The streets of South African townships have become home to many youngsters who have been imprisoned by drugs and crime. From a very young age these children bury themselves in this life, others as a way to escape family troubles while others are just succumbing to peer pressure.
After analysing the situation, David Mahlaba, born and bred in Katlehong decided to take it upon himself to try and save these youngsters by forming a Pantsula dance. “Phinda Mzala is an arts and culture project that currently deals with performing Art. It was formed in November 2011 in the Nhlapho section, Katlehong while its offices are in Vosloorus. We currently have 10 dancers aged between 26 years and 34 years. Our 11th dancer was given the opportunity to dance in Las Vegas” says David.
Phinda Mzala conducted performing classes at Wits University for the students that are studying performing Arts, we are also developing youth organizations around the Ekurhuleni region.
“Growing up as a dancer myself, it really brings joy to my heart when I see the show that the group is currently working on. Seeing them on stage constantly reassures me that this is definitely worth all the effort that we put in everyday”, adds David.
The group is currently preparing for a Theatre production show that will be in Joburg Theatre on the 18th of March 2023 from 4 pm to 5 pm. The show is a compromise of two different performing art organizations which are Ubumbano Cultural group and Underground Movers. You can buy the ticket in Pick n’ pay or visit www.joburgtheatre.com or call 086 167 0670
We will like to thank the following institutions for making this show possible: National Lottery Commission, Assupol and Redbull. David has a vision of opening an academy that will teach Panstula dance. He hopes that the academy will help contribute to township tourism and attract tourists to Ekurhuleni as a whole.
