I’m incredibly honoured to have been awarded the STELLA*24 Award for Outstanding Performers, alongside the phenomenal Maartje Pasman and Joseph Tebandeke.
This recognition is for our performance in Kingx&Qweens. It’s a moment that celebrates not just our work, but the power of art to connect and inspire. This award is an honour for Lucy, the daughter of Corinne Eckenstein, our artistic director and choreographer behind Kingx & Qweens.
The magic of Kingx&Qweens is the result of an exceptional collaborative effort. At its core, Corinne Eckenstein’s concept and choreography shaped the heart of this production, infusing it with vision and depth. Karrar Alsaedi’s haunting musical compositions elevated every movement, crafting a sonic landscape that enriched the piece’s emotional and thematic resonance. The innovative set designs by Hannes Röbisch and Corinne Eckenstein brought the stage to life, while Kareem Aladhami’s costumes encapsulated the essence of each character’s journey. Luciana Benicivenga’s animations added a dynamic visual layer that made the narrative even more compelling. Livia Patrici, as an outside eye, provided invaluable insights that sharpened and refined the performance, and Sophie Freimüller’s meticulous assistance ensured every detail, no matter how small, was flawlessly executed. Together, this remarkable team created a production that seamlessly harmonised its many elements, delivering a powerful experience for audiences everywhere.
The jury’s statement reflects the heart of our journey:
“From the very first moment, Maartje Pasman, Futurelove Sibanda, and Joseph Tebandeke captivate their audience and never let go. They not only tackle life’s biggest questions about happiness and freedom but also share stories of their personal origins and the colonial history connected to them. ‘Remember your crown, wear your crown, and help others carry theirs.’ Time and again, they come together to show how this can be done. Floating above it all is Basquiat’s crown—a symbol against the cruelty of our prejudices and norms and a reminder that we are not alone.”
The performance itself is inspired by Jean-Michel Basquiat’s iconic three-pronged crown, a symbol of self-empowerment and resistance. This powerful 75-minute piece explores themes of diversity and overcoming boundaries and is not just about dance – it’s about exploring identity, addressing exclusion, and finding strength in vulnerability. As the jury noted, “this production thrives through its perfectly harmonised ensemble. Together, they dissolve barriers and fears of connection, both on stage and in the audience.”
What made this project special was its openness to deep exploration. We delved into our African and European origins, and the colonial histories tied to them. It was both challenging and cathartic. In telling these stories, we aimed to present alternative views of the body, far from the filtered perfection of social media, and create a space where differences are embraced.
One of the most touching reviews described the experience beautifully:
“The performance that Maartje Pasman, Futurelove Sibanda and Joseph Tebandeke conjure up on stage is magical. Often unbelievable movements on the ground, on large blue water canisters, on—and with—poles and crutches. Inspired by the music created for it by Karrar Alsaadi.” (Heinz Wagner, KIJUKU)
This award is not just ours, it’s a celebration of everyone who contributed to this work. From the creators to the audiences who allowed themselves to connect with it. To my fellow performers Maartje and Joseph and the entire team behind Kingx&Qweens, thank you for the collaboration and trust that made this possible.
Art has the power to heal, challenge, and unite. This project has been a testament to that. I’m grateful for the opportunity to keep sharing these stories and breaking barriers, one performance at a time.
Here’s to remembering our crowns and helping others carry theirs.