Imprisoned Gods (MIUNGU GEREZANI) – Lukah Katangila

Imprisoned Gods (MIUNGU GEREZANI) by Lukah explores ancestral African beliefs, focusing on the communities of Alkebulan, the continent’s ancient name. These rich spiritual traditions were disrupted by colonization and the advent of Christianity, leading to a dichotomy of good and evil and the loss of traditional values.

Inspired by Nakomitunaka by Kiamwangana Verckys, the show liberates African statues and masks from their static existence in Western museums. Bible verses and crosses are interwoven with African rituals, while dancers from Goma – each with their own style (Rega, Tembo, Shi, Hunde) – enrich Lukah’s choreography. The statement “The gods are trapped” refers to the massive movement of African cult objects into Belgian museums.

The performance explores the tensions between the two faith worlds and their contemporary impact. Costumes inspired by the raffia minganji symbolize the transfer of power, while masks of Precy Numbi and Christian projections further underscore this clash. Percussive music reinforces the duality between African traditions and colonial heritage.

Dance here serves not for imitation, but as a living frame of reference that shapes Lukah’s choreographic language. Hip-hop acts as a connecting factor between the dancers, who together explore and rewrite their personal histories. The audience is invited into a world where perspectives shift and dogmas blur.

Image © Michiel Devijver