Dance: Generations, exciting showcase of emerging choreographers by SboNdaba Dance

Exciting dance theatre news is Generations, presented by SboNdaba Dance which will be presented at Theatre Arts from March 20-22, 2025. SboNdaba Dance continues its mission “Empowering performing artists … unmistakably South African in origin… universal in appeal!” by offering a platform for emerging choreographers. Directed by Sinazo Mxeli, with senior members interpreting their stories, the performance will feature music by Zinzi Nogavu and a finale by artistic director Sbonakaliso Ndaba. Generations explores how we evolve through teachings, challenges, and new connections. Honouring those who paved the way, we carry their wisdom forward, ensuring their legacy lives on through us. Read on for more. Info as supplied:

GENERATIONS … “We are because You were… Then and the journey to Now”

Generations explores how we evolve through teachings, challenges, and new connections. Honouring those who paved the way, we carry their wisdom forward, ensuring their legacy lives on through us.

Dates and times: Please Note there are THREE Performances ONLY

• Thursday, March 20 at 19:00,
• Friday March 21 at 19h00 (Human Rights Day)
• Saturday March 22 at 15h00

Venue: Theatre Arts, Methodist Church Hall, cnr Milton Road and Wesley Street, Observatory.

Bookings: www.theatrearts.co.za

Prices: R100: General Admission; R50: Concession/ Student; R80: Block booking of 10 or more

GENERATIONS is sponsored by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport

Full synopsis:

We are like the seeds that fall from a tree that bears fruit. Over time, the fruit opens, letting the seeds drop to the ground. We are those seeds, scattered from the tree, each on its own path.

Some of us take root close by and bloom, while others are carried far away, taking root elsewhere and growing into something new. No matter where we land, we continue to thrive and evolve, shaped by the teachings we’ve received. But as we encounter new surroundings, new people, and fresh ideas, we begin to change, form new connections, and discover new perspectives. Life challenges us, but we endure and grow stronger.

We honour the elders who have paved the way for us, making the journey easier for the younger generation. Now, it is our turn to understand and interpret what they have taught us.

Their spirit lives on in us—in the paths they’ve set, in the wisdom they’ve shared. Though some may no longer walk among us, their influence remains, and we continue to grow and flourish. If you wish to see them, look to us—we are their legacy, the fruits of their lives. Through us, their stories, their lessons, and their memories are alive once more.

Director’s Biography:

SINAZO MXELI

Born in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, Sinazo Mxeli discovered her passion for dance in high school, studying modern and African contemporary. She trained at Indoni Dance Arts and Leadership Academy, later interning and teaching in her community. Mentored by Mama Sbonakaliso Ndaba, Paula Kelly, and Jennifer van Papendorp, she joined SboNdaba Dance as an apprentice, performing in Locked Doors Behind Doors, Our Ocean, Our Future, and Amandla ukoBambisana. She also served as assistant director for Umhlangano (Our Stories) and completed DanceCor grades 9 to Advanced 1.

Choreographers’ Biographies

AKHONA MPOZA

Akhona Mpoza, born and raised in Nyanga township, is the youngest of four siblings. A passionate performer, he thrives in drumming, singing, and, above all, dancing.

As the founding member of Iziqhaza, a renowned African dance company, he has contributed to its success in touring the Western Cape and other provinces. Currently, he is a trainee at SboNdaba Dance, where he is honing his skills and expanding his dance vocabulary, further deepening his artistry and experience.

CLAYTON JANNIKE 

I began my dance journey in 2016, focusing on Hip Hop training at Tenacity Movements. In 2022, I took the next step in my dance career by pursuing professional training at SboNdaba Dance under the mentorship of Mama Sbonakaliso Ndaba. Alongside my training, I’ve had the opportunity to teach and choreograph several pieces, including for Dancing with Nature and Umhlangano.

LITHA MAKANDA 

Litha Makanda began dancing at 21 under Mama Sbonakaliso Ndaba. Alongside training, Litha gained arts administration experience through internships. With performances on local and international stages, Litha also developed as a teacher through outreach programs, deepening a commitment to the dance community.

LUSINDISO DIBELA 

Born in Khayelitsha, Lusindiso Dibela trained at Jazzart Dance Theatre under Jackie Manyapelo before joining SboNdaba Dance in 2015 with Mama Sbonakaliso Ndaba. He has worked with renowned choreographers and performed nationally and internationally. His choreographic work includes Umhlangano (Gathering) and Kwanele for Dance For All, showcasing his dynamic and versatile artistry.

SONWABILE MHLONYANE

Born in Khayelitsha and now based in Southfield, Sonwabile Mhlonyane is a passionate dancer dedicated to his craft. He began training in 2014 and studied music at Rhodes University before returning to dance. In 2023, he joined SboNdaba Dance under the mentorship of Mama Sbonakaliso Ndaba. With national and international performances, he continues to grow, collaborate, and celebrate dance.

VUYOLWETHU MDLULI

I, Vuyolwethu Mdluli, am 28 years old, originally from Langa. My journey in dance began in 2014 when I joined Dance For All (DFA), where I received my foundational training. Upon completing my studies at DFA, I continued to pursue professional training with SboNdaba Dance under the direction of Mama Sbonakaliso Ndaba. Throughout my time with SboNdaba Dance, I have had the privilege of being involved in numerous works choreographed by her.

WANIE JOHANNES

My name is Wanie Johannes, and I am from Worcester. I began my dance journey in 2017 under the guidance of Mama Sbonakaliso Ndaba. Since then, I have had the privilege of performing both internationally and nationally. I have also choreographed for Camissa Heritage and been a part of Umhlangano.

For me, dancing represents truth. It’s a way to express your authentic self, telling your story through your body. When I dance, I am sharing a part of my truth, unfiltered and raw.

SBONAKALISO NDABA – Choreographer & Artistic Director

Born in Durban, Sbonakaliso Ndaba trained, performed, and taught at Jazzart Dance Theatre under Alfred Hinkel. She has choreographed for both South African and international companies and founded Phenduka Dance Theatre and Indoni Dance Arts Academy. In 2022, she officially launched SboNdaba Dance, a non-profit dedicated to strengthening the performing arts. A leading African Contemporary choreographer, she has received multiple awards for her work.

Musician’s Biography

ZINZI NOGAVU

Zinzi Nogavu is a talented performing artist with a soulful vocal range and captivating stage presence. She specializes in African Indigenous instruments and has trained in Classical Vocal Studies. Zinzi holds a Postgraduate degree in Music Performance from the University of Cape Town and is pursuing Music Education, alongside her work as a Personal Development Coach at Life Choices.

As the founder of Nalilitha Academy, she serves as a vocal coach and music facilitator. Zinzi has toured internationally, performing in Switzerland, the Netherlands, the U.S., and the UK. She has also worked with UCT and Artscape, and hosts an annual Heritage Concert. Passionate about community development, Zinzi is dedicated to empowering young people and helping them reach their potential.

❇ Featured image: Words around the Collar by Sbonakaliso Ndaba, finale for Generations which will be on March 20, 21, 22, 2025 at Theatre Arts in Cape Town. Photo Danie Coetzee. Sponsored content. Images supplied.