A local dance school, Contemporary Dance Laboratory (CDL), celebrates its first anniversary in Paarl on Sunday 17 November with a dance concert in the hall of the Strooidakkerk in Klein Reservoir Street at 15:00. The performance, titled “Everything is connected”, draws inspiration from South African books, and celebrates unity in diversity.
Six modern books (out of 30) were selected by CDL students (children 3-16 years) to become part of the dance performance. Each book has inspired children to make up their own stories through dance, to create a unique story structure.
Says Ukrainian-born choreographer and director of the performance, Kateryna Aloshyna, “The whole world opens to you when you learn to read. The whole universe appears when you learn to dance.
“Art sparks the creative spirit and awakens critical thinking. Those skills are crucial in modern days to re-imaging the future and achieve your dreams.”
One of the books reflected is The Lion and the Clever Little Jackal by Andre Florens (adapted from an original Zulu folklore tale), in which children learn that your own wisdom is your best tool. With your acumen and tact, you can gain victory in any circumstance.
Through other books, God’s Dream and Desmond and the Very Mean Word, by Archbishop Desmond Tutu and co-author Douglas Carlton Abrams, children learn the power of words, the secret of forgiveness, and wisdom about how to handle bullying and angry feelings.
Through the books Let’s play and We are one, by Refiloe Moahloli, children are encouraged to discover their environment, friendship and ubuntu that celebrates both our differences and similarities, and to use their imagination.
CDL is dedicated to actively promoting and exploring contemporary dance as an art form which develops networks for professional and innovative collaboration.
For tickets to this exciting performance (R50) visit Quicket. For enquiries contact 082 722-7231.
