MGTO brings African heat to Macau

Members of the public can enjoy a series of magnificent performances by the “South African Dance Ensemble” jointly presented by the Macau Government Tourist Office and the South African Consulate-General, Hong Kong SAR/Macau SAR, in celebration of Chinese New Year. The “South Africa Dance Ensemble”, formed by two groups, the Vuka Uzenzele Cultural Production” and “Vhakololo”, will perform today (February 4) at Senado Square (2pm to 3pm) and Macau Fisherman’s Wharf (4:30pm to 5:30pm). The Director of Macau Government Tourist Office, João Manuel Costa Antunes and Consul-General of the South African Consulate-General, Hong Kong SAR/Macau SAR, Mario George Masher will be present at the event at Senado Square today (February 4). The “South Africa Dance Ensemble” will bring to the audience the unique culture of Zulu, Vhavenda and Shangaan people of South Africa, through their high-energy athleticism and authentic tribal dances combined with signature costumes, rhythmic drumming and songs. “Vuka Uzenzele Cultural Production” was established in 2003. Their aim is to boost the production of cultural performing groups. “Vuka Uzenzele” means “wake up and do it yourself” in the Nguni languages of South Africa. Since its establishment, the group has performed in various arts festivals and carnivals in South Africa. Formed in 2001, “Vhakololo” gathered the cultural diversity and uniqueness of tribes in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. Individuals from different communities were invited to showcase their ethnic characteristics via their own languages and forms of dances. Since the year 2002, they have been playing an active role in different artistic events in South Africa. “Vhakololo”, in the Tshivenda language means “the anointed ones”. South Africa Dance Ensemble’s performance in Macau include dances such as “Ufolo” (hunting dance), “Tshifasi” (young lovers’ dance), “Isizingili” (Zulu war dance), “Umzansi” (a collaboration of dances), and the jaw dropping “Umgido” (dance of celebration).