SOUTH Africans have danced their way into the hearts of international scouts who were recently in the country in search of the best talent in dance and theatre.

Dancers that have made a huge impression on the scouts, include Nelisiwe Xaba and Gregory Maqoma. The group of 10 producers and directors visited South Africa to train their eyes specifically on the Dance Umbrella Festival, which is currently on at various venues in Johannesburg.

The overseas contingent, who are from various organisations in the US met with local actors and producers last week in Newtown for a networking session. They usually offer assistance to African productions through residence programmes and collaborations.

Marjorie Neset, executive director of North Fourth Art Centre in New Mexico, said they had had been touring Africa in search of inspiring productions.

"We have a contemporary art centre that is dedicated to full accessibility in the arts for people of all abilities, ages, cultures and income levels.

"Since 1981, we have focused on providing arts education and exhibition opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities," said Neset.

Neset believes local dancers have a bright future.

"So far I have seen three interesting pieces and I am bowled over. There is an awesome and phenomenal talent."

She said her company previously hosted South African Vincent Mantsoe. Neset said choreographers such as Xaba, Maqoma and Jay Phather have taken dance to another level.

"I like Gregory because I have worked with him and I'm a big fan of his work. But Nelisiwe's piece stood out for me."

Cathy Zimmerman, co-director and producer of Mapp International Productions, had high praise for African dancers, for their different approach, especially in contemporary dance. Zimmerman was overwhelmed by how local dance productions were able to relate stories of the black community.

"They are very good, especially when it comes to relating issues affecting black people and their culture. This sets African dance apart. There is a lot of talent and I am amaze by young talent. They produced high class and quality work that can compete on the international art scene," said Zimmerman.

With many producers and scriptwriters facing financial challenges locally, Zimmerman said it was a global problem. She said some people struggled to get their production to the stage, because of a lack of funds.

"It's even better in South Africa because you have an arts and culture department. We do not have such a department where I come from. It is common to see someone who has been in the industry for more than two decades struggling to get financial assistance to stage a production. I am very impressed with Gregory Maqoma's work, especially the piece called Exit/Exist. We hope to take the work around London," she said.

However, Zimmerman was disappointed that women were denied a platform in this sector.

"We have a programme where we will take five women from Africa. "The aim is to develop them and give them a platform."