistic signature of unapologetically demystifying, and deconstructing on the norms and standards of the classics. Hatched Ensemble is a new work that is being performed by 10 ballet trained dancers from different ethnic backgrounds, conveying deeply personal and challenging issues of tradition and artists evolving experiences and gender norms within the dance classics, until they ultimately realize their own respective true identities within the arts and creative industry. In this instance, the Hatched Ensemble addresses the juxtaposing movement vocabulary and accompaniment from diverse cultures, and referencing both classical Western music, dance and traditional African vocal scores and grounded movement. Hatched Ensemble speaks to anyone who has ever felt a conflict with their own identity and questioned where they belong to the status quo.

Between 15 and 30 November, Alkantara Festival invites artists and audiences to attend an international programme of dance, theatre, performance and meetings in the city of Lisbon. Alkantara Festival is a space for experimentation and for building bridges, introducing artistic projects that stem from aesthetic, political, cultural and social examinations. At São Luiz, two creators – South African choreographer Mamela Nyamza, working in Portugal for the first time, and Keli Freitas, Brazilian dramaturg and actress living here – stage shows that defy the ideas of belonging, both in art and society.