Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE dance industry has progressed alongside changing times as the younger generation increasingly embraces modern dance styles.
Notable among these emerging talents is Celine Tadiwanashe Madziva, who recently received the Outstanding Female Dancer award at the 23rd National Arts Merit Awards.
Using the stage name Celine, the youthful artiste has been up and about the dance floor since primary school.
Celine stated that her career has progressed over the years from being merely a street dancer to becoming a professional dancer, with the dance production Respect My Team being the project that garnered her recognition in the Nama awards.
“I started at the age of 12 during the Grade 7 school holidays but professionally at the age of 16. Ciara is my inspiration from the way she moves and execute every dance I’m intrigued everytime I watch her dancing,” she said.
Celine began her journey as a street dancer, enjoying casual performances with friends and playfully considering themselves the best.
“I started as a street dancer just having fun with friends by the road sometimes dancing in front of a mirror calling myself the best. I joined a dance group in Chitungwiza near my house and they taught me how to shape a move and have musicality to a certain song,” she added.
She said she left the group as she faced physical abuse and that made face a hiatus.
“I had to leave the group due to their teaching technique which required being beaten. I had to put a pause on dancing but deep down I knew a part of me was missing so I started little by little dancing for artistes sometimes not getting paid.
“I have done some shows with Roki, Baba Harare and Vimbai Zimuto. A few years later I joined Salt and Light dance group and they’ve helped me grow from video shoots with Annatoria, stage performance for Zima Awards, Nama awards, Limoblaze and many more upto today am still there and happy,” she said.
She said focus is to spread her wings nationally and internationally.
“My plan is to now do tours and give back to the community. I also want to be able to visit other countries and show them a side of Zimbabwe that’s hidden and has a limited amount of talent.
“Winning a Nama feels like a dream come true and makes me feel that the sky is the limit and we shouldn’t let other people look down upon us. There is a point in my life where I was told kuti ndinotamba porridge (I can’t dance) and I am now the best female dancer. It feels great,” said Celia.
@mthabisi_mthire
