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By The Skanner News | The Skanner News
Published: 12 November 2009

Seattle Theatre Group presents "Beautiful Me" by internationally renowned South African choreographer and dancer Gregory Maqoma/Vuyani Dance Theatre on Friday, Nov. 13 and Saturday, Nov. 14 at 8 p.m. at Falls Theatre at ACT.
In 'Beautiful Me', Gregory Maqoma, one of South Africa's leading choreographers, attempts to define, redefine and profess his own identity in relationship to history, humanity and nature. Maqoma begins with movement, text and music contributed by three master choreographers who have had great influence on him: Akram Khan's Contemporary Kathak; Faustin Linyekula's visual dance-theater; and Vincent Mantsoe's Afro-fusion. Through layering these distinct and diverse styles with his own unique lightness and humor, "Beautiful Me" becomes a living self portrait and a provocative exploration of kinetic African identity.
Accompanied on stage by exceptional South African musicians Poorvi Bhana (sitar), Bongani Kunene (cello), Isaac Molelekoa (violin), and Mandienkosi Nhlapo (percussion) with a simple lighting and set design, "Beautiful Me" speaks honestly and directly about the process of finding one's authentic voice.
Influenced by his childhood in Soweto, early dance training at Moving Into Dance in Johannesburg and further studies in Brussels under Anna Teresa de Keersmaeker, Gregory Maqoma founded Vuyani Dance Theatre in 1999 in Johannesburg, South Africa. His works have earned him several national and international awards.
"Beautiful Me" performance tickets are $15 - $35 and include a post-performance discussion, moderated by Vivian Phillips. Tickets are available online at http://www.stgpresents.org/artists/?artist=1041  by phone at 877-STG-4TIX or 877-784-4849, in person at The Paramount Theatre box office, Monday through Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and The Paramount and Moore Theatre venue kiosks, 24-hours a day, 7-days a week.
For group sales, call 206-315-8054. The Moore Theatre is located at 1932 Second Ave. in downtown Seattle. More information about Vuyani Dance Theatre visit www.vuyani.co.za .

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