UMANG: THE SPIRIT OF KATHAK

 

The Playhouse Company proudly presents the Manesh Maharaj Kathak Ensemble in UMANG: The Spirit of Kathak, returning for its third year in the Loft Theatre on December 12 and 13. This captivating production invites audiences into the world of Kathak, one of India’s most treasured classical dance traditions where rhythm, grace and storytelling unite in a celebration of spiritual depth.

Audiences will be transported through vibrant rhythms, expressive narrative, enchanting melodies and exquisite costume design. Each performance is crafted to stir the senses and the soul, revealing the emotional nuance, beauty and technical mastery that define the timeless tradition of Kathak.

“As a Kathakar, my experience of Kathak extends far beyond dance,” shares Artistic Director Manesh Maharaj. “It has shaped the way I see the world; it has made me a student of life and a student for life. Each performance is a surrender to the art, a celebration of discipline, devotion, energy and grace. UMANG offers an experience that uplifts, inspires and honours this divine legacy.”

Manesh Maharaj stands as one of South Africa’s most revered Kathak artists, celebrated for his virtuosity, powerful stage presence and deep reverence for tradition. His performances, celebrated locally and abroad, blend classical precision with thought-provoking innovation, transcending boundaries and reaching audiences from all walks of life. Through his artistry, Maharaj continues to honour the ancient lineage of Kathak while connecting it to contemporary audiences with authenticity and heartfelt expression.

A dynamic cultural ambassador, Maharaj seeks to enrich the artistic landscape of South Africa while expanding the global footprint of his unique Kathak style. His work offers audiences not just a performance, but a rare spiritual journey, one that reflects discipline, passion and a profound connection to the essence of Indian classical heritage.

Don’t miss unforgettable performances of music, movement and narrative, a radiant celebration of cultural richness and the enduring spirit of Kathak.

Tickets are R150 available through Webtickets. Early booking is recommended for this intimate and deeply moving experience at The Playhouse Company.

Performances take place on December 12 at 19h00 and December 13 at 14h00. Booking is through Webtickets.

ANOTHER INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR BONGANI TEMBE

 (Bongani Tembe. Pic supplied)

 

Eminent South African arts leader, Bongani Tembe, is one of the distinguished speakers at the Beijing Forum for Symphonic Music in China this week.

The 2025 Beijing Forum for Symphonic Music will be held from November 26 to 28 at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), bringing together over 300 representatives from 190 arts institutions across more than 30 countries and regions. 

Other accomplished arts leaders who will speak at this in-depth and high-level international platform, include Prof. Daniel Froschauer, Chairman of the Vienna Philharmonic; Serge Dorny, General Director of the Germany’s Bavarian State Opera; President Wang Ning of the Beijing NCPA; the internationally-renowned conductor Paavo Järvi and the famous tenor and artistic director of the Salzburg Mozart Week, Rolando Villazón.

The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, one of the finest in the world, will present two symphonic concerts at the NCPA, conducted by Christian Thielemann, as part of the week’s activities in Beijing. Bongani Tembe, the Juilliard-trained opera singer and internationally accomplished arts leader, is the CEO and Artistic Director of the Johannesburg, KwaZulu-Natal and Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestras. He joins international industry leaders to explore progressive topics, under the Theme: Diversity Ignites Brilliance, and Pioneering Elevates Excellence.

“It is with a deep sense of humility that I accept this invitation to share my experience at this assembly of top leaders of renowned orchestras and opera companies around the world.” Tembe said.

“South Africa is celebrated as the homeland of generations of great musicians who have distinguished themselves across the globe. It has been my honour to engage with them throughout my career. And, it will be my privilege, on my return, to share the benefits of attending this forum with my South African colleagues – and to apply newfound knowledge gleaned from the cross-pollination for the enhancement of the audience base of our diverse communities.”

The Forum aims to showcase the interplay of multicultural influences, focusing on the highest artistic standards of symphonic music, anticipating new horizons that embrace evolving technologies, emergent presentations, and rigorously embraced new terminologies—raising the bar to ever-greater artistic brilliance in symphonic music.

As a universal art form, symphonic music melds diverse cultures, styles and viewpoints. Its forms of expression, communication networks, and community expectations continue to evolve within dynamic cultural contexts.

