Church cultural competition finals a success

The Redeemed Christian Church of God hosted its dance and music competition finals on April 28 at the Ivory Park Community Hall in Extension Two.

The preliminary stages of the competition took place on April 22 when 10 acts were chosen to battle it out in the finals.

Operation Thatha, Umzekelo Cultural Group, Tembisa Black Spinners, Twilighteens, R Kruger, Tembisa Spinners and Tembisa Teens were some of the groups that took part in the finals.

Umzekelo Cultural Group took the first prize of R3 000, Twilighteens walked away with the second prize of R2 000, and Tembisa Black Spinners in third place won R1 000.

Events coordinator Phineas Mamabolo said the finals were very successful and attracted a large audience.

“The event became more than we expected it to be. We have groups that are willing to partner with us and work together going forward,” said Mamabolo.

“We have achieved what we wanted to achieve as a church, but the plan goes beyond the competition. The groups that join us will be able to rehearse at the venue where the finals were held.

“They will be performing at the upcoming events of the church,” said Mamabolo.

Sifiso Botha, the leader of Umzekelo Cultural Group, said: “It is a blessing to be here. We look forward to working together with the pastor in the religious sector.

“Rehearsals are at Moses Molelekwa Arts Centre every Wednesday and Thursdays, with members from around Tembisa, Ivory Park and Winnie Mandela.

“We are glad we won the grand prize because it will help us balance the costs that come with the production of our art, including transport costs.”

Lehlogonolo Chaba, a member of Tembisa Black Spinners, said the competition is for a good cause as the church encourages people from the streets to take part and gives performers exposure within the community.

“We came third. If we push harder and practise more, we could be number one,” said Chaba.