WESTVILLE THEATRE CLUB AUDITIONS!

 

The Westville Theatre Club is proud to announce that the pantomime Snow White Incorporated will be staged from December 5 to 15, 2024.

(NB) Westville Theatre Club is a non-professional production in terms of the fact that those involved do not get paid.

The WTC organisers say: “If you are eager to get on stage and be part of one of the greatest team experiences ever, then come along to the auditions on:

 

Tuesday, October 1 2024: 18h30

Wednesday, October 2, 2024: 18h30

Please be on time. (NB: It is not required to attend both audition slots.)

“Apart from being a huge amount of fun for both cast and audience, the pantomime provides an opportunity to discover and develop new, as well as existing talent. Therefore, we are calling on actors, singers and dancers as well as backstage crew - costumes, props, sets, lighting, sound, etc. -who want to experience the unique thrill of live theatre.”

NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED!

If you are auditioning for an acting role, you will be required to read from a monologue or script which will be provided for you at the venue.

If you are auditioning for a singing or dancing role, you will be required to prepare and provide a backing track for your audition.

Please keep in mind that the Westville Theatre Club is a community theatre, providing a platform for amateur theatre enthusiasts, therefore there is no compensation for participation.

Although we are a community theatre, we do pride ourselves in presenting productions and shows of high quality, therefore we are looking for enthusiastic, committed and reliable people to bring the pantomime to life!

Before auditioning, please ensure that you are available for the show dates in December 2024, as well as the rehearsals that will be scheduled for the 8 weeks leading up to the shows. Arrangements will be confirmed, but rehearsals will take place twice/thrice weekly, e.g. Tuesday or Thursday evenings, and Sunday afternoons.

Once the audition process has been completed, the Director will provide you with more information.

 

Other requirements:

All participants must be, or otherwise become, members of the WTC by submitting completed application documents and making payment of the required fee of R150 pp per year. (Discounted fees apply to pensioners, scholars and students).

Actors and backstage crew members MUST be available for all the show dates.

Actors may not be absent from more than three rehearsals.

Contact Melanie for more information by WhatsApp Message on 0714618515, or email to melanievisser1000@gmail.com

The Westville Theatre Club is situated at St James Avenue, Westville (next to Westville Swimming pool)

 

 

DRAKENSBERG BOYS CHOIR ON TOUR

 

HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh will visit Wells Cathedral on September 25 in support of the Drakensberg Boys Choir who will be performing a fundraising concert alongside the Wells Cathedral Schools Choir and Musicians. The performance will be a diverse repertoire, blending classical and Afro-Pop music, and will captivate the audience. The repertoire will range from the timeless compositions of Carl Orff and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart to the vibrant rhythms of Afro-Pop and traditional African contemporary works, promising to enchant audiences of all tastes. 

(Left: HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh, Princess Sophie, who is a Patron of the Wells Cathedral Choristers Trust. Pic supplied)

 

This is a wonderful opportunity for both world-renowned music schools to come together to showcase their musical talents while raising funds for future talented individuals. It promises to be a joyous evening and should not be missed.

 To find out more, visit: Drakensberg Boys Choir at Wells Cathedral Tickets, Wed Sep 25, 2024, at 19h00

  

The Drakensberg Boys Choir School (DBCS) prepares boys for life and leadership through excellence in music, academics, sports, and social enrichment. Known affectionately as "Drakie boys," students are encouraged to harness their musical talents to bring hope and positive change in South Africa and globally. With a 57-year history, DBCS is the only established choir school in South Africa, earning international respect and producing young men of exemplary character.

For many of their talented boys, attending Drakensberg is a long-held dream come true. Unfortunately, some boy’s world-class talent cannot be realised due to a lack of funding. As a result, the Drakies bursary fund is critical in providing deserving boys with the opportunity to perform on the world choir stage, an honour they would not have had without generous donations to their bursary fund. Proceeds from the UK tour will go to the bursary fund.

The Drakensberg Boys Choir will be joined for this special performance by the Choristers of Wells Cathedral Choir and the musicians and singers of Wells Cathedral School. The Wells Cathedral Choristers are the treble voices of the world-renowned Wells Cathedral Choir, lauded by Gramophone magazine as the world’s leading choir with children. They continue a tradition that dates back to the 10th century AD. The School’s own choirs have an international reputation and maintain a busy schedule of concerts, recordings and broadcasts. They have toured extensively to Europe and the Far East and have been prize winners in major international competitions including ‘Let the Peoples Sing’, ‘Musica Eterna Roma’, ‘BBC Choir of the Year', and most recently at the “International Choral Festival of Preveza’.

 

MPUMI DHLAMINI’S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AT UKZN JAZZ CENTRE

 

(Mpumi Dhlamini. Pic supplied)

The Centre for Jazz and Popular Music at the University of KwaZulu-Natal has announced a special birthday celebration performance by renowned multi-instrumentalist and producer Mpumi Dhlamini. The event will take place on Wednesday, September 18 2024, at 17h30.

