SboNdaba Dance – ! ke e: /xarra //ke, Diverse People Unite, is how Artscape will celebrate 30 years of Democracy and diversity, with three performances only on 24 and 25 May.
“It is with great pleasure that Artscape announces its collaboration with the event, ! ke e: /xarra //ke, Diverse People Unite, the South African motto, central to the theme of a production which celebrates Africa Month and 30 years of Democracy.”
The production reflects on how far we have come as a nation and encourages South Africans to see the incredible depth of our diversity, and the power we can give to a vision, if we harness our individual strengths and work together with a common purpose. It will also shine a light on what is still to be done to ensure the vision remains solid and the values, as represented on the shield, continue to be upheld.
Sbo Ndaba
With a powerful joint vision, this new production is directed and choreographed by Artistic Director Sbonakaliso Ndaba. The cast of highly acclaimed dancers include SboNdabadancers together with guest dancers from other arts organisations – Marlin Zoutman from New World Dance Theatre, Andile Vellum, Mpotseng Shupping, Yaseen Manuel from Unmute Dance Theatre, Keenun Wales, Nathaniel Jacob, Ockert Prince from Rebirth Dance Company and independent dancers – Monwabisi Bence and Lewellyn Afrika.
Joining them is Vicky Sampson, the magical voice behind Afrikan Dream, the song that inspired a nation, and African indigenous musicians – Thabisa Dinga, Zinziswa Nogavu and Lutho Mzongwana.
Ndaba says: “There is a reason why we are different. This production will enhance the power of our diversity through Songs, African Contemporary Dance and Storytelling, with the backing of local musicians and the beautiful sounds of indigenous instruments. As South African artists we must unite, take pride in our uniqueness, inspire one another and believe in the magic of our dreams.”
Says Marlene le Roux, CEO of Artscape: “Development of different voices and the celebration of diversity are two key elements of Artscape’s vision. This production reflects all that is triumphant in this field. Giving a platform and a voice to parts of our 30-year Democracy history that hitherto have been dormant is vital to continue to grow who we are as South Africans and Africans. This is the kind of production that does precisely that.”
Furthermore the production highlights that racism, tribalism, xenophobia and corruption are the result of competing for power and riches. Instead of competing, the production points out the benefits of working together to harness the resources available in our country.
Pronunciation of the name of the event,”! ke e: /xarra //ke, Diverse People Unite” will draw people’s attention to the rich colourful language of the first inhabitants of the area, at a time when the language is fading from use. During the process of creation, the creative group will reflect on the symbols and values of the South African Coat of Arms, symbols that were chosen to represent all South Africans. | YouTube – It’s Time for us all to learn to pronounce our motto correctly – ! ke e: /xarra //ke, Diverse People Unite
WHAT: SboNdaba Dance – ! ke e: /xarra //ke, Diverse People Unite
WHERE: Artscape Theatre Centre, Foreshore, Cape Town 8001
WHEN: Please Note there are THREE Performances ONLY – Friday, 24 May at 19:00 and Saturday, 25 May at 15:00 and 19:00
TICKETS: Call Artscape’s dial-a-seat on 021 421 7695 or Webtickets. R150 each with concessions for seniors, students, children at R75 each and block bookings of ten or more at R50 each
! ke e: /xarra //ke, Diverse People Unite is sponsored by the Department of Sport Arts and Culture as part of the Mzansi Golden Economy (MGE) programme, celebrating 30 years of Democracy.
