RACINE: Joyce Stanley Brings Afro-Contemporary Dance to Casablanca
On November 3, 2026, Casablanca’s Studio des Arts Vivants will host the premiere of RACINE, a new choreographic creation by Joyce Stanley. Exploring memory, identity, and cultural heritage, the performance brings together seven dancers for an immersive journey through movement, music, and storytelling.
A Contemporary Exploration of Identity and Heritage
Where do we come from? What do we carry within us? And what do we pass on to future generations?
These questions form the foundation of RACINE (جذور), an afro-contemporary dance production conceived and directed by choreographer Joyce Stanley.
Through a combination of contemporary African dance, urban movement, music, and vocal expression, the 60-minute performance examines the connections between personal identity, collective memory, and cultural heritage.
Rather than presenting origins as fixed identities, the production explores how different histories and traditions can intersect, creating new forms of artistic expression.
Five Movements, One Shared Story
Structured around five distinct movements, Ce qui dort, La pulsation, Nous sommes, Héritage vivant, and Confluences, the performance unfolds as a journey from individual memory toward collective connection.
Each chapter introduces a different perspective on belonging and transmission, using the body as the principal language of expression.
With seven performers on stage, RACINE brings together contemporary choreography and African cultural influences, placing human connection at the centre of its artistic narrative.
Studio des Arts Vivants Supports the Premiere
The premiere will take place at the Studio des Arts Vivants in Casablanca, which joins the project as its official cultural partner.
By providing its theatre for the performance, the institution supports independent artistic creation and contributes to the development of emerging talent in Morocco.
For Fihr Kettani, founder of the Studio des Arts Vivants, cultural institutions have a responsibility that extends beyond presenting established productions. Their role also involves making new artistic projects possible and creating opportunities for expression, collaboration, and transmission.
This partnership reflects a shared interest in supporting contemporary performing arts and encouraging new creative voices.
Joyce Stanley’s Vision for African Contemporary Dance
Founded in Casablanca in 2026, Joyce Stanley Danse Compagnie seeks to develop a distinctive choreographic identity inspired by African heritage, contemporary artistic practices, and urban expression.
With RACINE, Joyce Stanley introduces a creative vision that considers cultural differences as opportunities for exchange rather than separation.
The production draws inspiration from the image of tree roots, which grow, intersect, and nourish one another. This metaphor reflects the choreographer’s belief that individual histories can contribute to a richer collective identity.
Beyond the stage, the company aims to establish artistic collaborations across Morocco, Africa, and international cultural networks.
A First Step Toward a Wider Artistic Journey
While the November 3 premiere marks the public introduction of RACINE, the performance also represents the beginning of a broader artistic project.
Joyce Stanley Danse Compagnie plans to develop future productions while supporting emerging performers through its JS Next Generation programme.
The initiative aims to encourage artistic transmission, nurture young talent, and create professional opportunities within the creative industries.
Through this approach, the company positions dance not only as a form of performance but also as a means of cultural dialogue and artistic development.
When and Where to Experience RACINE
RACINE will premiere on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at the Studio des Arts Vivants in Casablanca. The performance begins at 7:30 PM and runs until 8:30 PM.
Tickets are available through Wanaut.
Bringing together African influences, contemporary choreography, and questions of shared identity, RACINE introduces a new artistic voice to Casablanca’s cultural calendar.
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