From the Townships of Cape Town to Vienna

My name is Stoan Galela from South Africa in Khayelitsha (Western Cape). I’m a self-taught dancer/mover and dance instructor, I’m very passionate about sharing my skill with other dancers and especially the young ones, I dedicate most of my time to giving free dance lessons to the kids around Khayelitsha township. Dance helps to keep communities together.

Growing up as a little boy in the township of Gugulethu in the Western Cape(South Africa), I always had a dream of traveling the world and sharing my gift with other human beings and I thought by the time I reach the age of 25yrs my passport would be full of countries stamps I have visited but unfortunately, we don't always get what we wish for, but I told myself that even if that doesn't happen I will never stop having faith because that is what kept me going as a dancer. Dance for me is freedom of movement.

I am now 34yrs old and I feel overwhelmed by the invite I got from Q21-Vienna to travel there and be an Artist in Residence choreographer for the whole month of October 2022 at MuseumsQuartier Vienna. As part of the exhibition titled "No Dancing Allowed" curated by Bogomir Doringer. The invitation only covers the accommodation and studio but not my return flight.

This trip means a lot to me because I know there are a lot of young and same-age dancers who are looking up to me as their role model, including my dancers that I teach every day for free because I always teach them to have faith in every positive thing they commit themselves into, this trip will make them gain hope and see things differently. Your support would mean so much to me and my creative work and contributions.