Dance: Jazzart Showcase
11 October at 10:30
HMS Bloemhof Skoolsaal
Nothing short of moving and emotional is the only way to describe Musa Hlatshwayo’s dance work, Portals and petals; the subtle alchemy of my grandmother’s dreams. This work, forming part of the Jazzart Showcase at the Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees, was a terrific display that had the audience whistling by the end of the performance.
The performance was not at all what I was expecting, yet I was pleasantly surprised. Having only experienced physical theatre once, I found myself flabbergasted.
Portals and petals; the subtle alchemy of my grandmother’s dreams is physical theatre brought to life through expressive African dance moves with a hint of modernity. PHOTO: Supplied/Gys Loubser
It started with the dancers blowing indigenous whistles while wearing clothing resembling traditional African attire that is predominantly worn by women across various African cultures. The long colourful dresses reminded me of my own grandmother wearing her traditional pinafore around the house, a fond memory from childhood. As the title of the dance work mentions, this work is a homage to the grandmother, or “the subtle alchemy of my grandmother’s dreams”.
Dancers wore costumes that resembled traditional African attire on stage at Portals and petals; the subtle alchemy of my grandmother’s dreams, which was performed at the 2025 Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees. From the beginning of the performance until the end, it was a reflection of African heritage. PHOTO: Supplied/Gys Loubser
The physical expression really tied in well with the ancestral element. Some of the well-choreographed scenes were things you would see at a Zulu traditional ceremony. And, amusingly, the dance moves resembled modern Amapiano and Gqom. It seemed as if two worlds were merging through contemporary dance and physical theatre.
The use of sounds was impeccable, coming to life through the stomping of feet, clapping, whistle blowing, and the bells attached to their costumes ringing.
This Jazzart Showcase was spectacular and thought-provoking – something you would want to see again and again.
Portals and petals; the subtle alchemy of my grandmother’s dreams was a wonderful display of physical theatre and African expression. Dancers used their well-choreographed dance moves to tell a touching story of connecting with African roots. PHOTO: Supplied/Gys Loubser