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Showing posts with label South Africa. Show all posts
Showing posts with label South Africa. Show all posts
Apr 22, 2012
Mar 23, 2010
The New York Times: Dance for Diplomacy
The New York Times featured an excellent piece on Dance Motion USA by Roslyn Sulcas this past weekend. She accompanied Evidence: A Dance Company on many of their activities in South Africa, and interviewed members of Urban Bush Women and ODC/Dance about their respective experiences in South America and Southeast Asia. Read the article online:
The Soft Steps of Diplomacy
The Soft Steps of Diplomacy
Mar 18, 2010
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.
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.
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
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 visits a BIG 5 Game Reserve in South Africa
Today was our second day off of the tour, so we decided to treat ourselves on a Safari "BIG 5" Game Reserve Tour. We left the hotel in the afternoon and were driven to the Sibuya Game Reserve.
Sibuya Game Reserve is a 2300 hectare Big Five reserve conveniently situated near Kenton on Sea in the Eastern Cape along South Africa's Sunshine Coast, just 130 kms from Port Elizabeth and 150 kms from East London.
Uniquely, we journeyed by boat up the stunningly beautiful Kariega River Estuary, to a tented camp/dining area situated at the water's edge to experience an eastern cape meal that was DELICIOUS and perfectly matched with a lush outdoor ambiance. After we ate, we rode in a 10 seater open jeep onto the lush subtropical Eastern Cape Valley Bushveld and Coastal Forest which played host to one of the highest densities of wildlife on the continent. We were on our way to witness what was known to be one of the best game viewing experiences in Africa.
The scenery was breathtaking! We witnessed only yards away from us the African elephant, rhinoceros, giraffe, lion, cheetah, zebra, monkey and more. It was amazing to see the beauty of them all living and coexisting peacefully in their natural habitat. It was by far more fascinating than any visit to the zoo or circus that I had made as an adolescent. Initially we were honestly a little scared of how they would react when they saw us, but their relaxed nature let us know that they did not feel any danger from a jeep full of tourists snapping photos in awe. Once the sun was starting to head down, we enjoyed a pleasant boat ride viewed against an Indian Ocean backdrop which completed another truly memorable experience that we will ALWAYS remember.
-Arcell Cabuag
Sibuya Game Reserve is a 2300 hectare Big Five reserve conveniently situated near Kenton on Sea in the Eastern Cape along South Africa's Sunshine Coast, just 130 kms from Port Elizabeth and 150 kms from East London.
Uniquely, we journeyed by boat up the stunningly beautiful Kariega River Estuary, to a tented camp/dining area situated at the water's edge to experience an eastern cape meal that was DELICIOUS and perfectly matched with a lush outdoor ambiance. After we ate, we rode in a 10 seater open jeep onto the lush subtropical Eastern Cape Valley Bushveld and Coastal Forest which played host to one of the highest densities of wildlife on the continent. We were on our way to witness what was known to be one of the best game viewing experiences in Africa.
The scenery was breathtaking! We witnessed only yards away from us the African elephant, rhinoceros, giraffe, lion, cheetah, zebra, monkey and more. It was amazing to see the beauty of them all living and coexisting peacefully in their natural habitat. It was by far more fascinating than any visit to the zoo or circus that I had made as an adolescent. Initially we were honestly a little scared of how they would react when they saw us, but their relaxed nature let us know that they did not feel any danger from a jeep full of tourists snapping photos in awe. Once the sun was starting to head down, we enjoyed a pleasant boat ride viewed against an Indian Ocean backdrop which completed another truly memorable experience that we will ALWAYS remember.
Clarice, Dalila, and Annique
-Arcell Cabuag
Mar 17, 2010
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.
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
EVIDENCE school performance in Grahamstown, South Africa
March 1, 2010
Today we had our 2nd performance here in Africa on our DanceMotion USA tour. This performance was different than Senegal. We performed to a full seat theater full of children from many different neighboring schools in Grahamstown. The reception was no different than the last show. The children were very excited within only the first 2 minutes. It was great!
We performed "Order My Steps" and "Grace". Dancing for the children was exhilarating. They threw so much energy at us, we couldn't help but just give it back. It was honestly one of our best performances to date. Normally performing school shows you hear the loudest roar of screams when the lights turn off at the beginning of the show. This was not the case in this instance. They were loud and very vocal throughout.
After completing the show, the children stood up and cheered. Many screamed out that they wanted to see more. Instead, we changed our clothes and had a Q and A so we could answer their questions and meet them face to face with the lights on. They were very well behaved and had many "smart" questions. One child spoke about how she liked how different we all were and how different we all danced but still belonging to the same family. Many asked if we could come back and wanted to be in the company when they grew up. The exchange we made at this show was short, but we know we must come back to continue to share and teach these children the legacy of this work.
-Arcell Cabuag
Tiffany, Lilli, and Clarice
We performed "Order My Steps" and "Grace". Dancing for the children was exhilarating. They threw so much energy at us, we couldn't help but just give it back. It was honestly one of our best performances to date. Normally performing school shows you hear the loudest roar of screams when the lights turn off at the beginning of the show. This was not the case in this instance. They were loud and very vocal throughout.
Meeting the children and answering their questions
After completing the show, the children stood up and cheered. Many screamed out that they wanted to see more. Instead, we changed our clothes and had a Q and A so we could answer their questions and meet them face to face with the lights on. They were very well behaved and had many "smart" questions. One child spoke about how she liked how different we all were and how different we all danced but still belonging to the same family. Many asked if we could come back and wanted to be in the company when they grew up. The exchange we made at this show was short, but we know we must come back to continue to share and teach these children the legacy of this work.
