( Pic by Val Adamson: S'fiso Magesh Ngcobo and Sifiso Kitsona Khumalo)All lovers of contemporary dance should see this! (Review by Caroline Smart)
Rightly described as two of Durban's finest male dancers, S'fiso Magesh Ngcobo and Sifiso Kitsona Khumalo appear in a new dance work Similar Pathways, which has been choreographed by Ngcobo.
Having toured with African Footprints for over a year, they are now recognised and respected as professional dancers and dance educators. They are long-time dancing colleagues and this shows in their work, the one complementing the other in thought and movement. This is a very spiritual and moving piece where two individuals travelling their own “pathways”, as it were, identify similar characteristics in the other.
The Square Space is bare of props and costuming is basic with Ngcobo all in black while Khumalo provides visual interest with an animal print vest. The back “wall” is painted a metallic colour, providing a solid feel which adds to the simplicity of their message.
Describing the work, Ngcobo states: "one way or another, our life paths land up being similar though we might not feel like we are going in the same direction."
At the beginning of the piece, Khumalo seems “trapped” in the doorway, gaining comfort from familiar surroundings. As Ngcobo moves into action, Khumalo starts his own journey - sometimes alongside Ngcobo, sometimes behind him, but always moving forward with the same energy. There is a sense of confusion as things they felt a regular part of their life disappear and they face new challenges. As they recognise and acquire a new path or principles to follow, they ask for spiritual guidance in their separate journeys. There is much expansive movement and some of it is dangerously close – one false step and they’d be likely to knock each other off-balance.
Unfortunately, the noise from the air-conditioning unit drowns out much of their opening dialogue as well as that which occurs later when they move into prayer. The one’s thoughts come easily while the other is prone to hesitation – but still, they are both of the same mind. It might be more effective if they put their speech on voice-over as it is important that we hear what they say.
I urge all lovers of contemporary dance to see this dance work, you won’t be disappointed.
Presented by Goosh Magesh Productions, Similar Pathways runs in the Square Space Theatre at the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Howard College campus until May 21 at 18h30 with a matinee on May 21 at 1215). The running time is 40 minutes. Tickets R40 (R20 student/scholar/pensioner) booked through Clare Craighead on 082 875 6065. – Caroline Smart
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