Omar Cortegana

“Peke, alles waait beter met una canción”, is a theatrical performance for children and adults about the life of a Peruvian-Belgian family, told from the perspective of Peke and his father. Peke, about three years old, is fluent in Dutch, understands Spanish and speaks it a little. His father, a Peruvian musician, is looking for a good life while learning Dutch. Both are in a phase of adjusting to a new environment now that they have moved to Belgium. Peke experiences his own daily adventures and struggles, while his father tries to assist him through songs. These songs are inspired by the experiences of the father as he seeks his place in the new land. In the end, the songs turn out to be important to both of them at this stage of their lives. Hoping the wind blows in their favor, because “Peke, everything blows better with una canción.”

Omar Cortegana is a social psychologist, musician and artist. He acts, is at home in storytelling and stand-up comedy but music has always been the core element in his own projects. In Peru he had a band, Juan Cactus and now in Belgium he is also active as a singer-songwriter and part of the The Boat Band. He composed music for theater and such short films as “Pasaje de Ida” and “¿Quién es?” by Victor Mendivil, and “Al inmenso pueblo” by Joan Alonso Cabrera. He was featured in Studio Orca’s “Craquelé” and Victoria Deluxe’s “TRANSIT” in the chorus and as a musician. He is currently completing a music book for children that is the basis for this project. Direction & language consultant: Felien De Smedt – Play & creation: Jim Maes – Dramaturgy, music and acting: Omar Cortegana. With the support of: Mestizo Arts Plaform/WIPCOOP. Courtesy of: Krakeel Theater, At The Dirty Guests, The Power Plant.

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