Jazzart to Present WAITING FOR RAIN, 6-15 Sept.

Jazzart Dance Theatre, in association with Artscape, presents the evocative Waiting For Rain at Artscape Theatre from 6 to 15 September.

With Jazzart celebrating its fortieth anniversary this year, Waiting For Rain is inspired by the symbolism of rain, as something that signals rebirth, new life and a release of artistic energy. Featuring the professional company and the second year trainees, the dancers perform to a combination of captivating, soulful live and recorded music composed by Tandile Mandela and Mthwakazi.

"Waiting for Rain is an arresting combination of the ancient with the current," says Jazzart Dance Theatre artistic director Jacqueline Manyaapelo. "It is a fusion of ritualistic calls to ancestors and spirit forms using indigenous instruments, with exciting contemporary dance presented in Jazzart's signature style. The title refers to not just waiting, but to get up and do, as we create rain in the context of our society.

"The symbolism of rain as a cleansing force, promoting and nurturing new growth is synonymous with our journey at Jazzart. We celebrate our past while being inspired by our rebirth, embracing a renewed approach to our work, both organisationally and artistically."

The show is directed by Manyaapelo, who also choreographs the show in collaboration with Mziyanda Mancam, Ina Wichterich- Mogane and Christopher Kindo.

Tandile Mandela is internationally acclaimed for her knowledge of traditional music and her ability to master a wide range of instruments. She combines principles of traditional African music with contemporary elements of music making.

Mthwakazi is a celebrated South African artist who is known for her ethereal, earthy vocals. She has performed alongside names such as Simphiwe Dana, Sibongile Khumalo, Neo Muyanga, Thandiswa Mazwai and Madosini. Her music is a synthesis of various forms including classical opera, Caribbean style, funk, soul, and jazz music.

Jazzart Dance Theatre and Artscape will also present a fortieth anniversary exhibition depicting the highlights of this vibrant contemporary Dance Company's growth. It will take place in Artscape's Marble Foyer from 3 to 27 October.

Jazzart Dance Theatre is one of South Africa's longest-standing and most celebrated dance companies. It is a non-profit organisation, which through its three tiers, not only produces award-winning, innovative dance productions featuring the professional company, but also aims to transform society through its Trainee and Outreach Programmes.

The company's production, Biko's Quest was created and presented in collaboration with The Steve Biko Centre. It received great acclaim at the 2013 National Arts Festival and was named by Debbie Hathway in the Cape Times as one of the top five dance productions of 2012.

Jazzart Dance Theatre is grateful for the support of its sponsors, Artscape and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport.

Waiting For Rain will be presented in the Artscape Theatre from 6 to 15 September at 8.15pm (except Monday and Tuesday). The performance on Sundays starts at 6pm. Tickets cost R100, with a 10% discount for pensioners, students and scholars. Tickets for block bookings of ten or more are R75.

Bookings can be made at Computicket 0861 915 8000 or www.computicket.com.

Photo Credit: Dex Goodman

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