The vibrant world of dance is in deep mourning following the unexpected passing of Dada Masilo, the internationally acclaimed South African dancer and choreographer, who died in hospital over the weekend at the young age of 39.

In a statement released by her family, it was revealed that Masilo succumbed to a brief illness on Sunday. Born in the culturally rich township of Soweto, Dada was renowned for her spirited performances and her fearless approach to artistic expression. With a career that spanned two decades, she merged African dance motifs with traditional European ballet, a revolutionary fusion that redefined contemporary dance in South Africa.

“Masilo was deeply respectful of European and contemporary music but was a bold artist who laid bare her passion on stage,” said Bridget van Oerle, the family spokesperson. Her innovative approach left an indelible mark on the dance scene, creating works that were both poignant and relevant to societal issues.

Just last month, Masilo was honored with the prestigious Positano Léonide Massine Lifetime Achievement Award. She was acknowledged as a "powerful and topical" figure in dance, particularly for her unique reinterpreting of classic romantic ballets through an African lens. The award cited her ability to articulate stories of tolerance and connection, bridging cultural gaps through the language of dance.

“Dada was a brilliant light that has been extinguished,” expressed the Joburg Ballet company, which highlighted her creative force as a choreographer and wisdom as an advocate for the arts. Likewise, the arts department at the University of Johannesburg noted, “Her groundbreaking work reshaped contemporary dance, and her spirit will continue to inspire generations of artists and audiences.”

Masilo's influence extended beyond borders. The UK-based Dance Consortium, which collaborated with her on two successful tours in Britain, referred to her passing as a “tragic loss to the dance world.” “Her extraordinary presence and stunning creations captivated audiences globally,” they shared.

Known for her bold interpretations of classic ballet, such as her acclaimed versions of “Swan Lake” and “Giselle,” Masilo utilized her remarkable ballet skills to weave the narratives of her African heritage into the fabric of traditional dance forms. Lliane Loots, the artistic director at JOMBA! dance centre, praised her ability to merge African rhythms with classical ballet, creating a powerful and innovative style.

In recognition of her talent, Masilo's “Swan Lake” was nominated for a New York Bessie Award in 2016, and her rendition of “Giselle” won the Best Performance award at the Italian Danza and Danza Awards in 2017. In 2018, her contributions to the dance community earned her the Prince Claus “next generation” award in the Netherlands, where she was celebrated as an “extraordinary role model for young people and girls.”

Dada Masilo's legacy is one of passion, creativity, and the driving force of a groundbreaking artist whose impact on the world of dance will resonate for years to come. While the dance community grieves her loss, it also celebrates the vast and meaningful contributions she made to the art form, ensuring that her spirit will live on in the hearts of many.