On the afternoon of this Thursday, the Contemporary Art Gallery in Tirana was filled with unique energy. Two contemporary ballet artists, Sandrine Lescourant and Abraham Diallo, transformed the space into a stage for contemporary dance, where the audience was no longer just spectators but became active participants in the performance. They moved among the works of the exhibition “Here and Now” by North Macedonian artist Verim Zendeli, creating a direct dialogue between body, space, and art.

“At first, it was a bit challenging, because performing in a gallery is not part of our usual routine,” explains Sandrine Lescourant. “But little by little, feeling the rhythm of the space and drawing inspiration from the artworks, we found the right connection. This experience inspired us and allowed us to create something truly special.”

Abraham Diallo adds: “The space changes everything, every sound, every step of the audience, every detail of the gallery helped us connect our movement with the energy of the place and with the viewers. It was an experience that felt personal and shared at the same time.”

Even Verim Zendeli reflected on the experience: “It has been a great pleasure to see my works integrated into this performance and to meet visitors, both Albanian and international. It has been a special honor. I am deeply grateful to the Mane Foundation and the Contemporary Art Gallery in Tirana for making this experience possible.”

This moment clearly demonstrates why the Mane Foundation remains a steadfast supporter of art and culture in Tirana, helping contemporary dance move beyond traditional theaters and become an interactive experience where the audience becomes part of the story. The afternoon of this Thursday showed that when contemporary art and movement come together, every step, every sound, and every gaze becomes part of a living narrative, transforming the Contemporary Art Gallery in Tirana into a magical stage where the artistic experience becomes unforgettable for those who witness it.