Letsatsi Selikoe
THE picturesque landscape of Lesotho has come alive with energy and rhythm as the renowned United States dance troupe, Step Afrika!, graces the mountain kingdom for the first time.
Step Afrika! is a dance company dedicated to the African-American tradition of “stepping.” As a non-profit organization, it tours both nationally and internationally, presents residencies and workshops worldwide, and uses stepping as an educational tool. It stands as the world’s leading authority on the art, having toured more than 60 countries. It is ranked among the top 10 African American dance companies in the United States.
Step Afrika! blends an array of contemporary dance and art forms to create a cohesive, compelling artistic experience. Their performances go beyond mere dance shows; they integrate songs, storytelling, humour, and audience participation. The combination of technique, agility, and sheer energy makes each performance unique, leaving the audience’s hearts pounding.
The traditional Sesotho dance, Liphotha (gumboots dance), served as the inspiration for the creation of Step Afrika! two decades ago. The founder and producer of Step Afrika!, Brian Williams, first encountered a young boy performing Liphotha in Maseru in 1994. This mesmerizing experience sparked a deep passion in him, eventually leading to the establishment of Step Afrika!, a dance company inspired by this unique African art form.
Born in Houston, Texas, and a graduate of Howard University, Williams’ dance journey began over 30 years ago as a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He has since devoted his life to celebrating cultural heritage through dance. His global performances and lectures have elevated stepping to a prominent art form, earning him the title of Washington, D.C.’s official cultural ambassador.
As part of Step Afrika!’s week-long visit, they also stopped at the Sentebale Children’s Home in Thaba Bosiu on Monday.
Founded in 2006 by Prince Seeiso Bereng Seeiso, Principal Chief of Matsieng, and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, the orphanage has been a sanctuary for countless children, providing a safe and nurturing environment for orphans in Thaba Bosiu. The visit by Step Afrika! was not just a performance; it was an empowering experience aimed at inspiring the youth of Lesotho.
Sentebale’s Country Director, Ntoli Moletsane, said the purpose of the visit was to inspire the children.
“We want the young people here to understand that dance is not merely an art form – it can be a career, a means to make a living, and a way to express oneself.”
The event buzzed with ululations and deafening cheers as Step Afrika! showcased their signature energetic dance styles, blending traditional African and contemporary influences. The joy on the children’s faces illuminated the event as they clapped along, their spirits lifted by the melodic beats and rhythmic movements.
The Sentebale Children’s Home not only welcomed guests that day but also with a renewed sense of hope and possibility, reminding everyone present that every child deserves the opportunity to dream and dance their way into a bright future.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Charles Blake, Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Maseru, echoed the powerful message that the children’s dreams can indeed take flight, no matter where they come from.
“It’s vital to pursue your dreams. I assure you, everything is possible when you put your mind to it and dedicate yourself,” Mr Blake said.
The event concluded with a special dance circle, inviting the children to join in. Laughter rang out, surrounded by the unity of culture and creativity, illustrating that though they may come from different corners of the world, the language of dance knows no boundaries.
Apart from Sentebale, Step Afrika also visited the Hoohlo Primary School, American International School and held a show at Maseru Mall situated restaurant, Nada.
