Dlala Mapantsulakazi, a powerful and emotive dance theatre production is set to ignite the East London Guild Theatre stage on Thursday.
Presented by Jabulani Youth Development (JYD), in partnership with the Eastern Cape Arts and Media Help Desk, and supported by the National Arts Council of SA, this all-female Pantsula dance production celebrates womanhood and resilience.
Pantsula is a culture and dance that originated in the townships during the apartheid era and was predominated by young men.
Project co-ordinator Sinethemba Nkoloti said: “The production’s goal is to inspire youth to make better life decisions that positively shape their future.
“It promotes abstinence from substance abuse while offering alternative, meaningful entertainment.”
This dance production features an all-female cast, with all the performers from different parts of the Amathole district and Buffalo City.
“Our long-term vision is to tour this production nationally and eventually, internationally, as we would like to showcase the incredible talent emerging from the Eastern Cape,” Nkoloti said.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of township life, primarily using the Pantsula dance style, fused with tap, jazz, Amapiano and Barcadi, music and dance are used to convey the emotional depth and cultural significance of this story.
As a traditionally male-dominated genre, the production is a celebration of womanhood, young talent and resilience.
The production’s director, Yonela Gobingca, is a seasoned dancer who specialises in the Pantsula dance style.
“I was driven to create a platform that uplifts and includes women in this genre,” Gobingca said.
Inspired by the tragic Enyobeni tavern incident, the production sparks dialogue around critical issues faced by young women in SA and urges the youth to consider the consequences of their choices.
“The Enyobeni tavern tragedy underscored the urgent need for young people to make safer choices.
“The real-life incident gave the production a tangible reference point when addressing the risks of underage drinking and substance abuse,” Nkoloti said.
While the production highlights the consequences of poor decision-making and the harsh realities that come with it, it also delivers a powerful message: with willpower and determination, positive change is possible and dreams are attainable.
“We hope to inspire women to dream big and create opportunities for themselves,” Gobingca said.
Lead dancer Bathandwaenkosini Doniso spoke about the preparations leading up to the production, as well as the significance of being a part of Dlala Mapuntsulakazi.
“We worked together through intense rehearsals, sharing ideas and supporting each other to create a cohesive and powerful performance,” Doniso said.
“The theme of this production resonates deeply with me.
“As a woman, I have faced challenges, but I have learnt to draw strength from my experiences.
“I embody resilience by staying focused, supporting others and celebrating our collective strength.”
Jabulani Youth Development is emerging as a vital catalyst within the broader arts and culture landscape of the Eastern Cape and SA.
Operating at grassroots level, it bridges the gap between community-based training and the professional arts.
By creating a space where young women can perform, grow and lead, Dlala Mapantsulakazi affirms Jabulani Youth Development’s commitment to using the arts as a tool for empowerment, personal transformation and social impact.
JYD founder and director Palesa Gobingca said: “We actively contribute to talent development by nurturing emerging performers through structured mentorship, creative workshops and professional performance opportunities.
“By collaborating with institutions such as the Eastern Cape department of sports, recreation, arts and culture, the Eastern Cape Arts and Media Help Desk, the Guild Theatre and initiatives like the Artists in Schools Programme, Jabulani Youth Development plays a pivotal role in shaping the cultural identity of the province.
“Jabulani Youth Development serves as a launch pad for emerging creatives to participate in the national arts economy.
“Regardless of financial constraints and limited funding, Jabulani Youth Development, alongside all the key people involved in this project, has remained committed throughout to bring this production to life.”
Palesa said they were committed to developing local talent and creating opportunities that uplifted communities.
“We believe in the power of this production and the message it carries, and we are dedicated to creating more opportunities for young talent to shine, grow and lead.
“Any support from relevant organisations and stakeholders would be appreciated,” she said.
Tickets for the production will be available at the door.
Daily Dispatch
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