Enjoy an electrifying performance as Dhlamini, a multiple SAMA and METRO FM Awards nominee, celebrates his birthday in Durban. He will be accompanied by the talented Freeman Gumede on bass and Fundile Dlamini on drums. 

This performance comes right before his Joy of Jazz 2024 appearance, set to take place in Johannesburg later this month.

 

Mpumi Dhlamini is celebrated for his innovative approach to jazz and genre-blending music. His extensive career includes collaborations with renowned artists such as Proverb, Zwai Bala, Jimmy Dludlu, and Lira. Additionally, he has produced notable works for Wanda Baloyi, Brian Temba, Kabomo, Zama Jobe, and Sphelelo Mazibuko. Dhlamini is known for pushing the boundaries of jazz, creating a unique sonic experience.

During this special birthday performance, Dhlamini will present a dynamic set featuring music from his upcoming 12-track album. The album includes 9 re-imagined songs from his previous albums Combined Elements, Note To Self, and Imvuselelo as well as three new compositions. The album will be released under MoBlaq Productions, the record label he founded in 2015. His latest accolade came in January 2024, when Roland appointed him as an Ambassador.

The concert takes place on Wednesday, September 18, 2024. Doors open at 17h00; Music starts at 17h30

Tickets will be available at the door for R110 (R80 for pensioners and R50 for students). To ensure your spot, booking is essential via email at zamat1@ukzn.ac.za. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Mpumi Dhlamini’s birthday with a night of exceptional jazz and music innovation!

The UKZN Centre for Jazz and Popular Music is situated in the Dennis Shepstone Building, Level 2, Howard College Campus.

 

POETRY AFRICA FESTIVAL 2024

 

(All pics supplied)

Poetry Africa makes the practicalities and publishing of poetry possible

Business and marketing are not always top priorities for poets, and while they should not take precedence over creativity, business sense and commercial knowledge can make poetry both a passion and a profitable and sustainable pursuit. Not every businessperson can be a poet, but every poet can acquire basic business skills to ensure that their poetry is a financial blessing and not a curse.

Poetry Africa, presented by the Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, aims to spotlight the importance of business and marketing in poetry during its festival happening from October 3 to 12 in Durban and Johannesburg.

Siphindile Hlongwa, the curator of the Poetry Africa festival, says: “The fundamentals of arts administration and some basic marketing and publicity tools could make it so much easier for poets to reach a wider audience. It is with this in mind that the festival will be hosting several discussions and master classes on the final day of the festival.”

On Saturday, October 12, a panel discussing the basics of publishing poetry will be hosted by Ismail Mahomed, the director for the Centre for Creative Arts. Founders of local publishers, vangile gantsho of imphepo press and Michelle Betty of Dryad Press will be joined by Allan Horwitz of Botsotso Publishers and Dr Phindile Dlamini of UKZN Press. They will share the essentials of publishing poetry, including submission tips and information on understanding the industry. This will be a valuable opportunity to gain insights from leading voices in African publishing.

In the afternoon, the Seabrooke’s Theatre will host Perfect Pitch, a session where pre-selected poets and organisers will pitch their unique visions and projects. Audiences will be encouraged to engage with innovative ideas and explore potential collaborations while selected individuals will pitch their work to festival curators. Festival organisers from Abuja, Belgium, Italy, and Lagos will be present. They include Claudio Pozzani from Italy, who created the Genoa International Poetry Festival in 1995 and co-founded the European platform Versopolis, which now includes 30 festivals. Emma Ofosua, the director of the annual All African Women Poetry Festival, a four-day conference that hosts six to ten poets from six African countries and the diaspora, Bash Amuneni, the general manager of the Abuja Literary Society, and Efe Paul Azino from the Lagos Poetry Festival will be present.

 

(Left: Miksi Brouwer)

 Miksi Brouwer, who founded the SpeakEasy spoken word collective, a multilingual platform and collective based in Brussels, will share the platform with Hatem Alshehri, the first literary agent from Saudi Arabia. 

Siphiwe Nzima from Lesotho and South African, Siphindile Hlongwa, will add local flair. Hosted by Musa Hlatshwayo, the artistic and creative director of Mhayise Productions, an internationally-acclaimed performing arts production company based in KwaZulu-Natal, this platform may be the beginning of remarkable things for many poets and performers.

 

(Right) Hatem Alshehri)

There will be three masterclasses on various aspects of administration, marketing, and monetising on Saturday afternoon. 

The first, a masterclass on the mysteries of intellectual property and monetising creative work on digital platforms, will be presented by publicist, music manager, and founder of Music Exchange, Martin Myers.

