For the production Groove, choreographer Mari Raudsepp has teamed up with three South African dancers. Together they bring gqom – a dynamic dance style packed full of rhythm and attitude – straight from the clubs of Durban and into the spotlight. The collective explores dance’s groove, its vibe and its connection to both music and the individual.
Expect to be wowed by synchronized movements, super-fast footwork and plenty of bass. Groove celebrates the energy and distinctive character of gqom, which allows each individual dancer’s creativity and personality to shine.
Don’t miss the chance to experience a whole new and exciting world of dance!
”This is the time we release.
Hardcore release of emotions.
Make you want to break free, let go hardcore and upbeat.”
– Dance team
Raudsepp mainly practices, competes in and teaches the house dance style. During a trip to Durban, she discovered the house-inspired gqom genre and drew inspiration from this to create the production Groove. Mari’s creative work with the house and gqom styles is based on her interest in exploring how social dance can be expressed in a staged or choreographed context.
Gqom dance has its origins in Durban’s lokshins (townships) and is derived from the music style with the same name. A subgenre of house music, this emerged from Durban’s club scene in the 2010s and soon acquired its own step combinations. Gqom dance is divided into two parts – bhenga and ijithi. Bhenga comes from the clubs of Durban and mainly consists of groovy upper body movements combined with basic steps such as “wosho”, “gwarra gwarra” and “walkye phara”. Ijithi, on the other hand, is based on quick footwork, characterised by what are known as “heal-to-shuffle techniques”.
Artistic director, idea & choreography: Mari Raudsepp
Co-Choreographers: Yolanda Joja, Bridgette Londiwe Nompilo Msomi, Celumusa Lindelwa Thobeka N Maphumulo
Dancers: Yolanda Joja, Bridgette Londiwe Nompilo Msomi, Celumusa Lindelwa Thobeka N Maphumulo, Mari Raudsepp
Light design: Alba Rask
Outside eye: Maureen Asic
Co-production: Dansens hus, Dansnät Sverige
Photo: Anton Höjer, Ella Ashrafi
Length: 45min
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March 11
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