Topics in the agenda include:  The mounting of Festivals, Symphony in the Digital Age and Symphony Indigenisation. Mr Sipho Nkosi, chairman of the Kwazulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra said, “We are proud of our brother, Bongani Tembe, and we wish him well as he brings a lifetime of service to music to bear on our behalf at this important international forum.”

Mr Tembe has appeared on many international arts fora and has also performed in major concert halls around the world. In 2016, he was honoured by the French Government with the title Officier des Arts et Lettres, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the arts. During the second week of December 2025, Bongani Tembe will be presenting Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra’s 4th national tour, Voices of Home with internationally-renowned conductor Marin Alsop and charismatic South African cellist Abel Selaocoe. The programme blends African soul with a refreshed classical language, highlighted by Selaocoe’s pioneering Four Spirits Cello Concerto — a work that evokes ancient memory, contemporary rhythm, and the heartbeat of home.

The performance concludes with Rachmaninov’s lush and passionate Symphony No. 2, bringing the evening to a sweeping emotional finale. Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra concerts are as follows:

Johannesburg, December 10 & 11 Linder Auditorium at 19h30

Durban, December 13 - Durban Playhouse at 15h00

Cape Town: December 16 - Cape Town City Hall at 18h00

Booking is through Quicket

 

For more information on the KZN Philharmonic, click on the advert to the top right-hand side of this article.

YOU ASKED FOR IT – A 3RD TIME

 

Based on the success of their 2023 and 2024 productions of You Asked For It which included audiences’ favourite song requests, the Reals have created another sequel to this popular concept, and titled it You Asked For It – A 3rd Time. The audience surveys revealed the most interesting selections of over 500 songs from which they’ve compiled this fun show.

Presented by Rhumbelow, Durban, join Barry Thomson & The Reals with ‘ring master’ Barry Thomson, musical director Dawn Selby, drummer Mali Sewell, and Robz Millar on bass guitar.

With such a varied selection of songs, some of which have never been performed by The Reals, this show includes hits from Bruce Springsteen, Pink Floyd, Dire Straits, The Beatles, Bryan Adams, Doobie Brothers, Fleetwood Mac and then some!

 

Performances are on:

December 6, 2025. Show starts 19h30

December 7, 2025. Show starts 14h00

The venue opens 90 minutes before show  

 

Tickets R200. Booking is essential – on email: roland@stansell.co.za or from Webtickets

Bring food picnic baskets or buy at the venue. Bar available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises)

Limited secure parking available.

 For more information contact 0824998636 or visit http://events.durbantheatre.com/

BEAT-ROUTE FOR ST CLEMENTS

 

(Above: Beat-Route)

Deck the halls and prepare for a cool yule with the infectious acoustic magic of Beat-Route, featuring five brilliant musicians playing (vocals, too) a mix of traditional New Orleans jazz, modern South African jazz, original compositions — plus a few jazzed-up Christmas carols. And let’s not forget the art.

Come welcome in the festive season with the Mondays @ 6 at St Clements programme with some seriously good music from Beat-Route, one of Durban’s longest running and most popular bands, formed in 2004 by front-man Daniel Sheldon (trumpet and flugelhorn). With the inimitable Gerald Sloan on guitar, the fabulous Zoe Masuku on vocals, Logan Byrne on double bass and Mr Bucco Xaba on drums.

They will perform on December 1 at 18h00. Table Bookings Essential: RSVP ST Clements +27 62 582 0980

Daniel Sheldon says: “We will do a range from our Jazz repertoire including some fun traditional New Orleans numbers, more modern fare that includes some South African jazz and one or two original compositions. We will also do a few jazzed-up Christmas carols to welcome in the festive season.”

Sheldon, who is also a music teacher and a visual artist, is well-known for his comic art and his remarkable detailed wildlife art, which features original sketches done with ballpoint pen on paper then remastered digitally for high quality art prints. He will display, and discuss, some of his art at St Clements. “Human creativity is on a precarious threshold with AI technology, which turns creativity into a mere 'production pipeline’… My latest catchphrase is that the only value of creativity is in the creative act itself,” he says.

Having been around for over two decades, Beat-Route has become a firm favourite on the music scene in KZN and further afield. “Our musical choices focus on the traditional swing jazz-era sound of the smaller acoustic combos and our vast repertoire reflects that. We play the evergreen classics of both the American and South African jazz song books. But also stretch out into some more contemporary recognisable songs (Amy Winehouse, John Meyer, Stevie Wonder) — all done in our signature jazz style.”