 Participants will learn key strategies for protecting their creative assets and leveraging online opportunities to generate revenue. The session is essential for poets and artists looking to navigate the digital landscape effectively.

Ismail Mahomed, Karabo Legoabe, and Philile Njikija will present a comprehensive masterclass on arts administration. Attendees of this class will acquire essential skills in proposal writing, reporting, and managing arts projects. The session is designed primarily for those looking to enhance their administrative expertise in the arts sector but will be invaluable to any artist who engages with funding bodies and other creative institutions.

(Left: Emmah Mabye)

 An in-depth masterclass on branding and marketing tailored for poets will feature insights from Emmah Mabye and Siphokazi Jonas, both from South Africa, and Beverly Nsengiyunva from Uganda. This session, facilitated by Lakin Morgan-Baatjies, will cover strategies for developing a strong personal brand to effectively promote one’s work and artistic profile.

The day is not all work and no fun, though. Poetry will take a leap from the page to the screen at the screening of poetry films by Claudio Pozzani, Mbali Malimela, and Siphokazi Jonas. Audiences will be afforded the opportunity to engage in discussion with the poets as they explore the intersection of film and poetry and delve into the creative processes behind the works. 

(Right: Sindiswa Zulu)

The day will also see the launch of several poetry collections. Ongezwa Mbele hosts the launch at Unirite Kit n Coffee of new poetry collections by Kyle Allan and Sindiswa Zulu. Audiences will hear excerpts from their work and gain insights into their creative processes. At an event hosted by Quaz Roodt, editor of poetrypotion.com, Siphokazi Jonas will celebrate the release of her debut anthology, Weeping Becomes a River, of which Gabeba Baderoon said, “I was breathless after reading this collection. It is exquisite, courageous, energising, boundary-scaling, mesmerising, and moving.” She will be accompanied by Nkateko Masinga, who was shortlisted for the Evaristo Prize for African Poetry earlier this year. Masinga will read from her latest book, Daughter Wound, which was the book of the week at the London Review Bookshop in its first week of release in April this year. In addition to sharing their work, the poets will explore the themes in their new books and discuss their publishing journeys.

If anyone has any energy after this exciting programme, they can expend it at the closing event of the programme, the Slam Jam Finale, which promises to round out this educational and instructive day and the festival in style.

To stay up to date on all the news about the festival, follow Poetry Africa on Facebook and Instagram (@poetryafrica) or visit https://poetryafrica.ukzn.ac.za/ to see the full festival programme.

 

About Poetry Africa

Poetry Africa is an annual international poetry festival curated and presented by the Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban each year during October. The festival features Spoken Word & Publish Poets in performances and dynamic engagements which includes panel discussions, campus and school visits, poetry exchanges, book launches, open mic sessions and a slam jam competition. The festival provides a vital platform for celebration and critical reflection about the contribution of poets in the movement for social change both nationally and internationally. At the University of KwaZulu-Natal, the Poetry Africa festival supports academic scholarship in contemporary poetry. The festival is a dynamic player in the cultural economy of the broader eThekwini; and plays a vital role in advancing the city’s status as a UNESCO City of Literature.

 

NB: For more information on the Centre for Creative Arts, click on the logo advert to the right of this article.

COMPLICATED FREEDOMS AT 11th EUROPEAN FILM FESTIVAL IN SA

Film-lovers can look forward to an entertaining and provocative array of new award-winning films from Europe as the European Film Festival returns for its 11th edition in South Africa from October 10 to 20. Women challenging patriarchy and convention; relationships and independence; humour, satire and surrealism; coming-of-age stories; dysfunctional families; grumpy old men; restless youth; the pursuit of dreams; a realistic rom-com; and a riotous hip-hop biopic - all this and more.

Presenting films from 14 countries, and including two Oscar nominations, the festival is a showcase of high-quality cinema from the film industries in the respective participating countries of Belgium, Denmark, France, Georgia, Germany, Ireland, Italy, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom.

“The films all speak to the topic of Freedom in one or the another, from the personal to the political, and often both,” says Magdalene Reddy, co-director of the festival.  “Whether it is a developmental journey, a process of unfolding, an illumination, or a result of political changes in the world around us, Freedom comes at times of its own choosing, and one doesn't always know what it looks like until you get there. The films this year offer a multi-faceted and evocative glimpse of what freedom means to a wide-ranging cast of characters and in an equally diverse range of situations – Complicated Freedoms!”

Sandra Kramer, EU Ambassador to South Africa, comments: “We are delighted to bring to you the 11th edition of the European Film Festival in South Africa with a carefully curated selection of films from several EU Member States as well as from Georgia, Switzerland, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom. This year, we celebrate the transformative power of cinema in exploring the topic of freedom through the lens of talented filmmakers from across the world. Let’s gather to appreciate these stories that remind us of the responsibility to protect and promote the freedoms that unite us all.”

