Review: THE HERD/LESS, Sadler’s Wells East

South Africa comes to Sadlers East through the complex work of choreographer and activist Mamela Nyamza.  THE HERD/LESS is an intricate ensemble piece led by the 2026 Silver Lion award winner.  Nyamza successfully evolves contemporary dance with a fusion of ballet, jazz, gumboot, and Butoh dance traditions, portraying symbols of community, power, suppression and emergence.  Nyamza’s courageous choreography is exemplified in her stage presence.  She is watchful, elegant and powerful; the benevolent matriarch of the company.

Ominous rhythmic steps herald the approaching ensemble, long before they appear in the darkened performance space.   They traverse the stage in sinister shadows, in step, threatening and yet vulnerable.   Lighting (Thabo Pule) is intrinsic to the character of this performance.  Pule captures the emotional complexity, from vulnerability and oppression with brooding shadows to shafts of illumination for defiance and resistance to the darkness.

Costumes (Mamela Nyamza, Xolani Mawande & Shiba Sopotela) are vibrant and individualistic, providing stark contrast to the regimented herd, controlled and acting with military singularity. As THE HERD/LESS is exposed to the light, costumes shimmer and flow with the increased variety of movement and expression.  Individual expression in both costume and action is commanding.

The ensemble is largely in sync, mesmerising in their compliance with few discordant moments.  Brief perils are observed by the audience as a dancer loses balance, recovering gracefully.  Later, a large can rolls off stage into an audience member.   Such is the intense focus of both ensemble and audience that whilst breaths are briefly held, the piece continued to flow and demand attention.

THE HERD/LESS ensemble oozes discipline and collaboration; incisive movements and elegant balance both in palm and underfoot are a testament to the creative artistry of Nyamza and the commitment of every member.   Each dancer personifies both compliance and individuality, confidence within the herd, yet a yearning to illustrate their own identities.

Harsh whistles drive friction and distortion in sound and movement.  Nyamza’s choreography depicts the natural beauty of people, the oppression of poor government and the gradual, rebellious growth to be seen and recognised as individuals.  Nyamza exemplifies intense storytelling from the multitude of African cultures impacted by colonialism, industry, and poverty, yet rising proudly.  

As we leave the theatre, the rhythmic steps of the audience echo the herdlike compliance, suddenly more noticeable, thought-provoking and evocative.

The Dance Umbrella charity, in partnership with Sadlers, continues to champion dance from across the world; increasing visibility of African excellence.  Dance Umbrella Festival 2026, runs across numerous London venues from 7^th to 27^th October.  Now in their 48^th year, they continue to showcase evolution and global talent in contemporary dance.

Creator, Choreographer & Director Mamela Nyamza
Rehearsal Manager Kirsty Ndawo
Costumes by Mamela Nyamza, Xolani Mawande & Shiba Sopotela
Set Design Mamela Nyamza (Concept & Design) & Karabo Legoabe (Set Maker)
Lighting Design by Thabo Pule
Technician Simon King

HERD/LESS runs at Sadler’s Wells East until Satuday 10 October