THE STONES UNBROKEN

 

A tribute to the music of The Rolling Stones performed by “Good Trouble” will take place at Northlands Bowling Club in association with Rhumbelow Theatre on:

 April 26 – show starts 19h30

April 27 - show starts 18h30

Venue opens 90 minutes before show 

 

A local Durban band formed in 2023 by lead singer Andrew Miller, a respected local music teacher, Good Trouble initially took shape as a showcase for his learners' recital.

 

The overwhelming response prompted the group to step onto larger stages. With the talented duo of guitarists Andre Adkins and Connor Jensen, the skilful bassist Lucian Young, and experienced drummer Matthew David, Good Trouble is going to Rock The Rhumbelow with their Tribute to The Rolling Stones.

After successfully wrapping up their Texas to South Africa, Good Trouble Blues (GTB) is excited to announce their next project – a Rolling Stones Tribute Show (The Stones Unbroken), set to take place this December. Known for their electrifying performances and soulful sound, Good Trouble Blues is ready to bring a fresh spin to some of rock’s most iconic anthems.

The Rolling Stones Tribute Show promises to be a night of raw energy, blues-rock power, and deep-rooted musical passion. Fans can expect classic hits like Start Me Up and Paint It Black, delivered with GTB’s signature flair, making this a show not to be missed.

Tickets R200 (Northlands Bowling Club members R180). Bring food picnic baskets. FULL BAR AVAILABLE (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises)

Limited secure parking available.

Booking is essential on email: roland@stansell.co.za or Webtickets - http://events.durbantheatre.com/

For more information contact 0824998636.

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS FOR NEW SA DOCUMENTARY LAB

 

(Above: Tiny Mungwe & Mitchell Harper)

Deadline: Submissions close on May 13, 2025

MAYIBUYE DOC LAB 2025

Mayibuye Doc Lab, a project of the recently established KwaZulu-Natal-based Ehozini Retreat, supported by the National Film and Video Foundation’s Presidential Economic Stimulus Programme, has announced its call for submissions for its inaugural programme for entry and intermediate documentary filmmakers taking place during June and July 2025.

This project-based documentary development initiative aims to contribute to nurturing and elevating creative documentary filmmaking in South Africa through comprehensive mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities.

“The Mayibuye Doc Lab is a hands-on programme to support South African creative documentaries in development”, says Tiny Mungwe, well-known documentary filmmaker, administrator and impact producer, who is Programme Director at the newly-established retreat. “We are not only going to provide productive mentorship, workshops and professional development for filmmakers, but Ehozini also offers a safe and nurturing space for filmmakers to be able to focus on their creative process in one of the most beautiful rural settings in KZN.”

The Lab will select eight projects, providing workshops for attached directors, producers and impact producers. The workshops will include extensive training in story development, production financing, co-production strategies, impact producing, distribution, and pitching techniques. Participants will benefit from one-on-one mentorship with industry experts and valuable networking opportunities with both local and international film professionals.

Mitchell Harper, Project Manager at Ehozini explains: “This programme's primary objective is to strengthen South Africa's creative documentary landscape by offering in-depth development support, enhancing the skills of directors and producers” aim to create employment opportunities within the local film industry, and to connect local filmmakers with global networks and resources that we have access to through the extensive work we have done in the industry.”

Mayibuye Doc Lab workshops will take place from June to July 2025, combining online sessions with physical residencies at Ehozini Retreat The programme is structured around four key components:

 

Story Development and Visual Approach Workshop: Focused on narrative structure, dramaturgy, and visual storytelling techniques for directors.

 

Production, Financing, and Co-production Workshop: Equipping producers with strategies for production planning, funding acquisition, and international collaboration.

 

Impact and Distribution Workshop: Exploring pathways to maximize a documentary's social impact and reach through strategic distribution.

 

Pitching-readiness Workshop: Developing participants' abilities to effectively present their projects to potential partners, funders, and platforms.

 

The programme will also facilitate participation in international film markets and documentary platforms for selected projects, creating pathways to global financing and co-production opportunities.

The residency is open to documentary filmmakers from across South Africa, with projects in the development stage, and who can commit to attending all workshops and residency programmes.

