Renowned Indian choreographer Shiamak Davar and his dance troupe will perform four shows at major South African venues next month.

South African Indian filmmaker Anant Singh said Davar's would be the first modern dance group from India to perform in South Africa.

Among Davar's fans in South Africa is Minister in the Presidency Essop Pahad, who told that he had watched Davar perform at a function in India last year and was very impressed.

"A show like Davar's should be shared with all South Africans."

The tour, entitled "Shiamak: The Spirit Of Song And Dance", will comprise four performances - two each in Johannesburg and Durban. The Aug 6 and 7 shows in Johannesburg will be held at the Carnival City while the venue in Durban for the Aug 8 and 9 shows is the International Convention Centre.

The lithe dancer likes to create a fusion of Indian and Western dance forms. His choreography is marked by pulsating dance extravaganzas complimented with incredible sets, dazzling costumes and energetic dancers.

Davar pioneered the Jazz Dance concept in India and besides television and stage shows he has choreographed for several award-winning Bollywood films such as "Dil to Pagal Hai", "Taal", "Kisna", with his latest offering being "Bunty Aur Babli".

He has also performed in productions of "Evita", "Phantom of the Opera". He was the first Indian to choreograph an Italian Opera when he worked on the production of "La Traviata" which was staged in New Delhi last year. Davar has also performed with Sting.

Anant Singh's company Videovision Entertainment and two South African casino groups will jointly present the shows in association with the national carrier South African Airways.