Gumboot dancer jets off to Las Vegas
Dancers and management of Phinda-Mzala Entertainment Projects in Katlehong held a farewell function for Thabiso Moloi, who has won a two-year contract to dance for the world-famous Cirques du Soleil in Las Vegas, USA.
The farewell function took place at Hlatshwayo Sport Grounds on Friday, December 8 and featured performances by K1 Productions (pantsula), Via Africa (pantsula) and Fossil (rap).
Ward 51 Clr Jacky Mahoro also came to bid farewell to Moloi, who left for Las Vegas on December 9.
An excited Moloi told Kathorus MAIL how he got his big break.
“Six Phinda-Mzala gumboots and pantsula dancers were invited to audition for the role of Sugar Plum Fairy in Las Vegas. I was one of those dancers. The judges were impressed with my dance moves and as a result I ended up getting a contract.”
Moloi signed a two-year contract to perform gumboot dance in Cirque du Soleil’s best-selling show The Beatles LOVE.
“I am excited with the opportunity as it will grow me as a dancer,” said Moloi. “I want to make a career out of my talent. I promise all the dancers from Phinda-Mzala who supported me that I will come back with fresh ideas that I will implement at Phinda-Mzala and make this organisation the biggest entertainment company in Africa.”
Moloi aims eventually to be an artistic director.
Phinda-Mzala managing director David Mahlaba said he is happy for Moloi.
“He is a good dancer, and what I like the most about him is that he is disciplined. I am sure he is going to represent the organisation well,” Mahlaba added. “I believe that the organisation’s profile will improve nationally.”
Teboho Kgaphola, Moloi’s best friend and one of Phinda-Mzala’s best dancers, said his friend’s achievement is an achievement for all the dancers.
“This will open doors for all of us. And I am certain that everyone in the organisation will benefit, as he is not selfish.”
Kgaphola said it makes him happy that he contributed to Moloi’s talent.
“I taught him some of the things he knows today since we were friends from school.”
Moloi’s deal with Cirques du Soleil, one of the world’s biggest entertainment companies, comes with a host of benefits, including rehearsal and performance fees, medical, dental and vision insurance, life insurance, workers’ compensation, access to performance medical professionals, and access to specialist classes and workshops.
