Celebrating Somizi the idol
Pedigree for arts is in genes
IT’S been more than 20 years since the world was introduced to that ecstatic-looking 13 year-old boy from Orlando, Soweto leaping out in mid-air in that classic shot of Sarafina!.
Today, Somizi Mhlongo has added another feather to his hat as the newest addition to the Idols SA judging panel.
Over the years he’s morphed into a respected professional and a much sought-after talent. His choreography was at work during the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2010 Fifa World Cup.
The beauty contest Miss SA Teen, SA Music Awards, Metro FM Awards, Joyous Celebration and African Union 50th Anniversary in Ethiopia in 2013 are among the long list of his productions.
If dance in South Africa had a face, Somizi would be it. He is the poster boy of choreography and “there ain’t no show without him”.
The youngest of five children, Somizi comes from a fine pedigree of performers. His father Ndaba “Mshefane ” Mhlongo is a legendary comedian and his mother Mary Twala is a screen legend in her lifetime. It’s hardly surprising that Somizi is a good actor and can hold a good note.
Ndaba and Mbongeni Ngema, were nominated for Broadway’s 42nd Tony Awards for Best Choreography for Sarafina! .
Somizi’s dancing took off in 1993 when he returned from a tour with Sara
fina! with stops in the US, Australia and Europe. He was encouraged to be a better dancer by playwright Mbongeni Ngema, who saw his potential while he was a teen. Other productions he was cast in were Cry The Beloved Country, Scavengers and Tarzan: The Epic Adventures . Even in turbulent times in the recent past when there were nasty rumours of him dying of Aids, he remained strong. One of Somizi’s traits is how he remains himself, whether he posts half-naked photos of himself on Instagram or speaks his mind, he remains Somizi, affectionately known as Somgaga.
His bravado is second to none. Before homosexuality was commonplace in SA, Somizi’s name was always at the tip of the tongue. We speak to people who have known Somizi over the years about what his latest move will mean.
Fellow dancer and choreographer Lorcia Cooper bursts out with laughter at the mention of Somizi’s comedic traits.
“Somizi is LOL (Laugh Out Loud) in capital letters. He can turn any sombre moment into something different with his sense of humour.”
Cooper was part of the Vuyani Dance Company, which Somizi founded. They met on the set of youth drama Backstage and while Cooper was in and out of Vuyani because of other freelance jobs.
“It’s not only that he’s talented, but he’s a great person to work with. He deserves the Idols job, it’s not like he’s up-and-coming. We’re talking about someone who’s paid his dues.”
His close BFF and travel mate Bonang Matheba lauds Somizi’s frankness.
“He will give the show character because of his brutal honesty with the contestants; the show will be hilarious. He will add ubuntu, in that people will be able to relate to him.”
Fashion designer David Tlale celebrates his character.
“Somizi is going to bring the flamboyance that Gareth and Randall lack. He’ll say things that other people are always afraid to say.”
When it comes to his place in popular culture and influence, it’s clear that Somizi is a shape shifter.
“Somizi is LOL (Laugh Out Loud) in capital letters