About Me

As an artist and practitioner of arts-learning and community building, I take a non-linear approach to storytelling that harnesses the power of poetry, music, and monologue and often includes mythic characters, projected imagery, sound art, and dance in the mix. My intentions are to use my talents and resources to act and advocate for environmental stewardship and social justice, to provide equitable access to the arts, and to create cross-cultural connections that foster harmonious living. Recent offerings are an extension of the work that I’ve been doing for more than two decades as a poet, theater artist, concert performer, arts program and workshop facilitator. I enjoy collaborating with other artists and I have a longstanding interest in poetry-inspired creativity. The musicality of language fascinates me and my art making practice is continually fueled by the interplay between music and the written and spoken word. Whether I’m creating for print, video, or performance, it is important that the work is emotionally expressive and both visually and intellectually stimulating. 

EarthTone is a riveting collage of music, poetry, monologue, and dance that celebrates the wonders of nature and responds to the pressing need for environmental restoration. This live performance brings together the writings and sound art of Thandiwe Shiphrah and the music and video projections of musician/composer Daniel Arite. In lyrical language, imagery, movement, and song – and featuring a rotating cast of outstanding vocalists, dancers, and instrumentalists – EarthTone offers audiences an opportunity to contemplate the topic of sustainability and asks us to consider how we can better address the many environmental challenges we face. Click on the Contact page to inquire about how to partner in presenting this concert in your community. 

Presence in
​Performance

 Let me tell you a story 

Thandiwe Offers ​:

• ​Arts-based Learning and Community Building Workshops
• Socially-Engaged Solo & Devised Ensemble Theater Works
• Sound Art & Concert Narration 
• Lectures & Keynotes on Artist Development & Personal Empowerment
• Poetry-Inspired Creativity & Performance Workshops  

      

Click on the images above 
​for more information on ongoing projects