Somizi finds his dancing shoes

Flamboyant Idols SA judge Somizi Mhlongo will lend his star power to choreographer Gregory Maqoma who celebrates 25 years in the game.

"I'm excited and nervous at the same time," Mhlongo said. "I have not danced in a long time. The last time I danced was in Joyous Celebration in 2010."

Maqoma, an internationally acclaimed choreographer and dancer himself, will throw a spectacular celebration that he is pitching as "dance meets fashion and jazz" at the Lyric Theatre, Gold Reef City in Johannesburg, on December 3 and 4.

In addition to Mhlongo, Maqoma has also roped in the services of fashion guru David Tlale as well as jazz diva Sibongile Khumalo.

Maqoma said he opted to celebrate with friends because he wanted to pay homage to people who had a great influence on his career and those he had worked with in the past.

"I wanted them to be part of the piece to celebrate our friendship. The piece, titled Greg Maqoma and Friends, is about different stages of my life."

Maqoma, who last performed on a South African stage last year, is looking forward to performing in front of his home audience.

The Soweto-born entertainer said Khumalo will be singing live while the dancers go through the artistry of their paces.

"I have added Mam Sibongile because her music had a huge influence in my career as a dancer," Maqoma said.

He further explained that he had previously worked with Mhlongo, while Tlale has been working behind the scenes as a costume designer for his pieces.

"Now people will get to see Tlale on stage as part of the piece," he said.

Vocal harmony quartet Complete and a 12-dancer troupe from Vuyani Dance Company complete the cast for the celebration of a milestone.

bambalelep@sowetan.co.za