EVIDENCE exchange with Flat Foot Dance Company Durban South Africa

Our first day in Durban, South Africa, began with a workshop at Kuzulu Natal University with the “FLAT FOOT DANCE COMPANY”. When we arrived, the company was very excited as they greeted us with big smiles and t-shirts. The day began with Ron teaching a 2 hour workshop. After a 10 minute break, One of the dancers taught us a few traditional Zulu dances and songs that lead to us forming a circle and taking turns improvising with the material we learned in a traditional setting. It was FUN!!! …the exchange did not end there. Another dancer who was also the veteran of the company taught a contemporary style of dance called Isipansula/Kwaite. Apparently it is the new dance craze sweeping across South Africa. We all had a great time learning the phrase, especially at the end where we all turned to the back and commenced in isolated butt contractions! We couldn’t help but break into laughter every time we did it.

Ron Brown talking to the dancers about performing

Ron Brown rehearsing with Flat Foot Dance Company

Soon it was time for lunch that was held in the performing arts library. We were served many Indian style finger foods due to the fact that the Indian population is so big. South Africa is home to the second largest Indian population outside of India. This was our time to communicate and share with the other dancers our experiences in Africa thus far. We also discussed the different views of arts and politics in South Africa. One thing was for certain, “funding” is a HUGE challenge for the arts and dance companies worldwide.

Kuzulu Natal University

The culmination of the day was an informal performance in a black box theater. FlatFoot Dance Company opened with a short piece in their repertory, followed by a joint performance of “Premonition”, EVIDENCE performing “Upside Down”, and at the end all of us performing the phrases that we had learned from earlier in the day. The result was “evidence” of a multicultural exchange between the two different yet enthusiastic companies both eager to share and learn.

EVIDENCE and Flat Foot Dance Company

Upon our departure from the performance, it was finally time to eat. We had an amazing seafood dinner overlooking the ocean. I had a local fish called Dorado over sweet potatoes. DELIGHTFUL!

-Annique Roberts

EVIDENCE arrives in Durban, South Africa: "WORLD CUP FEVER!"

March 2, 2010

We arrived in Durban, South Africa. WOW!!!

The moment we arrived and entered the airport it was apparent that "WORLD CUP FEVER" was in the air.

Durban was one of the cities picked to host the games. They built a stadium in its honor and we could see construction and beautification of landscaping taking place in preparation for the many out-of-towners that would be here to witness. It was a happy time for the people of Durban because this would be an opportunity for the city to not only flourish with money from all of the tourists, but be an opportunity for "football" (soccer) fans to share in the joy of this historically popular sport.

Durban, South Africa, showing their pride in hosting the 2010 World Cup 

Although I am not an avid soccer fan, I couldn't help but feel the spirit from all of the propaganda. It honestly was very exciting to be in one of the cities where one of the biggest sporting events of the year was going to take place.

100th day to the World Cup countdown

While we were in Durban, we stayed at the luxury Sunset Coast Towers Hotel and Casino. Upon our arrival, they were celebrating the "World Cup 100 day countdown". Colorful soccer balloons filled the lobby joined with a staff all wearing jerseys representing their pride for South Africa. It was definitely a treat to be in such a nice hotel for just a few days after coming from a bed and breakfast in Grahamastown. We woke up to a delicious breakfast buffet, a fully equipped gym, and a GORGEOUS view of the ocean outside of our windows.

While in Durban we also had the opportunity to visit the African Art Center where we purchased South African books, jewelry, art, baskets, cards, and even finely beaded eating utensils.

Annique Roberts with the South African World Cup mascot

Another highlight was visiting the newly built stadium where we were able to buy souvenirs and gifts. It was a little difficult for us to leave. I felt like a little kid visiting the Disneyland gift shop for the first time, just wanting anything with the logo on it. I HAD A... "BALL"!!! (no pun intended...lol)

-Arcell Cabuag