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Fifty strong, Maqoma has been a catalyst of breaking new ground, changing, and elevating the arts landscape. Through his award-winning storytelling, Gregory has introduced the world to characters and storylines that have captured the zeitgeist and remain resonant to this day.
“My legacy is one of telling ground-breaking stories as a way of social commentary contributing to South Africa’s narrative and proudly the world over. It has been fifty years of firsts, fifty years of great achievements, fifty years of opportunities to collaborate but most importantly it has been fifty years of Learning.” shares Gregory Maqoma.
Collaboration has been an integral part of Gregory's career, and he has found amazing artists from a broad spectrum of genres to work with. In the GM50 Programme he finds yet another opportunity to collaborate with other incredibly talented artist to narrate his story of the 33 years in the creative arts industry. The weekend programme will see the return of Cion: Requiem of Ravel’s Bolero performed by the acclaimed Vuyani Dance Theatre fresh from their European tour. The performance of Cion will also culminate in a new version Cion: Cothoza created for children, performed by Vuyani Dance Theatre Children Outreach Programme.
Some other exciting collaborations during the Legacy weekend will be A double launch of Maqoma’s books in two parts, published by Jacana Media.
• The Joy Dancer: A picture children book written by Maqoma with Dr. Gcina Mhlophe. A captivating inspirational story of a boy who found the love of dance and through his extraordinary life, a multi award visionary has emerged. This book allows you to feel the magic of his craftsmanship.
• My Life, My Dance, My Soul - The Story of Gregory Maqoma co-written with Lorato Trok. A dazzling memoir that encourages young adults to embrace their passion, overcome obstacles, and believe in the strength of their dreams. It is a testament to the extraordinary heights that can be reached when one dances to the rhythm of their own soul.
Carol Broomhall Publisher at Jacana media says, "Published to coincide with Maqoma’s Birthday Legacy Projects, the children’s book is co-written with the legendary Gcina Mhlope. This gorgeous life-affirming book will take the reader on Gregory’s inspiring journey of self-discovery. All factors which have enabled Gregory to make a lasting impact on the world of dance – his determination and courage, his struggle as a black artist in a white-dominated industry, and the importance of family and community in his life – are included in his young adult book which is co-written with Lorato Trok. Both books will be an inspiration to all children, young adults and adults and cherished classics for generations to come.”
A bespoke performance of Greg Maqoma and Friend’s will be held on the 15th of October 2023, a black-tie affair honouring Gregory’s Birthday in partnership with Joburg Theatre, Arts Alive international festival and City of Johannesburg Arts, Culture, and heritage accompanied by Mzansi Philhamonic, South Africa’s National Orchestra. This will be an all-star intergenerational evening of performances including Madala Kunene and Kitty Phetla, actors, directors, and dancers just to mention the representation of the years Maqoma spend in beautiful and impactful collaborations.
‘Gregory Vuyani Maqoma is a genius of our time. A man that has mixed the ingredients that brings out the best in us, every time. As the Arts Alive International Festival 2023 City of Joburg, it is befitting to honour and celebrate his 50th legacy through a range of programmes as we pause to pour positive energies and unquantifiable gratitude for all the love and light he has spread around the world’. Vuyisile Mshudulu, Activist, Arts Administrator and Director of Arts, Culture and Heritage in the City of Johannesburg.
