Youthful Spirit and Artistic Mastery Shine Bright at Soweto Theatre

On a poignant Sunday, June 16th, the Soweto Theatre became a vibrant nexus of celebration and reflection as audiences gathered to commemorate both Youth Day and Father's Day. With a diverse audience predominantly composed of young people and children, Gregory Vuyani Maqoma's Rhythm Colour and Cion Cothoza, presented by the Vuyani Dance Theatre Company, Siyangoba Academy, and the National School of Arts, delivered an unforgettable experience that fused profound historical resonance with youthful dynamism.

Cion Cothoza by Vuyani Dance Theatre, National School of School of the Arts and Siyangoba Academy. Photo Courtesy of Khehla Chepape Makgato. 

The afternoon opened with "Rhythm Colour," a testament to the youthful exuberance and technical prowess displayed by the performers. Their rhythmic movements not only captivated but also transported the audience through a journey of reflection on our collective past and aspirations for the future. It was a fitting tribute to the resilience and creativity of South Africa's youth on this significant day.

Following this, "Cion Cothoza" took center stage, an adaptation that draws from Zakes Mda's literary world, particularly the character Toloki from his fictional trilogy (Ways Of Dying, Cion and recently Wayfarer's Hymns). Performed by protégés from the National School of Arts and Siyangoba Academy, the piece resonated deeply with its intertextual layers and poignant choreography. It served as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of storytelling and its ability to confront societal challenges with grace and creativity.

Gregory Vuyani Maqoma's artistic vision was palpable throughout the afternoon, encapsulating not only his mastery of choreography but also his commitment to fostering the next generation of performers. His reflections on unity and collective action against societal injustices underscored the thematic richness of the performances.

In a rare moment of personal connection, I was compelled to reach out to Maqoma to extend my gratitude and admiration for his profound impact on the arts landscape, especially since his announced retirement. His dedication to nurturing young talent and continuing to push artistic boundaries serves as a beacon of hope for South Africa's cultural future.

“Our common humanity as Africans dictates that as we rose against colonial oppression and slavery, our impulse today must rise to propel us to do everything possible to get rid of all factors of human degradation. It is time we stand together to attack poverty, racism, xenophobia and any related intolerances to truly rebuild our communities” shares Gregory Maqoma in a press statement. 

Overall, the afternoon at Soweto Theatre was not merely a commemoration but a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the enduring spirit of youth. Maqoma's work, now more than ever, stands as a testament to the transformative power of art in confronting and overcoming societal challenges. As we look ahead, his legacy and the performances witnessed that afternoon offer a glimpse into a future where the arts continue to inspire and provoke meaningful change.

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Khehla Chepape Makgato is an independent visual artist, freelance arts writer and curator. He is a Chief Curator at William Humphreys Art Gallery. He is a deputy chairperson of the South African Museums Association Central (Free State and Northern Cape). He has a Master's Degree in Fine Art from University of Witwatersrand and is currently a PhD candidate in Art and Music at UNISA.