[imagesource:facebook/districtsixmuseum]

Renowned South African ballet dancer Johaar Mosaval has passed away today at the age of 95, leaving behind a legacy of extraordinary achievements.

Mosaval’s family confirmed his passing, stating that he died of natural causes and peacefully in his sleep. He had been hospitalised due to deteriorating health linked to his age.

If you don’t know about the work of this legendary performer, now’s the perfect time to learn about Mosaval’s contributions to the arts in our country.

Born and raised in District Six, Mosaval’s journey to becoming a ballet icon began with a scholarship to attend a prestigious ballet school, eventually leading him to become the first Black principal dancer with the Royal Ballet of England. His illustrious career spanned 25 years, during which he gained international recognition for his exceptional talent and dedication.

Mosaval’s first solo performance took place in 1956 at the coronation of none other than Queen Elizabeth II herself. Despite the challenges posed by apartheid, he continued to pursue his dream and excel on the global stage. His international achievements were recognised in 2019 when he was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga in Gold by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Reflecting on his life, writer Diana Ferrus emphasised Mosaval’s perseverance and determination in overcoming the hardships of apartheid to achieve worldwide acclaim, while also lamenting SA’s knowledge of this important dancer.

“The sad thing for me is I don’t think South Africans know the legacy that this man leaves behind.”

Minister Anroux Marais mourns the passing of Johaar Mosaval. Read the statement here: https://t.co/wDoyzJ7JCQ pic.twitter.com/oNRefi1SbF

— CulturalAffairsSport (@WCGovCas) August 16, 2023

Basil Appollis, who co-directed and choreographed the play Dreaming Dance in District Six: The Johaar Mosaval Story, described Mosaval as a perfectionist dancer and yet an incredibly humble person.

Appollis also highlighted the impact of the play, which aimed to capture the essence of Mosaval’s life in a 90-minute production. Despite the challenges of condensing such a rich life into a short performance, the show received approval from Mosaval himself. There’s no higher praise than that.

Just hours after Mosaval’s passing, tributes to the great man and condolences to his family are pouring in.

JOHAAR MOSAVAL 1928 – 2023
We are saddened to learn of the passing of South African ballet legend Johaar Mosaval in Cape Town earlier today. We extend our deepest sympathy to Johaar’s family and friends and to all who knew and loved this kind and gentle man. pic.twitter.com/JmazYQwhkX

— Joburg Ballet (@JoburgBallet) August 16, 2023

Artscape Theatre Centre has also expressed their sadness at the loss of Mosaval, a “living legend” who had a profound impact on the theatre community.

Rest In Dance, we salute you.

[source:news24]