Contemporary dancing speaks to people through body movements that explore artistic expression, says contemporary dancer Jevas Simbarashe Moyana.
He says as a dancer, he tells his story through his outfits and signature looks that amaze everyone, who dare to watch him on stage.
Moyana told Standard Style that he was interested in contemporary dance during his three-year professional dance training course at Afrikera Arts Trust, a Harare-based arts organisation that seeks to work towards the recruitment and formation of local talents into world-class dancers
“I got fascinated by the freedom of creativity that comes with the genre of contemporary dance,” he said.
“It’s constantly evolving and gives room to creativity, exploring more with the body and space.
“My training in contemporary dance has given me grounding as an Afro-contemporary dancer.
“My movement is inspired by my surroundings, the rhythm, images which are constantly changing around. I am fascinated by the things l see and always look for exploring.”
Moyana said dancers and choreographers like Soukaina Edom, Jimu Makurumbandi, McIntosh Jerahuni, Maylene Chenjerai, Jaime Walkenbell and the late Peter Lenso inspired him and played a pivotal role in his career.
- Moyana explores life through dance
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He said his creative process involves looking at pictures, gestures and the purpose of each and every movement.
Moyana also does research on the specific choreography and observes situations.
“Rhythm has to change constantly, creating patterns and the body moving in space; this shows how music plays a significant role in performances,” he said.
“It allows setting the mood and atmosphere; it gives rhythm, pace and boosts the spirit. I use melancholic music and I love the mbira, shakers.
“Music is important and an essential part of a performance.”
Moyana said partnering and working with other creatives is important.
“Nothing is wrong or right during creation,” he said.
“We explore each and every idea as an ensemble keeping what works.
“As a team taking care of each other in space and positive criticism is key and always be eager to learn. We learn different things every day.”
Moyana said being consistent was key, especially as a contemporary dancer.
“As a performing artist I exercise a lot, physical fitness is a must,” he said.
“The body is at the centre of storytelling so it needs to be conditioned.
“For my mental health I do yoga and meditation and I laugh a lot. I am up for a good working environment.”
Moyana said one of his memorable performances was at the Harare International Festival of the Arts (Hifa) at the 2017 and 2018 editions.
“My first performance was at the Hifa opening night and it was very exciting,” he said.
“The beautiful cast l met and different choreographers, it was an experience on what it meant to be a performer.
“Last year at Mitambo International Theatre Festival I performed and choreographed a piece with the Zimbabwe Theatre Academy.
“It was honouring and I felt proud as a creative and I learned a lot from other creatives.”
Moyana said besides being a contemporary dancer he was also passionate about exploring issues pertaining to mental health.
“Dance is constantly changing and that’s the beauty of it,” he said.
“It’s evolving each day, something new comes and I would love to impact knowledge to others from what I have learnt.”
