ỌKAN
by Akeim & Ella
About ỌKAN
Experience the captivating world of Ọkan, the latest duet collaboratively created by Akeim Toussaint Buck and Ella Mesma. Rooted in the Yoruba word meaning Oneness, Conscience, and Heart, Ọkan embodies a limitless, open-minded approach to life. The performance blends the fluidity of Salsa with the precision of Wing Chun martial arts, transcending gender, human, and emotional barriers to become a catalyst for transformation.
Inspired by themes of identity, ancestry, and unity, Ọkan invites audiences to reflect on the complexities of being while celebrating resilience and connection. It is a breath of hope that resonates deeply, leaving a lasting impact on all who witness its artistry. The piece also serves as a tribute to the history and legacy of those who came before us, honouring their stories through movement and expression.
About Akeim Toussaint Buck and Ella Mesma
Ella Mesma is a choreographer, coach, artist and creator trained in Afro-Latin, breaking and contemporary dance. She has performed for Breakin’ Convention, Russell Maliphant, The Olympics Opening Ceremony, The Chomondeleys, and has choreographed commissions for Dada Fest, Black Gold Arts, Manchester International Festival, Little Amal, Rural Arts, Bristol Old Vic and more. She also goes by Maya Gandaia and is the CEO of Maya Gandaia Ltd. Ella is a Published Author of Journal To JOY, the director of Ella Mesma Company and co-creates PowerUp! a podcast to help us all unlearn, rebuild and empower ourselves back to our true nature.
Akeim Toussaint Buck is an interdisciplinary performer and maker, born in Jamaica and raised in England. After graduating from The Northern School of Contemporary Dance in 2014, Akeim began creating his own work in 2016. His intention is to create moving, thought-provoking, accessible and free-spirited projects. Akeim's work has been supported by Yorkshire Dance, Leeds Playhouse, Leeds Inspired, Geraldine Connor Foundation, IRIE! Dance Theatre, Spin Arts, RJC, Deda, Fabric, Streatham Space Project, Serendipity, NSCD, Sadlers Wells and Arts Council England.
Cast & Credits
Choreographers: Ella Mesma and Akeim Toussaint Buck
Dancers: David Evans and Ffion Campbell-Davies
Commissioned and co-produced by The Place.
Supported using public funding from Arts Council England.
Supported by Pavilion Dance South West.
