A treat to see Vincent Hantam performing again in Durban. (Review
by Maria Schuld and Mary Ann Salvage)
A Bouquet of Dance
presented in May by the Performing Arts Centre of Ethekwini (PACE) was a Showcase
of Ballet produced and choreographed by Vincent Hantam and other choreographers.
The Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre had the honour to host South
African born, Glasgow-based Vincent Hantam as Guest Artist under the auspices
of PACE, by now an established institution, to display what Durban youngsters
are capable of on stage. The girls and boys of various ages and levels
convinced the audience with a variety of pieces, most of them only developed
and rehearsed within the week. PACE offered workshops with Vincent Hantam where
he worked three hours with each level. What he managed to achieve in this time
was commendable.
The audience was not only entertained by traditional ballet
performances, but also hints of Tango, Contemporary, Jazz, and - as part of the
PACE Outreach programme - a group of very young soldiers saluting and marching
across the stage. One of the highlights was certainly the solo of Hannah Ward
who recently participated in the RAD Genee International Ballet Competition in
New Zealand. For those who prefer music to dance, talented singer and
songwriter Shannon Hope, who just recently returned from London, entertained
the audience with her deep, full voice, supported by the Principal String
section of the Durban City Orchestra.
Vincent himself also found his way onto stage and gave a
beautiful, intense and expressive performance, Steal away and Pray proving that it’s the small, modest and
meaningful movements which create the magic of dance. It was a treat to see him
performing again.
Finally, the dancers from PACE arranged by Yvonne Barker,
finished off the programme with a technically sound classical ballet, Flower Festival, giving us a taste of a
very positive future to look forward to.
The show left the proud parents with the feeling that in
Durban dance is the passion of so many young skilled boys and girls who
willingly give of their time and effort. A
Bouquet of Dance can also be summarised as a convincing display of the art
of dance. - Reviewed by Maria Schuld and Mary Ann Salvage.
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