Centre Stage: Recent Episodes
Centre Stage
Centre Stage is a podcast that spotlights talented and diverse South African dancers, getting to know them both onstage and off.
The podcast is part of the broader Dance Donation initiative, a South African non-profit organisation that supports dancers in disadvantaged communities through the collection and distribution of previously-loved dance wear.
You'll probably recognise Oscar as the international award-winning 26 year old SA dancer that also choreographed the SAMA awards, Starlight Classics, The Colour Purple & the Ladysmith Black Mambazo musical that depicted the life of Joseph Shabalala. What you may not know is that he grew up angry, with only a single father that greatly influenced the man and dancer he is today. Find out more about the humble, shy boy, who still lives in and has dreams for, his dusty township. Oh, and we also get to to know why he hates cheese & other kitchen quirks! More about Oscar: Facebook: oscarbuthelezi Instagram: @oscarbuthelezi https://www.midance.co.za https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0yOvaqN9Pgo
She's fierce, fabulous and foxy! This ex-Strictly come dancing SA dancer reflects on her behind the scenes experience - everything from a 'boob job' to the production crew. 2019 found her in a downward identity spiral, Covid made it worse, but then a conversation with Jolene Martin (SA TV personality) sparked a Heels dance movement. Not only has Robynn found a new community, she's transforming women's lives through dance,1 pair of heels at a time. More about Robynn here: https://www.theheelsmovement.co.za/ Instagram: @the_heelsmovement
Imagine a tragic accident that threatens to end your dance career. That’s what happened to Gideon McKenzie, a talented dancer & choreographer, 2 years ago. His leg was broken in 3 parts and he now has 9 pieces of metal holding everything together. But this courageous dancer with big dreams, never stopped believing in himself and his abilities. Through a long road of recovery, he continues to mentor & choreograph a vibrant dance crew, the Rebellious Dance Saints, who intend going places! He shares his story on dance, gender fluidity and of course, unicorns! You can find him on Instagram : @gideondancermckenzie or Facebook : Gideon Mckenzie Twitter : Gideon Dancer Mckenzie Facebook : Rebellious Dance Saints
Belly dancers don't dance with their bellies! Listen to Charlotte dispel 4 common myths about belly dancing, clarify the difference between the sensual & sexual artform and explain why men are naturals at undulating! This renowned SA belly dancer and professional coach shares her journey about how she aims to empower & inspire women and make everything that she has ever done, count. "Learn to love your wobble" and make sure "your muscles & bones stay married" are just some of my favourite quotes.
More on Charlotte: https://bellydancing.teachable.com/p/belly-dancing-basics/ http://bellydance.co.za/wp/ http://charlottedblignaut.co.za/ https://yourhiddengenius.org/
At 16, Tumi was shot, stabbed and almost necklaced by hostel dwellers in the turbulent South African Soweto riots in the early 80's. And yet he became one of South Africa's first male ballet dancers, appearing on stages across the globe. Listen to what this political activist & accomplished dancer with a prison stint, has to say about the late Eartha Kitt and how she unknowingly helped him get his father's approval. More on Tumi: https://www.syltfoundation.com/TAI/Inhalte/Artists/Itumeleng-Mokgope-dancer-South-Africa-/