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Join The Haven Night Shelter for a groundbreaking theatrical event

OWN Correspondent|Published

The Haven Night Shelter clients and staff that have worked together for their Dignity in Motion production.

Image: Supplied

The Haven Night Shelter will present its first-of-its-kind theatrical production, called Dignity in Motion, which will take place at the District Six Homecoming Centre next month.

This innovative performance marks a significant milestone for The Haven, as clients from four different shelters take centre stage to share their powerful stories through a unique fusion of multi-media film and live ballroom dance.

Dignity in Motion is directed by acclaimed theatre practitioner and the Haven's operations manager, Jaco Maree, with choreography by Alvina Menigo, videography by Leigh Wood, and costumes by Anthea Smith. Dignity in Motion is more than a performance; it’s a profound act of storytelling, recovery, and empowerment.

Mr Maree has directed more than 20 productions.

“Theatre has a unique power to transform pain into purpose. It allows individuals to reclaim their stories, find their voice, and experience healing through creative expression,” he said.

Mr Maree said that for the participants, the journey has been transformative. Many have never set foot on a stage before, and now they are using performance as a way to reconnect with themselves and others.

“Through months of rehearsals and movement training, cast members have not only discovered hidden talents, they’ve also built confidence, found emotional release, and experienced the power of being truly seen and heard,” he said.

This production also has the support of the City of Cape Town’s Community Arts and Culture Development Department, which partnered with the shelter on this production.

CEO of the Haven Night Shelter, Pastor Shaddie Valayadum, said: “This production embodies the core values of The Haven, restoring dignity, rebuilding lives, and reminding society of the immense human potential behind every face we so often overlook.”

Mr Valayadum encourages all families to experience this transformative and enlightening production.

“Though the participants may be homeless, they are far from hopeless,” he said.

Audiences can expect an immersive experience that blends video storytelling on screen with live movement on stage, offering a window into the often-unseen emotional lives of those living on the margins and the strength it takes to rise.

Dignity in Motion will take place at Star Theatre, Homecoming Centre, District Six, on Monday, November 10, and Tuesday, November 11, from 6pm.

Tickets cost R100 a person and are available on Quicket.

For more information, call Mr Valayadum on 082 381 0384 or email  shaddie@haven.org.za