Benno Barends created the lighting design for the performance Mzungu.
This newly written performance by Nienke Nasserian premiered at the O. Festival for Opera. Music. Theatre.
Photo: Ruben Hamelink
Shadow of another culture
Benno took advantage of the space available in the old warehouse to project large shadows on the back walls. In doing so, Benno symbolizes Nienke’s African roots.
Mzungu
Nienke premiered her second performance MZUNGU at Operadagen Rotterdam in May 2018. In MZUNGU, she looks through the eyes of Ngataiti Saitoti – one of her 34 Tanzanian siblings. His visit to the Netherlands makes Nienke see her homeland in a completely new light. Also featured is the story of Nienke’s mother who worked in Tanzania 30 years ago. MZUNGU alternates storytelling with classical songs composed especially for this performance by Spanish-Japanese composer Neus Kaori Fornós Ohnuma. In her compositions, based on traditional Masai blessings, she combines classical vocality with African rhythms and harmonies. A performance about living between two worlds, about the gaze of the other, about cultural differences, loyalty and family ties. Directed by Jappe Groenendijk.
Cast & Creatives
Director: Jappe Groenedijk
Set and costume design: Carmen Schabracq
Composition: Nose Kaori Fornós Ohnuma
Lighting design: Benno Barends
