Meet the Zip Zap Circus MOYA Cast

BRIDGETTE BERNING

Areas of Expertise: Silks, Trapeze, Flyer, Contortion, Dance

Bridgette made her professional debut in Paris, undertaking 94 shows in 3 months, while performing two aerial acts, two acro-dance pieces and more. Hardworking is an understatement for this young lady, as audiences of MOYA will witness.

JASON BARNARD

Areas of Expertise: Porter, Bounce Juggler, Acrobat, Dance, Rapper

Jason is a multi-disciplinary circus performer with a captivating stage presence and is undoubtedly the best bounce juggler in South Africa. However, Jason’s top achievement is his gift of caring and sharing which is evident in the telling of the MOYA story. Jason is also a role model to many of his younger brothers and sisters back home at Zip Zap.

MATTHEW RISK

Areas of Expertise: Unicycle, Acrobat, Porter, Dance

Matthew is a unicyclist extraordinaire! From 10 years old he never missed a rehearsal or show at Zip Zap. Dedicated, persistent, with strong attention to detail and an ultimate team player, he brings an incredible energy to every performance of MOYA.

LUKHANYO SAMSON

Areas of Expertise: Flying, Acrobatics & Dance

Unlike most of his fellow MOYA performers, Lukhayno did not start at Zip Zap at a very young age. But, oh boy, did he make up for it! His natural ability to move, and willingness to learn, allowed him to find his wings and learn to fly.

MASIZAKHE KOVI

Areas of Expertise: Hand Balancing, Flyer, Acrobat, Dance

Known as Masi, this young man started Zip Zap at the tender age of 9. Very quiet and somewhat shy, Masi honed his handstand skills over time. His ability to draw an audience into his world on stage is uncanny and far beyond his years.  

LUQMAAN BENJAMIN

Areas of Expertise: Acrobat, Porter, Dance

Luqmaan is MOYA’s “twister” and solid base. His acrobatic skills were born on the streets of Cape Town. After entering and winning most of the local and international tricking competitions he joined Zip Zap. He is now a consummate performer and rock-solid base man.

PHELELANI NDAKROKRA

Areas of Expertise: Cyr Wheel, Straps, Acrobat, Dance

When asked why he likes to be called “Ree” he says “Because it’s important to remember my humble beginnings and be grateful for the opportunity to fly.” This young man brings unbridled passion, energy rarely seen, feelings from another life, which will take you on a journey with him every second he’s on stage.

VUYANI LOTTERING

Areas of Expertise: Juggler, Acrobat, Porter, Dance

Vuyani started juggling at an afterschool program in a township called Nyanga, just outside of Cape Town. This led him to Zip Zap, from student to teacher, teacher to staff member, now an integral part of MOYA bringing his skill, personality, effortless movement, and radiant smile. 

AKHO NARWELE

Areas of Expertise: Club Juggling, Porter, Acrobat, Dance

Our gentle giant, soft-spoken, humble, and kind, Akho brings a calmness, sense of security and soft touch, not only to the stage but also to the team offstage. This is the glue that makes MOYA so special.

JACOBUS CLAASSEN

Areas of Expertise: Flyer, Clown , Bounce Juggler, Acrobat

Affectionately known as “Trompie,” Jacobus joined Zip Zap in 2009. After a tough start in life, he quickly discovered his passion “the circus.” Excelling in many different disciplines, he was drawn naturally to comedy. This young man has performed globally, including 94 shows in Paris, where he had his face on over 400 busses and metro stations combined. But one of his fondest memories was performing at the White House for Barack Obama.

To learn more about MOYA and to purchase tickets, visit childrenstheatre.org/moya.