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Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]
PERFORMING artiste “MaBree” (Beauty Matshawila), who has worked with groups such as Ezimnyama Dance Ensemble, Bolamba Culture Birds and Umkhathi Theatre Works, has set her sights on opening a school of dance – a move aimed at fostering growth in the country’s dance sector.

Fondly known as MaBree on the dance floor, she has showcased her talent on international platforms, earning recognition for her exceptional performances. In 2020, her dedication was acknowledged when she won the Bulawayo Arts Awards Outstanding Female Dancer accolade.

Her international exposure includes working with Umkhathi Theatre Works on the production Footprints, which saw her tour India and perform at the Surajkund International Crafts Mela. She has also showcased her skills at youth games, Independence Day celebrations and other high-profile events, further refining her artistry.

In an interview, MaBree said her dream is to establish an arts centre where she can nurture future dancers and preserve Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage through traditional dance.

“My goal is to open a dance school where I can pass on my knowledge and uphold our culture of Ubuntu,” she said.

Already, she is actively mentoring the younger generation, imparting her skills in various schools.

“I’ve taught dance at several schools, including Nkanyezi Primary School, where I coached the Jikinya Dance team for four years, leading them to victory. Other schools I’ve worked with include Sontala Primary, Cowdray Park Primary, Matobo Primary and Founders High School,” she shared.

By opening a dance school, she aims to continue imparting her skills and nurturing the next generation of dancers.

Reflecting on her journey, she said years of experience have shaped her into the dancer she is today.

“My breakthrough in the industry started around 2003 and from then until now, I have worked with groups such as Bolamba Culture Birds and Ezimnyama Dance Ensemble. One of my career highlights was a spiritual act during the official opening of Intwasa in 2019,” she said. — @mthabisi_mthire