Women play various roles in their lives - from a daughter, sister, and granddaughter, to a wife, mother and, sometimes even breadwinner! But despite these family-oriented roles and responsibilities, women are executives in many fields of work, with dreams and aspirations for undertaking new and exciting ventures. Melanie Kisten, Director and Choreographer of Melanie Kisten Dance Academy, is one of these proud women who’ve made it in South Africa! I managed to steal some time out of Melanie’s busy schedule to give you a glimpse of this family-oriented woman’s road to success.

As Director and Choreographer of the Melanie Kisten Dance Academy, I specialise in Bollywood Dancing & Dance Drama. The Academy has a student body of 250, and we host an annual concert that allows our students to showcase their talents.   

What inspired your love for the performance arts?

I’ve had a passion for dancing and acting since I was very little. I always wanted to become a star like you’d see in Bollywood movies….haha. Now I am a South African Bollywood star.

What are some of the events that led to your success as a choreographer?

I started acting and dancing at the age of 16. Then I was most fortunate to participate in one of Ronnie Govender’s plays called MANGO LEAF MAGIC. I began choreographing dances for school plays and shows and shortly thereafter, I started my own dance school. I was approached by a few leading bands to dance out with them, and also began properly staging my choreography and dance sequences at fairs, exhibitions etc.

You’ve recently directed as well as acted in KAMBAKHT ISHQ, which I believe is your own production. Tell us more about the show.

This year marks the 14th year of my running the dance school, and to celebrate this event, we’ve decided to take the reins and bring you a production that has blown audiences away, literally. KAMBAKHT ISHQ (loosely translated as Damn Love) tells the story of love, infidelity and reconciliation in a whacky, yet interesting way.

Whilst most dance extravaganzas include a thin story line to enhance the production value and sell it, this one speaks for itself in the elaborate set, lighting and costumes. The movement that I’ve choreographed stands out by far, and audiences were thrilled by the star-studded cast: Anesh Dusrath, Pranesh Maharaj, Michelle Kisten and a host of newcomers who have passed a very stringent audition process.

The script is smack of Chatsworth and a few intermit moments are interrupted by spoofs of familiar TV shows that make up this entertaining piece - with things to laugh at, cry about and tap your feet to.

I wanted to give the people a show like they have not seen before! Thirty-five talented artists were chosen to showcase KAMBAKHT ISHQ, and it was such a hit that the production will be showing again at the Rajput Hall in Chatsworth on 31 July. Tickets are available at Computicket.

Who are some of the most important people in your life?

There are a few people who have really been pillars of strength in my life. They are my parents; my husband; and my in-laws. They have encouraged and supported me throughout my journey to becoming a choreographer and I have come thus far because of their love and blessing.

Tell us a bit about your family. Any kids?

My mum is an accountant, and dad an ex-policeman. I am the eldest of 4 sisters. I’ve been married for nine years and have two adorable kids – ages 4 and 2 (Saiesha and Saieshan).

Awww sweet! It must be tough though, to be a mother, wife, and run a dance company. How do you manage to juggle all these different roles?

It’s HECTIC…… but what can I say – it’s the love I have for all these roles that ensures that I cope. Working during the day, a mum and wife at night, and a choreographer on the weekend, is a hectic life, but I guess I have the wonderful blessings of my lord Shri Sathya Sai Baba who gives me enough time to spend with my loved ones as well as giving me time to achieve my dreams. At the same time, I have the love and support of my husband, his parents and my parents who are ever willing to assist me wherever and whenever they can.

What advice would you give to other women who want to explore their dreams?

GO FOR IT…. It’s no use having dreams if you can’t fulfil them. Never let anyone hold you back from your dreams. Why reach for the stars, when you can become one “wink”.

Do you have a message you'd like to share with our readers?

The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything.

How can aspiring artists who’d like to join the dance academy get in touch with you?

They may email me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . We always welcome new talent, so I look forward to hearing from young artists who would like to join!