Submissions are now open and close on May 13, 2025 at midnight, and can be made on the following link: https://form.jotform.com/ehoziniretreat/mayibuye-doc-lab-application

For application details and submission requirements, visit www.ehozini.org.za or contact info@ehozini.org.za

 

About Ehozini Retreat

The Ehozini Retreat is located in the rural village of Maphephetheni, Iqadi, near Durban in KwaZulu-Natal. As a creative space dedicated to nurturing artistic endeavours, Ehozini Retreat is committed to supporting rural economies and facilitating cultural exchange. The retreat creates economic opportunities by connecting creatives with the local community of Maphephetheni, fostering sustainable development through arts and culture.

 

MESSIAH REVIEW

 

Sometimes in our quest to reimagine and create new worlds through live performance, we forget what joy may be found in the classical masterpieces. Review by Dr Verne Rowin Munsamy

 

Arias and Ascension

The Bible schooled us in the birth of Jesus and there have been numerous musicals scripted about it but by far, Handel's Messiah is one that stands out as a classic choral masterpiece. This Easter, the Playhouse Company proudly presented this classical rendering of this story. Directed by Ralph Lawson, conducted by Jeremy Silver and featuring the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra, with soaring vocals from Khayakazi Madlala (soprano), Bongiwe Nakani (mezzo-soprano), Bongani Tembe (tenor), and Bongani Khubeka (baritone) and the Halleluja chorus.

Handel's Messiah has a profound reach, drawing both young and old to the theatre and today was no different. Directed by Lawson, who I am privileged to have been directed by in The Sound of Music and To House. He showcases his diverse directorial vision through his visual aesthetic on stage and the selection of projections. I would have liked to see a little more crispness in the movement within the choir but that is my personal preference.

As a student in theatre, I was fortunate to dance to selections of this musical wonder and upon hearing the opening chords I was whisked on a nostalgic journey to those days of studying drama. Music has a remarkable habit of transporting us to moments in our own history. It is the gift of music that I most appreciated today as I relished in the singing on stage and melodies echoing from the Orchestra.

The costumes were vibrant and sleek and was the perfect balance between old, three kings from the manger look and modern African head dresses. The costumes complement the space as there is a lack of set pieces but rather the colourful aesthetic of the costumes and the operatic tones that fill the space.

I always soak up any opportunity to bask in the melodious sounds of the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra and they do not fail to deliver quality, collaborative sounds from well-mastered instruments. This accompanied by the powerful vocals from the operatic voices created a fine tuned, magical experience. Sometimes in our quest to reimagine and create new worlds through live performance, we forget what joy may be found in the classical masterpieces. I was certainly humble by this strikingly beautiful tribute and the perfect way to spend Easter Sunday. -  Dr Verne Rowin Munsamy

GROUNDWORK: 25 YEARS OF ACTIVISM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE

Engen Oil Refinery is South Africa's oldest oil refinery, commissioned in 1954. It ceased operations as an oil refinery in December 2020 after an explosion at the ageing facility damaged both the plant and the surrounding neighbourhoods of south Durban.

The KZNSA Gallery is excited to announce its upcoming exhibition titled groundWork: 25 Years of Activism for Environmental Justice which opens on May 2 at 17h30.

In celebration of 25 years since its inception in 1999, groundWork, Friends of the Earth South Africa has undertaken an archival exhibition to give expression to and share their legacy. Over this past quarter century, their resistance to environmental injustices whether driven by governments or multinational corporations has remained unflinching, whether on the fence lines of struggle at home, across the continent of Africa or through global movements. They stand firm in the struggle for an inclusive, free, fair and just society.

Working in partnership with and supporting communities in South Africa and beyond, they have faced challenges that seemed impossible to overcome, yet they confronted them relentlessly with the support of comrades, friends, and partners in the environmental justice movement. They have also enjoyed victories, reinforcing the commitment to their vision in which: People are living well with each other and with the earth.

The exhibition is accompanied by an extensive public education programme. Please keep an eye on our social media for dates and topics.

groundWork: 25 Years of Activism for Environmental Justice runs from 2 May to 8 June 2025.

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

KZN SOUTH COAST CONSIDERED A TOP FILM DESTINATION

 

(Wild Life Experiences)

(Images: Supplied by SCTIE)

10 Reasons why the KZN South Coast is being considered a top film destination

 

South Africa is fast becoming a sought-after film destination, offering production crews incredible scenery, a great climate, and affordability. While the Western Cape has been the first choice for many in the industry, KwaZulu-Natal’s many assets are positioning it as an attractive destination – with the KZN South Coast a prime location.

