Finding a creative outlet to deal with everyday troubles and the constant violence in the community is how the dance group Revolution was shaped.
Elizabeth Japtha, a resident of Hillview, says the group of dancers that consist of children from the age of six and up initially began due to a dance challenge.
“We started with Jerusalema, learning the dance moves, because there was that dance challenge. All the residents in the street, the children and parents came together. I switched on the music really loud and we all learned the dance moves in the street.”
Japhta says children continued to show up and dance in her backyard.
“From that day, the children started practicing in my yard and in front of my house. There are about 40 children now and four of the older children do the choreography.
“Revolution is part of the scripture and also a song. We were together when we heard it and decided that will be the name of the group.”
The dance group is now often asked to dance at events in the area.
Japhta says when the children dance they forget their surroundings and just immerse themselves in dance.
“The moments we are together and dance, we just forget everything. Many of the young children lost their fathers and there are a lot of shootings and death in the area. Anyone who lives here is afraid. After the dance class, we escort the children home because it’s not safe.”
Clifton Richenburg (21), a choreographer for the Revolution dance group, says he joined the group six months ago.
“Four of us joined the dance group six months ago. I’ve been dancing since I was young but did not take it seriously at the time. We dance hip-hop and I like to watch hip-hop dance videos where I will mix the different styles of choreography and teach it to the group.
“They are shooting a lot in the area and this is one way to draw the kids in through dance.”
He says since joining the group and teaching dance, he has seen a notable difference in some of the children.
“A lot of children who were smoking or drinking before has now stopped. Their parents have also noticed the change. Often the mothers will thank me for the difference it makes.”
Richenburg also dances for the Global Worship Centre, teaching children the gospel through dance.