Cinema screenings take place in Johannesburg at Sterkinekor’s The Zone in Rosebank, and in Cape Town at The Labia. Eleven of the films will be available in the free programme of online streaming accessible across South Africa during the festival period of October 10 to 20.

For more information visit www.eurofilmfest.co.za

The European Film Festival 2024 is a partnership project of the Delegation of the European Union to South Africa and 14 European embassies and cultural agencies in South Africa:  the Embassies of Belgium, Denmark, Georgia, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, Ukraine, and the British Council, Camoes Institute of Portugal, French Institute in South Africa, Goethe-Institut, Italian Cultural Institut, and Wallonie-Bruxelles International, The festival is organised in cooperation with Cineuropa and coordinated by Creative WorkZone.

MPUMI DHLAMINI FOR CENTRE FOR JAZZ

 

(Left: Mpumi Dhlamini. Pic supplied)

On Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at 17h30, The Centre for Jazz and Popular Music at the University of KwaZulu-Natal is thrilled to announce a special birthday celebration performance by renowned multi-instrumentalist and producer Mpumi Dhlamini.

The organisers say: “Join us for an electrifying performance as Dhlamini, a multiple SAMA and METRO FM Awards nominee, celebrates his birthday in Durban. He will be accompanied by the talented Freeman Gumede on bass and Fundile Dlamini on drums. This performance comes right before his Joy of Jazz 2024 appearance, set to take place in Johannesburg later this month.”

 

Mpumi Dhlamini is celebrated for his innovative approach to jazz and genre-blending music. His extensive career includes collaborations with renowned artists such as Proverb, Zwai Bala, Jimmy Dludlu, and Lira. Additionally, he has produced notable works for Wanda Baloyi, Brian Temba, Kabomo, Zama Jobe, and Sphelelo Mazibuko. Dhlamini is known for pushing the boundaries of jazz, creating a unique sonic experience.

During this special birthday performance, Dhlamini will present a dynamic set featuring music from his upcoming 12-track album. The album includes nine re-imagined songs from his previous albums Combined Elements, Note To Self, and Imvuselelo as well as three new compositions. The album will be released under MoBlaq Productions, the record label he founded in 2015. His latest accolade came in January 2024, when Roland appointed him as an Ambassador.

The concert takes place on September 18, 2024. Doors open at 17h00; music starts at 17h30

Tickets will be available at the door for R110 (R80 pensioners and R50 students). To ensure your spot, booking is essential via email at zamat1@ukzn.ac.za. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Mpumi Dhlamini’s birthday with a night of exceptional jazz and music innovation!

The UKZN Centre for Jazz and Popular Music is situated in the Dennis Shepstone Building, Level 2, Howard College Campus.

A SHORT LIFE: REVIEW

 

“A Short Life” is an excellent read and highly recommended. I wish Nicky Greenwall much success with her debut as a writer, and trust that her output will be prolific in the future - (Review by Barry Meehan)

A Short Life is the debut novel of Nicky Greenwall, a well-respected South African producer, journalist and former TV presenter. 

We can but hope that this novel will not be her only offering, especially in the mystery genre.

Her writing is succinct and to-the-point, moving the story along at a cracking pace, even though quite a bit of it is told in flashbacks. 

Readers also need to have their wits about them, as the various chapters are told from the differing viewpoints of the main characters, there being six in all, great friends with interlocking backgrounds and experiences. When tragedy strikes, doubt and distrust raise the guilt stakes, and the realisation hits home that the group will never be the same.

“I think I might have killed someone”

This thought could be attributed to more than one of the group, and the author keeps us guessing as to who the perpetrator of the accident might be, right up to the conclusion. The other questions being asked are “Why was the victim out on the road at an early hour of the morning, and was there a passenger present in the car? If so, who was it?

Readers with a thorough knowledge of the Hout Bay, Constantia and Llandudno areas of Cape Town will be at a definite advantage when reading this novel, as everything take place in this area. Those not familiar with the winding roads with ultra-sharp bends on the Constantia Nek drive need not fear that they might be missing out on something. Nicky Greenwall’s descriptive passages paint a very clear picture of the action and the surrounding beauty of the environment in that part of the world. A map of the area (albeit a rather small one with not much detail) is provided for those new to the area.

A Short Life is an excellent read and highly recommended. I wish Nicky Greenwall much success with her debut as a writer, and trust that her output will be prolific in the future - Barry Meehan

A Short Life is published by Penguin Random House South Africa - ISBN 978-1-77638-031-2

SHALL WE DANCE: REVIEW

 

(Above: The grand opening number with Spanish dancers, highlighted in front fused with other styles behind, celebrates three decades of dazzling dance. Pic by Val Adamson)

Gorgeous backdrops, sets and lighting contribute hugely to this fantastic production. It is a must see! (Review by Mary Ann Salvage)

 “WOW!” What an explosion of wonderful dance, jam-packed into this 30th Anniversary performance of Shall we Dance!

