Memorial service to honour the legacy of David Thatanelo April

The vibrant tapestry of South African dance and arts is mourning the unexpected loss of David Thatanelo April, a beloved figure whose contributions threaded through the cultural fabric of the nation. A special memorial service will take place on Friday, May 23, 2025, at the Market Theatre in Newtown, at 11:00, to commemorate the life of a man whose passion for dance and mentorship left an indelible mark.

April passed away unexpectedly on May 10 at his home in Pretoria at the age of 56, leaving behind a legacy that envelops his remarkable journey within the arts. His initiation into dance began at Moving Into Dance, where he trained under the tutelage of the esteemed Sylvia “Magogo” Glasser. In 1992, he proudly became one of the first graduates of her Community Dance Teachers Training Course (CDTTC), sharing this milestone with notable contemporaries like Moeketsi Koena and Vincent Sekwati Mantsoe.

After graduating, April’s career flourished as he joined the performance company, with his talents taking him on tours that spanned across the region, nation, and even internationally until 1999. Following his time as a performer, he transitioned to the role of company manager, teacher, assistant to the director, and rehearsal director. From 2003 to 2008, April served as the Executive and Artistic Director, setting a high standard for artistic excellence.

Determined to further cultivate the arts and culture landscape in South Africa, April established his consultancy in 2008, where he focused on fundraising, teaching, skills development, and arts management. His influence extended to organisations including the Centre for the Less Good Idea and the National Arts Festival, shaping the way forward for countless individuals and companies.

His commitment to dance and the development of its practitioners did not go unrecognised; in 2003, he received the inaugural Tunkie Memorial Award for Outstanding Dedication and Leadership in Dance. In 2018, he was honoured with the “Management and Leadership in Cultural Economy” award from the WITS School of Arts, underscoring his significant contributions to the field. At the time of his passing, he was also serving as a lecturer in Arts Administration and Management and Movement Studies at the University of Pretoria.

April’s legacy extends beyond his professional accomplishments; he was remembered as a gifted mentor who nurtured the next generation of dancers. His love for dance photography, a serious pursuit he embraced in the final years of his life, showcased his artistic vision and dedication to capturing the beauty of movement.

In a final recognition of his impact, April recently received a Lifetime Achievement Award from Dance Pages in the Northern Cape, his place of origin. His mentorship came full circle through his collaboration with Letlhogonolo Thutu Nche, a fellow MID graduate who continually advances the legacy of the institution in the Northern Cape.

The impact of David Thatanelo April on South African dance is profound; he helped shape the landscape through his dedication as a dancer, choreographer, teacher, and cultural advocate. His generosity of spirit, coupled with an unyielding commitment to inclusivity in the arts, endeared him to many.

As friends, colleagues, and students come together on May 23 to honour his memory at the Market Theatre, they will celebrate not only a life well-lived but also the enduring spirit of a man whose passion for dance was matched only by his desire to uplift those around him.