Michael Halim performing Parasite
The inaugural ACDC Duet Xchange (DX) closed on a high note at The Star Theatre, Homecoming Centre, marking the successful launch of a new bi-annual competition dedicated to growing contemporary choreography and dance-making in South Africa.
Presented by Anderson Carvalho Dance & Choreography, Duet Xchange was created to support new choreographic voices, encourage artistic exchange, and offer audiences a powerful entry point into contemporary dance through the intimacy of the duet.
The two-night programme opened with established choreographers presenting work as a forerunner to Saturday’s competition platform. The opening night featured works by Janine Booysens, New World Dance Theatre, Northern Dance Project, and a mesmerising video art project by Anderson Carvalho Dance & Choreography, setting the tone for a weekend rooted in connection, experimentation and movement-led storytelling.
Shortlisted choreographers took to the stage in a competitive showcase judged by an independent jury. The inaugural winner was Michael Halim from Indonesia, whose work, Parasite, was recognised for its distinctive movement language, compelling imagery and choreographic clarity.
