Theatre artist and researcher Christina Kapadocha presents her original piece Mapping Journeys – Grounding Roots on World Refugee Day 2026. This participatory performance invites audiences to reflect on migration, refuge, identity and belonging through shared stories and gentle interaction.

What if our bodies are the maps of our life journeys?
What if a simple handshake begins to unravel stories and connections?

Performer Christina Kapadocha guides audiences through a gentle three-part reflective process: mapping our journeys, grounding our roots, centring our identities. Participants are prompted to listen differently, notice details in simple gestures such as a handshake, reflect on life transitions and sense how our bodies are held by spaces.

The piece includes moments of interaction between audience and performer and among audience members. Participation is always optional and the experience is held with care. The performance lasts approximately one hour. A post-show space for creative writing and group conversation extends the invitation to share, listen and connect.

The performance will be recorded. Verbal consent will be confirmed beforehand and seating options will be arranged according to your preferences. Under-18s may attend with guardian consent.

Presented in partnership with the Hellenic Centre for World Refugee Day 2026.
Funded by the University of Essex Impact Fund, supported by Research England.

The event is part of Refugee Week. The Hellenic Centre is proud to continue its collaboration with Counterpoints Arts and be part of Refugee Week—the world’s largest arts and culture festival that honours the contributions, creativity, and resilience of people seeking sanctuary.

For further details, click here.

Christina Kapadocha composed the sound dramaturgy of the piece using sound recordings captured during one-to-one sessions with the following artist-participants: Gülfem Özdoğan, Maria Alexe, Elena Hadjiafxendi, Gabriela Schutz, Jennifer Lim, Olga Danylyuk, Sara Masry and Angela Ekaette Michaels.

Sound design and technical support: Danny Scott

Image: Photographic collage by Christina Kapadocha, featuring the artist.

Contact the host of Mapping Journeys – Grounding Roots by Christina Kapadocha