The National School of the Arts in partnership with WITS THEATRE is thrilled to present the 2025 edition of Dance Spectrum. Titled ECHOES and running from 9 to 10 May at the WITS Theatre, this year’s showcase will feature Ballet, Spanish, and Contemporary as well as two commissioned works from celebrated alumni Tshepo Zasekhaya and Llewellyn Mnguni.

The venue for this year’s production holds special memories for many NSA alumni, as the WITS Theatre was the home to numerous past seasons of Dance Spectrum. It is within this space that the echoes of the past reverberate, making the title ECHOES a fitting tribute to the journey of the school and its artists.

Heather Dreyer, Head of Dance, explains the heart of this year’s production:

“This season of Dance Spectrum is all about capturing the magic that happens in the classroom and bringing it to life on stage. It’s about providing a platform for every senior student in Grades 10 to 12 to experience the thrill of performance and to shine in the spotlight. We are especially excited to return to the Wits Theatre — a space that holds so many memories for our alumni.”

Returning alumni choreographers, Tshepo Zasekhaya and Llewellyn Mnguni, share what it means to be back:

“I am honoured and excited to be invited back to choreograph for Dance Spectrum. I remember how I used to look forward to this season every year as a student. It was a highlight of my time at NSA. Over the years, I’ve built a special relationship with the school, and appreciate every opportunity I’ve been afforded to share my work and engage with the next generation of dancers at the NSA. With this year’s theme, Echoes, my choreography reflects not only my growth as an artist but also pays homage to the choreographers and artists who shaped the dancer I am today.” — Tshepo Zasekhaya

“Coming back to where my career started as a dancer and choreographer brings back an intense feeling of nostalgia and gratitude for what this establishment has done for me, both personally and professionally. Then and now, NSA remains a safe haven where artists are free to be their authentic selves.” — Llewellyn Mnguni

The NSA Dance Department is proud of its faculty teachers, who are all esteemed professionals. Head of Department, Heather Dreyer, is ably supported by Kitty Phetla, Laura Cameron, Gillian Bonegio and Haydee Baker. The exacting standards demanded by the NSA will be clearly showcased in Dance Spectrum – Echoes, affirming its standing as South Africa’s leading publicly funded school of specialization in Performing and Creative Arts.

Malcolm Purkey, Director of the Wits Theatre, shared his enthusiasm about the ongoing partnership with the National School of the Arts:

“We are delighted to be hosting the National School of the Arts at the Wits Theatre. I believe that it is its natural home. Having worked at the National School of the Arts on a project called I Love Jozi, I know about the talent, the skill, and the passion of the students. I can’t wait to see that passion, that skill, and that quality during this season of Dance Spectrum – Echoes.”

Dance Spectrum: Echoes is not only a celebration of the school’s rich dance heritage but also a showcase of its commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and creativity while highlighting the versatility of the NSA dancers.

Don’t miss the chance to experience Dance Spectrum: Echoes at the WITS Theatre, where the past and future come together in a celebration of movement and memory.

Performance Times:

Dates: May 9 and 10

Venue: WITS Theatre

Showtimes: Friday at 19:00, Saturday at 14:30 and 19:00

Ticket Prices: R50 for students, R100 for adults

Booking: Webtickets

Kayleigh Davids
kayleighdavids.kd@gmail.com
079 887 0048
National School of the Arts