Fatshimetrie, September 22, 2024. The Kinshasa art scene was enlivened this Saturday by the presentation of the captivating play ”Mort en exercice” by the talented artist Malafi Niamba. This show, which was held at the ”Mwindeurs” space in the commune of N’djili, aroused the enthusiasm of the public and opened horizons on freedom of artistic expression.
Malafi Niamba, lead actor and director of the play, stressed the importance of art as a means of expression and denunciation of social injustices. Through ”Mort en exercice”, the artist seeks to raise public awareness about laws related to the cultural and artistic sector, while highlighting the difficulties encountered by artists in the exercise of their profession.
The very title of the play, ”Mort en exercice”, carries a deep meaning according to Malafi Niamba. He evokes the fact of dying in full function, sacrificing one’s life for one’s convictions or suffering the consequences of one’s artistic commitment. The artist thus returns to his personal experience of an unjust conviction and incarceration that marked his career and strengthened his determination to defend freedom of expression.
On the stage, ‘Mort en exercice’ stands out for its innovative one-man show format. Malafi Niamba presents a poignant story mixing comedy and drama, offering the audience an immersive and emotional experience. His costumes, combining tradition and modernity, symbolize the duality of contemporary society and the richness of artistic expression.
By choosing to stage this play within the cultural space of the ‘Mwindeurs’ in Kinshasa, Malafi Niamba is part of an activist approach for the promotion of culture and the emancipation of young artists. This theatrical creation, presented as part of the 4th anniversary of the Maison culturelle, marks the beginning of a new season of artistic and cultural activities within this emblematic place.
In conclusion, ‘Mort en exercice’ is much more than a simple play; it is a cry of alarm, a call for resistance and creativity in the face of threats to freedom of artistic expression. Malafi Niamba, through his talent and commitment, reminds us of the importance of art as a vector of change and social justice. This show, through its strength and sincerity, will remain etched in memories and will continue to inspire future generations in their fight for a fairer and freer world.
Thus, ‘Mort en exercice’ by Malafi Niamba marks a turning point in the Congolese artistic landscape and testifies to the vitality and relevance of the cultural scene in Kinshasa.