Since 2015, La Boîte interculturelle has been quietly building connections between Quebec and Morocco — connections that have given rise to standout projects such as the residency between Shauit and Wachmn’hit, the screening of Quebec-produced documentaries in Rabat, Tangier, and Marrakech, and the cross-residency between RedTail Spirit Singers and Daara Tribes.
Today, we’re proud to support a new project: that of Nicolas Pabon Segura, percussionist, researcher, and co-founder of the Montreal-based collective Raíz Viva.
A Bridge Between Two Rhythmic Traditions
Nicolas has long been drawn to the deep connections between Afro-Colombian percussive traditions and the rhythmic practices of North Africa, particularly Gnawa traditions. His research explores oral transmission, community practices, and the shared rhythmic roots linking Afro-descendant communities in the Americas with Morocco — a project that speaks directly to La Boîte interculturelle’s mission: making art a genuine vector for intercultural dialogue.
Our Role: Facilitating, Connecting, Accompanying
It’s thanks to the professional network we’ve built in Morocco over the years that we’re able to support Nicolas in this endeavor. La Boîte interculturelle is acting as a point of contact, facilitating his connection with well-established Moroccan organizations that can support him in his research and artistic collaboration efforts.
This research and development work will take place notably during Visa for Music, the leading market for music from Africa and the Middle East, where Nicolas will have the opportunity to meet directly with musicians, researchers, and cultural organizations from Morocco. These meetings will also lay the groundwork for a possible local artistic residency, allowing him to further explore, over the longer term, the connections between Afro-Colombian and Moroccan traditions.
A Commitment Built to Last
This project joins the long list of initiatives La Boîte interculturelle has helped bring to life in Morocco. Each collaboration strengthens a lasting network rather than creating isolated, one-off connections — an approach that sets our organization apart.
We’ll be following Nicolas and Raíz Viva’s journey closely over the coming months, and we look forward to sharing the outcomes of this trip, rich in discoveries and encounters.
To learn more about Raíz Viva: raizviva.ca
