One choreographer is set to explore the connection between the arts and history through dance.
Opening the festival at the Workers’ Museum in Newtown, with his piece titled Workers Chant, choreographer and performer Nhlanhla Mahlangu explained, “We call it heritage-specific dance theatre. We activate the static museum space making its dramatic architecture a multi-dimensional [space] by reliving some of the history, questioning the present, both in the museum and in society, using the power of music, poetry and dance.”
Performers will take the audience through an engaging and unique tour of the Workers’ Museum. The female performers take over the space that used to be for men only, guiding and leading the audience from room to room; and the 20 men ensemble not only gives a soundscape to the work, but also provides a contrast, nostalgic, romantic, colourful yet bitter layer.
“The choice of music is iscathamiya, the male a cappella music popularly known to be performed by Ladysmith Black Mambazo. This is the music of migrant labour, developed as a colonial response by men in the cities during the times of labour conscription system.”
Creating a heritage-specific dance was important to Mahlangu, who feels the energy of the unsung heroes who built and worked in Johannesburg from the day the first building was erected in the area.
The Dance Umbrella 2017 veteran has been performing at the festival since 2000 and is honoured to, on this 29th anniversary of the event, open the impressive line-up of performances that are set to take place and continue to celebrate this event which finds and showcases local talent.
“The Dance Umbrella 2017 remains one of the few platforms in this country which create an opportunity to display new work and showcase new talent. I am planning to watch the whole festival and see all the works this year, as this is very important. We need constant inspiration as theatre-makers and choreographers.”
With more than 10 shows in the festival, make sure not to miss out.
Read: Burnise Silvius hangs up her shoes after La Traviata…
Details: www.danceforumsouthafrica.co.za
