This archive report was first published on 26 September 2019.
On a Wednesday evening in September 2019, the Goethe Institute hosted an Artistic Encounters programme, featuring poet Sitawa Namwalie and pianist Atieno Oduor.
It was a stroke of genius to pair these two talented women, who not only share a passion for the arts but also possess a range of skills. Sitawa is a poet, playwright, and actor, while Atieno is a lyricist with a captivating singing voice.
As the evening unfolded, it became clear that both women have a unique ability to convey powerful emotions through their words and music. Sitawa's poem about women's body parts, which can 'fall off' at any time, was a poignant example of this. Her words painted vivid pictures in the audience's minds, evoking a sense of resilience and strength.
Atieno's song, 'Malaria', was another highlight of the evening. With its seemingly light and ironic tone, the song belied a deeper meaning that resonated with the audience. Both women drew from personal experiences, making their performances all the more authentic and impactful.
As the night came to a close, it was clear that Sitawa and Atieno had created something truly special. Their artistic magic had captivated the audience, leaving a lasting impression.
