Local blessed with numerous performing art talents
Influenced by his late grandmother, Kate Nkoi Ntobeng’s passion for the arts, Mashegwane already realised his artistic flair at the age of seven
BURGERSFORT – Dennias Mashegwane, a local resident Ga-Mampuru was blessed with multi conceptual skills in performing arts. He can play more than ten instruments ranging from the penny whistle, harmonica, merupa, flute, jembes, kalimba, marimba and many others.
Influenced by his late grandmother, Kate Nkoi Ntobeng’s passion for the arts, Mashegwane already realised his artistic flair at the age of seven. “She would beat the drum and sing local songs; I can still hear the beautiful harmonies she sang. We spent a lot of time together, as I could not walk or run for long distances like the other children of my age due to my leg deficiency. During our bonding time she would also narrate poems to me. I can honestly say her love for music and arts inspired me to aspire in my talents,” he added.
Since 2001 he has enrolled in two courses – an art course at the Mbira School of Arts in Springs and the other one at the Market Theatre in Johannesburg.
In March 2012, he participated in the International Indigenous festival where he was also awarded a certificate of recognition for his participation in the very special art category, by the International Organisation on Arts and Disability. He also performed in different parts of world including Chile, France and Zimbabwe.
One of his most inspirational encounters was his introduction to Witbank City Theatre. “I met David van der Merwe who was at that time the director of the city theatre. He gave me the nickname ‘Skilpad’, which means you can only succeed when you run with your mind and not your legs. He also introduced me to the Afrikaans language and for the first time I read ‘Hasie en die Skilpad’. After that my friends started to call me the Black van der Merwe, the reason; I was the best mouth-piano player with the greatest Afrikaans harmonic melodies.”
He admits that the flute is his favourite instrument and adds that his multicultural shows have a rainbow nation essence to it. Mashegwane is starting a performing arts production for disabled people. This music tour will kick-start in October and will travel through the Tubatse district.
If anyone is interested to book or to assist Mashegwane’s in his endeavour, they can contact 073-472-9945.
