Watiri Nduba, a 19-year-old high school graduate, stands as a testament to DCK's transformative impact. Having embarked on her ballet journey in 2008, Watiri's passion for dance expanded to include tap and hip-hop. Her international exposure includes performances in Berlin, Germany, in both 2019 and 2022, showcasing her versatility across genres.
Watiri joined Dance Center Kenya in early 2020, and her rapid progression is evident as she now imparts her knowledge as a hip-hop instructor. In various Nutcracker productions, she has donned roles ranging from a delicate Violet to a mesmerizing Snowflake, a lively Party Parent, and even graced the stage with her first solo as Spanish chocolate. Watiri's involvement extends beyond the ballet realm; she is a multi-instrumentalist, proficient in the violin, piano, ukulele, guitar, and bass.
This year, Watiri takes a leap into the realm of directing, making her directorial debut with DCK's production of Shujaa Stories. Her choreographic prowess is not new to the Junior Company, having showcased her talents in Aesop's Fables last year. In Shujaa Stories, Watiri takes charge of the entire opening sequence, marking a significant milestone in her artistic journey.
Joining Watiri in the spotlight is Joy Gitonga, an 18-year-old dancer whose journey with DCK began in 2016. Over the years, Joy has graced the stage in various productions, including "A Midsummer Night's Dream," "Romeo & Juliet," and multiple Nutcracker performances. Her standout moment came in the 2022 Nutcracker production, where she portrayed the enchanting Snow Queen.
Freshly graduated from high school, Joy has also achieved success in her Advanced 1 ballet exams. Beyond her achievements in dance, Joy is a sports enthusiast who balances the art of movement with physical activities. As an assistant to the artistic director for several months, Joy's commitment and enthusiasm have not gone unnoticed.
Joy's journey at DCK involves not only perfecting her craft but also imparting her knowledge as a dance teacher. Her growth is evident in the diverse set of skills she continuously develops, anticipating the start of her university journey with great excitement.
Together, Watiri Nduba and Joy Gitonga, once aspiring junior dancers, have blossomed into assistant artistic directors, guiding the creative vision of "Shujaa Stories." Their stories echo the ethos of Dance Center Kenya, where talent is not only fostered but allowed to flourish and take center stage in the captivating narrative of dance.
