Seja Bem Vinde by Luan Okun

Seja Bem Vinde is a project that began in 2024 where the performance project engages in a dialogue with the process of birth and rebirth in its various forms. Whether it's a seed breaking through the earth, a new child arriving in the world or an endangered species returning to its natural habitat, the performance explores how we welcome these new beings into our world, how we recover memories and debate the protection of the right to a childhood without violence. The performer writes down and describes everything he wants to present to this new life. He connects with both childhood memories and a deep desire to transform those same memories. The performance mixes these memories with aspirations to break with old patterns, creating a space where past and future intertwine.

In addition, the performance brings up the debate about which bodies are capable of generating lives, questioning and decentralising the binarist idea that the act of giving birth is exclusively feminine. The aim is to broaden understanding of the diversity of bodies and their capabilities, promoting a more inclusive and comprehensive vision. The performance thus becomes a celebration of the arrival of new beings, a reflection on welcoming and renewal, and a declaration of intent for a future where memory, desire and diversity coexist harmoniously. The proposal is to move on to new phases and depths, enriching my approach and expanding the impact of new investigations and research into performance.

Deepening Memories and Narratives. After the initial exploration of childhood memories and aspirations for transformation, I will continue to delve into personal stories. Using methods of autoethnography and documentary theatre techniques to deepen the connection with these memories and create narratives that reflect the diversity of lived experiences. I believe this process will allow for a deeper understanding of the influences that shape our identities and how we can reframe these experiences to build a more child-friendly society.

— Luan Okun


Seja Bem Vinde, by Luan Okun, arrives at Espaço Alkantara by the hand of Coletivo Afrontosas, in the second edition of LACRE. After a residency from 2 to 7 September, Luan Okun opens our studio doors on Saturday 7 September, at 8 pm, to present the project. The entry is free.