As Cancer Awareness Day draws near, the vibrant and culturally rich Soweto Theatre is set to host an event that will touch your heart and inspire your spirit.
Taking place at the Gibson Kente Auditorium on Sunday, 29 October 2023, the extraordinary showcase which celebrates Cancer Awareness Month, promises to be an emotional and inspiring tribute to cancer survivors and patients with exciting and thrilling performances lined up for the day. “Dancing out of Cancer” is a heartwarming and inspirational show that was born from a remarkable story of a cancer survivor, acclaimed dance pioneer and Soweto icon Nomsa Manaka.
Now in its third edition, the show will feature a unique fusion of traditional, urban, and African contemporary dance styles along with some of SA’s finest musicians such as Maleh, Tshedi from the popular Kwaito group Malaika, Billy Monama, Omega, and Ayanda Khumalo backed by the Hugh Masekela’s band.
Manaka’s journey took a remarkable turn when her son, Mak Manaka, suggested she write a book titled “Dancing out of Cancer” while she was on her death bed.
The idea gave her purpose and determination to keep fighting for her life. She said the conversation with her son served as a powerful motivation and a sense of hope to keep fighting.
“It was that conversation that inspired me to continue to fight for my life. I kept thinking to myself, when I leave this hospital bed, the first thing I would do is dance. And I think that’s what healed me at the time. I am looking forward to celebrating caregivers and cancer survivors while, at the same time, giving hope to cancer patients,” said Manaka.
The first edition of “Dancing out of Cancer” aimed at raising funds for Nomsa’s cancers treatment saw a remarkable turnout at the Soweto Theatre in 2021 with attendees treated to soul-healing performances.
This year’s edition will include a special slot of poetry that will be performed by Tsoana Nhlapo, Amantle Makhutle and Mak Manaka.
Vincent Motau, the General Manager at Soweto Theatre, said “Dancing out of Cancer” is a celebration of life.
He said it is a call to honour cancer patients and survivors, and to demonstrate to the world that life after a cancer diagnosis can be fruitful, rewarding and even inspiring.
“Dancing out of Cancer” is not only a celebration but also a call to unite in the battle against cancer, encouraging a sense of togetherness and making differences in the lives of those affected.
The tickets cost R250. For more information on donations, and ticket prices, please visit the Soweto Theatre website: https://www.sowetotheatre.com/
Written by Getrude Mamabolo
SOURCED FROM THE CITY WEBSITE.
