THE much-anticipated Nelson Mandela Bay Dance Festival is set to dazzle audiences at the Savoy Theatre from August 21 to 31.
This celebration of dance was established 43 years ago by Jennifer Abraham and Hermione Ballinger, and promises an unforgettable experience thanks to the exceptional dedication and expertise of the organising committee.
The NMBDF committee, comprising seasoned professionals and passionate dance enthusiasts, has meticulously curated a festival that showcases a diverse range of dance styles from 20 dance studios in the Eastern and Southern Cape. From classical ballet to hip hop and traditional performances to cutting-edge modern choreography, the festival offers something for every dance lover.
“Our committee’s collective qualified experience and unwavering commitment is the backbone of this festival,” said Nici Lovemore, Chair of the NMBDF committee.
The teachers representing the committee include Susan Zerbst, who said her ballet studio has been involved in the festival for 38 years. Zerbst also danced as a young girl on the NMBDF stage, and highlights the importance of dancers getting stage experience and receiving constructive feedback from an internationally-esteemed adjudicator.
“I participated in this festival as a four-year-old girl, and as a dancer and a teacher I have made the most wonderful memories and have met the most amazing people,” said Lauren McCarthy, who shares the hip-hop responsibility with Leanka Laubscher.
McCarthy added that she met her studio partner, Heidi Sampson, while waiting in line to perform their solos at the festival when they were little girls.
Sampson represents tap on the committee and is delighted that her youngest daughter will be participating in her first NMBDF this year.
“It’s such a full circle moment for me,” she said.
Carmen de Sousa is from Knysna and represents the national category on the committee.
Candice Johnstone, who represents modern/contemporary, also danced on the NMBDF stage as a young girl and recalls her first memorable experience under the spotlights on the historic Opera House stage.
“The festival plays a huge role in developing local talent and exposing my studio to other dancers and genres,” said Johnstone. “It also introduces them to a professional environment and allows them to be part of that environment.”
This year the NMB Dance Festival has a record-breaking 661 individual entrants who will grace the stage with more than 1 634 dance routines during the festival.
The 10-day long celebration of everything that is dance will culminate in a gala celebration. The gala event will showcase the performance highlights of the festival. It will also include the awards presentation and will take place on Saturday, August 31, from 19:00 to 22:00.
Tickets for the festival can be purchased at the door of the Savoy Theatre for R50 per person per day. Gala tickets for the Saturday are R120 per person on www.webtickets.co.za.
For more information contact the NMBDF committee on ca@cashie.co.za or 084 502 3300.
