Dr. Johaar Mosaval, a South African dance icon and living legend, will be honoured by South African ballet and dance stars in “Dreaming Dance in District Six: The Johaar Mosaval Story.”
The award-winning production, taking place at the Artscape Opera House from 2 to 4 March 2023, embodies the spirit of District Six and dance.
Presented by the District Six Museum in association with Artscape, “Dreaming Dance in District Six” not only celebrates Johaar Mosaval but also shines a spotlight on burgeoning South African talent, both emerging and established, who continue to draw inspiration from Johaar’s success story, even as decades separate their respective career journeys.
A versatile company of 36 will perform show-stopping solos and group pieces in tribute to Johaar and his stellar career. Jazzart, Joburg Ballet, Figure of 8 Dance Collective, the Waterfront Theatre School and the Cape Juniour Ballet will all be part of this meaningful show that is narrated by Dr Mosaval himself.
According to co-director Basil Appolis, “Dreaming Dance in District Six” merges powerful dance performances – classical, neoclassical, jazz, contemporary and hip hop – with storytelling and visuals to bring Johaar Mosaval’s story of perseverance, tenacity and hop to life while portraying an historic and hugely relevant story.
Dr Mosaval, who turned 95 years old in January, grew up in District Six as the eldest of ten children.
In his day, he experienced the full might of the Apartheid State and was forced to pursue his dancing dreams in a foreign country, leaving his beloved District Six behind.
During the apartheid era, he left South Africa to pursue his dance dream and went on to carve out an illustrious career as a senior principal dancer with London’s Royal Ballet, between the 1950s and 1970s.
During his time with the prestigious company, he performed at the 1953 coronation of the late Queen Elizabeth, which was a very important event.
As one of South Africa’s greatest living legends, he was also the first person of colour to dance at Artscape, known back then as the Nico Malan Theatre.
Details:
- Date: 2 to 4 March 2023
- Location: The Artscape Opera House
- Time: 7.30pm (2 and 3 March) and 3pm (4 March)
- Tickets: R120 per person | Computicket and Artscape Dial-A-Seat on 021 421 7695
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Picture: SA Photojournalists / Facebook
