The dance world is in mourning following the unexpected death of celebrated South African dancer and choreographer Dada Masilo at the age of 39. Masilo passed away on Sunday after a brief illness, according to a statement from her family spokesperson.
Born in Soweto, Masilo was known for her dynamic and energetic presence on stage. A fearless innovator, she brought African dance elements into classical European ballets, blending cultural influences in a way that transformed contemporary dance in South Africa. Family spokesperson Bridget van Oerle described her as someone “deeply respectful of European and contemporary music traditions,” yet unafraid to express her own voice and approach, forever changing the landscape of dance in her country.
In September 2024, Masilo received the prestigious Positano Leonide Massine Lifetime Achievement Award for Classic and Contemporary Dance, which honored her “powerful and topical” contributions. The award recognized her re-imagined versions of iconic ballets like Swan Lake and Giselle, which incorporated African dance to address the society she lived in, promoting tolerance across borders.
The Joburg Ballet company called Masilo’s passing a “tragic loss,” praising her groundbreaking work and the creative energy she brought to the world of contemporary dance. “Her spirit will continue to inspire generations of artists and audiences,” the University of Johannesburg’s arts and culture department said in a tribute.
Masilo’s death has also been mourned by the UK-based Dance Consortium, which worked with her during her British tours. The consortium described her as an extraordinary artist whose “fresh perspective” captivated audiences and fellow artists alike, both in the UK and around the world.
Best known for her re-interpretations of classic ballets, Masilo’s works such as her 2016 Swan Lake and 2017 Giselle brought her international acclaim. Her 2016 Swan Lake earned a nomination for a New York Bessie Award, and in 2017, her Giselle won Best Performance at the Italian Danza and Danza Awards. In 2018, she was awarded the Netherlands’ Prince Claus “Next Generation” Award, recognized as an “extraordinary role model for young people and girls.”
Masilo’s legacy lives on through her innovative choreography, her profound influence on contemporary dance, and her role as an inspiration for future generations of artists.
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