A film by Romy Maxime - Featured on Document Journal

Spirit of Kibera is a short film exploring the powerful relationship between dance, identity, and community in Nairobi. Shot in collaboration with the Choppers Dance Crew, the film offers an intimate look at the artistic energy thriving within Kibera—one of Kenya’s most vibrant yet underserved neighborhoods.

Document Journal premiered the film, describing it as a celebration of “movement’s potential for communication that transcends language.” Featuring dancers Crispel Mariga, David Avido, Bernard Chicharito, and Jeff Jide Otieno, Spirit of Kibera highlights how dance becomes both expression and escape. As Otieno says in the film, “As long as you’re doing something good in society, you live good with other people.”

The project extends beyond choreography.
It weaves together:
– Costuming by celebrated Kenyan designer David Avido
– An original soundtrack created by Floyd Lavine and remixed by Pablo Fierro
– A visual language that honors the color, texture, and pulse of Kibera

What emerges is a portrait of resilience, creativity, and the transforming power of art. Spirit of Kibera stands as a testament to the community’s influence on Africa’s broader cultural landscape—and to dance as a form of soul, communication, and freedom.

Credits
Director & Cameraman: Romy Maxime
Producer: Shelley McKenna
Editor: Benitha Vlok
Colorist: Kyle Stroebel
Sound Editor: Alexander Inggs
Featuring: David Avido, Bernard Chicharito, Jeff Jide Otieno, Crispel Mariga