MARGARET Horne, long-term supporter of the dance world in Durban, died at the age of 73 after suffering a severe stroke.
At a memorial celebration held on 2 March , tribute was paid by many to her generosity of spirit and the loyal support she gave to the projects in which she was involved.
She served as the Treasurer of the South African Society for the Advancement of Dancing (SASAD) for over 15 years until her retirement.
“She was the perfect treasurer as she understood and was always part of the dancing world,” said Des van der Spuy, SASAD Congress Chairman. “Her daughter, Carolyn, was a dancer, so Margaret was part of the dance world long before she was treasurer. She loved being in the background helping and assisting in any way she could. She always played an integral part at dance events. As Treasurer, she was extremely diligent and preferred to do all book work by hand as opposed to computer. Her mind was sharp with anything concerning bookwork and her books were meticulous. She was one of the building blocks that held the society together. ”
Well-known choreographer Mark Hawkins, who partnered Carolyn Horne in his early dancing years, looked upon her as a mother figure and paid tribute to her honesty and unselfishness.
Peter Taylor, Administrator of The Mercury Durban Theatre Awards, acknowledged her enthusiasm and commitment as a management committee member since the formation of the awards in 2003.
Theatre doyenne Caroline Smart reminded those present that apart from her SASAD commitments, Margaret Horne handled the finances of the former D’ARTS magazine as well as The ArtStand at Essenwood Market.
Margaret Horne leaves her daughter, Carolyn Shepard, her son-in-law Shane and grandsons Kyle and Blayne.