From feather boas to pointe shoes, international Dance Professionals to homegrown local (South African) dancers, everyone contributed to a most amazing high energy show. Congratulations to directors Neville Letard and Caryl Cusens and their team of choreographers, dancers, behind the scenes and technical staff, for an outstanding and entertaining evening.

Shall we Dance was started by Neville and Caryl in 1991 with only 30 dancers. To keep this tradition alive for three decades is quite a remarkable achievement. Long may they continue!

The Programme commenced with the Overture aptly titled, Shall we Dance, followed by the entire cast on stage for the Opening number. Well-known singer, actress and stage performer, Marion Loudon was the compère.

With a total of 32 high energy numbers, there are many highlights, too many to mention. A few include a pint-sized couple, Asiphile and Slindile, who absolutely stole the show with their two dance numbers, the Penny Whistle Jive and the Havanna Cha Cha Cha. What a great future they have ahead of them.

Other highlights include the Bob Fosse number, Bye Bye Blackbird choreographed by Pam Gandy which added an interesting dimension to the varied styles of dance on offer. The first half ended with a dynamic Bollywood number choreographed by Pavishen Paideya. It was a joy to see him dancing again. The Young Dancers’ Project run by Minette de Klerk also presented a well-choreographed and clever fusion of Tap and Spanish dancing.

(Left: Nicolai Bouet (Denmark) & Anna Shagalina (Ukraine) return having previously starred in 2015 and 2016. Pic by Val Adamson)

 International Guest Artistes, Nicolai Bouet (Denmark) and Anna Shagalina (Ukraine) who are 7 times Danish Champions, dazzled the audience with four exciting numbers.

 Egor Kondratenko (Russia) and Mie Funch (Denmark) also stunned the audience with five beautiful numbers which ended with a magnificent Paso Doble.

 Without giving too much away, it is advisable to come and experience the show for yourself.

 Gorgeous backdrops, sets and lighting contribute hugely to this fantastic production. It is a must see!

Do not miss Shall we Dance on at The Playhouse Opera Theatre only until Sunday. There are two performances on Saturday September 14 at 13h00 and 17h00. The two performances on Sunday September 15 are at 11h00 and 15h00. The low-priced performance at 11h00 is only R120 throughout the house. Booking is at Webtickets. Prices range from R120 to R180. www.webtickets.co.za - Mary Ann Salvage

 

AN EVENING WITH KUTLWANO MASOTE

 

(Right: Kutlwano Masote, pic supplied)

Popular radio personality and presenter Kutlwano Masote, of SAfm’s ‘Weekend Sundowner Classics’ broadcast every Saturday and Sunday afternoons, will be in conversation once again with Christopher Duigan. 

He will also introduce a selection of his favourite music; which Christopher will play.

Kutlwano Masote was raised in a rich classical music environment, excelling on the cello, and has been a professional classical music practitioner for nearly 30 years. 

He made his professional conducting debut in 2006 in a concert of the music of Ladysmith Black Mambazo accompanied by full orchestra.

In 2007 he conducted the Todd Matshikiza Retrospective Concert at the State Theatre. His appetite for bridging the gap between different performance traditions has seen him undertake projects to orchestrate music from multiple genres.

The event will take place at Casa Mexicana, 35 Montgomery Drive in Pietermaritzburg on September 20, 2024, at 19h00.

Tickets: R200. Booking is essential. Please include your contact numbers in all e-mail bookings. Book via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

Please feel free to take your own wine, other refreshments provided.

There is secure parking.

SEPTEMBER HIGHLIGHTS: M-NET | M-NET MOVIES

 

(These highlights are covered from September 15 to the end of the month. Please note that this line-up is subject to change)

 

SUNDAY NIGHT MOVIES

 

September 15, 2024

20h05 | The Holdovers | 16L | Drama

Alexander Payne teams up with Paul Giamatti to tell a warm-hearted holiday tale. A cranky New England school instructor is forced to babysit a handful of students during Christmas.

September 22, 2024

20h05 | Knox Goes Away | R | Thriller

Michael Keaton and James Marsden star in this crime thriller. A contract killer diagnosed with dementia vows to use his last days to save his estranged son and form a bond with him.

 

FRIDAY NIGHT MOVIES

Friday, September 13, 2024

20h00 | Bob Marley: One Love | 13VL | Biography

A heartfelt and powerful film that follows the life of the late great reggae musician Bob Marley, from his struggles to his music and artistic endeavours.

Friday, September 20, 2024

20h00 | Strays | 16VSNL | Comedy

Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx lead a starry voice cast in this hilarious canine comedy. An abandoned dog teams up with other stray dogs to exact revenge on the owner who abandoned him.

