Look: Joburg dancers mark decade of breaking barriers

Learners with disabilities took centre stage alongside professional dancers at the University of Johannesburg as the Enable Through Dance programme celebrated its 10th anniversary, reports Joburg Etc.

The programme, established in 2016 by Moving Into Dance, works with more than 160 learners from schools and organisations across Johannesburg, using dance and movement to encourage creative expression, confidence and self-esteem.

Picture: University of Johannesburg Arts & Culture / Facebook

A decade of movement and inclusion

The anniversary performance was held at the Keorapetse William Kgositsile Theatre at the UJ Arts Centre, bringing learners and professional dancers together on stage.

According to UJ Arts & Culture, Enable Through Dance has been presented in partnership with the university’s arts division for several years. The programme’s roots stretch back to 2016, when Moving Into Dance began using integrated dance to create greater access to the performing arts for young people with disabilities.

Picture: University of Johannesburg Arts & Culture / Facebook

Moving Into Dance CEO Nadia Virasamy said the initiative required the organisation to rethink its understanding of dance and disability. ‘It isn’t about ability or disability, it’s about inclusivity,’ she said, according to GroundUp.

The programme has since become a weekly initiative, with facilitators working alongside learners at schools and organisations around Johannesburg.

For dancer Tebogo Lelaletse, movement provides a way to communicate emotions and stories without relying solely on speech. ‘It’s better if you talk through movement,’ Lelaletse told GroundUp.

Lelaletse, who uses a wheelchair, began dancing in 2019 with Unmute Cape Town before joining Moving Into Dance. He encouraged other people with disabilities to explore their talents and use their abilities creatively.

The programme also provides opportunities for professional dancers to develop their own understanding of inclusive practice. Lesego Dihemo, who teaches learners at Johannesburg School for Autism, said working with the programme changed her as both a teacher and dancer.

Picture: University of Johannesburg Arts & Culture / Facebook

Moving Into Dance has been based in Newtown since 1978 and has a long history of using dance as a form of cultural expression and resistance. Its Enable Through Dance programme continues that work by creating space for young people with disabilities to participate in Johannesburg’s arts scene.