Performed to evocative old songs by Egyptian singers and compositions drawn from the speeches of Egyptian politicians, the performance MANEATER follows a solo dancer as he uncovers Egypt’s complex and toxic relationship with its rulers, politicians, and its own people. Through dance and physical expression, the performer explores his own love for his homeland, attempting to reconcile patriotism with disappointment, while seeking a balance between the light of hope and the darkness of repression. The performance highlights the performer’s deep connection to memories of the Egyptian revolution and demonstrates the power of hope. Poetic and passionate, MANEATER combines intricate physical performance, Egyptian folk dance, and an openly romantic tone in celebrating a love for Egypt.
Choreography and concept : Hazem Header / Music design and composer : Sahba Aminikia / Video research and editing : Mary Nabil and Ahmed El Attar / Photo : Dmitrii Makhonin / Poster : Farah Khalaf / Special thanks to: Nermine Saaid, Axel Satgé, Zvonimir Dobrović / Production : NÜT Dance Company (NDC), Domino
Hazem Header is an Egyptian contemporary dancer and choreographer. Born and raised in Egypt, he studied physical education and further trained in biomechanics and kinesiology. His deeper encounter with contemporary dance began through his work at the Cairo Contemporary Dance Center (CCDC), where he gained both formal dance education and his first choreographic experience.
In 2013 he founded NÜT Dance Company (NDC), which has become one of the most interesting contemporary dance platforms in Egypt. The company stands out for its bold physical expression and themes that have long been taboo in Egyptian society—gender, feminism, sexuality and political context.
Header is also the founder of the Breaking Walls festival, the first Egyptian festival of site-specific performances. His artistic work extends beyond Egypt, with his company’s performances presented internationally. His work often combines physical performance, dance, drag elements, cabaret and lip-sync, exploring identity and political and social norms, particularly those concerning the LGBT community and freedom of expression in conservative societies.