Friday, September 27, 2024

20h00 | Jules | 13VL | Sci-Fi Comedy

Ben Kingsley is funny and compassionate in this sci-fi film. A widower gets an unexpected visitor that turns his life and that of his two neighbours into an exciting adventure.

 

SERIES PREMIERES

Friday, September 13, 2024

21h45 | Bupkis | S01 E01 | 18SL | Comedy

A premiere tinged with absurd comedy and drama. Pete moves back home only to learn that the family's been dealing with tragic news without him.

Sunday, September 15, 2024 [SPECIAL EVENT]

02h00 | 76^th Emmy Awards 2024 | Special

Father and son duo Eugene and Dan Levy host the 76th Emmy Awards in Los Angeles. The ceremony honours the best in US primetime and late-night programming. Who will be the winners this year?

Tuesday, September 17, 2024

19h00 | Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent | S01 E01 | E16 | Crime

A mysterious series premiere. Graff and Bateman investigate the disappearance of a crypto investor when he vanishes on Lake Ontario.

Tuesday, September 17, 2024

21h00 | CSI: Vegas | S03 E01 | E16 | Crime

A challenging season premiere. With their colleague Josh Folsom under arrest for the death of Kahn Schefter, the CSI team combs through every crumb of forensic evidence to determine his innocence or guilt.

Thursday, September 19, 2024

20h00 | The Penguin | S01 E01 | PG 13VL | Fantasy Crime Drama

Following the events of The Batman (2022), Oswald Cobblepot, a.k.a. The Penguin makes a play to seize the reins of the crime world in Gotham.

 

SERIES FINALES

 

Wednesday, September 18 2024

16h00 | The Equalizer | S04 E10 | 16VL | Crime Drama  

An action-packed season finale. The team races against the clock after Mel is kidnapped by a member of her veteran support group and his older brother.

Wednesday, September 18 2024

23h00 | Dr Death | S02 E08 | 16SL | Crime Drama  

In this shocking finale, the Whistleblowers are summoned to defend their findings. Benita makes a final discovery that changes the course of their lives forever.

Monday, September 30 2024

21h00 | The Sympathizer | S01 E07 | 16SVL | Spy Adventure

A poignant and powerful finale to this limited series. Back in Vietnam, the Captain is forced to tell his story, and confront the decisions that haunt his past.

 

M-NET MOVIES

 

M-NET MOVIES 1 (DSTV CHANNEL 104)

Spring has Sprung

 

Sunday, September 15 2024

20h15 | Fool’s Paradise | PG17 | Comedy Satire

A down-on-his-luck publicist discovers a former mental health patient who looks just like a misbehaving movie star. He soon becomes an unlikely celebrity when he gets thrown into the bright lights and behind-the-scenes bustle of Hollywood.

Friday, September 20 2024

21h00 | Asteroid City | PG 13 | Sci-Fi Comedy

World-changing events spectacularly disrupt the itinerary of a Junior Stargazer/Space Cadet convention in an American desert town circa 1955.

Friday, September 27 2024

21h00 | Bob Marley: One Love | PG 13 | Musical Drama

Jamaican singer-songwriter Bob Marley overcomes adversity to become the most famous reggae musician in the world.

Sunday, 29 September 2024

20h15 | The Holdovers | PG 13 | Comedy Drama  

A curmudgeonly instructor at a New England prep school remains on campus during Christmas break to babysit a handful of students with nowhere to go. He soon forms an unlikely bond with a brainy but damaged troublemaker and with the school's head cook, a woman who just lost a son in the Vietnam War.

 

M-Net Movies 2 (DStv Channel 106)

Legends of Action

 

Saturday, September 14 2024

20h00 | Last Seen Alive | 17LV | Action Thriller | Trailer

After Will Spann's wife suddenly vanishes at a gas station, his desperate search to find her leads him down a dark path that forces him to run from authorities and take the law into his own hands.

Sunday, September 15 2024

17h50 | The Matrix Revolutions | 17LV | Action Sci-Fi

Neo, humanity's only hope of stopping the war and saving Zion, attempts to broker peace between the machines and humans. However, he must first confront his arch-nemesis, the rogue Agent Smith.

 

M-Net Movies 3 (DStv Channel 108)

Song and Dance Festival

Monday, September 16 2024

16h30 | Step Up 3D | PG13 | Dance Musical

A close group of street dancers from New York find themselves facing the challenge of their lives when they have to compete with the world's best hip-hop dancers.

Tuesday, 17 September 2024

16h25 | Dance with Me | PG13 | Romance Musical

On a trip to find his father, Rafael, a young man from Cuba, takes part in a dance competition in Las Vegas and becomes romantically involved with his dance partner Ruby.

