From the whirlwind success of last year’s debut, the Body Moves International Inclusive Dance Festival returns for a triumphant second edition. This unique festival, championing both able-bodied and disabled dancers, will come to life at the Sibikwa Arts Centre in Benoni from 20th to 26th November.
Set against the backdrop of Disability Awareness Month, the festival promises an unparalleled array of workshops by esteemed international and local facilitators, live-streamed discussion, and breathtaking afternoon performances on the 25th and 26th of November.
Once again, Body Moves steps up the beat, accentuating cultural exchanges and collaborations. With participating companies spanning from Kenya, Madagascar to Ireland, Flanders and various regions of South Africa, the festival embodies the spirit of diversity and unity. Among the highlights:
• Workshops: From a sign workshop with the talented deaf dancer, Andile Vellem of Unmute, to Ondiege Mathew’s exploration of choreography through improvisation, Fanny Vandesande’s deep dive into the lived experiences of people with disabilities, a satellite workshop at Moving Into Dance in Newtown, and more.
• Performances: Featuring works such as “Chosen”, highlighting the plight of a village through the eyes of a visually impaired dancer; to “TWOTFAM”, a thought-provoking piece that brings to the forefront the overlooked challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.
• Live-Streamed Discussion: To be hosted in partnership with ADDN, at Sibikwa and on the Sibikwa Arts Centre Facebook page, at 18h00 on 23 November, it promises engaging conversations inspired by the impactful short films made by panelists: Nadine McKenzie (SA), Adriaan Luteijn (Netherlands) and Joseph Tebandeke (Uganda).
Moving away from the hustle of town, yet not too far from the comforts of home, Sibikwa offers a perfect locale for audiences. For a detailed line-up of Festival events, visit sibikwa.co.za/BodyMoves2023.
Supported by the General Representation of the Government of Flanders, Embassy of Ireland, Department of Sport, Arts & Culture, Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation, and Federation of Gauteng Community Arts, the festival is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of local and international talent, a nod to cultural vibrancy, and a testament to the belief that arts and dance know no bounds.
By attending, guests aren’t just watching performances; they’re supporting artists, contributing to the greater good, and becoming a part of an ever-growing community.
Tickets for performances at 14h30 on 25th and 26th November are now available on Quicket link https://qkt.io/BODYMOVES23 at R120 per person. Special group rates apply at R100 for groups of 10 or more. On-the-day tickets will be available at the door for R140. For those travelling from Johannesburg, a shuttle will be available from Rosebank Mall, the price for this ticket (including shuttle and entry) is R250.
Main Image: Supplied
