Ditoro – A showcase of kaleidoscopic dance forms and styles

By Tonderai Chiyindiko

Ditoro presented by choreographer, performing artist, dance teacher and creative director, Thami Mojela, is a showcase of kaleidoscopic dance forms and styles. It reflects Majela’s multiple influences some of which include classical ballet, contemporary and other quintessentially African dance styles which have formed part and parcel of his work over the past decade.

As the 2022 Standard Bank Young Artist for Dance, Majela’s career has been on an upward trajectory since that well-deserved and much sought-after accolade, and this has seen him perform all over the world and cement his position as one of the most exciting choreographer-dancers in the country.

For Ditoro, which recently showcased at the Market Theatre in Johannesburg, Thami worked with Mcebisi Bhayi and Tawanda Mandara. The trio were simply irrepressible as they shared the stage and wowed the audience with their fluid and well-choreographed movements amplified by breathtakingly dreamy lighting effects as well as a highly energetic, fast-paced and frenetic musical soundscape.

Though the attendance left a lot to be desired, the organisers will need to properly market such shows as not doing so is a disservice to the artists who would have put in their all to present such world class pieces.