NEW VOICES

2011 New Voices a must see! (Review by Sifiso Sikhakhane)

The First Physical Theatre Company brings to this year’s National Arts Festival four exciting and innovative pieces by young choreographers which form part of their 2011 New Voices programme.

Last year’s programme was a bit of a disappointment, but judging from what I saw last night ... 2011 New Voices is a must see!

New Voices was first launched by Gary Gordon in 1993 as a platform to offer young choreographers and performers a chance to showcase their work in a professional environment. This year’s young choreographers: Sonja Smit, Thalia Laric and Siya Mbambaza (our very own Alvin Ailey) have managed to make Gordon’s dream come true.

I was really impressed with Smit’s designs which she used in her piece, The Goat Song, as well as Laric’s Litany which is aesthetically and visually very thrilling. Of course, the Youth Company, choreographed by Mbambaza this year is always a pleasure to watch. Those kids are the next big thing!

Sleeper which is also choreographed and performed by Mbambaza is breathtaking... Perhaps you should get yourself a New Voices ticket to understand what I mean.

New Voices runs at Centenary Hall until July 7. – Sifiso Sikhakhane