Dancers :Thanduxolo Kilani, Athenkosi Matiwane, Likhaya Jack and Anethemba Bhikitsha
Presenting Company – Via Kasi Movers
32 minutes
isiXhosa & English
This filmed work takes the dance style Pantsula beyond pure entertainment into the realm of a contemporary dance form that is current, authentic and influenced by a rich South African historical background. The piece aims to heal and renew, and in so doing, to honour the life of Ayanda Nondlwana (founder and leader of VKM and his long-mourned friend and co-founder, Thozamile “Rocky” Mngcongo). The life force for the rest of the group and its work within the community is restored through this production. Mount Zion Ntaba Yezono plays a significant role as a site, pointing to the spiritual need for cleansing of the bloodshed in Makhanda, formerly known as Grahamstown.
Via Kasi Movers is a Makhanda-based Pantsula dance group featuring Thanduxolo Kilani, Athenkosi Matiwane, Likhaya Jack and Anethemba Bhikitsha, it was established and run by the late Ayanda Nondlwana.
Mentor: Vusi Mdoyi is a Johannesburg-based founder and director of Impilo Mapantsula, he is a dancer, teacher, choreographer, artistic director, and pantsula advocate.
Special thanks to Katlego Gabashane, who produced the work.