According to The Good News, foreign film production investments in South Africa are expected to exceed R5 billion by October 2025.

Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). Commented: “This incredible investment boost is really indicative of the country’s potential to become a global hub for film production, and the KZN South Coast offers investors a number of reasons to consider setting up in this region. By attracting the film industry here, we’re fulfilling our mandate of securing investment while showcasing the region’s incredible tourism assets to the world.”

SCTIE has shared 10 reasons why the film producers, both foreign and domestic, are choosing to create television shows, documentaries, and feature films on the KZN South Coast.

1. The Sardine Run

For decades, the annual Sardine Run (aptly nicknamed ‘The Greatest Shoal on Earth’) has attracted documentary makers from across the globe. This underwater spectacle, which sees predators chasing shoals of silver sardines migrating close along the KZN South Coast’s shores, presents filmmakers with unique shots of marine life. With the ongoing activity in the winter months, there is still massive potential for nature documentaries in the region

 2.  Great Aquatic Locations

The KZN South Coast is home to three Marine Protected Areas, two of which – Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks – are world-renowned dive sites, presenting some of the best marine viewing on the planet. For underwater shots, the region can’t be beaten – but there are so many other aquatic locations for epic film-making. From its Blue Flag beaches (boasting the highest number in KZN), tidal pools, rivers, lakes, dams, and estuaries all the way to its many epic waterfalls, this is the perfect backdrop.

 

3.   Diverse Landscape

Beyond the water’s edge, the KZN South Coast offers incredible landscapes for a range of film settings. It’s as diverse as the people found here, with settings ranging from 11 idyllic golf courses and ocean views to nature and game reserves, parks, cliffs, gorges, valleys, and even the world’s smallest desert! There are also a variety of agricultural settings, from banana plantations and sugar cane to macadamia, coffee, and vegetable farms. Filmmakers don’t have to travel far to get a variety of backdrops for their shots.

 

4.  Wildlife Experiences

The Sardine Run is just one aspect of local wildlife set to star on film. The KZN South Coast is home to a variety of unique South African wildlife experiences that make for great on-screen viewing. Migrating humpback whales and frolicking dolphins, are common sightings, with Aliwal Shoal one of only two known shortfin devil ray cleaning station areas in the world. On land, the local game reserves are home to African wildlife including zebra, giraffe and buck; while nature reserves are smaller wildlife such as civet, genet and Vervet monkeys. Not to mention the region’s incredible birdlife – with many species endemic to the area – attracting twitchers from all over.

 

5. Cultural and Heritage Sites

Filmmakers looking to incorporate historical or cultural elements into their production are spoilt for choice on the KZN South Coast. At KwaXolo Caves, centuries-old San paintings adorn the walls, while traditional sites such as Isivivane seNkosi uShaka, the KwaNzimakwe Multi-Trails, and Ntelezi Msane Heritage Site showcase African heritage while Gamalakhe Township provides an authentic township backdrop. Archaeological sites such as the world’s smallest desert, Red Desert, as well as the Mzamba fossils and Petrified Forest date back centuries, while age-old lighthouses and shipwrecks make for great backdrops.

 

6.  Top Accommodation

From top-end resorts and hotels to bed and breakfasts, self-catering units, and award-winning seaside campsites, there is no end of accommodation to be found on the KZN South Coast. No matter the budget, there is ample space to host film crews on site, with hospitality providers going the extra mile to ensure comfort, convenience, and support.

 

7.  Proven Film Destination

Alongside the many documentaries featuring the world-famous Sardine Run, the KZN South Coast has provided settings for many epic films and television shows. Discovery, National Geographic, and Nat Geo Wild are some of the global companies that have visited the region, with episodes of Netflix show, The Kissing Booth and SABC’s The Longest Date some of the television shows filmed here. The annual Ugu International Film Festival (UGUIFF) organised by Zindela Pictures Group, also attracts local and international stakeholders from the film industry, and is developing this sector to attract investors to the region.

