This body that remembers

What becomes of language when it turns into movement? What remains of it when it is no longer the colonizer's tongue?

In "This body that remembers," choreographer and dancer Kettly Noël embarks on a poetic journey through African colonial memory, hybrid identities, and the many languages that shape our self-understanding. Through bodies that resist, adapt, and continuously transform, the work examines the traces language leaves behind. In the landscapes of the Sahara, colonial and local languages meet in gestures, rhythm, breath, and silence.

Languages drift, dissolve, and return. Bodies become living archives carrying stories of displacement, resilience, and transformation. Movement speaks where words fall short - the body becomes memory, dancing what cannot be spoken.

Duration: 35 minutes

Concept, text, choreography, dance, performance: Kettly Noël
Live music: Kojack Kossakamvwe
Video, scenography, artistic direction: Michel Meyer
Voice (recording): Garance Clavel
Photography: Michel Meyer, Cultureescape CS K.B.

Born in Haiti, artist Kettly Noël dedicates her life to the exploration and development of the performing arts. For over 25 years, she has played a central role in the development of contemporary dance in Africa, Haiti, and the Caribbean. She founded the choreographic centre Donko Seko in Mali (2000-2022) and initiated projects such as PAPLAB in Haiti, the KN Dance Project, and international festivals including Dense Bamako Danse and the Caribbean Dance Platform. Her work combines artistic practice, education, and social engagement; she opens access to international stages for young artists from disadvantaged backgrounds. Kettly Noël is Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres of the French Republic.

An event within the framework of the KUYUM Dance Platform 2026, supported by Senatsverwaltung für Kultur.