“Dayimane!”

‘Dayimane!’ is the first of a trilogy that introspects Nguni identity. The trilogy seeks to question or highlight some of the issues that have been left unexplored within the formation of the Zulu Kingdom and its identity. ‘Dayimane!’ particularly draws inspiration from some of the historical events within the Nguni history and focuses on the role of the Nguni cows in Nguni culture.

‘Dayimane!’ is a multidisciplinary dance theatre piece that metaphorically explores our social, economic and cultural association with the Nguni cows and the role they play in our lives. Set in and around a cow dip, the piece fuses the use of video projection, recorded soundscapes, music, live percussion and drumming, izibongo, physical theatre, movement and dance within a frame of an African yet contemporary dance theatre performance piece. Choreographed and devised by the multi-award winning Musa Hlatshwayo, ‘Dayimane!’ is a full-length work of approximately 1 hour that features a cast of five versatile performers including Hlatshwayo himself and some of Mhayise Production’s regulars i.e. Busi Deyi and Ngcebo Nzama. Nzama is KZN Dancelink’s most promising dancer for 2008 and Footsteps to Fortune’s top 10 finalist for 2009. Also featured in this production are the versatile Phumzile Zondo and the eloquent award-winning Imbongi of Chief Hadebe of St Faiths; James Mbhele. Production and lighting designer   Wesley Maherry also makes his return as a regular with Mhayise Productions on his illuminating stage designs. Mhayise Productions also introduces Nduduzo Makhanya; an up-and-coming independent music producer whose musical creations also contribute to the soundscape of the piece.

‘Dayimane!’ will premier at the Square Space Theatre at the University of KwaZulu Natal from the 25th until the 28th of May at 7pm. There will be a closing matinee on the 29th of May at 3pm mainly for those patrons who rely on public transportation and cannot make the evening shows.

Tickets can be purchased at the door at R55 for the general public and R45 for students and pensioners. Prior booking is highly recommended as sitting will be very limited. Block bookings of more than 10 get special discounts. Bookings can be made through Claudette Wagner on (031)260 3133 or via email on .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

More information and pictures on ‘Dayimane!’ and any of our activities and past projects can be accessed via our group ‘Mhayise Productions’ on facebook.

 

 

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