 

M-Net Movies 4

Saturday, September 14 2024

13h15 | The Emoji Movie | PG | Family Comedy

Gene, a multi-expression emoji, gets sentenced to be deleted after he messes up a message his user Alex sends to his crush. Gene escapes the agents sent to destroy him and accepts his uniqueness.

16h25 | Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins | PG13 | Comedy Drama

A successful talk show host visits his Southern family for his parents' 50th anniversary. But he is not looking forward to revisiting his past where he was nothing more than an awkward little boy.

 

For more information, visit tps://www.dstv.com/m-net/en-za/home

ARTS & CULTURE TRUST NYOLOHA SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME NEARS FINALE

 

The countdown has begun! The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) Nyoloha Scholarship Programme (NSP) is entering its second last showcase, with anticipation building for the upcoming ACT Nyoloha Gala Showcase (performing arts showcase) and Visual Arts Exhibition.

This year, ACT is pleased to partner with Sun International to host the gala showcase at the esteemed Mardi Gras Theatre at Carnival City on September 28, 2024. At this event, two promising young artists – one from the performing arts and one from the visual arts – will be awarded life-changing scholarships valued at R300,000 each to study at a South African arts institution of their choice.

Since June 2024, at the start of the NSP, 111 selected participants from all nine provinces of South Africa have been engaged in rigorous fortnightly training and mentorship sessions under the guidance of distinguished mentors. The NSP visual arts participants have refined their talents under the mentorship of fine arts graduate, curator, and art dealer, Zanele Mashumi. The performing arts participants have been guided by seasoned actor and musical theatre practitioner, Grant Towers, as well as a seasoned musical theatre actress, singer and dancer, Samantha Peo, who serves as NSP Head Performing Arts Mentor.

From the initial 111 participants, only 15 finalists will be chosen to showcase their talents at the Nyoloha finals. This selection will culminate in what is called the Nyoloha Finals Week, where these young artists from all parts of South Africa will travel to Johannesburg for an all-expenses-paid experience. During this week, the finalists will engage in masterclasses, tour prominent art institutions, and seize networking opportunities with industry professionals, preparing them for the visual arts exhibition and gala showcase.

Leading up to the gala showcase, ACT, in collaboration with MTN South Africa, will also present a visual arts exhibition at the MTN Head Office in Fairlands, Johannesburg. The exhibition will open on September 26, 2024, with a private event, whereafter the exhibition will open to the public, offering an opportunity to engage with the work of emerging visual artists and support the next generation of South African talent.

Jessica Denyschen, CEO of ACT, commented: “The Nyoloha Scholarship Programme has been a significant platform for young artists to develop and showcase their skills. Over the years, the programme has nurtured some of the country’s finest talents, including Candice Modiselle, Wonder Ndlovu, Dillon Windvogel, Rick Baloyi, Tankiso Mamabolo, Lwazilubanzi Mthembu and Pallance Dladla, to name a few. We are excited to see the culmination of this year’s cohorts’ hard work and look forward to celebrating their achievements at the gala showcase and visual arts exhibition.”

Niel Nortjé, Manager of the MTN Art Collection, says: 'We are proud of the finalists, and heartily congratulate them. Hosting the NSP’s Visual Arts Exhibition at the MTN Head Office allows employees, clients and stakeholders to engage not only with the emerging young talent but also to buy their work and support the organisation’s strategic objective to participate in the socio-economic development of our disenfranchised youth. We wish all the finalists the very best!'

Poovi Pillay, Executive Head of Corporate Social Investment at Nedbank, commented: “This is such an exciting, tense time of the year as we sprint towards the final event on September 28 and the highly anticipated gala showcase. I want to emphasise that while there are ultimately 15 finalists and two scholarship winners, all 111 participants in this year’s ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme have excelled and grown remarkably over the past few months of mentorship. You are our future rising stars, and we look forward to seeing you pursue your ambitions, dreams and careers.”

Heidi Edson, Group Socioeconomic Development (SED) Specialist at Sun International, says: “Sun International is thrilled to support the empowerment of young artists who represent the future of South Africa's cultural and creative industry. We are especially delighted to host this year’s gala showcase at Carnival City, one of Sun International’s reputable venues for hosting the country’s biggest live events, which promises to be a dazzling evening.”

The event will be hosted by a popular South African actress and will feature guest performances by a well-known South African musician, both of whom will be revealed soon.

Tickets for the ACT Nyoloha Gala Showcase at Carnival City are available via Quicket from R100. Click here to buy your ticket now!: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/275758-2024-act-nyoloha-gala-showcase?preview=t#/

 

Over 30 years of arts support – Arts & Culture Trust

ACT is South Africa’s premier independent arts development and investment organisation. Its focus is to increase the capacity for arts and culture initiatives to create sustainable futures through development and investment in innovative, sustainable projects that make a meaningful contribution to society. Through structured development programmes, ACT provides support to all expressions of arts and culture, including literature, music, visual art, theatre and dance, and the support extends to festivals, community arts initiatives, management, education as well as administration. For more information, visit the ACT website, follow them on X or like their Facebook page.

