JOMBA! ON THE EDGE is a platform that seeks to support fresh innovative contemporary dance work coming out of the KZN region, and those linked to the KZN regions. In our 2024 JOMBA! EDGE platform, we are proud to announce the selection of Steven Chauke and Kristi-Leigh Gresse as this year’s recipients of these grants. Both of these intrepid dance makers have been tracked by the JOMBA! curatorial team for the ongoing challenging and sensitive work they are producing. JOMBA! is delighted to support their dance work as part of stimulating artists to push boundaries and find their unique voices. For 2024, both JOMBA! Edge choreographers have opted to work in the site responsive space of the KZNSA Gallery.
Choreography by Steven Chauke
Dancers: Steven Chauke and Lehlohonolo Justice Makhele
Mukati is a word which means “within”. This multidisciplinary dance work, with its unique fusion of text, movement, and music begins to explore what contemporary African society has forgotten, and which needs remembering. It is a reminder to go back to cultural traditions and uses the body to unify divergent personal histories – one from Tsonga and one South Sotho. Finally, the journey ends with the triumph of a meeting of difference and a partnership.
Born on 28 January 1990 in Soweto (Tshiawelo) as Tinyiko Steven Chauke, his formal training in dance was at Moving into Dance (MID) Johannesburg. He furthered his training as a dance performer with Mason de le danse, Taelo Dance Theatre, Vuyani Dance Theatre, USA Battery Dance Theatre, Luthando Arts Academy, Soweto Dance Project, Soweto Dance Theatre, and Step Text Dance Project in Bremen, Germany. He is currently dance facilitator and percussionist at KwaMashu Community Advancements Project (K-CAP) and director of Isiko la Manje ENTERTAINMENT – a company that he founded and produces his works under. In 2021 he was nominated for SACAAs Award for Best Creative Concept Choreographer in Theatre Dance.
Choreographed and performed by Kristi-Leigh Gresse
Costume: Thandeka kaMsuthu
Projection Design: Kristi-Leigh Gresse
Unveiled is an introspective dance piece that delves into the interplay between personal history and artistic expression. As an artist, my practice is profoundly shaped by the intertwining narratives of my dance heritage and geological lineage. Rooted in classical ballet and modern dance, my movements are also deeply influenced by the ever-present, intangible connection to dance that has defined my life. This piece explores the dual maps that guide my journey: the tangible manifestation of my dance training and the intangible influence of my ancestral migrative stories. The geological background of my grandparents significantly impacts my navigation of the world, merging with my dance roots to create a rich, complex narrative.
As a Duban based dancer and choreographer, Kristi-Leigh was honoured with the Standard Bank Young Artist for Dance 2021. She holds a BA and Honours in Drama and Performance Studies from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Kristi-Leigh’s global dance journey includes immersive residencies and competitions in Germany, the UK, and the US. Selected by The Playhouse Company as part of their resident company, she used this time to refine her unique choreographic voice, collaborating with prominent local artists. Her award-winning performances, such as Beautiful Ones, Fragile, and Sullied, have graced prestigious festivals worldwide. Recent works like Purgatory showcase her exploration of human existence and societal injustices. Beyond her artistic pursuits, Kristi-Leigh conducts creative workshops and volunteers at a school for children with autism, demonstrating her commitment to community impact.