-Arcell Cabuag
EVIDENCE workshop Amaphiko at Joza, Grahamstown, South Africa
February 27, 2010
Children singing to us as we arrive to teach a masterclass... AMAZING!
Once inside, the children enthusiastically showed us their famous Gumboot Dance. This is a dance that uses the whole body, especially the feet and hands, to create polyrhythms. I have seen the African-American fraternities and sororities use it as a base for their form of 'stepping'. It was one of those Oprah 'full circle' moments because i got to see firsthand where something that's so popular in the States in my culture originated.
Demonstration of South African Gumboot Dance
After they showed us their dance, Ron then taught a class with all of us helping him. The age range was from about 5-15 years and it included about 40 children. It was one of the most energizing experiences that I had in South Africa. The people were bursting at the seems to learn from us and share their culture. Later we also got to spend time hanging out and talking with some of the artists and teachers from the town. We learned that even though we may live miles and countries apart, we are very much the same—people trying to make a difference in our communities.
EVIDENCE and Makana Arts
-Clarice Young
Mar 16, 2010
EVIDENCE arrives in South Africa
February 26, 2010
Port Elizabeth Airport
We made it!!! After 2 days of traveling we arrived in Port Elizabeth and took a 2 hour drive to our destination: Grahamstown, South Africa.
Lilli excited to see that we were greeted by our drivers of Perlemoen Escapes
The moment we arrived we knew the culture and energy was very much different. The Bed and Breakfast where we were staying at was located in the heart of college town Rhodes University. Much to our surprise, it felt like many of the other college towns we have visited in the U.S.A. It was very reminiscent of Connecticut. Right away, we could see that this part of our journey would be much different than our experience in Dakar.
Sule in front of the Lantern Hill Guest House
We look forward to the rest of the week and the new adventures and connections ahead.
-Arcell Cabuag
Departing Dakar, Senegal, on our way to South Africa
February 25, 2010
After a WONDERFUL 10 days in Dakar, Senegal, it is now time for us to venture to South Africa... next stop Johannesburg for a day, Grahmstown for 4 days, and then Durban for 3 days.
Our tour could not have started in a better place. As I sit in the airplane floating over the clouds, I reflect on all of the beautiful memories and wonderful people we met along the way. Much gratitude goes out to our Cultural Affairs Officers and Assistants (Kristin, Anita, and Aminata). Our interpreter Serigne Diagne, the administrative staff and participants of all of the Cultural Centers we visited at Blaise Senghor Cultural Center, Douta Seck Cultural Center, Pikine Cultural Center. Youssou N'Dour for his generous invitation to visit his private rehearsal, the US Ambassador Madame Marcia Bernicat, Germaine Acogny and the staff at Ecole des Sables, the dancers of Jant-bi, the wonderful crew at the Sorano, the staff at Hotel Le Djoloff and Magic Land, Tracy (our friend who escorted us to Goree Island), Joe Melillo for making this all possible, and Moussa our driver who transported us to our destinations safely.
Thank you Thank you Thank you for making our experience in Dakar, Senegal, so beautiful. We will always remember how gracious everyone was in making sure we had everything we could possibly need... WE WILL BE BACK!
-Arcell Cabuag
Floating over clouds on our way to South Africa
Our tour could not have started in a better place. As I sit in the airplane floating over the clouds, I reflect on all of the beautiful memories and wonderful people we met along the way. Much gratitude goes out to our Cultural Affairs Officers and Assistants (Kristin, Anita, and Aminata). Our interpreter Serigne Diagne, the administrative staff and participants of all of the Cultural Centers we visited at Blaise Senghor Cultural Center, Douta Seck Cultural Center, Pikine Cultural Center. Youssou N'Dour for his generous invitation to visit his private rehearsal, the US Ambassador Madame Marcia Bernicat, Germaine Acogny and the staff at Ecole des Sables, the dancers of Jant-bi, the wonderful crew at the Sorano, the staff at Hotel Le Djoloff and Magic Land, Tracy (our friend who escorted us to Goree Island), Joe Melillo for making this all possible, and Moussa our driver who transported us to our destinations safely.
Welcome to Dakar, Senegal orientation
Thank you Thank you Thank you for making our experience in Dakar, Senegal, so beautiful. We will always remember how gracious everyone was in making sure we had everything we could possibly need... WE WILL BE BACK!
Senegalese flag
-Arcell Cabuag
Mar 3, 2010
Evidence in Africa
Arts Beat's Roslyn Sulcas chronicled Evidence, A Dance Company's travels in South Africa on The New York Times website:
Evidence in Africa: Dance in the Township of Joza
Evidence in Africa: How Do You Do What You Do?
Evidence in Africa: The Dancers’ Day Off
Evidence in Africa: Dance in the Township of Joza
Evidence in Africa: How Do You Do What You Do?
Evidence in Africa: The Dancers’ Day Off
Mar 1, 2010
Evidence on NYTimes.com
The New York Times' cultural blog Arts Beat recently caught up with the members of Evidence, A Dance Company during the South Africa leg of their tour. The piece commends the innovation of DanceMotion USA, noting that it "is the first time in decades that dance has played a major role as an official instrument of cultural exchange." It continues with some background information on Evidence, plus a glimpse at the non-dance-related aspects of life on the road; laundry woes in Dakar, thriving nightlife in Johannesburg, plus roadside zebra, and a visit to the township of Joza.
Click here to read "Evidence in Africa: Dance Troupe as Ambassadors"
Click here to read "Evidence in Africa: Dance Troupe as Ambassadors"
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