 

(Left: World's smallest desert)

8.  Subtropical Climate

Filmmakers know the cost of delayed production owing to inclement weather. Fortunately, the KZN South Coast boasts a year-round subtropical climate, with more sunny days than not, allowing for uninterrupted days of filming to keep the feature within budget. The winter season, in particular, is temperate with lower rainfall than in summer.

 

9. Ease of Business

SCTIE has partnered with Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TIKZN) to establish the Ugu One Stop Shop (OSS) which removes the barriers to investment in the region, paving the way for the film industry to thrive. The OSS provides investors with assistance in terms of funding, permits, and other necessary processes, working in partnership with the government and key entities to ensure smooth operations. It also acts as a bridge between outside investors and local industries to unlock potential and drive investment – with affordability a major determining factor.

 

10. Accessibility

The KZN South Coast is incredibly well-positioned with access along the national highway, the N2. From Scottburgh, it is only a 30-minute drive to Durban, 45 45-minute drive from King Shaka International Airport, and has the upgraded Margate Airport for easy access. The recent revamp of the road network, starting with the N2 Wild Coast Road (N2WCR) project that connects KZN with the Western Cape, the Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga. Upon completion, travel time is expected to be drastically reduced by 1.5 to three hours because of the shorter route and flatter alignment.

 

 Now’s the Time: Visit, Invest, Thrive in KZN South Coast!

 

Sardine fever is here, so don’t miss out on seeing The Greatest Shoal on Earth! Find out more by visiting the KZN South Coast website www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za; following South Coast Tourism on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn.

Follow the hashtags #nowisthetime #nowisthetimetovisit

 

KERRY LANDON WORK AT TATHAM

From India to Africa by Kerry Landon runs at the Schreiner Gallery at the Tatham Art Gallery in Pietermaritzburg from April 6 to May 25, 2025.

This exhibition is based on the work made by Kerry Landon in the last three years that she lived in Pietermaritzburg before moving to Cape Town.

Born in India in the 1940 era, Kerry became immersed in Indian life, colour and culture. She then moved to England and schooled there. It was only at a later stage in her life when she met her husband and moved to Pietermaritzburg that we all came to know her. A truly colourful life she lived, that was immersed in colour in her painting, the way she dressed, her home and lastly in her embroideries.

These fibre art panels, in their vibrancy, have through her work, joined two continents. The people of India are as much immersed in colour as the people of KwaZulu-Natal. We are the colourful province of this beautiful country.

Kerry’s life was difficult towards the end of her time in Pietermaritzburg. The slow stitching by hand, the joy of creating with other fellow artists, and the sense of achievement, gave her life meaning. The colour of her favourite homes and the influences around her were poured into these embroideries. Colour made her feel a sense of joy and she became obsessed with doing more panels, which in turn became a healing and an obsession with what she was making.

 

Activity : Workshop

Join Sue Akerman for a workshop on exploration of stitches and beadwork that can be used on both traditional and western clothes on Tuesday May 13, 2025, from 08h30 to 12h00. Booking essential  - reena.bhoodram@msunduzi.gov.za or 033 392 2823

 

ARI SITAS IS POETRY AFRICA’S FEATURED POET

 

The Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal has announced internationally celebrated poet, dramatist, writer and sociologist Ari Sitas as the Featured Poet for the 29th edition of the Poetry Africa festival that will take place in Durban from October 2 to 11, 2025.

Siphindile Hlongwa, the curator of the Poetry Africa festival, says: As we reflect and engage with this year’s Poetry Africa’s festival theme, “Poetry: An Architecture for Social Justice” we believe that Ari Sitas’s contributions as a dynamic cultural worker to the struggles against apartheid remains as resonantly loud and relevant in our continued quest to build an anti-apartheid society modelled on the values of social justice”.

Ari Sitas spent 27 years in Durban, where he played a leading role in anti-apartheid and transformation processes in the cultural, community and workspaces sectors. He relocated to Cape Town as a professor at the University of Cape Town.

Sitas grew up in colonial Cyprus during the island's independence struggles and bi-communal strife and matured in Johannesburg, where he received his undergraduate and post-graduate education at the University of the Witwatersrand. He received his PhD in 1984 under the supervision of Eddie and David Webster. Academics Eddie Webster and David Webster inspired generations of students with their vision and practice of critically engaged scholarship, not only in South Africa but across the world.

