Gregory Vuyani Maqoma receives a coveted award from the French Government

The mastermind behind Vuyani Dance Theatre has received an auspicious award for his work in the dance industry.

Gregory Vuyani Maqoma, founder of Vuyani Dance Theatre, has received the Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Knight of the Order of the Arts and Literature) from the French government at an award ceremony in May.

Maqoma has produced, choreographed and performed in numerous productions since opening the company more than 16 years ago.

Read: Join a dance company 

Maqoma’s extensive art which reaches across multiple countries and covers more than two decades was the catalyst behind the French Government’s handover of the prestigious award.

“The French government looked at the work that I have been doing in France, on the continent and particularly in South Africa. Through the establishment of Vuyani Dance Theatre as a black dance organisation breaking many barriers and creating opportunities for many black artists across the continent, the success of Vuyani is credited to my vision and therefore the recognition honours my dedication to the arts,” he explained.

It is not often that a person receives an award of this magnitude – one that pertains to the work he’s done in a little-recognised, underappreciated and underfunded sector of the South African industry.

Receiving the award on the night, Maqoma explained, “It is humbling for a foreign country to recognise the good work. I am pleased that this happens in my lifetime and to be given such a high honour, is truly inspiring.”

Read: Local performing arts professional Di Sparks talked about her friend, Georgina Thomson’s dance industry achievement

With no signs of slowing down since receiving the award, Maqoma divulged to City Buzz the projects that he is working on with Vuyani Dance Theatre.

“We are presently in the middle of a season at The Market Theatre with the Cion production until the 4th of June. After the production, the company will be in collaboration with Johannesburg Ballet and Moving Into Dance, working on a new production called Big City, Big Dreams.

City Buzz will be interviewing choreographers from Big City, Big Dreams, so keep your eyes on the City Buzz website and Facebook page for the full story.