Artists & Projects Directory
Gregory Maqoma/Vuyani Dance Theatre
Musicians Isaac Molelekoa (violin), Bongani Kunene (cello) and Given Mphago (percussion) have a history of collaboration with Gregory Maqoma. Molelekoa and Kunene played for the revisited Rhythm Colour in June 2006 and the revisited Southern Comfort at the Dance Umbrella Gala Night in February of 2008. Mphago performed as part of the original Rhythm Colour in 2002, and worked as company musician in 2004. He joined Molelekoa and Kunene for the revisited Southern Comfort at the Dance Umbrella Gala Night.
Both Molelekoa and Kunene trained in the African Youth Ensemble based in Diepkloof Hall, Soweto under the baton of Koloane Mantu. Given Mphago is a seasoned percussionist and protégé of world renowned South African Jazz musician, Phillip Tabane.
Sitar player, Poorvi Bhana, rounds out the ensemble. From a musical South African Indian family, she has played with several choreographers in South Africa. This is her first time working with Maqoma.
The music for Beautiful Me was developed by the four musicians in collaboration with Maqoma.