Buyani Dance Theater celebrates 25 years through dance in Newtown Cultural District
It is very important that Vuyani Dance Theater (VDT) celebrates its 25th anniversary in the year when the country celebrates its 30th anniversary of democracy.
“This is an incredible milestone and a very emotional journey for us. Celebrating our 25th anniversary allows us to reflect on the resilience, creativity and dedication that has kept VDT alive and thriving. means,” says VDT Founder and Executive Director Gregory Makoma. The Citizen.
During the first weekend of December, VDT, in collaboration with Arts Alive Festival and other stakeholders, will celebrate its 25th anniversary with an event in the New Town Cultural District, celebrating the joy and love of dance, culture, food and community. Have an outdoor experience to celebrate. .
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Buyani Dance Theater Journey
The significance of this remarkable anniversary shared by this country and VDT symbolizes the potential of black children in a new South Africa.
Makoma founded VDT in 1999. The idea came to him while he was studying at the Performing Arts Research and Training Studio in Belgium under the guidance of Teresa de Keersmaeker.
It was the first time for him to be away from Mzansi for such a long time and see South Africa from the outside.
“It was there that I was able to think about my position as a black African, especially at a time when the political and cultural landscape of this country was rapidly changing,” he said.
During this period he created his first independent works outside the institution. rhythm 123.
The aforementioned work considered Johannesburg as a concrete slab with its rules, culture and urban environment.
Reflecting on this, Makoma realized that his work somehow drew him into the context of not only the complexities of the urban environment, but also the complexities of post-apartheid South Africa.
“So I wanted to create a space for artists to come together. I wanted them to grow and be part of the complexity and start defining it in some way through their bodies. I did.”
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potential of black children
Since its inception, VDT has shaped contemporary dance in South Africa through a blend of innovation and cultural storytelling.
He spoke to The Citizen at the premiere in Stockholm, Sweden. white box Commenting on a series of new works in collaboration with Belgium-based designer Sabie Theunissen, Makoma said the VDT 25th anniversary celebrations are a testament to the resilience and creativity of South Africa's black community.
“This embodies the idea that with vision, dedication and support, black children can achieve greatness regardless of their background,” he said.
“Our journey aligns with democratic South Africa’s aspirations to foster equality, opportunity and hope.”
This anniversary celebration celebrates VDT's artistic legacy and engages the Johannesburg community in an immersive dance experience, and the celebration pays tribute to those who have been part of their journey. said Makoma.
“…and a reminder of the transformative power of dance as a force for connection and change. But even more important is celebrating the value chain and putting children and young people at the center of the celebration,” he said. Ta.
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access to dance
One of the activities that is part of the anniversary celebrations is the Dance Workshop, an engaging and interactive dance workshop held at the Moving Into Dance and Vuyani Dance studios.
“The Workshop was born out of our mission to make dance accessible to everyone,” said the renowned choreographer.
“Dance is a universal language, and by creating interactive and engaging experiences, we encourage people to connect with the art form on a personal level.”
This workshop will be facilitated by renowned artist Joanne Georgina Petersen. britain's got talent Grand finalists Moosa Moosa, Roseline Wilkens and Makoma herself.
“These workshops allow families and communities to participate as well as observe, breaking down barriers between performers and audiences. This accessibility is a core value at VDT and our commitment to inclusivity. It reflects our efforts.”
There will be readings by the esteemed Dr Gusina Mulofe, a children's play area and an online photo exhibition featuring the work of popular photographer Arthur Dlamini.
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A people-centered celebration
Makoma said it was the people who inspired him to take this route to celebrate VDT's 25th anniversary.
“This is about everyone who has been touched by our work, and we wanted to make sure this celebration felt inclusive and meaningful. It was also about Indigenous people. It’s also about getting back to play and stories under the tree,” he said.
Mr Makoma, an award-winner, said learning occurs across generations and often draws on history, which is why he supports Mrofe.
“We have artists like Moussa Moosa who are storytellers under the tree and on the other hand teach master inclusive classes that focus on people with disabilities.”
“We wanted to reflect on our roots and look forward to the future. Each activity showcases our journey, influences and commitment to using dance as a medium to inspire and engage. carefully selected.
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