EXCHANGE

(Pic by Val Adamson)

Four works allow the students to show off their technique, versatility and passion for dance. (Review by Verne Rowin Munsamy)

DUT Drama and Performance Studies presented their yearly Dance Dramas this week with their latest offering, Exchange, which has just finished its three-day run at the Courtyard Theatre.

Directed by their resident dance lecturer, Mdu Mtshali and choreographed by Thandanani Qwabe, Nqubeko Ngema, Njabulo Zungu and the newest addition to the department,  Lee Anne Naicker, the four works allow the students to show off their technique, versatility and passion for dance.

The students, from first year to third, take flight in these four works, showing off their African Contemporary, Hip Hop, and Traditional dance techniques. The first years are allowed free reign, under the supervision of Mtshali, to workshop a piece that allows them to flap their wings for the first time in this African Contemporary style. While a little awkward at times, it was a successful attempt for many. Kaylyn Yon and Zamokuhle Jali shine with attitude and vigour in the Hip Hop piece, choreographed by Naicker, entitled Celebrity. Their bodies fit easily within the Hip Hop genre and Yon and Jali offered a mind blowing rendition, almost placing the audience in a live music video.

Following closely in their footsteps was Sethu Nonyinga, Kwenza Ngcobo, Zuzumuzi Mdamba and Senzo Mabanga. These second year students made the stage their home with their spunk and fearless attitude.

The third year students take their final bow as dance students at DUT and wowed us with an emotional piece entitle Who are we?, choreographed by Qwabe. Their refined technique is a testimony to Mtshali’s teaching and their send-off sees Zwakele Gazu, Slindile Gazu, Sifiso Majola and one of my favourites of the night, Nkanyiso Shezi, shine in the spotlight. They demonstrate their technique with confidence and ease.

I was left impressed by many young stars on the night. - Verne Rowin Munsamy