Open call: Felabration 2024 art and dance competitions

Established in 1998 by Yeni Kuti, the daughter of Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, Felabration, Nigeria’s longest-running music festival, honours the iconoclast’s legacy. Held at the New Afrika Shrine in Lagos, Nigeria, the festival’s theme this year is Look & Laugh, named after Fela’s 1986 classic.

Over the years, Felabration has featured an array of international artists such as South Africa’s Hugh Masekela, Nigerian stars Seun Kuti, Femi Kuti, Aṣa and 2Baba, as well as Awilo Logomba (the DRC) and Sauti Sol (Kenya) among others.

The art and dance competitions, now in their eighth year, will reward the winners with cash prizes.

Afrobics Dance Competition

The Felabration 2024 Afrobics Dance Competition invites participants to perform Afrobeat dance routines set to Fela Kuti’s music. This event not only celebrates Fela’s musical contributions but also highlights the distinct Afrobics dance style created by Yeni Kuti. Prizes include ₦1m (around $660) for the winner, ₦500 000 for the second place, and ₦250 000 for the third place.

• Interested participants can register here.
• Entries close on 31 August.

Felabration Art Competition

Participants in the art contest are tasked with crafting original works that express the 2023 theme. Entries, submitted electronically, should showcase the artists’ individual perspectives. Prizes are set at ₦1m for first place, ₦500 000 for second place and ₦250 000 for third place.

• Interested participants can register here.
• Entries close on 31 August.

Note: Artists interested should submit a picture of artwork that best interprets this year’s theme.

Meanwhile, individuals wishing to organise their own Felabration globally can secure a license by contacting Kachi at [email protected], Segun at [email protected], or through [email protected].