Revival of music, song and dance

Tsakane – Ingoma Music and Dance took place at Tsakane Hall on October 14.

“The event is a result of the auditions that were held at the Springs theatre in July this year,” explains Mbuso Mpungose head of marketing and communication.

Four groups were selected at the auditions in different categories like modern dance, traditional music, gumboot dance and traditional dance.

“The groups that made it through were then combined to form one production,” he explains.

The aim of the project is to revitalise the local theatre and performing arts industry through talent identification and development.

“For ninety minutes everyone will be on the edge of their seat from the first minute because of the captivating performances presented by the artists,” he says.

Mbuso believes the theatre culture in townships is not that strong and Ingoma is an attempt to rectify this.

“The combination of indigenous music and dance under the guidance of a reputable director and choreographer was a refreshing take on the production of musicals.”

This production gives the community a chance to witness great talent in their backyard.

Featured groups included Duduza Sweet Melodious and Nokulunga Youth Groups for traditional dance.

“I-Afrika plans to take this to all theatres in the city and possibly the province,” he adds.

Ingoma’s artist development plan is not just about unearthing talent, but investing financially in the artists by paying them industry-related fees for their participation.

The project is now an annual event.

“New talent will be recruited through auditions, so interested parties will have to look out for correspondence from March next year.”