“The Forest” presents two intertwining worlds: the mystical realm of nature and mythological creatures, and the real world of human experiences. The performance encourages young audiences to reflect on nature’s significance, love, resilience, and how our actions today shape the world of tomorrow.
The performance unfolds in multiple layers: live on stage and simultaneously on screen, offering audiences a unique multi-dimensional experience. The addition of vibrant animation enhances immersion, inviting children to actively engage in decision-making, fostering creativity in a digital age where automation often replaces imagination.
“Some children react instantly to cues, while others take time to process them. However, as technology advances, children are increasingly in constant motion—jumping, running, reacting instantly. Asking them to ‘stand still’ can feel like asking them to stop thinking.” – says Kateryna Aloshyna (co-founder of the Art Educational Platform “Contemporary Dance Laboratory”, NPC).
An Interactive Experience
Unlike traditional performances, “The Forest” is highly interactive, offering children the opportunity to participate actively or simply observe, making each experience personal and unique.
About the Project
Inspired by Lesya Ukrainka’s timeless literary masterpiece, “Forest Song”, this production was created in 2021 to mark the 150th anniversary of the legendary Ukrainian poet and presented at the Roodepoort Theatre (Johannesburg) in collaboration between the Ukrainian Association of South Africa, choreographer Kateryna Aloshyna (co-founder of the Contemporary Dance Laboratory), and the Embassy of Ukraine to South Africa, the performance bridges cultures, generations, and artistic expressions.
Inspiration
I’m alive! I’ll live eternally! I have that in my heart which cannot die!” (excerpt from the book "Forest song")
A visually striking and thought-provoking contemporary dance performance, “The Forest” explores the contrasts between human ambition and the natural world, weaving together themes of love, fidelity, and the complexities of life. It is a story of romance and tragedy, reimagined through a child’s perspective, where second chances are possible.
A writer, translator, folklorist, public and cultural activist, a world-class figure - Lesya Ukrainka’s portrait appears on Ukraine’s 200 hryvnia note (valued at approximately R100).
Music
For the original play Lesya Ukrainka added music of folk melodies she had heard in the Ukrainian forest.
The music has been composed especially for the performance and combined a traditional Ukrainian instrument sopilka & modern style beatboxing.
Sopilka (Ukr. сопiлка) is a name applied to a variety of woodwind instruments of the flute family used by Ukrainian folk instrumentalists.
Costumes
The costumes featured touches of traditional Ukrainian embroidery.
Ukrainians believe that embroidery is like a good luck charm—it can protect people from harm and bring happiness. Different villages have its own unique designs and colours.
Vyshyvanka (or t-shirt) is a famous piece of embroidered clothing. The most common designs include geometric shapes which have special meanings; flowers and animals, which show love and respect for nature.
Amapiano Dance
Groove to the smooth, rhythmic beats of Amapiano - South Africa’s hottest dance style - combined with contemporary improvisation technics in the show.
With its signature footwork, slow grooves, and freestyle moves, Amapiano dance blends Bacardi, Kwaito, and Pantsula influences for a vibe like no other!
Amapiano dance is not just a set of moves—it's a vibe, a lifestyle, and a powerful expression of South African culture.
MEDIA CONTACT:
📞 +27 82 722 7231
📧 info@cdl-sa.com
Production Credits
Music: Maksym Berezhnyuk - Ukrainian sopilka & Dmytro Aleksienko - beatboxing (Lviv, Ukraine)
Animation: Mykyta Budantsov (Odesa, Ukraine)
Poster Designer: Tetiana Hurn (Ukraine/South Africa)
About Contemporary Dance Laboratory (CDL) Established in 2023 as an NPC and dedicated to actively promoting and exploring contemporary dance as an art form which develops networks for professional and innovative collaboration. Art provides a powerful means to reflect on the challenges facing our societies today. In response to global issues, CDL advocates for the rights and well-being of children and youth through various art forms. CDL is also a proud member of ASSITEJ SA.
About Ukrainian Association of South Africa UAZA (NPO 189-705) is a collaborative association registered in May 2017 that promotes networks between Ukrainians and South Africans for mutual development, increased awareness and inner growth of individuals and societies. For more information www.uaza.co.za.
About the Artists
Idea & Choreography: Kateryna Aloshyna (Ukraine/South Africa)
Ukrainian choreographer, director and co-founder of the Art Educational Platform “Contemporary Dance Laboratory” (NPC), currently living in SA and actively promotes cultural cooperation between South Africa and Ukraine. Her recent works include:
- "Everythung is connected" dance performance by children inspired by SA' books, 2024 South Africa.
- "We Stand for Freedom" interactive dance performance, 2023 South Africa.
- "The Fence" contemporary dance performance, 2019 South Africa, 2018 Ukraine.
Dancers:
Carren Johannisen (Wellington, SA) graduated UCT with Dance Teacher Diploma in 2015. She sharpened her craft at Vuyani Dance Theatre, then leapt into entrepreneurship with the launch of Cielo Dance Movement Academy. Blending artistry with education, she’s since brought Creative Arts and Dance Studies to life in classrooms across the Western Cape, inspiring young movers from primary to high school through.
Abigail Johnson (Paarl, SA) is trained at the Bianca's School of Ballet. Also, Abigail is studying psychology in the hopes of working in an environment dedicated to helping children. As a hobby she loves knitting, crocheting and playing with acrylic paints to express myself through art.
Ockert Prins (Worcester, SA) is a dancer and actor, with a range of collaborations with Jazzart Dance Theatre, Figure Of 8 Dance Theatre and Rebirth Dance Company. Ockert has performed at Baxter Theatre and the Soweto Theatre.
Nukeeshia Lekay (Worcester, SA) is a dancer, performer and co-founder of the Art Educational Platform “Contemporary Dance Laboratory” (NPC South Africa).
- Venue: Glennie Hall
- Location: Victoria Primary School
- Ticket price: ZAR 60.00
- Programme type: The Fringe
- Genre: Children's Theatre / Family Fare
- Duration: 35 minutes
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Ages:
ALL AGES
- Suitable for All Ages
