Swiss Choreographer Joshua Monten to Make East African Debut in Nairobi

Nairobi, Kenya – October 22, 2025

Renowned Swiss choreographer Joshua Monten is set to make his long-awaited East African debut in Nairobi later this month with performances of his internationally acclaimed dance piece, Linearity.

The four-day series will run from October 28 to November 1, marking a major highlight on Kenya’s cultural calendar.

Produced by Upstage Limited, the Nairobi tour will feature shows at Artzone Studios, the Kenya National Theatre, Alliance Française, and a special street performance at Hilton Square in the city’s CBD on October 31.

The event forms part of Upstage’s global exchange initiative that connects international performers with East Africa’s growing performing arts scene.

Linearity — a work celebrated for its inventive blend of geometric precision and human fluidity — has toured across Europe, Asia, and North America, and now promises to engage Nairobi audiences with its playfulness and thought-provoking choreography.

Monten will be joined by long-time collaborator Jack Wignall for the performances and a series of closed-door workshops with local movement artists.

Monten, who founded the Joshua Monten Dance Company in 2012, has performed at world-renowned venues including the Sydney Opera House, Théâtre de la Ville Paris, and the Shanghai Contemporary Dance Center. A Swiss-American with a background in cultural anthropology and literature, his work bridges precision and spontaneity — exploring rhythm, control, and freedom in the human form.

Speaking ahead of the tour, Loi Awat, Director of Upstage Limited, said the Nairobi performances are part of a broader mission to position East Africa as a hub for world-class artistic exchange.

“We’re thrilled to bring Joshua Monten’s work to Nairobi audiences. This is more than a performance — it’s a conversation between cultures through movement,” Awat said.

The project is supported by Pro Helvetia, with additional backing from Swisslos Culture Canton de Bern and Kultur Stadt Bern.

All performances are free to attend, though audiences are encouraged to RSVP in advance to secure seats.

Members of the public can find more information and RSVP links via www.upstage.co.ke or joshuamonten.com/linearity.