Siphindile Hlongwa adds: “One of the key roles of the Featured Poet programme at the Poetry Africa festival is to honour legendary South African poets and to create platforms for inter-generational dialogue. Presenting Ari Sitas as the 2025 Featured Poet, we have the opportunity not only to engage with him but also to be reminded about the incredible legacies of David Webster and Eddie Webster too”.

Ari Sitas was one of the founders of the award-winning Insurrections Ensemble, which combined the compositional and poetic crafts of AfroAsia. He directed the musical oratorio Must Gandhi Fall? at Cape Town’s Homecoming Centre of District Six. His work has been translated into several languages, including isiZulu, French, German, Greek, Turkish, Urdu and Hindi. Several of his poems have also been set to music.

His latest books are Maps of Sorrow (2023, with Sumangala Damodaran) on the movement of precolonial music in AfroAsia, Music Notebook (2023) published by Chimurenga and a new poetry collection, Surplus Values (his tenth poetry collection). His other works are Tropical Scars (1989), Songs, Shoeshine and Piano (1991), Slave Trades (2000), RDP Poems (2004), Around the World in 80 Days (2013), Rough Music (2014), Vespa Diaries (2018), Oratorio for Small Things that Fall (2020) and Mapping Gondwana (2022).

 

ABOUT THE POETRY AFRICA FESTIVAL:

The Poetry Africa festival is South Africa’s largest and longest-running annual gathering of poets. Presented as both an online and live festival, the festival features an array of South African poets alongside poets from the African continent and other parts of the globe in poetry readings, book launches, performances, critical engagements and workshops.

In 2026, the Centre for Creative at the University of KwaZulu-Natal will present the 5th World Slam Poetry Competition, bringing to Durban poets from across 40 different nations from across the globe.

 

The Centre for Creative Arts is located at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Howard College Campus, Mazisi Kunene Ave. Durban. Tel: +27 (0)31 260 2506 / +27 (0)31 260 1816 | Fax:  +27 (0)31 260 3074 |

cca@ukzn.ac.za | www.cca.ukzn.ac.za

 

For a link direct to the Centre for Creative Arts website, click on the logo advert to the right of this article.

MITH – APRIL 23, 2025

 

(Above: Luna Paige – pic supplied)

KZN Midlands’ favourite music venue! MiTH (Music in the Hills) is a platform for beginners, pros, and music lovers to celebrate the joy of music.

It takes place every second Wednesday at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm, Hilton.

 

April 23, 20h30 – Luna Paige

Cape Town singer-songwriter Luna Paige is visiting KZN for the first time in many years. She is currently touring the country with her brand-new show, Oceanic Heart, which is centred around the theme of love. Paige sings about romantic love, friendship, family, our deep connection with animals, nature, love for country, and road-tripping.

Luna sings about the importance of neighbourly love and self-love. She draws her inspiration from the ocean and expertly weaves her stories into her musical repertoire. She also includes songs by artists such as Dolly Parton, Norah Jones, Janis Joplin, Neil Young, and Nick Cave.

On the evening of April 23, Luna Paige will give the MiTH audience a glimpse into the show. She will perform an extract of the show, and include a song or two from her wide repertoire of original songs.

Since 2003 Luna Paige has released two Afrikaans albums, one SAMA-nominated collaborative Afrikaans album, five English albums and multiple singles. Her two latest albums (one Afrikaans, one English) are available on streaming platforms. Her other albums and YouTube links are available at www.lunamusic.co.za.

 

19h45 – andtheRiddle

 

(Right: andtheRiddle. Pic supplied) 

andtheRiddle are two modern, free-spirited multi-instrumental musicians who live, write, rehearse, record, mix, design, edit and produce everything in-house. 

Devoting their energy to the pursuit of reason, happiness and harmony, they embody this philosophy in the original percussive acoustic melodies they create. Priding themselves on their live shows since 2013, they have performed on stages such as Splashy Fen, Louvain Burn Music Festival and the Wilderness Arts Festival, to name a few.

Their influences stretch from classical music to heavy metal, from Rage Against the Machine to Joe Satriani, and everything in between. With Jacky on vocals, guitar, ukulele, harmonica, and percussion, and Daniel on vocals, guitar and percussion, you are in for a guaranteed musical treat – the healthy kind.

