More than 700 dancers turned the area outside Ingrid Klingenberg’s pharmacy into a lively celebration of culture as the second annual Heritage Dance Competition took place. The colourful showcase drew a steady flow of passersby who stopped to watch performances in Ingoma Yezintombi, Ushemeni, Umbholoho, Indlamu, Modern Dance and Afro Gospel.

Participation and standards exceed expectations

The organisers say that this year’s event exceeded expectations, with ‘30-something’ groups taking part and the standard lifted again. Dancers travelled from eDumbe, Estcourt, Newcastle and across Vryheid to compete.

Ingrid Klingenberg supports and celebrates local culture

The organisers added that the idea for the competition first took shape last year when they approached Ingrid with the concept. “We met Ingrid and discussed the competition and that it must be done. The reason why Ingrid did this is because she loves our Zulu culture and she showed us that she can do anything just for us (Amaciko) to be happy,” they said.

Giving recognition to cultural groups

It was also said that many of the more than 40 cultural groups around Vryheid often feel overlooked by councillors and the municipality. “The main reason for this competition was to show the groups that there are people who love and recognise what they are doing. We did not expect this turnout, and it showed that our standard is on another level. Ingrid managed to cater for all the groups and she also secured sponsors for the competition. We are very grateful to have her, especially because the groups are not recognised by the mayor.”

Judges and category winners

This year’s judges were Thenjiwe Ndwane from Shoba, Sandile Mdlongathi from Engoje, and Mphulisi Mgaga from Bhekuzulu.
Category results:
Ingoma Yezintombi:
* Osobancane – Position 1
* Izimpande – Position 2
* Abaka Shemeni – Position 3
Umbholoho:
* Isibani – Position 1
* Amawundlu – Position 2
* Amalakazane – Position 3
Ushemeni:
* Isigqi Sabaqulusi – Position 3
* Shemeni – Position 2
Indlamu:
* Fisokuhle Cultural Group – Position 1
* Inhlanzeko – Position 2
* Izihlabani Zezwe – Position 3
Modern Dance:
* Young Squad – Position 3
Afro Gospel:
* Amawundlu – Position 1
* Inkomazi Voices – Position 3

Community spirit and cultural celebration

The spectators said the dancers created a warm and spirited atmosphere that carried well beyond the Heritage Day calendar. With strong performances across all categories, the event once again highlighted the depth of local talent and the value of cultural platforms for young artists. The event wrapped up with cheers, photos and celebrations as the groups shared plans to return again next year.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.