Kennedy Junior Muntanga, a nominee for the National Dance Awards 2025, is set to perform a captivating solo, titled Akropolis I, at the Drill Hall in Chepstow on February 21, 2025. This piece, presented by Rigour Arts, delves into themes of migration, memory, and resistance, offering a profound exploration of fractured identities through the lens of the African diaspora.
In this performance, Muntanga introduces four compelling characters: the Hare, the Lion, Eva, and the Commander. Each character represents a distinct legacy tied to the experiences of migration and the enduring themes of memory and resistance. The work is described as “charged, physical, and cinematic,” and marks the beginning of an ambitious trilogy that will examine the complexities of diasporic life across generations.
Born in Zambia and now based in the UK, Muntanga is recognized as a striking new voice in contemporary dance. His approach combines storytelling with movement research, underscoring the transformative power of dance. His journey in the performing arts began at the age of 16 with Musical Theatre, followed by his involvement with the Phoenix Dance Theatre Youth Company and the National Youth Dance Company at 17.
Muntanga’s formal training at the Rambert School of Ballet & Contemporary Dance in 2016 paved the way for a career that includes performances alongside acclaimed artists such as Akram Khan, Humanhood, and Michael Keegan-Dolan. His choreography is noted for blending “dynamic physicality with emotional depth,” which challenges both performers and audiences to engage in novel ways.
In addition to his choreography, Muntanga has taken on leadership roles within the dance community. He has served as the Artistic Director of Trinity Laban’s Youth Dance Company and as Rehearsal Director for ACE Dance & Music, where he has guided dancers and shaped creative processes at a high level.
Rigour Arts, the organization behind this performance, is directed by Ruth Holdsworth, who is known for her national and international work in the arts. Recent projects have included successful shows at the Southbank Centre in London.
Tickets for Akropolis I at the Drill Hall on February 21 at 19:00 are available for purchase at [https://drillhallchepstow.co.uk](https://drillhallchepstow.co.uk). This performance promises to be an engaging experience, inviting audiences to witness, question, and feel the realities of migration and identity through dance.
