Chronicle Editor
In African culture, a woman’s place was traditionally seen as the kitchen, and it was once considered immoral for a girl to be on stage, dancing in skimpy attire in front of an audience.
Defying these cultural norms is Thembelani Ndlovu, this week’s spotlight feature. A member of Bolamba Culture Birds who also pursues a solo career as a musician, she has built a successful career as a female dancer, performing in and outside Zimbabwe. Her dedication to the arts has even earned her a diplomatic passport through dance.
Q: Tell us briefly about yourself and how you found yourself on stage.
A: My name is Thembelani Ndlovu, and I was born on April 18, 1995. I grew up in Gwanda, where I attended Thornwood School. My love for dance started back in primary school when I joined the traditional dance club. In 2019, I took up dance as a full-time career after joining Bolamba Culture Birds, a group led by Mthabisi Dube.
Q: What opportunities have come with being part of Bolamba Culture Birds?
A: Being part of Bolamba Culture Birds has opened many doors for me. We have performed at numerous shows and festivals in Zimbabwe and beyond. Our performances have taken us to South Africa and Botswana, where we have showcased our talent at different festivals.
Q: Apart from Bolamba Culture Birds, which other groups do you work with?
A: Abantwana Bensindiso YamaNazareth, Isizwe Sabasha, King Phosa and Nkayi Challengers. Additionally, I have a solo project where I perform House/Kwasa music under the name BabyGal 1 Tym. I sing in Sesotho and IsiNdebele, drawing inspiration from Botswana’s Charma Gal and Slizer.
Q: How is your solo career going?
A: Perfectly fine. As BabyGal 1 Tym, I recorded a six-track album at Rock Up Studioz three years ago and I also have a few singles out.
Q: What would you consider to be your best moments?
A: One of my biggest highlights was performing at various government functions in front of dignitaries. On one occasion, I was singled out and was invited to meet the First Family, and as a result, I was granted a diplomatic passport by the President. I really cherish the exposure I have gained through performing at such events and international festivals.
Q: As a female artiste, what challenges have you encountered?
A: Many promoters and sponsors have a negative perception of female dancers and musicians. Some assume that we lack morals and become manipulative, expecting favours in exchange for sponsorship or promotion. This makes it difficult for principled, well-mannered, and cultured female dancers like me to secure funding. Another challenge is that the dance and music industry is male-dominated. As a result, female artistes often struggle to receive the same level of support as their male counterparts.
Q: What other general challenges have you faced in the industry?
A: One major challenge is convincing people that you can make a living from art, especially as a female dancer. Additionally, performing flexible routines and receiving positive feedback can be challenging, as audiences sometimes doubt a female dancer’s capabilities.
Q: How do you stay fit for the stage?
A: I do a lot of aerobics and I am very particular about my diet. To stay mentally strong, I engage in social commentary, reflecting on everything happening around me, including religion.
Q: What are the advantages of working in a group?
A: Being part of a group makes things easier, especially if you are not the leader. However, as a solo artiste, all the responsibility falls on you. If you don’t take action yourself, nothing moves forward.
Q: For your achievements so far, are there any specific people you would like to appreciate?
A: I am truly grateful to Mthabisi Dube (Bolamba Culture Birds director) and the entire Bolamba Culture Birds team for their unwavering support. I also appreciate Dr Gasolo (poet), who always encourages me to push harder.
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