The Enable Through Dance programme, established in 2016, works with over 160 learners from several schools and organisations across Johannesburg, providing opportunities for creative expression, confidence, and self-esteem building through dance and movement. To mark its 10th anniversary, learners with disabilities took centre stage with professional dancers from the Moving Into Dance non-profit company at the Keorapetse William Kgositsile Theatre. The programme offers a platform for young people with disabilities to explore their potential through dance.
Moving Into Dance, based in Newtown, was established in 1978 by Sylvia Glasser as a mixed-race dance group that used dance as cultural resistance against the apartheid regime. The company's CEO, Nadia Virasamy, said that the Enable Through Dance programme started with rethinking the organisation's understanding of dance and disability. This was challenging for a professional dance company whose work had traditionally focused on specific ideas of physical ability and movement. Virasamy emphasised that the programme is about inclusivity, giving young people with disabilities a chance to explore their potential.
The anniversary performance featured learners from various schools and organisations, including the Johannesburg Society for the Blind, Ithuba Community College, and the Don Mattera School for learners with special educational needs. The project offers more than just teaching dance techniques; it helps young people become more confident and comfortable when interacting with others. Virasamy noted that there's no demarcation about who can do what within the space, and everyone comes together to embrace dance.
Tebogo Lelaletse, a 29-year-old dancer from the North West who uses a wheelchair, started dancing in 2019 with Unmute Cape Town before joining Moving Into Dance. He said that dance gives him a way to tell stories and express emotions without relying on speech. Lelaletse encouraged others with disabilities to explore their talents despite their fears, emphasising that everyone has a gift to share.
Lesego Dihemo, a Moving Into Dance member who teaches learners at Johannesburg School for Autism, initially struggled due to her lack of experience working with autistic learners. However, through training and research, she developed a better understanding of inclusive practice. Dihemo said that working with the learners has changed her as both a teacher and a dancer, allowing her to become free and open up her creativity.
The Enable Through Dance programme has become a weekly initiative in schools and organisations around Johannesburg, bringing in specialists to work with the dancers and facilitators. The programme's impact extends beyond dance techniques, as it fosters a sense of community and inclusivity among participants. Learners from Phiri Special School in Soweto also performed a dance routine during the anniversary celebration.
The 10th anniversary performance was open to the public free of charge, showcasing the talents of learners with disabilities and professional dancers. The event highlighted the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in the arts, providing a platform for young people with disabilities to shine. Key to the programme's success is its focus on ability rather than disability, allowing everyone to participate and grow together.
Key points
- The Enable Through Dance programme provides opportunities for young people with disabilities to express themselves through dance and movement.
- The programme has become a weekly initiative in schools and organisations around Johannesburg, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity.
- The 10th anniversary performance showcased the talents of learners with disabilities and professional dancers, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in the arts.
