For many years matric dances have been a tradition in many South African schools. The dance is essentially held to bid farewell to the matric class which spends a fun-filled, glamorous evening socialising with classmates.
Tebogo Fatso, who matriculated in 2009 and is now studying at Wits University, wishes he had not gone through all the fuss. “I could have put the money to better use and saved it for university registration,” he said. But his peers do not feel the same.
“I think it’s important, one of those things to cross off your to-do list,” said Shim Patel, a first-year engineering student. Students admitted to spending between R800 and R5 000 to cover the cost of dresses and suits.
In addition, to complete the look, nails and make-up cost up to R300, hairdressing set them back by up to R700, shoes can mean an extra R400 and rental transport R1 500 (because it’s so uncool to let your parents drive you).
Also, matrics spend money on “pre-parties” to provide photo opportunities for themselves and friends. Many also buy tickets to the “after-party”.
For several learners surveyed, the most important aspect of the dance is having a good grade 11 matric dance committee to organise the finer details of the dance, from the seating arrangements to the décor.
“If there’s no teamwork, there’s going to be chaos,” said Charlotte Ronald, committee member at Barnato Park High School.
Racquel Oliphant, who matriculated 12 years ago, said that matric dances have actually changed dramatically. Learners compete over who has the most extravagant dresses when, in fact, the event should be about friendship and having fun.
Despite this, the matric dance continues to be a rite of passage for many learners, the closing of a chapter in their lives as they bid their schools farewell.