Kick-starting the double bill was Mchunu who re-enacted the annual reed dance in which young maidens carry reeds and journey to the King of the Zulu nation’s royal residence at KwaNyokeni Palace. A procession of AMD students (portrayed as young maidens) made their way from the Main Gate on the campus to the Theatre in a show of song, dance and pride. They were met with cheers and applause.

Mchunu, a versatile musician who plays several indigenous instruments and also sings and dances, wanted to show the audience a side of her life as a maiden. This was depicted through “Yimi Lo“. ‘The theme Yimi lo (This is me) is all about me unpacking myself using this concert and performing arts as a tool to communicate who I am,’ she said.

Dlamini’s contribution revealed a new angle on modern performing art, uniquely showcased through music and dance. Under the theme, Sanna ya Kisasa – Modern Art, Dlamini took the audience through a migration journey with uMakhweyane string bow music merging ancient and modern-day songs.

‘My concert was accompanied by a range of vocal and dance styles; the focus was to interpret African modern performing art,’ she said.

Her uMakhweyana compositions, ‘Ngiyekeleni ngiye khona’, Kaz’ iyozala nkomoni and Nyon’emhlophe (White Dove) express the freedom to pursue her musical journey.

The concert also included vocal pieces that expressed grievances, love and affection. The audience was treated to a range of dance styles, choreographed by Dlamini, consisting of uMzansi, African contemporary and township street dance.