 

About Nedbank

In partnership with ACT, the Nedbank Arts Affinity has donated more than R28 million to support over 830 arts, culture and heritage development projects countrywide. If you want to make a difference to the lives of talented young artists in South Africa, simply link your Nedbank Greenbacks to the Arts Affinity and Nedbank will donate money to ACT – at no cost to you. The Arts Affinity currently supports the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme, the ACT Thuthukisani Programme and the ACT Tlholo Project. For more information, download the Nedbank Money app, visit any Nedbank branch, call us on 0860 555 111 or visit nedbankarts.co.za.

 

About Business and Arts and South Africa

BASA was founded in 1997 as a joint initiative between government and the private sector as part of a strategy to secure greater involvement in the arts and from businesses operating in South Africa. Constituted in terms of the Companies Act, 71 of 2008, BASA is registered as a public benefit organisation. BASA champions business investment within the arts and cultural and heritage sector, driving focused and sustained partnerships by unlocking shared value and fostering social cohesion. For more information, go to basa.co.za.

About Sun International

The Sun International brand has a proud legacy in the gaming, hospitality, conferencing, leisure and entertainment sectors. Sun International’s iconic properties, such as the world-famous Palace of The Lost City Hotel at Sun City and the magnificent Table Bay Hotel in Cape Town – situated on the water’s edge of the V&A Waterfront, have become synonymous with luxury, comfort and outstanding service, firmly establishing the group’s position as an internationally recognised premium brand.

Sun International's diverse South African property portfolio includes 15 hotels, two premier resorts and 11 well-located casinos – all of which offer modern, fully-equipped conferencing and banqueting facilities, while the Sun Vacation Club at Sun City is now a leading timeshare model in the country.

The group is also a local industry leader in online gaming, offering the latest global technology in betting. Through its SunBet platform, Sun International also offers the most innovative and exciting online betting experience available.

The group has also set the standard for hosting events, and their world-class arenas remain the preferred venues for international events and shows. The three championship golf courses at the Sun City and Wild Coast Sun resorts regularly host large-scale golfing tournaments, including the Nedbank Golf Challenge at Sun City, which is now part of the European Tour.

Whatever the activity, all Sun International's properties and facilities offer a quality experience supported by authentic personal service. Most Valued Guests (MVG) are rewarded with exclusive offers and preferential rates through the MVG loyalty programme, designed exclusively for Sun International gaming patrons.

Sun International’s MVG programme celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2024, making it the oldest loyalty programme in the country. In February 2021, Sun International joined the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands and operator of an award-winning, multi-brand loyalty programme called 'Discovery'. Through GHA, Sun International can now participate in a network with 17 million members that operate in 85 countries.

Sustainability and community involvement form an integral part of the group’s corporate culture. Through collaborative partnerships with government and local business, Sun International’s SED and environmental initiatives ensure scarce environmental resources are never wasted, and the group is committed to providing ongoing and meaningful support to vulnerable communities throughout South Africa.

 

About MTN South Africa

Launched in 1994, MTN South Africa is a subsidiary of MTN Group, a leading emerging market operator with a clear vision to lead the delivery of a bold new digital world to our customers. “We are inspired by our belief that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern connected life. The MTN Group is listed on the JSE in South Africa under the share code ‘MTN’. Our strategy is ‘Ambition 2025: Leading digital solutions for Africa’s progress.”

CHRISTOPHER DUIGAN at HILTON COLLEGE

(Christopher Duigan. Pic by Val Adamson)

In a major public performance at the new Chamberlain Music Centre at Hilton College, pianist Christopher Duigan plays a programme of highlights from recent programmes.  This includes Beethoven - Sonata op. 26, Chopin - Scherzo No.3, Bach - Preludes and Fugues from WTC Bk I and Rachmaninoff - Preludes Op. 23 Nos. 2 & 5.  In addition, Duigan includes highlights of his recent “Popular Classics” programme presented in various venues across KZN.

Widely regarded as one of South Africa's leading concert pianists, Christopher Duigan has been recognized as a 'South African piano icon' and 'national musical treasure' (Classic Feel June 2009). He has performed extensively, giving over 100 concert performances with leading South African orchestras in a repertoire of more than 25 works for piano and orchestra. In recital he has developed a popular following through his innovative presentation and programming of a broad and eclectic taste in music, appearing on all major stages and festival in South Africa.

The concert in Hilton takes place at the new Chamberlain Music Centre, Hilton College on September Sunday 15 starting at 15h00. The venue offers a magnificent setting, concert grand piano and fine acoustic, making it a valuable and prized addition to the local concert circuit. Tickets are R150 including refreshments at interval. Booking is preferred, via Quicket.