JANE FURSE PLAZA HERITAGE FESTIVAL: YOUNG TALENTS SHINE AS 15 PRIMARY SCHOOLS CELEBRATE CULTURE THROUGH ART
By Thulane Madalane
Jane Furse:On a radiant Wednesday spring morning, the Jane Furse Plaza came alive with vibrant cultural expressions as 15 primary schools participated in the annual Heritage Festival. The event aimed to celebrate local traditions and heritage through poetry, storytelling, and traditional dance, showcasing the remarkable talents of young students.
The plaza was adorned with colorful decorations representing the rich tapestry of cultures from across Limpopo. From the early morning hours, families gathered, creating a festive atmosphere filled with excitement and anticipation as students prepared to share their artistic talents.
A Showcase of Talent and Tradition
The day kicked off with an opening ceremony featuring traditional songs that set a spirited tone for the festival. The first performances commenced promptly, with eager learners taking the stage, showcasing their meticulously prepared poetry pieces. Each recitation reflected themes of identity, heritage, and community, leaving the audience captivated and inspired.
Standout performances came from the learners of Jane Furse Comprehensive School, Baropodi Primary School, Moripane Primary School, Freddy Mokgabudi Primary School, Bonega Madibung PrimarySchool, Madinoge Primary School and many others under this theme “Roots of Our Heritage,” celebrated the contributions of elders and the importance of passing down cultural knowledge. The audience responded with enthusiastic applause, acknowledging the heartfelt delivery.
Transitioning from the spoken word, the festival continued with enchanting storytelling sessions. Learners from Moripane Primary School brought age-old folktales to life, weaving narratives that echoed the wisdom of ancestors. Their engaging performances reminded attendees of the power of storytelling as a medium for preserving history and morals in a rapidly changing world.
Dazzling Dance Performances
The festival culminated in a series of dazzling dance performances. Traditional attire adorned each dancer, reflecting the beauty of various cultures represented in the region. From the energetic movements of the Sepedi dancers to the graceful Zulu dances, each performance was a testament to the rich diversity of South African heritage.
The palpable excitement in the air intensified when the Jane Furse Special School presented a traditional Sepedi dance,
concluding their performance with an invite for audience participation. Families were soon on their feet, dancing alongside the children and celebrating the spirit of unity. Pleasure Tša Manyalo popular song “Ba Kokota” was a sing along song that drove the crowd into a wild frenzy as it ushered the Sepedi inspired wedding dance routines.
Community Spirit and Collaboration
Local dignitaries, including the Mr Wilson Davhana Jane Furse FNB Branch Manager, Ms Innocentia Mamushi from ABSA, Ms Daphney Kgaria Eskom and Rakgoadi Progressive Bakery Marketing Manager Mr Makgeru, Zaphina Makgabudi Vodacom, Nelly Makola Best Home and Electric, Cedric Maphosa Roots Butchery and Ngwanaleba Mogale Express Stores attended the festival. The popular folklore artist Nape wa Phaahla was the Master of Ceremonies alongside James Sithole from Timeless News Foundation.Jane Furse Plaza Centre Manager Virginia Mashego praised the collaborative effort between schools and . “This event is not just a celebration of our heritage,” stated Mashego. “It’s a platform for our children to express themselves and for our community to come together, learn from one another, and celebrate our diversity and I want to thank all our social partners which includes Eskom , ABSA, Express Stores Best Home and Electric, Rakgaodi Progressive Bakery OK Furnisher, Roots Butchery, Timeless News Foundation and others for their continued support ”
Teachers and Parents beamed with pride as they watched
their children confidently perform. “This festival is an incredible opportunity for our kids to learn about their roots while developing their talents,” said one enthusiastic parent.
Looking Ahead
As the sun set over Jane Furse Plaza, the overwhelming success of the Heritage Festival left a lasting impact on attendees, fostering a deeper appreciation for culture and community. Plans for next year’s festival are already underway, with hopes to involve even more schools and expand the range of performances.
The Jane Furse Plaza Heritage Festival not only celebrated the past but also ignited a passion for cultural exploration among the younger generation, ensuring that the traditions will be handed down to future storytellers, poets, and dancers. Out of fifteen participating schools the following schools emerged victorious:
Traditional Dance Category Winners
First Position:Moripane Primary School 56%
Second Position: Baropodi Primary School 51,5%
Third Position:Freddy Mokgabudi Primary School 49,5%
Poetry Category Winners
First Position: Jane Furse Comprehensive School 57,5%
Second Position: Freddy Mokgabudi Primary School 51,5%
Third Position:Madinoge Primary School 51%
Storytelling Category Winners
First Position: Jane Furse Comprehensive School 55%
Second Position: Moripane Primary School 54,3%
Third Position:Bonega Madibung Primary School 52%
Special School Category Jane Furse Special School walked away with all categories ranging from dance, poetry and storytelling because it was without a competitor.
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