 

19h00 – Aroura

From KZN, Aroura (aka Madison Fisher) is an energetic solo artist influenced by various bands, from Mumford and Sons, and Milky Chance to Noah Kahan. Aroura plays covers and original songs, some well-known and others not-so-well-known, ranging from acoustic to indie and country genres. Aroura is a singer/guitar player who will have you singing along. Aroura has only played on stage once before and looks forward to her second time at MiTH.

 

 ABOUT MiTH

KZN Midlands’ favourite music venue! MiTH is a platform for beginners, pros, and music lovers to celebrate the joy of music.

Every second Wednesday at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm, Hilton.

Entrance: R50.00 (Cash or Zapper at the Door)

Food and soft drinks for sale. Cash bar available.

 

Visit www.mith.co.za for more info or email mithbookings@gmail.com to perform.

More information from 082 331 7271

 

DIRECTIONS TO MiTH

Take the N3 to Hilton. Turn into Hilton Village and drive 5.2km along Hilton Avenue, which becomes Dennis Shepstone Drive. Look for Knoll Drive on your right; the entrance to MiTH is the second left into The Knoll Historic Guest Farm.

MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS AT DFM

Big enough to make a difference, intimate enough for genuine connections

July 18 to 21, 2025

Networking is the strategic process of building and nurturing professional relationships to exchange information, resources and opportunities. At Durban FilmMart (DFM), networking takes on a more intimate and focused approach; allowing filmmakers, producers, distributors and industry professionals to connect in a curated environment.

The benefits of networking at DFM are significant. It fosters meaningful collaborations, provides access to key film professionals and opens doors to co-production and financing opportunities. A close-knit setting encourages deeper conversations, trust-building and tailored deal-making. By engaging in targeted networking, participants can accelerate project development, gain insider insights and establish long-term partnerships that drive success in the competitive film industry.

DFM curates the following networking opportunities as part of the Industry Programme:

* Coffee Connect: A 2-hour interactive session where producers and filmmakers can connect and network over a cup of coffee

* Daily lunch networking events in the exhibition hall: available to all delegates, encourages informal discussions and interactions

* By invitation-only cocktail functions: industry professionals connect in an exclusive gathering designed for meaningful engagement

* Exhibition stand: Draws delegates into a branded space for one-on-one discussions

 

Strategic participation in these networking forums elevates your market presence and positions your company as a key player in shaping tomorrow’s cinema.

Contact the DFMI team on info@durbanfilmmart.com (mailto:info@durbanfilmmart.com?subject=Networking%20Sessions%20at%20DFM2025&body=) or sales@durbanfilmmart.com (mailto:sales@durbanfilmmart.co.za?subject=Networking%20Sessions%20at%20DFM%202025&body=) to find out how we can position your brand in front of an involved and influential audience through one of our networking events.

Get in touch with any inquiries (mailto:info@durbanfilmmart.com?subject=Info%20about%20DFM2025&body=)

 

** Early Bird Registration is now open! Head over to the DFM website for more.

 

Early Bird Registration (http://durbanfilmmart.co.za/)

https://facebook.com/

https://instagram.com/

https://linkedin.com/

https://youtube.com/

mailto:info@durbanfilmmart.com

 

The Durban FilmMart Institute receives principal funding from the Durban Film Office and eThekwini Municipality.

 

MUSIC IN THE GARDEN

 

(Right: Christopher Duigan)

 

Steinway Pianist Christopher Duigan will present Music in the Garden at Casa Mexicana, 35 Montgomery Drive in Pietermaritzburg open from 09h00 to 17h00 on Saturday & Sunday May 17 and 18.

Entrance : R50 includes patrolled street parking, tea/coffee and other refreshments, art exhibition and Music In The Garden with Christopher Duigan (piano) at 10h00, 12h00, 14h00 and 16h00 (15 mins)

 

The Intimate Art

The Intimate Art is the title of a classical piano recital of a beautiful selection of masterpieces performed presented by Christopher Duigan (piano).  This forms part of his monthly outings to various centres toured around KZN. The programme, focusing on poetic and intimate expression, includes, Schubert - a selection from Impromptus Op. 142, Liszt - Sposalizio and Sonetto 47 del Petrarca, and Chopin - Barcarolle Op. 60, as well as the rarely performed Mozart - Rondo K. 511 and Scriabin - Nocturne for Left-hand Op. 9.

