SHIMMY JIYANE

Choreographer, Choir Master, Tenor, Dancer (Founding Member)

As long as he can remember, Shimmy has wanted to dance. He has realised his dream with performances in shows with the fabulous Tina Turner and South African stars like Vicki Samson, and choreographers Adele Blank,
David Matamela and Debbie Rakusin. In fact it was David and Debbie who took Shimmy to greater heights, recognising his inherent talents and turning his natural exuberance into quality performances in contemporary
jazz and traditional dance. 1997 he was a member of Vusa Dance Company’s ‘African Moves’ which performed to capacity audiences at the Melbourne International Festival. This was followed in 1998 by a nationwide tour
of Australia. Shimmy now choreographs, dances and performs – he was nominated for a FNB Vita Award and he has appeared on numerous stage and TV shows. His past work with the Gospel group Joyous Celebration moved him into improving his vocal capacities. Shimmy has been choreographing Soweto Gospel Choir for many years and his imagination and knowledge of African dance has played an integral part in the success of the choir’s performances. Although initially brought into the choir as a dancer, Shimmy has become a lead tenor with a hauntingly sweet voice.