Tembisa art and culture talent unleashed on stage
Art Jamboree hosted by UCDC in Tembisa showcase township talents.
Unity and Cultural Diversity Council (UCDC) hosted their Kopanong Annual Youth Public Art Jamboree event at Khaya Lothando community centre on April 6.
The 10-hours event, which was a poetry, dance, music, drama, visual arts, comedy, and storytelling event, kickstarted at 9am.
They started with outdoor performances in the streets of Tembisa. Saint Afrikhambas, Khutjo and associations, Vintage Girls and Tembisa Revolutions were among some of the groups that performed on stage. The acts of Xibelana dance, Gumboots and Pantsula were also in display followed by acts of poetry, acapella and storytelling.
Thabang Tjale, the founder and chairperson of UCDC, said they wanted to bring art theatre into the townships and unleash the talent of youngsters.
“We wanted to see how much talent we have that we could unleash and we were amazed by the talent. More could still be hidden and needs bringing to the surface,” said Tjale.
“Support from local media could help us grow to a point where we have a theatre in Tembisa which will help take young people away from social ills.“We are hoping to market our productions at municipality events. The organisation is looking to unleash talented youngsters and we are looking forward to engaging with the community who supports us and say thank you to the parents who let their children engage in productions like what we have seen,” added Tjale.
Moleleki Ledimo, the director for arts and youth development, National Department of Arts and Culture, said it all started when UCDC applied for funding in a proposal of showcasing what Tembisa as a township could bring to the table in terms of entertainment.
“This is an opportunity for artists to showcase their talents, especially the young ones. I was impressed to see children as young as 10 years on stage performing with the older ones,” said Ledimo.
“This also creates jobs as there were catering.
“We are working with the provincial departments to fund artists that need to go overseas either as an individual or in a group.
“The event was a great success,” said Ledimo.