 

Upcoming Events:

April 27 at 15h00: The Intimate Art: Christopher Duigan

All Souls Anglican Church, Sheffield Beach Rd, Umhlali / Salt Rock

Tickets: R150 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.

Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

 

April 24 at 15h30: The Intimate Art: Christopher Duigan

Woodgrove - Community Centre

Tickets: R100. Booking via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

This concert is open to all!

 

April 24 at 19h00: The Intimate Art: Christopher Duigan

Amber Valley - Amber Auditorium

Tickets: R100 Booking: Amber office. (Open to Amber Valley residents and their guests).

 

May 6 at 19h00: The Intimate Art: Christopher Duigan

St Agnes Church, Kloof

Tickets: R130 include tea/coffee and other refreshments at interval.

Booking preferred via WhatsApp 083 417 4473 or booking@musicrevival.co.za

 

KURT EGELHOF LAUNCHES FOUR-BOOK COLLECTION

 

 

(Kurt Egelhof)

 

South African Arts icon, Kurt Egelhof, launches four-book collection in May 2025

Renowned South African actor, director, playwright, and producer, Kurt Egelhof, is set to embark on an exciting new chapter in his illustrious career with the physical launch of his four books in May 2025.

 These in-person events will take place in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town, offering readers the chance to engage with one of the country’s most respected creative minds.

 

With a career spanning over 40 years, Egelhof has made an indelible mark in film, theatre, and television. His work in The Ghost and the Darkness, Zulu Love Letter, The Last Victims, and The Native Who Caused All the Trouble has solidified his reputation as a powerhouse performer. Behind the camera, he has directed over 250 episodes of South Africa’s most beloved TV dramas, including Isidingo, Scandal!, and Backstage. Additionally, he served as Head of the Creative Department at Endemol South Africa and pioneered the SoloAfrica Festival of Monodrama, Africa’s first monodrama festival.

Born and raised in Durban, and now residing in Cape Town, Egelhof holds a Bachelor of Arts in Speech and Drama from the University of Natal. Beyond his creative contributions, he has remained deeply committed to mentoring young artists and advancing South African storytelling.

Egelhof’s literary venture brings to life the same intensity, depth, and socio-political awareness that characterize his performances and productions. His four books -The Adventure Boys, The Palace of Broken Dreams, The Accidental Death of a Good Coloured Man, and Man Overboard - each explore unique narratives inspired by personal experiences, historical observations, and social injustices.

They are currently available for digital purchase via Lulu.com and via Amazon for the hard copy - both locally and internationally.

●       The Adventure Boys was inspired by a tragic incident Egelhof witnessed as a young boy, shaping a story of youthful innocence and hard-earned wisdom.

●       The Palace of Broken Dreams addresses race, privilege, and talent in the arts world, questioning the fairness of opportunity.

●       The Accidental Death of a Good Coloured Man is a deeply personal exploration of racial identity, resistance, and legacy, stemming from Egelhof’s acclaimed stage production.

●       Man Overboard delves into the stark realities of life on cruise ships, contrasting the luxurious experiences of passengers with the realistic conditions faced by crew members.

 

Each book can be read as a standalone story, but together, they weave the compelling journey of one character from age 16 to 60.

Upcoming Book Launch Events – May 2025

Egelhof will be personally presenting his books in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town at exclusive launch events where fans, literary enthusiasts, and members of the arts community can engage with him, gain insight into his storytelling process, and purchase signed copies.

Connect with Kurt Egelhof for updates on his book launches, interviews, and upcoming projects, follow him on social media:

●       Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Kurt-Egelhof/61571492430606/

●       Twitter/X: https://x.com/thekurtski

●       Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kurtegelhof/

 

 

CENTRE FOR JAZZ – TWOSDAY SHOWS

 

Next week is a busy week for the UKZN Centre for Jazz. They have “Twosday” show Afro-Fusion World Music Ensemble, Wednesday with Lauren Henricks, and the next installation of Science and Jazz.  

 Abavuki

Tuesday April 22 at 17h30 The Centre for Jazz and Popular Music proudly present a Cape Town based the spectacular Cape Town ensemble Abavuki.

