Festival memories

Looking Back at the Beginnings of IN2IT

Written By Hege Lauritzen

After working with dance on my own for many years, it was truly refreshing to finally get a colleague in the field. When Tendai arrived, he came with a head full of plans — some a bit unrealistic, perhaps, but always exciting. I was in right away, because I could see how this could benefit our students, and also bring us fresh motivation and inspiration.

From the rehearsals of the production “Silent drum” choreographed by Tendai Makurumbandi and Nasser Mhende- performed by (from left) Isabell Bartnes, Tendai Makurumbandi, Nasser Mhende, Elisabeth Ludwig and Hege Lauritzen, in Sunndalsøra.

---

Back in 2015, four of us formed the very first board of what became IN2IT International. Dance Festival. We were a small but positive group, and together we did just about everything — from cooking meals and picking up companies at the airport, to housing them, guiding them through the wild mountains of Sunndal, and of course, organizing the performances and workshops.

Being the first year, there were plenty of unexpected tasks, but somehow we handled them — at least on the outside — with ease. What mattered most was what our students gained. They had truly inspirational days, filled with incredible experiences that made many of them decide to continue dancing. There are always those crucial years when young people are tempted to quit dance because of school, age, or other activities, but I believe the festival helped create a stronger and more solid environment for them to grow in.

Mcntosh Jerahuni, promoting In2IT International dance festival in Sunndalsøra, sept 2016

Of course, it wasn’t all easy. Even with support from Sunndal kommune and a handful of dedicated people, filling seats in the theatre was a challenge, and at times it felt like rowing against the wind. But those who did come never regretted it — they were blown away by the performances.

Looking at IN2IT today, I’m not surprised that Tendai’s once “unrealistic” visions have grown into a well-organized, solid festival. The move from Sunndal to Kristiansund has clearly given it a new foundation, and I hope the city truly appreciates both the effort of the team and Tendai’s passion for dance.

I will always be grateful for the years IN2IT brought the festival to our valley, for the fantastic performances, and for the many unforgettable artist meetings we shared. I wish the festival all the best as it celebrates 10 years in Kristiansund — and I raise a cheer for the next 10. Kristiansund is lucky to have Tendai’s energy and creative force!

Tendai Makurumbandi after the summer show in Sunndal Kulturskole. Photo by Hege Lauritzen