‘ILĀJ

In dialogue with musical improvisation and contemporary performance, 'ILĀJ' intersects two traditions of trance and healing stemming from the routes of slavery and exile. Conceived from contemporary sound research and discussions led by Julien Colardelle, this creation activates a circular and nomadic scenography, installed in the exhibition spaces.

ILĀJ is a celebration of the relationships, identities, and resistance that music continues to carry and transmit.

Julien Colardelle is an artistic director, producer and stage director.

The Cairo-based Mazaher Ensemble is one of the last groups to keep alive the tradition of zâr in Egypt, a community healing ritual through music and dance, performed primarily by women.

Om Sameh: vocals, mazhar (drum)
Om Hassan: vocals, tabla (darbuka), doholla (bass darbuka)
Sabah: vocals, mazhar, sagat (finger cymbals)
Shadya: vocals, mazhar
Raafat: vocals, tamboura
Araby: vocals, mazhar, mangur
Julien Colardelle: artistic direction, scenography
Commission and support: Fondation Cartier pour l'art contemporain
With the support of the Institut Français