When the donation box is passed around, St Clements request festive-spirit generosity and a minimum of R50 per person.

Weather permitting, the event will be outdoors.

Bookings limited to diners in support of St Clements restaurant and staff.

Single folk are welcome to book for one person and join Val's table.

Be there in time to open your tab, order at the counter and settle in before the scheduled 18h00 start.

Please cancel if you book then can’t make it.

St Clements is situated at 191 Musgrave Road in Durban. Mondays @ Six run between 18h00 and 19h00.

If you wish to dine after the presentation, place your order before 18h00.

OLWANDLE SOUL & JAZZ PICNIC XPERIENCE

 

Get ready to groove at the Olwandle Soul & Jazz Picnic Xperience!

Get ready to soak up the soulful sounds of South Africa's best jazz and soul artists at the Olwandle Soul & Jazz Picnic Xperience, happening on December 13, 2025, at the scenic Beachwood Country Club in Durban.

This family-friendly picnic promises an unforgettable afternoon of music, good company, and laid-back vibes, with a unique blend of soul, jazz, and R&B that will delight music lovers of all ages. Enjoy healing sounds of music, a scrumptious menu, beach walks, and an entertaining kiddies' corner.

 

Event Details:

- Date: December 13, 2025

- Time: 12pm - late

- Venue: Beachwood Country Club, Durban

- Tickets: R250 online, R300 at the gate

 

https://www.quicket.co.za/events/343129-olwandle-soul-and-jazz-picnic-experience/

 

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of music, food, and fun in the sun! Get your tickets now and be a part of the Olwandle Soul & Jazz Picnic Xperience

.- Family and Group Packages: Available with discounts for children under 12

- Interactive Elements: Meet and greet with artists, interactive zones, and artist merchandise with purpose

 

Directions: Beachwood Country Club, Beachwood Pl &, Fairway, Beachwood, Durban North, 4051, South Africa

A CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

 

Experience the magic of Christmas at The Playhouse!

Step into a world of festive wonder this holiday season! Enjoy an unforgettable afternoon bursting with enchanting music, breathtaking performances and the joy of Christmas.

A Christmas Celebration takes place on Saturday, December 20 at 15h00 in the Opera Theatre, featuring an extraordinary line-up:

Ayanda Ntanzi;  Don Laka;  Timothy Moloi;  The Playhouse Chorale;  KZN Philharmonic Orchestra;  Nkululeko Khumalo and Sthembile Ndwalane.

Hosted by the charming Stacey Norman and directed by Ralph Lawson, this spectacular show blends soulful gospel, timeless Christmas classics and dazzling dance, a magical treat for the whole family!

 

Date: 20 December 2025

Time: 15h00

Venue: Opera Theatre

Tickets: R200 – R250 | Available at Webtickets

 

One performance only! Book now and make this Christmas truly unforgettable!

HOLD MY HAND COMPETITION

Deadline; November 30, 2025

One small thing can change a child’s whole day

New festive competition celebrates everyday moments with children and teens

As South Africa heads into the festive season, Hold My Hand (HMH) is inviting people across the country to pause, look around them, and choose just one small thing they will do to make a child or teen feel loved, safe and seen.

The “Just One Thing” competition is a national storytelling call-out that celebrates the everyday moments that matter: reading a bedtime story, walking to school together, cooking a simple meal, playing a game, checking in about feelings, or putting a child’s safety first on a busy day. November is Children’s Month and this competition is a wonderful way to celebrate the children in our lives.

From November 21 to 30, 2025, anyone living in South Africa can enter by sharing one real moment, plan or tradition during this festive season, involving a child or teen in their life, using any of the following formats:

 

-       A voice note or audio clip with an image (about 30 seconds, up to 2 minutes)

-       A short video (about 30 seconds, up to 2 minutes)

-       A photo with a caption (max 50 words)

-       A drawing or artwork (sent as a clear photo, with a caption)

-       A short story, message, letter or poem (max 500 words)

 

Entries are submitted via WhatsApp to 0600 411 111.

Hold My Hand Communications Content Lead, Lebo Motshegoa, says: “We often talk about ‘big change’ for children, but in real life it starts with small, everyday actions. Just One Thing is about shining a light on those moments. The five minutes you take to listen, walk, play or comfort. When people share these stories, they remind all of us that we each have the power to show up for the children and teens around us.”

