“I still have one leg!”
...said Dada Masilo in August 2021 while nursing an ankle ligament injury, refusing to miss the opportunity to take to the stage herself during the memorial evening for Ismael Ivo. What verve! What spirit!
We now mourn the loss of Dada Masilo, who passed away on 29 December 2024 at the age of just 39. With her unique, powerful dance, she impressed the ImPulsTanz audience for many years and leaves a huge gap in the dance world.
Dada Masilo, born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, began her dance career at the age of 11, growing into one of the most remarkable choreographers and dancers of her generation.
Dada Masilo first graced ImPulsTanz in 2013. The following year, at just 29, she brought her own ensemble choreography of Swan Lake to Volkstheater. Since then, she has captivated Viennese audiences time and again with her impressive and moving stage presence and her ability to translate emotions and stories into movement. Among her works were world-renowned reinterpretations of Giselle, THE SACRIFICE and Hamlet, which premiered at Burgtheater this past summer.
Her creations challenged and expanded the understanding of dance by blending classical forms with South African traditions and contemporary elements in a way that reshaped perspectives. Her pieces are not only choreographic and dance masterpieces but also passionate explorations of identity, culture, and the world we live in. She has also inspired dance enthusiasts as a workshop teacher with her fusion of Flying Low, Forsythe, Ballet and South African Dance.
It has been an honour to welcome and experience Dada in Vienna again and again over the years – not only as an awe-inspiring dancer and choreographer, but also as a treasured companion. Above all, we will remember her humour, her sheer zest for life and her profound dedication to dance.
Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to all those who mourn Dada, especially Suzette and to her wonderful ensemble.
We are profoundly grateful for all you shared with us and the world of dance.
We will miss you – and your laughter!
Karl Regensburger and the entire ImPulsTanz team
