SA: Vincent Mantsoe to premiere Desert Poems at UJ Arts and Culture

The exclusive performances will take place at the Keorapetse William Kgositsile Theatre, located at the UJ Arts Centre in Auckland Park, Johannesburg from 11 and 12 April.

The production, featuring original choreography by Mantsoe and music by Dizu Plaatjies’ Ibuyanmo Ensemble, explores the stark beauty and intense contrasts of the desert landscape. Through expressive movement and evocative imagery, Desert Poems captures the relentless heat, biting winds, and vast emptiness of the desert, while also reflecting on themes of survival, resilience, and adaptation. Mantsoe’s choreography brings to life the textures of sand, the shifting dunes, and the profound silence of the night sky.

“As I create more solo dance works, I increasingly find myself exploring uncharted territory,” Mantsoe said. “I believe a guiding force has led me to this point, connecting Desert Poems with my previous solo pieces that intertwine nature, spirituality, and a degree of uncertainty.”

Mantsoe also acknowledged the support of UJ Arts & Culture, lighting designer Wesley Maherry, and his family in France and South Africa. “I am thrilled to return home and deeply grateful to UJ Arts & Culture for their invaluable partnership. I also appreciate my close friends for their silent yet powerful support and the unseen forces guiding my spiritual journey, without them, this work would not have been possible.”

UJ Arts & Culture emphasised its commitment to revitalising the Johannesburg dance community and strengthening audience engagement.

UJ Arts & Culture head Pieter Jacobs highlighted the significance of hosting Mantsoe’s production. “Active engagement and audience building are essential for the dance and theatre sector to flourish in South Africa. Johannesburg has long been a hub for world-class dance, and it is important to celebrate and nurture that legacy.

“We are very excited to welcome Vincent to our stage, especially as we mark UJ’s 20th anniversary. Creating access for South Africans to experience new and innovative work is central to our mission at UJ Arts & Culture.”

Tickets to the event are available here.