Afrovibes Festival: Tula•Verse II: Sœurité Vernon Chatlein
About the event
Tula Verse is an Afro-futuristic retelling of the story of the Curaçaoan resistance (named after freedom fighter Tula) through music, spoken word, theater, and visual arts. Creator Vernon Chatlein invites you to question the archives and existing narratives by jointly exploring the echoes of the Caribbean uprisings against the colonial regime. Sœurité (translated: sisterhood) during the colonial resistance
This is a story of sœurité (sisterhood). In Tula·Verse II – Sœurité, Vernon Chatlein, together with a team of great thinkers and artists, invites you to pause together to reflect on history — on the memories and stories that shape us, but which are not always fully told. In this performance, commemoration does not become a repetition, but an active questioning of the archive.
Starting from Saidiya Hartman’s concept of critical fabulation, Sœurité opens up space for perspectives that have often been distorted, concealed, or erased. Central to the story is Maria, a female resistance figure connected to the 1716 uprising around Plantation Rif Sint Marie on Curaçao. In colonial sources, they appear only in fragments—through violence, coerced testimonies, or even without a name. What remains of their story when we do not regard the archive as absolute truth?
Four female, multidisciplinary performers carry this performance. They embody not only the historical fault lines but also the underlying strength of sisterhood: a network of connection, care, strategy, and resistance that has endured for generations.
Pre-program: 2 workshops (13:00-14:00)
In the pre-show program, there are 2 workshops you can sign up for. Please note: there is a limited number of places available.
Tambú Dance Workshop – Rhythm, Movement & Tradition from Curaçao
During this 1-hour workshop, participants are introduced to the basics of Tambú dance in an active and accessible way. You will learn the characteristic movements, rhythm, and body language of the dance, and discover how dance, music, and community are interconnected within the Tambú tradition.
In addition to dancing, we pay attention to the history and cultural significance of Tambú. This way, you not only pick up the movements but also gain insight into the tradition from which this dance originates.
Tambú Singing & Music Workshop – Rhythm, Voice & Tradition
Discover the musical world of Tambú, an ancient Afro-Curaçaoan tradition in which singing, rhythm, and ensemble playing take center stage.
During this 1-hour workshop, participants learn the basics of singing and playing Tambú. You will be introduced to the traditional rhythms, learn simple singing patterns, and discover how voice, drum, and ensemble playing together form the characteristic Tambú sound.
Brief attention is also paid to the history and cultural significance of Tambú on Curaçao.
Level: No musical experience required – everyone can join! Max 23 participants per workshop.
