Tembisa dancer on world stage
"In 2001 I received a scholarship to study dance with an institution called Moving Into Dance and graduated with a diploma in research and education of dance.”
Thulane “Boom Shaka” Zwane is an energetic dancer who loves everything that is artistic about life.
He is an all-round performer, doing music, dance and acting.
The former student of Ikusasa Comprehensive School said he has always had a passion for the arts.
While growing up he was a member of the Tlakana Youth Club, which he joined as a singer, but he later discovered he had the ability to dance and act.
“I never had an opportunity to do some of the disciplines at tertiary level. In 2001 I received a scholarship to study dance with an institution called Moving Into Dance and graduated with a diploma in research and education of dance,” said Boom Shaka.
Thereafter he pursued dance as a full time profession, teaching the art at the National School of the Arts and at Tertia King.
“Studying at Moving Into Dance contributed a lot towards my career. There we were taught how to sell the business that we are – selling myself as a business,” he said.
When a friend gave him contacts of the person in charge of a renowned dance company, he was set for an experience that would change his life forever.
He said it wasn’t easy to convince officials of the African Foot Print to hire him.
“I had to nag them every day for more than a month. I insisted they had to see me sing and dance. I told them they needed me in their show. When they told me I made it, it felt like everything just fell into place,” said Boom Shaka.
“I received the chance to represent my country – we are talking about a world-acclaimed musical here,” he said.
He has been with the show for more than 11 years, touring the world.
Thulane Zwane has been to Germany, Holland, France, Canada, America, Mexico and the list goes on.
“I have rubbed shoulders with the stars and that made me feel everything is possible. I felt I can do all things, embracing the possibilities of life,” said Boom Shaka.
He said his advice to the youth in Tembisa is for them not to be afraid of being different.
“Always go for what your heart tells you, not your friends,” said Boom Shaka.
The Tembisa dancer said he would love to be remembered as a person who took Tembisa to the world.
“Tembisa has talent and for people to recognise us, Tembisans have to take our township to world for people to see,” he said.
