A dream that began on tiptoes

When Alberton’s Unathi Nkuta first began walking on her tippy toes as a toddler, her mother, Tsametse Nkuta, had no idea it would one day lead to a professional stage career.

What started as playful steps soon became a lifelong passion for ballet.

“It was by accident, really,” Tsametse recalled.

“She always walked on her tippy toes as a toddler, and in my head that meant ballet, so I signed her up when she was five.”

Today, at 13, Unathi performs in one of SA’s celebrated productions, Sean Bovim’s Private Presley, showing at the Pieter Toerien Theatre, Montecasino.

The Mzansi Ballet production celebrates the life and music of Elvis Presley through choreography and storytelling.
For Unathi, it marks a significant moment in her young career. She performs the role of Lisa Marie Presley.

Stepping into the spotlight

When Unathi first received the news that she was chosen for the role, she could hardly believe it.

“I was happy and confused at the same time,” she said with a smile.

“It’s such a big role, and I felt blessed that they trusted me with it.”

Her excitement grew the moment she stepped into her costume and onto the stage for the first time.

“It felt magical. When I looked in the mirror, I thought, ‘Wow, this is really happening’. The lights, the music, everything made me feel like I was part of something special.”

The production has tested her skills and deepened her appreciation for her craft.

“Remembering all the emotions while still dancing perfectly was the hardest part,” she admitted.

“Lisa Marie has such a big story, so I had to learn to act and dance at the same time.”

Lessons from the stage

Working alongside Mzansi Ballet’s professional dancers has been a source of growth and inspiration for Unathi.
“I’ve learnt to never give up, even when it’s hard,” she said.

“The Mzansi Ballet dancers are so disciplined. They practice over and over until everything is perfect. It taught me that hard work does pay off.”

Her mentors and idols continue to drive Unathi’s passion for dance.

“I look up to Angela Revie, Kiana Prinsloo, Mahlatse Sachane, Kitty Phetla and Misty Copeland,” she said.

“They showed that girls who look like me can shine in ballet, too.”

Balancing school and stardom

Despite the demands of rehearsals and performances, Unathi remains focused on her education.

She is a Reddam House Bedfordview learner, and teachers have played a crucial role in helping her balance school and the stage.

“It’s not easy, but I try to stay organised. I do my homework before class, and my mom helps me plan my week. I’m grateful to my teachers for always supporting me,” she said.

Her mother says the support from the school and Mzansi Ballet has made the journey manageable.

“It’s definitely a balancing act, but we’ve learnt to create structure and lean on support,” Tsametse said.

“I’m grateful to the teachers at Reddam House Bedfordview, Dirk Badenhorst and Mzansi Ballet for rotating girls her age between shows. It allows them to focus on their education and their art.”

A proud family moment

Watching her daughter perform professionally for the first time was emotional for Tsametse.

“I had goosebumps the entire time. Seeing her under those lights, moving with grace and confidence, I couldn’t believe that was my little girl,” she said.

For the Nkuta family, the moment carried special meaning.

“Seeing her on that stage reminds us that dreams are possible for young girls from Alberton and beyond,” Tsametse added.

“It’s also a moment for our community to see that local talent can reach national platforms when nurtured with love, discipline and faith.”

Inspiring others to dream

For Unathi, performing in Private Presley is only the beginning.

She hopes to travel the world, dance on big stages, and teach children who share her love for ballet.

“I want to inspire them the way my teachers inspired me,” she said.

She encourages other young dancers from Alberton to dream boldly.

“Never think your dream is too big. Work hard, listen to your teachers, and always believe in yourself. If I can do it, so can you.”

Mzansi Ballet’s Private Presley runs until the end of November. Tickets are available on Webtickets.