The dance world is in shock following the unexpected death of South African choreographer and dancer Dada Masilo at 39. Renowned for her innovative blending of African rhythms with classical ballet, Masilo’s influence reached far beyond her home country, leaving a lasting legacy.
The global dance community is in mourning following the sudden death of South African choreographer and dancer Dada Masilo, who passed away this weekend at the age of 39. According to a statement from her family, Masilo died unexpectedly on Sunday after a short illness, leaving the artistic world in shock and sorrow.
Born in the township of Soweto, Masilo was an internationally renowned figure celebrated for her bold and creative approach to dance. Described as an energetic and fearless dancer, she revolutionized contemporary dance in South Africa by merging traditional African rhythms with European classical works. Her innovative approach challenged conventions, combining respect for tradition with a distinct personal expression.
Bridget van Oerle, a family spokesperson, stated in the announcement that Masilo had “effectively changed the shape and appearance of contemporary dance in South Africa”, offering a fresh artistic perspective while honoring both European and contemporary musical traditions. “Deeply respectful of European and contemporary music traditions, [she was] unafraid to go bare on stage and voice her own opinions,” van Oerle added, emphasizing the lasting impact of her work.
Throughout her career, Masilo received numerous local and international awards. Most recently, in September, she was honored with the Positano Leonide Massine Prize for her lifetime achievements in classical and contemporary dance. The award recognized her bold reinterpretations of iconic ballets such as Swan Lake and Giselle, in which she incorporated African dance elements to address social issues and promote tolerance.
Her passing has deeply affected the global dance community. The Joburg Ballet company paid tribute to Masilo, calling her a “creative force as a choreographer and her wisdom as a human being” and lamenting that a “bright light has been extinguished.” Meanwhile, the Department of Arts and Culture at the University of Johannesburg stated that her work had “reshaped” the world of contemporary dance, adding that her spirit would continue to inspire future generations.
The Dance Consortium, based in the United Kingdom, also expressed its sadness, describing her death as a “tragic loss for the world of dance.” They highlighted how Masilo’s fresh perspective, extraordinary stage presence, and stunning creations had captivated and inspired audiences and artists across the UK and beyond.
Lliane Loots, artistic director of the JOMBA! Dance Centre at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, noted that Masilo had skillfully blended her “remarkable skill as a ballet dancer” with African rhythms, creating a unique fusion that left an indelible mark on the dance world.
In 2016, Masilo's Swan Lake received a nomination for a prestigious New York Bessie Award, and the following year, her production of Giselle won the Best Performance accolade at the Italian Danza and Danza Awards, according to a statement from her family.
In 2018, she was honored with the Prince Claus “Next Generation” Award from the Netherlands, where she was praised as an “extraordinary role model for young people and girls.”
Dada Masilo leaves behind an immense artistic legacy, and her influence will continue to resonate far beyond South Africa's borders.
With AFP
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