Youth enthral audiences with cultural dance

A vibrant and youthful group of dancers entertained crowds with energy-sapping African cultural dances at Boxer’s shopping complex.

The group, Wayback Dark City Production, a non-profit organisation was formed in 2008 by Simon Letsoela (38). Its members are 15-25 years old and are complemented by another group, Afro Beat composed of 7-14 year olds, all of whom are school children of Ithute primary, Realogile and Eastbank secondary schools. “Many African cultural occasions are complemented with dances which are often inherited from an early age,” Letsoela said. “My aim is to nurture these traits in these children. In so doing, I keep them off the street, from drugs, bad influences and teenage pregnancy. This gives them hope and desire to explore their intergenerational talents through song, music and dance.”

The group performs local traditional dances, praise, poetry, drama, marabi, gumboots, tin dance, gospel and also contemporary, afro fusion and the chinese tae koz dance.

Letsoela has led the group for five years. Some of its previous members have made a career as professional dancers, dance instructors and others are at art and dance institutions.

The group performs for a fee at charity events, celebrations, corporate launches and other special events. They request support to engage more children, to purchase instruments and costumes, and to transport the members especially in winter. They practise daily after school at the Eastbank Heritage Site.

Details: Simon Letsoela 076 893 7182