The final instalment in the Harbourfront Centre’s Torque dance series was The Sacrifice. Making its Toronto premiere as part of a very successful international tour, this incredible company from South Africa wowed audiences with this incredible production. Featuring an impressive ensemble of dancers along with talented musicians, The Sacrifice was a beautiful, moving experience.

The Sacrifice is inspired by Igor Stravinsky’s “The Rite Of Spring;” similarly structured with distinct movements to the piece, Stravinsky’s work takes on a whole new life through this incredible performance. The heart of the story is about humanity’s capacity to not only work and live and celebrate together, but also to hurt one another. Joyous moments of song, dance, and laughter are juxtaposed against the darker, more sad moments towards the end. And yet, like spring itself, the promise of renewal is keenly felt as the lights go down.

The Sacrifice is accompanied by extremely talented musicians: Ann Masina (who has the most stunning voice), Leroy Mapholo, Mpho Mothiba, and Nathi Shongwe. Having the live music made the performance just that much more electric, plus it provided some really comical moments during the more upbeat sections as well. The variety of instruments they played was impressive, everything from ancient looking instruments to a synthesizer, it was incredible!

Dada Masilo’s brilliant choreography was brought to life by an incredible ensemble of dancers: Leorate Dibatana, Lwando Dutyulwa, Thuso Lobeko, Lehlohonolo Madise, Songezo Mcilizeli, Refiloe Magoje, Steven Mokone, Thandiwe Mqokeli, Eutychia Rakaki, and Tshepo Zasekhaya. Masilo usually performs with her troupe, however she was unfortunately unwell the night I was able to attend. These dancers are athletic, beautiful, and bring life, joy, and sadness to every movement. I couldn’t take my eyes off of them; the blending of traditional and modern dance was expertly done for this piece, and made it all the more enchanting. The moments when they would clap or stomp in unison gave me goosebumps! You can feel the love and pride every member of the ensemble has for The Sacrifice; it is truly beautiful to witness.

The Sacrifice is continuing its world tour, and certainly was a smashing way to end the Harbourfront Centre’s season of Torque. For more information and to see what Harbourfront has coming up next, visit: https://harbourfrontcentre.com/event/the-sacrifice/