The Space For Creative Excellence
John Linden
Executive Director
John Linden began his dance training in 1976 in O’okiep, Namaqualand, under Alfred Hinkel, later joining Dial Dance Company and performing freelance across South Africa. A founding member of Jazzart Dance Theatre in 1986, he excelled as a performer, teacher, and choreographer, earning five FNB Vita Choreographic Awards. Notable works include Water from an Ancient Well (2000) and contributions to celebrated productions like Cargo and Rain in a Dead Man’s Footprints. From 1996, he directed Jazzart’s Dance Joint program and shaped its growth until 2010, collaborating with prominent artists like Mark Fleischman and Lara Foot.
Returning to O’okiep, Linden co-founded Garage Dance Ensemble with Hinkel, fostering local talent and creating acclaimed works. In 2019, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award and directed the award-winning documentary Die Dans van My Heenkoms. Linden continues as artistic director of Garage Dance Ensemble, enriching Namaqualand’s cultural scene.
Byron Klassen
Artistic Director
Byron Klassen, founding member and Artistic Director of Garage Dance Ensemble, is a renowned South African dancer, choreographer, and teacher from O’okiep.
Trained in Cape Town and New York, he was mentored by John Linden and Alfred Hinkel. Byron has created acclaimed works such as I Don’t, I Can’t, I Won’t, Elk Een, and Gat Innie Grond, Wond in My Siel. He’s toured internationally with Krummelpap and Robyn Orlin’s How in Salt’s Desert Is It Possible to Blossom?.
His recent work, Wonde van die Siel, tackles child disappearances. In 2023, he received the ACT Impact Award for his contributions.
Faroll Coetzee
Dancer/Photographer/Editor
Faroll, a native of Vier Kamp in O’okiep, began his dance training with Dawn Langdown at O’okiep High School and later at Garage Dance Ensemble under John Linden and Alfred Hinkel. At 17, he debuted at Johannesburg’s Market Theatre, later earning acclaim for his versatility in contemporary, tap, acrobatics, urban street, and traditional dance. Since joining Garage Dance Ensemble in 2014, he has performed in major productions like Dansmettieduiwels and Krummelpap, Afval en Sunlightseepbaddens, as well as international tours in Qatar, the USA, and Europe.
In 2017, Faroll ventured into filmmaking, becoming Garage’s official photographer and directing a 2022 adaptation of Krummelpap featured on DSTV’s Woordfees channel. Known for his improvisation and unique skills like stilt dancing and fire manipulation, Faroll exemplifies creative versatility. In 2023, he co-founded OFJ Media, providing photography, videography, and sound engineering services, expanding his artistic influence beyond dance.
Esmé Marthinus
Dancer/Actress
Esmé Marthinus, born in 1976 in O’okiep, Northern Cape, began her dance career with Namjive under Dawn Langdown, gaining key teaching and performance skills.
In 2013, she joined Garage Dance Ensemble, rising to prominence in 2017 with a lead role in Mooigenoeg om Engels te Praat. Known for her powerful stage presence, she has starred in several text-based productions by Garage, including Krummelpap, Afval, Sunlightseepbaddens, and STOF, earning a 2023 Fiesta Award nomination. Her film debut in Gat Innie Grond, Wond in My Siel brought national acclaim.
Internationally, she toured the Netherlands (2021), the U.S. (2023), and Europe (2024) with works by Ronelda Kamfer and Robyn Orlin. Esmé is a versatile, dedicated artist and a vital member of Garage, inspiring creatives from remote communities through her extraordinary journey.
Jaime-Lee Hine
Dancer/Teacher
Jaime-Lee, born in Kuils River with maternal roots in the Northern Cape, joined Garage Dance Ensemble in 2018 after graduating from the Western Cape Sport School.
A dynamic performer, she earned national acclaim for roles in productions like Krummelpap, Gat Innie Grond, Wond in My Siel, and the 2023 Centerstage USA tour.
From 2020–2023, she also managed Garage’s finances and taught with great success. After a brief freelance period in Cape Town, she returned full-time in 2025 to focus on performance and choreography.
Jaime-Lee’s versatility, passion, and commitment continue to shape her evolving artistic journey with Garage Dance Ensemble.
Georgia Julies
Dancer
Georgia, originally from Vredendal, discovered her love for dance in high school and joined Garage Dance Ensemble as a trainee in 2021.
Over three years of intensive training, she refined her technical and performance skills, gaining stage experience with both students and professionals.
She also contributed technically, especially in sound operation. Georgia toured the USA with Garage through Centerstage and performed internationally in Robyn Orlin’s How in Salt’s Desert Is It Possible to Blossom? in 2024.
Mentored by Byron Klassen and influenced by Orlin, she has developed a compelling stage presence and is on a strong path in contemporary dance.
Bertram Isak
Part-time Dancer/Actor
Born in O’okiep in 1985, Bertram began his dance and theatre training at O’okiep High School under Dawn Langdown. From 2008 to 2011, he performed with Langdown’s company, gaining experience in performance, choreography, and teaching, notably in the award-winning production Mense van Mense.
