POLOKWANE – The 11th edition of the South African Indigenous Games Festival at Seshego Stadium came to an end recently and was marked by powerful performances by traditional dance groups.
One particular item that had cultural dance aficionados on their feet was a rivetting performance by the Mphephu Orphans and Vulnerable Children Domba Dance Group.
The snake-like moves are part of a ritual dance performed by young Venda girls. It is a customary initiation rite and is performed during the ceremony at which the chief chooses a wife.
At Seshego Stadium, the young girls danced to the beat of a drum. For the uninitiated, the impression they got from the dance was that the girls were very tired and were slowly walking forward in their sleep.
Occasionally, the right arms and then the left arms of the entire group rhythmically undulate in a synchronised manner as the group slowly proceeds across the stage.
Denga went on to say: “Domba is the third and final phase in a Venda girl’s initiation. It typically takes place a short period after the vhusha and tshikanda ceremonies”.
Zulu dancers dressed in traditional attire wowed the crowd. Everyone in attendance cheered as the young men set out to prove their strength and agility. It was quit a way to end an event aimed at encouraging people to celebrate their heritage and culture.
thoko@nmgroup.co.za
