Lack of resources hinders dance industry progress
Dumisani Ncube | Wednesday May 20, 2015 11:04
Speaking to Showbiz dance consultant, Tumisang Baatshwana complained that a number of factors including lack of funds and dance studios play a major role in the stagnation of the local dance industry.
“There is a great apperception for dance. It can be noticed through the exposure we get, however, dancers still struggle to get spaces for rehearsals, there are no studios dedicated to dancers,” contemporary dancer, Baatshwana said.
She stated that the current venues that they are using for rehearsals are not suitable for dance practice, because they are made of ordinary floor material. “Studios should have sprung floors which ensures that our bodies are well protected. One is likely to get injured on a cement floor,” she explained.
A number of dance groups have failed to acquire dancing space with some taking advantage of mall car parks and open spaces at the University of Botswana. Baatshwana, who recently performed at Maitisong with the Sky Blue Dance Hub added that failing to acquire or rent dancing venues is caused by lack of funds and poor payments that dancers receive. “Dance projects are not as valued as others. Getting funds can be difficult, with funds we can be able to do a number of things such as hiring venues and professional choreographers,” she explained.
She further said as a result many have given up on applying for funds because it has not been fruitful. A number of dance groups have gone to the extent of using their own money to host events and dance workshops. The passionate dance consultant told Showbiz that dance could bring a number of opportunities in the country if there is proper attention.
American dance chorographer, Reyna Joy Banks promised to help the local industry after she was informed of challenges facing the dance industry at a dance workshop held at Maitisong recently. Despite challenges and difficulties in the dance industry, Baatshwana encouraged her counterparts to stay strong until there is a positive change in the industry.
The local dance industry has produced a number of dancers such as Andrew Kola who heads Mophato Dance Crew, Heath Lambert who is now a dance teacher and the Mangiroza brothers who have gone to perform at international events with their crew TNT.