This Afro-Fusion World Music Ensemble for six years and they have been described as “absolutely incredible” & “riveting”! After performing in 13 countries to crowds of up to 80,000 people, this will be their first time in Durbs!

The music is based on traditional African instruments (marimbas, drums & percussion) overlaid with brass (trumpet / trombone / saxophone) and vocals to create their unique, vibrant & contemporary Mzansi sound, firmly based on African music principles & influenced by kwaito, jazz and Latin American rhythms.

Bring the family - especially if your youngsters are in a marimba band or doing any kind of music - their minds will be blown! Doors open at 17h00 and music starts at 17h30.

 

 Hidden Gems

 

(Left: Lauren Hendricks. Pic supplied)

Wednesday April 23: Hidden Gems - A tribute to women of colour in South Africa, a presentation by Lauren Hendricks

Hidden Gems is a tribute to not only women of colour musicians in South African jazz from past to present but also highlighting their important contributions through their inspiring original works in a performance.

This performance is presented by Lauren Hendricks, a young musician/photographer who recently graduated with her masters in jazz studies at the University of Cape Town.

She explains; “My intent behind this performance/s is to create a space to pay tribute to iconic female musicians of colour in the South African jazz industry who have paved the way for many who have come before them. My aim is to bring recognition to these unseen heroines of South African Jazz through putting together a special performance that will feature all original compositions by a few pivotal voices that have made a lasting impact on the industry. This performance is a musical representation of a sense of community and a deep history through voices and song brought together to celebrate those who came before us and ensure the youth that their voice is of importance as well.”

This selection of South African Jazz repertoire has specifically been selected to represent women from each era, eg the past, the present and the future. This will feature musical works by legends such as Sathima Bea Benjamin a vocalist and composer who worked and recorded with the great Duke Ellington, Thelonious Monk and John Coltrane to name a few while living in the USA with her then husband Abdullah Ibraham. It will also feature singer/songwriter Tina Schouw who made her mark on the SA jazz scene in the late 1980’s and early 90’s focusing her music around the struggles of the time. There will also be a feature made by award-winning vocalist/composer/arranger and lecturer Abigail Petersen who came to light in the early 2000’s while working with Mike Campbell, Darryl Andrews and the iconic duo David Kramer and Taliep Petersen.

Hendricks adds: “I will also feature my original compositions focusing on the journey of young musicians. I believe this is an important and necessary project that celebrates the rich history of woman colour in South African jazz, featuring stories of our ancestors and the creating space for the upcoming youth. This new experience of live music and artwork is not to be missed.”

Gig listing:

Hiddengems takes place on April 23 at the UKZN Centre for Jazz and Popular Music. Doors open at 17h00, Music starts at 17h30.

Tickets: R130, R95 for pensioners, R65 for students. Bookings are now open at Webtickets!

https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1564979599 

 

Science and Jazz

In celebration of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, the newly-initiated Science with Jazz Seminar Series presents a stimulating April programme at the UKZN Centre for Jazz.

Taking place on April 24, the show opens at 17h00 and features Speaker: Quantum Scientist Professor Bienvenu Ndagano and Jazz Artists Ernest Dawkins and Sibusiso Mash Mashiloane.

The Centre for Jazz and Popular Music is located at Shepstone Building Level 2, Howard College Campus.

 

Abstract :

What happens as one tries to travel at the speed of light? Einstein’s theory predicts that for a given object with a certain mass, time will slow down as it approaches the speed of light, though never reaching. But what about light itself? Light particles, known as photons, have no mass and travel at the speed of light. Unlike for us human beings, time does not flow for photons.

Imagine a photon generated at the time of the Big Bang, flying through the expanding universe to reach our eye. While scientists would say that this series of events would have taken 13 million years, for that travelling photon, it took no time at all; everything happened at once. 

In quantum optics, we observe multiple phenomena that do not seem to care about time. In this seminar, we will explore the arrow of time in the context of quantum interferometry. This is a technique that has been used as a sophisticated stopwatch for photons, a method of timing light using light itself.

We will ask our photon a very mundane question: when did you arrive?  We will see that the answer to this question is more complicated than it appears and that photons have a knack for betraying our intuition and understanding of the physical world.

 

Bookings are now open at Webtickets!

https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1564979599