Led by charismatic South African choreographer Lesole Maine, this amazing dance ensemble steps out in a performance that will leave audiences stomping and shouting. Enjoy high-powered tribal dances like the Indlamu of the Zulu homelands, Gumboot, the coal miners’ infectious dance from deep underground; and Pantsula, the super-cool dance from the streets of Johannesburg.  Back by popular demand – book your tickets soon!


A Closer Look – About Zulu Dance in South Africa

Indlamu is the traditional dance most often associated with Zulu culture. It is performed with drums and full traditional attire and is derived from the war dances of the warriors.  This war dance is untouched by Western influence probably because it is regarded as a touchstone of Zulu identity.  Full regimental atture, precise timing and uncompromised posture are required.  It is danced by men of any age wearing skin (amabeshu), headrings, ceremonial belts, ankle rattles, sheilds and weapons like knobkeries and spears. Indlamu has a calculated, less frantic feel and shows off muscular strength and control of the weapons with mock stabs at imaginary enemies.  Dancers are more likely to make eye contact with the audience.  Various drums and whistles accompany the dance.  Traditionally indlamu is performed at weddings by men.

A Closer Look – About the Performers

Lesole’s Dance Project (LDP) is a non-profit organization, founded by Lesole Z. Maine in 2003. The company of six dancers was the recipient of The Washington Post’s ‘Bringing the Arts to Our Community’ grant in 2003. The company creates and performs works that highlight the unique qualities of modern and Afro-Fusion style of dance and provide educational programs of the movement and history of popular South African dances.

In addition to public performances, LDP prides itself in teaching basic dance classes, master or advanced dance classes, and workshops for the public. The company has performed throughout the Washington, DC metro area including Dance Africa DC-Dance Place, University of Maryland, Black Leadership Council of Excellence, the National Museum of African Art in Philadelphia, The Kennedy Center Millennium Stage, the Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts, Miami International Book Fair and most recently at the Cincinnati Play House in Ohio. In 2007 LDP was nominated for the Emerging Performer/Group at the Metro DC Dance Awards.
The mission of Lesole’s Dance Project is to promote the unique movement vocabulary and choreographic style inspired by Southern African heritage; collaborate with contemporary composers, videographers, and set designers to produce original dance and music performance; and encourage artistic potential by providing education, training, and a platform for choreographers and performers of all ages and backgrounds

For more information, please visit LDP’s website at www.lesolesdanceproject.com.