Can you believe it’s been two years since Mimi’s Shebeen had its world premiere at KVS? This poetic dance theatre production by KVS regular and choreographer Alesandra Seutin received widespread acclaim, and was selected for the Flemish Theatre Festival that year. 

And in September 2025, it finally returns! Seutin, along with her musicians and performers invite you to their deconstructed shebeen*. Inspired by South African singer Miriam Makeba, who was exiled from her country for many years, Alesandra Seutin channels her heritage as a political activist to tell stories of exile, immigration and humanity. A journey full of life, struggle, endurance and determination.

* What’s a shebeen? The Apartheid regime forbade Black people from drinking or talking about politics: their only job was to work. To overcome this restriction, activists sought reprieve in underground huts and bars, where boys stood guard and drinks were stashed in hidden storage rooms. They would brew Umqombothi, a corn-based beer. If the police discovered a shebeen, they would immediately shut it down and arrest all those involved. Most shebeens were run by women, known as ‘shebeen queens’. 

"Visually and musically impressive tribute to South African anti-apartheid fighter Miriam Makeba." – **** De Standaard 

"Mimi's Shebeen is an impressive overall picture full of motherly love. Mama Africa is still among us." – **** Het Nieuwsblad 

"Mimi's Shebeen above all sounds like a celebration, where two musicians and six performers free themselves through dance and song from what apartheid thinking did to them, their ancestors, and their country. [...] In the dazzling way Makeba's songs are performed, you can feel the power and commitment of Miriam Makeba." – **** Knack Focus