(Director and choreographer Vusi Makhanya)An uplifting couple of hours in KwaMashu indicate that dance is in good shape in KZN. (Review by Caroline Smart)
On Friday afternoon, I spent an uplifting couple of hours at Ekhaya Multi Art Centre in KwaMashu at Stepping into Reality, the title of the 2011 annual end of year concert of the KwaMashu School of Dance Theatre (KMSDT) and Dusi Dance Company.
If the standard of talent I saw during that afternoon is anything to go by, then dance is in good shape in KZN for years to come. Under the strong leadership of choreographer and director Vusi Makanya, Stepping into Reality explored unique African contemporary dance. All dancers from the smallest (aged 12) to the eldest (aged 28) were well-rehearsed and gave consistent performances. Movements were challenging and energetic and there was a high degree of focus throughout.
The first part of the programme was performed by the younger group. These included senior and junior members of KMSDT with KwaMashu; KwaSuka Saturday Dancers with Talking walk version 2); and Durban Charmers who presented local street dance fusing contemporary with Charmer Boy.
Guest artists included the Siyakhula Project Flatfoot Dance Development Project from KwaMashu directed by Jabu Siphika and The Young Ones from Newlands Art Organization directed by Sifiso Kitsona Khumalo. Live Music was a solo piece performed by Gabriel MThokozisi Masango of Young Star Production.
After interval, the Dusi Dance Company presented Imagination Thought, a thought-provoking piece that dealt with initiation and spirituality.
Stepping into Reality was a fund-raising production for KMSDT to sustain it to operate in 2012. This is a valuable project and well worth supporting. More information from Vusi Makanya on 082 622 4005 or email: vusi.kmsdt@gmail.com - Caroline Smart
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