In 2022, Bertram joined Garage Dance Ensemble as a freelance performer, showcasing his talent as a dancer, singer, and actor in Stof (Dust) and Byron Klassen’s Babalas (Hangover). The following year, he traveled with Garage on their successful USA tour, serving as a repetiteur and leading traditional dance workshops.
In addition to his work with Garage, Bertram is a soloist in the O’okiep Male Voices choir and an expert teacher of Namastap, a traditional Namaqualand dance vernacular. His versatile artistry and dedication to preserving cultural heritage make him an invaluable contributor to the arts.
Manon-Lee Saal
Junior Dancer
Manon-Lee, a dedicated dancer from Vredendal, discovered her passion for contemporary dance through the Garage Dance Ensemble’s school outreach programs. After joining the ensemble as a trainee in 2022, she spent three years in intensive training, overcoming financial hardships with her family’s support. In 2025, she earned a professional contract, solidifying her place in South Africa’s contemporary dance scene.
Beyond performing in acclaimed productions like STOF, Dinto tsa Moya, and GAT, Manon has excelled as a dance instructor, connecting with students of all ages. Her resilience, artistry, and leadership mark her as a rising force in dance, embodying the Garage Dance Ensemble’s mission to develop future leaders in the field.
Keeanu Samuels
Junior Dancer
Keeanu Samuels, born in Okiep to performing artist parents, faced a difficult upbringing marked by instability and substance abuse. Dropping out of school at 13, he was left illiterate with limited opportunities.
In 2022, Byron Klassen recognized his talent and brought him into the Garage Dance Ensemble’s three-year training program. Initially struggling with discipline, Keeanu gradually transformed into a skilled, dedicated dancer. Beyond his artistic growth, he also overcame illiteracy, a testament to his perseverance and the program’s life-changing impact. His journey highlights the power of mentorship and structured support in reshaping lives.
Alfred Hinkel
Fundraiser
In 1976, Alfred Hinkel founded the Namakwalandse Dans Geselskap in Nababeep and O’okiep, launching a prolific career in dance. He co-founded the Dial Dance Company with Dianne Sparks in Windhoek before moving to Cape Town in 1981.
In 1986, Hinkel acquired and transformed Jazzart Dance Studios into Jazzart Dance Theatre, one of South Africa’s leading performing arts institutions. He also co-founded Durban-based companies Phenduka Dance Theatre and Siwela Sonke in the early 1990s.
As Jazzart’s artistic director (1986–2010), Hinkel made groundbreaking contributions to training, performance, and socio-political advocacy in dance. His work earned him ten choreographic awards and seven major honors, including the 1997 Standard Bank Special Award and the 2015 Arts and Culture Trust Lifetime Achievement Award.
Returning to O’okiep in 2010, Hinkel co-founded Garage Dance Ensemble, continuing to train dancers and create innovative works. Celebrated for his visionary leadership and transformative teaching, Hinkel remains a cornerstone of South African dance.
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Al-Jerreau Richards
Finance & Marketing
Born in Nababeep, Al-Jerreau joined Garage Dance Ensemble in 2023 as the NAC Help Desk representative, supporting artists in the Nama-Khoi region with successful funding applications.
His role quickly grew to include managing Garage’s grant applications—securing funding from the NAC and Goethe-Institut—as well as handling social media, financial administration, and developing the company’s acclaimed website.
With a strong administrative skill set and creative flair, Al-Jerreau has become an essential part of the ensemble, playing a key role in its growth, outreach, and continued impact in the Northern Cape arts landscape.
Leonie Diergaardt
Chairperson
Leonie Diergaardt, a dedicated public servant from Bergsig, Springbok, has over 20 years of experience in government’s technical sector.
Currently a Building Inspector with the Department of Roads and Public Works, she previously spent nine years at COGHSTA. Leonie holds an NQF Level 7 qualification in Middle Management and studied Civil Engineering at CPUT.
Passionate about community upliftment, she served six years on the Wielie Walie Kleuterskool committee. A mother and natural connector, she enjoys dancing and supporting creative projects.
As a Board Member of Garage Dance Ensemble, she offers vital infrastructure insights and strengthens community engagement.
Colleen Richards
Treasurer
Colleen Richards is an experienced Occupational Therapist and community leader based in Okiep, Northern Cape. With over 20 years in the Department of Education, she supports learners with special needs and promotes inclusive education.
She holds a BSc in Occupational Therapy from UWC and completed a short course in Learner Support at North West University. Colleen leads community outreach and skills development workshops and serves as a catechist and board member of the Kolping Society of South Africa.
As a Garage Dance Ensemble Board Member, she contributes a compassionate, inclusive perspective rooted in education, care, and social impact.
Genevieve Ruiter
Board Member
Genevieve Ruiter is a skilled public administration professional and committed community leader from Nababeep, Northern Cape. With over a decade of experience in municipal finance and project coordination at the Namakwa District Municipality, she brings valuable expertise in governance and strategic planning.
A passionate supporter of the arts, Genevieve serves on the Board of Garage Dance Ensemble, guiding its strategic and outreach efforts. She is also deeply involved in regional sports and cultural initiatives, including women’s rugby and local festivals.
Her combination of professional insight and grassroots dedication strengthens GDE’s mission of community enrichment through the arts.
