Generations

GENERATIONS … “We are because You were… Then and the journey to Now”

 SboNdaba Dance continues its mission by offering a platform for emerging choreographers. Directed by Sinazo Mxeli, with senior members, interpreting their unique stories, the performance will feature music by Zinzi Nogavu and a finale by Artistic Director Sbonakaliso Ndaba. 

Generations explores how we evolve through teachings, challenges, and new connections. Honouring those who paved the way, we carry their wisdom forward, ensuring their legacy lives on through us.

DIRECTOR

Sinazo Mxeli 

I was born in Cape Town, Khayelitsha, to a family of Xhosa descent. My dance journey began in high school, where I studied modern contemporary and African contemporary as part of the curriculum. As I grew older, my passion for dance deepened, leading me to pursue formal training at the Indoni Dance Arts and Leadership Academy, where I completed a three-year program. Following my training, I became an intern at the Academy and began teaching children in my community. 

Throughout my training, I had the honour of being mentored by renowned figures such as Artistic Director Mama Sbonakaliso Ndaba, Mama Paula Kelly, and Mama Jennifer van Papendorp.

My professional dance career began when I joined SboNdaba Dance as a company member. During my time with the company, I have performed in several productions, including Locked Doors Behind Doors, Our Ocean, Our Future, and Amandla ukoBambisana. I also had the privilege of serving as an assistant director for the production Umhlangano (Our Stories). As part of my development at SboNdaba Dance, I completed DanceCor grades 9 to Advanced 1.

CHOREOGRAPHERS

Sonwabile Mhlonyane 

Born and raised in Khayelitsha and currently based in Southfield, Sonwabile Mhlonyane is a dedicated dancer with a passion for both the art form and its cultural significance. Beginning his dance training in 2014, Sonwabile later pursued his academic path at Rhodes University, where he started a music degree before returning to his professional dance training. In 2023, he joined SboNdaba Dance, continuing his growth under the mentorship of Mama Sbonakaliso Ndaba.

With a rich background in performance and a diverse range of experiences, Sonwabile has performed both nationally and internationally, collaborating with various renowned choreographers. His journey reflects his commitment to continuous learning, growth, and the celebration of dance in its many forms.

Litha Makanda 

My name is Litha Makanda, and I am 30 years old. I began my dance journey at the age of 21 under the guidance of Mama Sbonakaliso Ndaba. Throughout my training, I developed a wide range of skills and took the opportunity to immerse myself in the industry. Over the course of three years, I also trained and interned as an arts administrator, which provided me with valuable insights into the administrative side of the arts world.

I have had the privilege of touring various countries, performing on numerous stages both locally and internationally. Additionally, I’ve had the opportunity to grow as a teacher through an outreach program, further enriching my experience in the dance community.

Lusindiso Dibela 

Born and raised in Khayelitsha, Lusindiso Dibela's journey in dance began with his training at Jazzart Dance Theatre, where he was mentored by Jackie Manyapelo. In 2015, he further honed his craft under the guidance of Mama Sbonakaliso Ndaba at SboNdaba Dance. This mentorship ignited his potential and expanded his expressive range, allowing him to explore and develop diverse movement styles.

Throughout his training, Lusindiso has worked with several renowned choreographers, creating opportunities for artistic growth. His choreographic credits include directing the production Umhlangano (Gathering) and creating Kwanele for Dance For All. He has also presented smaller works for Dancing with Nature. Lusindiso’s performance experience spans both national and international stages, further establishing his presence as a dynamic and versatile dancer.

Vuyolwethu Mdluli 

My name is Vuyolwethu Mdluli, and I am 28 years old, originally from Langa. My journey in dance began in 2014 when I joined Dance for All (DFA), where I received my foundational training. Upon completing my studies at DFA, I continued to pursue professional training with SboNdaba Dance under the direction of Mama Sbonakaliso Ndaba. Throughout my time with SboNdaba Dance, I have had the privilege of being involved in numerous works choreographed by her.

Clayton Jannike 

I began my dance journey in 2016, focusing on hip hop training at Tenacity Movements. In 2022, I took the next step in my dance career by pursuing professional training at SboNdaba Dance under the mentorship of Mama Sbonakaliso Ndaba. Alongside my training, I’ve had the opportunity to teach and choreograph several pieces, including for Dancing with Nature and Umhlangano.

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Sbonakaliso Ndaba

I was born and raised in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, and received my training, performed, and taught at Jazzart Dance Theatre in Cape Town under the direction of Alfred Hinkel. Over the course of my career, I have had the privilege of dancing and choreographing for a wide variety of South African and international dance companies.

I am the founding director of both Phenduka Dance Theatre and Indoni Dance Arts Academy. Currently, I serve as the Artistic Director of SboNdaba Dance, a non-profit company I founded together with Jennifer van Papendorp and Paula Kelly in 2021 and officially launched in 2022. The company is dedicated to strengthening the performing arts in South Africa.

As one of the leading African Contemporary dance choreographers, I have received several awards in recognition of my work.