As the director of an international brand, World of Dance, in South Africa, I have a unique viewpoint, perspective and overview of the different dance worlds in our country. The fact that I've been in the dance industry for close to 3 decades has provides me with exposure and experience in the various communities. It might seem like there is one dance world; but they can be catagorised in various ways:
You have:
The various genres/styles of dance such as Street, Hip Hop, Ballroom, Latin, Contemporary, Ballet, Tap, Spanish, Bellydance and many more - PLUS sub genres.
The Art of Dance: This involves theatre and other platform
The Competitive (usually developmental) dance scene
Dance Education
Commercial dance - which is largely for entertainment and corporate services.
Many more
As I immerse and expose myself to these various dance communities, I see the similarities and synergies and understand how they can compliment and add value to each other - not to mention learning from other industries such as Sports.
I continue to challenge myself by attending lessons, symposiums, seminars, workshops and performances related to dance, sports, arts in general as well as business, I find that there are simple ways to make large strides towards the advancement of dance. Not easy, but simple.
Just as we learn in dance, we have to:
Get the basics right and keep practising it.
Learn from Mentors, Coaches and Teachers as well as from the active practitioners
Keep appreciating the differences and realise that therein lies the power and influence, the impact and creativity and the future of our art form.
I've attended quite a number of educational and very informative sessions recently including an Arts Management Symposium at the Javett Art Centre of the University of Pretoria (April 20204) as well as Joburg Moves at the University of Johannesburg Art Centre (April 2024) and one thing that stands out is that we STILL have to take INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY.
YOU have to buy tickets to attend the local shows, recitals, competitions and performances. YOU are responsible for taking your children to theatres and to teach them to appreciate the arts. YOU have to be an advocate and a patron of the arts in order for it to be sustained and to flourish. Our children need to learn about our culture and our stories and be exposed to more than just streaming services, sports games and international artists concerts.
It's up to US (YOu).
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