Airtime spot prizes of R500 will be given away in random draws from valid entries received during the competition period. Five cash prizes of R5,000 will go to the top judged entries that best capture heart, clarity and creativity in telling their “just one thing” story.

A judging panel will look for entries that feel honest, clear, creative, and full of heart, whether they come from a child, teen, parent, grandparent, older sibling, teacher, neighbour or other caregiver figure.

Network Mobiliser Mesuli Kama says: “Children are not only shaped by big policies and big budgets. They are shaped by what happens in their homes, schools and streets, every single day. When people share the small ways, they choose to be there for a child, even when money is tight or life is stressful, it sends a powerful message: care is possible, and it matters.”

“Just One Thing” is part of the wider Hold My Hand campaign, which supports the National Strategy to Accelerate Action for Children (NSAAC) by putting real-life stories and intergenerational connection at the centre of change. The campaign calls on families, communities, civil society, business and government to make South Africa a place where every child can grow up healthy, safe, supported and able to reach their potential.

CHRISTMAS IN CONCERT

Be among the first to embrace the festive season with an exciting performance in the magnificent St Joseph’s Cathedral, Mariannhill, in the company of The Durban Symphonic Choir featuring AJ Bethke on Organ, as they present Christmas in Concert on November 30 at 15h00.

The programme includes beloved classics—such as The Holy City, Joy to the World, and Hark the Herald Angels - as well as exciting new works that will truly bring everyone into the Christmas spirit.

Date & Time: Sunday, November 30, 2025, at 15h00

Venue: St Joseph’s Cathedral, Mariannhill

Admission: Adults R130 (under 12 Free)

Tickets: Secure yours now on Quicket or purchase them at the door.

https://qkt.io/RBw9WA - Quicket Tickets

 

Follow them on Facebook and Instagram page to keep in touch.

MUSIC FOR A SUMMER AFTERNOON

 

(Right: Luthando Jackson. Pic supplied)

 

Christopher Duigan (Piano)

Maxine Matthews-Meyer (Saxophone)

Luthando Jackson (Guitar)

 

Chamberlain Music Centre (Hilton College)

Sunday November 30, 2025, at 15h00

Tickets: R150, available through Quicket (TBC) and at the door.

 

Local music lovers are in for a treat with a triple bill of artists sharing the stage at the Chamberlain Music Centre at Hilton College on Sunday November 30. The concert, which offers a feast of music, starts at 15h00.

Luthando Jackson, a popular and highly acclaimed young artist, recognised as the 'young maestro of Pietermaritzburg’, will be featured in the special event along with Maxine Matthews-Meyer (saxophone) and Christopher Duigan (piano).

Jackson focuses on the classical guitar repertoire playing a selection of Latin guitar music by Augustine Barrios-Mangore, Roland Dynes, Zequinha De Abreu and Heitor Villa Lobos. A largely self-taught guitarist, Jackson was invited to attend the prestigious Menuhin School in Surrey, England in 2018/19 and is currently enrolled in B Mus studies at Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha.

Maxine Matthews-Meyer presents a selection of Duigan’s own compositions including the popular Bar Stool Tango and Himeville from Four KZN Landscapes. Born in Mauritius, Maxine began studies under Werner Dannewitz in Durban before heading to Greece and France to complete a Diplome de Perfectionement with distinction in Besançon, France, under the renowned classical saxophonists Cecile Dubois and Laurent Blanchard. Having been featured in Music Revival concerts 2012-14, including the annual Parklane Superspar Christmas Concert in the City Hall, Matthews-Meyer joined the teaching staff at The Wykeham Collegiate in Pietermaritzburg at the start of this year.

Christopher Duigan, well known to local audiences for his ongoing series of classical performances across KZN, plays selections from recent programme including music by Chopin and Liszt.

Tickets are available from Quicket

 

KZNSA ANNUAL MEMBERS' GROUP SHOW CALL OUT

Delivery Deadline: Between November 28 and 29, 2025

CALL OUT | Annual Members' Group Show | Sizwakala Ngezandla

A reminder for this year’s KZNSA Gallery’s Members' Group Show - Sizwakala Ngezandla (We Are Heard Through Our Hands)!

The KZNSA is inviting artists, designers and crafts people that are active members of the KZNSA to reflect on the stories our hands tell through the act of creation. From brushstrokes and stitches to digital gestures and sculpted forms, Sizwakala Ngezandla honours the many ways in which artists transform everyday materials into living treasures.

