The theme of the performance Maji Maji / The Magical Water is the always relevant scramble for wealth. We have been inspired by the myths and tales of the Iraqw people in Northern Tanzania, and the performance is built on a further development and modernisation of this material, which is given a physical form with lots of acrobatics and dance.

We are following the Iraqw people from its very beginning, through the fight for survival, represented and symbolised by the couple Simboya & Arii.

Water, with the power to give life, is always central to the plot. But the water is also inhabited by Netlangw, the water devil, which is always threatening death and destruction.

Through cunning and hard work, Simboya succeeds in marrying Arii. He is tested in many ways – not least, he must acquire enough wealth to pay the bride price. Simboya are faced with new challenges when he finds diamonds on the traditional grazing land of the people, and invites The Big Corporation to exploit the resources.

Premier in Mbulu, Tanzania, March 2011. Tour of Norway in October and November 2011.

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