Dance Umbrella open doors for talented youngsters

The festival this year will introduce two new programmes set to take place at the Wits Theatre on 7 and 8 March.

This production will give students the chance to explore new concepts and choreography under the guidance of experienced choreographers. .

The first programme is the Young Choreographers platform which includes Ons gedoentes by Byron Klassen; The life I’ve lived by Sthembiso Khalishwayo, Lethlhogonolo Nche, Loren Seekooi, Thabo Kobeli and Mckintosh Jerahuni. The second, is the Student Choreographers platform which features works from selected young choreographers and students at Tshwane University of Technology, Oakfields College in Midrand and other freelance artists. .

Choreographer and lecturer at Oakfields College, Ignatius van Heerden, who also received his debut as a choreographer at Dance Umbrella, said he was excited to have some of his third year students taking part in the festival. “Dance has gradually taken over as a sport and it is through festivals such as this one that dance will once again take its place as art,” he said. “Not only will the students get an opportunity to improve their skills as dancers and choreographers, but I also hope that this is the first step to producing more choreographers – this is needed so we may improve ourselves as dancers.” .

Van Heerden said that as certain as he was that the festival would provide a platform for young talent, the students would, in turn, bring a new style to Dance Umbrella. “The students have been given the opportunity to showcase how they interpret music and I am sure they will not disappoint,” he added.

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