Members are invited to submit new works created in 2025 that respond to the theme. Artworks may be 2D, 3D, or digital, and all will be presented in a salon style exhibition. Members are allowed to replace work during the Members Group Show period if the work gets sold. Please note there is a limit of R5,000 for artists' price per work.

Submission details:

Artworks must be delivered to KZNSA Gallery between November 28 and 29, 2025.

Friday: 10h00 - 16h00

Saturday: 10h00 - 15h00

 

Exhibition opening:

Friday, December 5, 2025, at 18h00

 

The KZNSA Gallery is situated at 166 Bulwer Road, Glenwood, in Durban. More information on 031 277 1705 or cell 082 220 0368 or visit www.kznsagallery.co.za

CALL OUT: SUPPLIERS FOR 2025 BUZZART CHRISTMAS FAIR

Deadline: November 25 to 30, 2025.

BUZZART is back and better than ever!

BUZZART is KZNSA’s annual Christmas Fair, where the KZNSA Shop partners with local makers and artisans to showcase the best of local goods, art and craft. BUZZART carries art, homeware, textiles, fashion and accessories, jewellery, local art books, stationery and cosmetics, plus a huge range of Christmas decor and stocking fillers - all produced in KZN or Southern Africa by independent makers.

As their focus is on growing the local economy, and providing income opportunities to local creatives, the KZNSA is inviting their current and new makers to submit their work, offering a free 6-week retail platform to get product to market.

They are looking for interesting, unusual, innovative, locally-designed and manufactured products, ranges or art pieces. Work does not have to fit a theme.

Please deliver your stock to the KZNSA along with a delivery note between November 25 and 30, 2025.

If you are a new supplier, contact the shop administrator Sne Zwane:

craft@kznsagallery.co.za | 031 277 1700

 

BUZZART25 runs from December 5, 2025 to January 18, 2026. Opening night: Friday, December 5.

Deliveries: November 25 to 30. Top-up deliveries are welcome throughout BUZZART but stock for the opening must be delivered to the gallery by November 30.

 

T&C’s

The gallery reserves the right to exclude products or pieces if they do not align with their code of ethics.

Artisanal food products may be submitted but must comply with all food and safety requirements as outlined in the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Ac.

The KZNSA Shop adds an additional 40% onto the makers' cost price as commission.

 

The KZNSA Gallery is situated at 166 Bulwer Road, Glenwood, in Durban. More information on 031 277 1705 or cell 082 220 0368 or visit www.kznsagallery.co.za

IZIHLAHLA ZIYOKHULUMA BY AMASOSHA COLLECTIVE

 

(“Imoto ka Buthi” by Nqobile Hlela. Photo: Paulo Menezes)

 

What a night! The KZNSA gallery was proud to host the opening of Izihlahla Ziyokhuluma by the Amasosha Collective on Tuesday, November 11, 2025. The KZNSA Gallery says a huge thank-you to all that attended – “we loved seeing so much energy around such an exciting show, and congratulations to Amasosha Collective and the participating artists!

“Izihlahla Ziyokhuluma evokes memory and spirit, calling us to listen to the quiet truths that live beyond what the eye can see.

“Trees stand as living witnesses. Their roots reach deep into the earth, carrying stories of the past, while their branches stretch skyward toward the future. Through the collective voice of Amasosha Collective, this exhibition reflects on growth, patience and the often-silenced stories that shape and reshape the African experience. Each work becomes a vessel of memory - revealing ways of surviving, thriving, and reimagining our place in the world.

“Izihlahla Ziyokhuluma reminds us that silence is never empty - it holds language, wisdom, and presence - inviting us to pause, listen and reflect within a space where memory and resilience converge.”

Participating artists:

Anelisiwe Maphumulo;  Andile Maphumulo;  Mzamo Mlambo;  Lindani Maduna;  Sihle Shozi;  Celimpilo Mthembu;  Thembi Mthembu;  Mthobisi Maphumulo;  Nhlakanipho Ndimande;  Nqobile Hlela;  Bongani Luthuli;  Thokozani Nxumalo, and Mncedisi Mkhize.

The exhibition is running until November 30, 2025. Entry is free to the public.

The KZNSA Gallery is situated at 166 Bulwer Road, Glenwood, in Durban. More information on 031 277 1705 or cell 082 220 0368 or visit www.kznsagallery.co.za