Initiation
Choreographed by Mustafa Al Shalabi
“Inspired by traditional Islamic funerals, I wanted to create a ceremony where I shed all that I was washing away the old self to rise and face a new present and future.” — Mustafa Al Shalabi
Story Behind the Work
Initiation is a ritual of personal transformation, an embodied farewell to the past and a courageous step into rebirth.
Divided into two parts—Death and Rebirth—this short performance explores themes of loss, transition, and spiritual renewal.
In the first part, Mustafa performs alongside his mother:
“She was the first person I saw when I was born, and I imagine her as the last I would want to see before I leave this world.”
In the second part, a solo unfolds, a dance of life, channeling the luminous spirit of the moon and a return to earthly presence. The choreography embraces both the intimate and the universal, calling on ancestral symbols to tell a deeply personal story.
The costume, designed by the artist, draws inspiration from the traditional long robe worn by men in the Arabian Peninsula, its flowing sleeves echoing both shrouds and wings.
Initiation is a journey through death into light, an offering of the body, a prayer in motion.
Mustafa Al Shalabi
Based in Amman, Jordan, Mustafa Al Shalabi is a performing artist and dancer. His work tackles sexuality, self acceptance and femininity. He received his training at the NCCA, 4 years ago. Mustafa Al Shalabi started dancing because he believed in movements, and that it is the right way of expressing himself. He has performed in works by Shireen Talhouni, and Fanan Al Shalabi at Amman Design Week, the NCCA, Royal Cultural Center, Al Hussein Cultural Center, French Institute, and Mrs. Talhouni’s Private Studio.