The Space For Creative Excellence
Our Context
Garage Dance Ensemble is based in O’okiep, a town in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa. This vast, arid region is the country's largest province (373,000 km²) but also the least populated, with just 1.3 million residents. Once a thriving copper mining district, it is now marked by the remains of abandoned mines and decaying infrastructure. The legacy of British colonialism is still felt, with many indigenous communities suffering from deep poverty, widespread inequality, and limited prospects.
Amidst this environment of social and economic decline, John Linden and Alfred Hinkel returned to O’okiep to establish the Garage Dance Ensemble. Both born in the region, they have long been committed to the power of the arts as a tool for social change and self-expression. Although they had previously returned for short-term creative and cultural projects, their decision to settle in O’okiep in 2010 marked a permanent commitment to their mission. They believe that through the creative and performing arts, people can confront their identities, share their experiences, and come together in a collective exploration of humanity.
John Linden, Alfred Hinkel, and the Garage Dance Ensemble are leading the way in demonstrating the redemptive and healing power of the arts—even in the most challenging and desolate circumstances. Their work stands as a testament to the transformative potential of creativity in the face of adversity.
Productions & Collaborations
Since its founding in 2011, Garage Dance Ensemble has produced several critically acclaimed works and pioneered groundbreaking collaborations that blend performance, cultural heritage, and identity. These productions have not only showcased artistic innovation but also sought to restore pride and confidence in the communities from which their artists, writers, and audiences come. Through their work, the ensemble has fostered a sense of empowerment, reconnecting individuals with their cultural roots and helping to rebuild a collective sense of self-worth.
Helping kids to understand themselves and the world they live in
We believe that artistic practice has a profound impact on young minds, offering a range of benefits that extend beyond creative expression. It can improve academic performance, enhance memory, and foster creativity. The arts also play a crucial role in developing social skills, strengthening language and reading abilities, and sharpening critical thinking. Furthermore, engaging in the arts builds confidence, creates meaningful cultural and personal connections, and instills discipline—qualities that support personal growth and academic success.