Nigeria, UK dancers dazzle in Lagos

Dancers and choreographers from the UK join others in Nigeria with dazzling performances at the Dis-Fix event at the Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The unique dance event is organised by British Council UK /Nigeria initiative led by popular British dance company, Candoco and Nigerian choreographer, Qudus Onikeku.

The event featured Q Dance Company, who theme is “beauty they say is in the eye of the beholder, far deeper than what we see on the surface and interpreted in a different way by every individual”.

The dance saw a collaboration of disabled and non-disabled artists from Nigeria and the UK exhibiting talents from Friday 16 through Saturday October 17, 2015.

The dance exhibition aims to show a different level of dance and choreography, establish that dance and music are purely artistic and can be done by both disabled and non-disabled dancers.

Also to exhibit equality in all humans regardless of race, sex, age and physical abilities or disabilities as able dancers were joined by deaf and physically challenged choreographers in the wheel chair showcasing their different talents.

Qudus Onikeku, CEO of Q Dance studios and the creator of Iwalewa, a dance piece to be exhibited at the event believes listening and dancing goes beyond using our ears and eyes but with our mind and soul.

Adedayo Liadi, CEO of Ijodee dance centre and creator of Nisonilojo dance piece, says “dance is a thing of perception and every human has a unique view and interpretation to dance and art”.

When asked why the British Council is supporting this event, Connie Price, the country director, simply said, “friendship is a very important aspect of life” and the friendship Britain has with Nigeria is highly valued.

Toyin, one of the physically challenged dancers who dancers from a wheel chair described the experience as a great opportunity as this is her first time dancing.

“I feel great and important” she said.

The dis fix disabled and non-disabled dance event is free to the public.