Erika gave the first ladies’ performance of the night. Having chosen street poets as their theme, they went for an urban approach. Erika made good use of movement and their rendition of the national anthem stirred patriotic feelings in the audience.
Sonop, last year’s national winners and this year’s winner of the Best Own Composition award were next to perform. Film studio props abounded as their theme of film crew was well executed with well-choreographed and synchronised movements. Their addition of a few humorous skits also played off very well. Sonop placed third overall.
From film crews to news anchors, Magrietjie followed. Their performance was good technically but their stage presence seemed to fall a bit flat at the gala evening. However, Magrietjie’s use of a number of local songs, such as “Doo be doo” by Freshly Ground, was a highly positive part of their performance which placed them second overall.
Vividus Ladies made use of a car wash theme. However, it was their vocal strength that was most impressive. Each performer contributed to their performance’s extensive range and good use of dynamics. Vividus Ladies won the Best Own Composition for the ladies and placed third overall.
Serenade men’s winners Vividus Men also had vocal strength on their side as they presented a Bohemian melody themed performance. Inset with multiple humorous skits, the audience was entertained throughout their performance. A crowd favourite was the character Gustav, a German street artist. Vividus Men also claimed the prize for Best Theme and Best Arrangement of the Prescribed Song. The men’s prescribed song was Mr Big’s “To be with you”.
Likewise, ladies’ winners Curlitzia also won Best Theme for their car guards idea and Best Arrangement of the Prescribed Song which was “Thandolwethu” by Berita. Curlitzia made excellent use of dynamics and movement as well as introducing a satirical take on local car guards.
Boekenhout concluded the evening’s performances with their train engineer themed performance. Unique and well-thought out use of body percussion, whistling, drums and a cello were used to fill out their sound. Their performance got off to a slow start on the night but by the end of it they had the audience convinced that they deserved the second place overall.
The night on the whole was a great success running smoothly and timeously through the programme and showcasing some incredible Tuks talent. Curlitzia and Vividus Men now go through to Serenade Nationals where they will compete against other universities from around South Africa.
Photos: Tahnee Otto and Praise Magidi
