geistzeit (2021 - 2022)




Image by Zee Hartmann

“geistzeit” is a site-specific performance moving through Berlin's city centre in search of an event that is scarcely recognised: the “Berlin Conference” or “Congo Conference”. The hour-long performance evokes something between a guided tour and a treasure hunt, drawing attention to the opaque powers that shape(d) the borders of African countries today. Four fictional characters activate the site through humour and absurdity, bringing participants into critical relation with practices of imperialism.

 
Image by Zee Hartmann

The work was developed and written by Coila-Leah Enderstein and Nicola van Straaten. We are two white South African artists who use our shared creative practice to interrogate and unsettle colonial lineage and imperial legacies. After spending a year in relationship with this particular site, we wrote the script and then opened it up to the performers Alexandre Achour, Auro Orso and Cikacé Lestine who then brought their own interpretations to the script and its themes.



Image by Zee Hartmann

Performed in September 2022. Supported by the NATIONAL PERFORMANCE NETWORK - STEPPING OUT, funded by the Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and Media within the framework of the initiative NEUSTART KULTUR. Assistance Program for Dance.