The Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts Initiative

Protégé Anani Dodji Sanouvi

I’m in the right place at the
right time, and that’s priceless.”

2006/2007

Latest News

ADJA

March 2009

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In this video: ADJA, conceived and choreographed by Anani Dodji Sanouvi. Dancers: Anani Dodji Sanouvi and Richard Adossou. Musician: Ayaovi Kokousse.

In November 2008, Anani Dodji Sanouvi showcased ADJA at the Rosas performance space in Belgium. The new work is a result of his experience as a Rolex protégé and his enhanced artistic awareness. Supported by Rolex and co-produced by Rosas and Timefoundation, this presentation marks the beginning of what Anani hopes to be an extended, successful journey for his new work.

In ADJA, the percussive instrument is understood as a mobilising agent of the potential energy of the dancer’s body. The rhythm connects to the body, demanding an answer, thereby determining the movement of the whole dance.

ADJA was partially researched and developed in Benin, “a goldmine” for Anani. “My aim is for dance coming from Africa to be recognized in Europe as dance as such, full stop – not as an ethnic form of dance. I want to get beyond technical qualifications and labels. It'll be hard, but it's the road I've chosen.”