This is another stop for one of the most remarkable performative works in Mozambican contemporary dance. The show “Vagabundus,” created by Mozambican dancer and choreographer Ídio Chichava, was part of the prestigious Dakar Dance Biennial (Biennale de la Danse en Afrique) in Senegal.
Premiered in 2023 at the last African Dance Biennial, which took place in Mozambique, the masterpiece by the Mozambican choreographer has been touring the world’s biggest stages for two years. On stage were thirteen dancer-singers. Without scenery, without artifice — only the raw energy of the bodies, the power of the voices, and the memory of a people inscribed in each gesture. Inspired by the rituals of the Makonde people of Mozambique, Ídio Chichava explores migration not as a crisis, but as a profound human condition: internal, collective, spiritual.
The Biennale de la Danse en Afrique took place between April 29 and May 3, 2026, with shows extending until May 6. It is considered one of the most important gatherings dedicated to contemporary African dance. The event took place in the cities of Dakar and Toubab Dialaw, bringing together choreographers, dancers, researchers, and performing arts professionals from various countries on the continent and the African diaspora.
Organized by the École des Sables, an institution founded by the renowned Senegalese choreographer Germaine Acogny, the biennial promoted performances, training workshops, roundtables, film screenings, and professional meetings aimed at strengthening African choreographic creation. Among the topics discussed were issues related to the environment, gender equality, and the role of women in contemporary African dance.
Also from Mozambique, the festival was attended by the director of the Kinani platform, Quito Tembe. The 2026 edition attracted cultural programmers, festival directors, and art lovers from different parts of the world.
Written by: Eduardo Quive
