Centre Stage Centre Stage

Centre Stage

Centre Stage is a podcast that spotlights talented and diverse South African dancers, getting to know them both onstage and off.

This 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.

www.dancedonation.com
English South Africa Performing Arts · Non-Profit
5 Episodes

Tumi Mokgope | Ballet Dancer

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…
Season 1 / Episode 1 23 min

Oscar Buthelezi | AfroFusion

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…
Season 1 / Episode 2 19 min

Gideon McKenzie | Street hip hop, Krumping

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,…
Season 1 / Episode 3 16 min

Charlotte Blignaut | Belly Dancer

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…
Season 1 / Episode 4 18 min

Robynn Soules | Heels

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)…
Season 1 / Episode 5 24 min