After 17 years, Ailey makes an historic return to South Africa with 13 performances in Johannesburg at the Teatro at Montecasino from 3 to 13 September and seven performances in Cape Town at Artscape from 16 to 20 September.
The performances will be complemented by extensive educational activities in area schools, communities, and townships. As always, stepping off the stage and into the community is a priority for Ailey.
The Company will lead workshops, lecture demonstrations, and master classes on 10 days of the 18-day residency, reaching over two dozen schools, universities, and community centers throughout the country, including Bapedi Lower Primary School in Soweto, Pretoria University, Dance Factory in Newton, National School of the Arts, and the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls.
The Company’s work in South Africa has resulted in undeniable cultural impact, and Ailey’s relationship with the nation extends beyond the residencies.
Several South African students have received scholarships to the Ailey School and maintain successful dance careers, including some who were hand-selected by Artistic Director Emerita Judith Jamison during the Company’s early visits: Bafana Solomon Matea (class of 2001) has danced with several companies and currently leads his own in the UK; Bradley Shelver (class of 2000) danced with Ailey II and Limon Dance Company, and is currently the Artistic Director of Steps Ensemble in New York; and Mamela Nyamza (class of 2000) has choreographed for So You Think You Can Dance and continues to create groundbreaking dance and theater works in South Africa.
Mr. Ailey said it so well ’Dance came from the people and should always be delivered back to the people.’
SOWETO DANCE PROJECT, 02 SEPTEMBER 2015
14h00-17h00
Bapedi Hall, Bapedi Lower Primary School, 219 Masilela Str, Zone 3, Meadowlands.
No of participants: 50
For more information contact Carlie Dibakoane 084 295 5575 Email: carliedi@joburg.org.za/sowetodanceproject@hotmail.com
*Ticket Prices for the Montecasino show Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday 6:30pm – R100 to R490 Friday, Saturday and Sunday 1:30pm¬ R100 to R590 per person inclusive or visit www.showtime.co.za <http://www.showtime.co.za and Computicket Ticket outlets for tickets.
