All the best to artSMart readers new and established. May 2009 be exciting, challenging and full of opportunities for all arts practitioners.
Thanks to my valued team of reviewers and contributors as well as to those who advertise on artSMart. Without their support, artSMart would not have achieved the success it has.
Caroline Smart, Editor of artSmart
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
BUCKLED
Pic: Meren Reddy and Leeanda Reddy
Hilarious two-hander one of the most entertaining theatre pieces of 2008. Review by Shika Budhoo)
The comedy drama, Buckled which opened in the Playhouse Drama on December 19 to play to five sold-out shows was one of the most entertaining theatre pieces I witnessed in 2008.
Buckled is the hilarious two-hander on marriage - the bliss, the woes and every nosy Parker, starring Leeanda Reddy and Meren Reddy. Leeanda Reddy, most recently popular for her role as Priya on SABC3’s Isidingo and Meren Reddy a popular theatre performer and known for his role on City Cesla. The actors (not actually married to each other) play the couple as well as various other characters that intrude in their lives and relationship. This piece of authentic theatre is directed by the well-known former Durbanite, Krijay Govender. From the makers of last year’s popular Queens of Comedy, Buckled presented the story of a young Indian couple, how they meet, fall in love and are now in preparation mode for the big day … the day they get BUCKLED.
The two Reddys convey the story through various extraordinary characters including a nosy old grandmother, Shalendra (the groom), Young Yash (the bride), Young Shelendra, the ‘old-school’ science teacher, a Muslim cook, Yash, Yash’s maid Strelitzia (Meren), Yash’s father (Leeanda), the photographer, Shalendra’s dominating interfering mother, ‘Action’: the gay Indian decorator with an American accent, and not forgetting drunk Uncle Eric (Leeanda).
The Story: Former school friends Yash (Leeanda) and Shalendra, are getting married … Yash is the beautiful bride to be from a well-to-do family … and Shalen the modern Indian guy from a loving home with an interfering mother. The play opens with Leeanda playing Shalendra’s Granny who is complaining about Shalen not being able to find his briefs and is about to get married …We are taken back in time when we are given a flashback to when the geeky younger Shalendra and a rotund younger Yash were schoolmates; Yash brings her father’s eye to school for science class ‘Show And Tell’ and Shalen, after poking and teasing from Yash about wetting his pants, steps on her father’s one eye … half-blinding him for life … this scene was a hilarious interpretation and presentation of typical Indian children in an Indian school with extremely witty repartee kicks off the plot of buckled.
From here on the two actors prepare for their wedding, we see hilarious interactions between mother and son, father and son-in-law, grandmother and grandson and other dynamics expected during a typical Indian wedding, with all its grandeur and complications. There are gripping characters - for example, the melodramatic photographer who pours out his woes; the interfering mother who manipulates and gets her way, she is quoted to have said to her son, the groom, “you are obviously mistaken, my boy… you think you are having a wedding … no! ... your mother is having a function”; the Zulu maid Strelitzia who is completely involved in the Indian culture, Bollywood and all … the drunk Uncle Eric played superbly by Leeanda, who comfortably crossed the gender barrier and presented an authentic example of the type of Uncle you ‘have’ to see at the night-before-the-wedding jol.
Sets changes were elaborate, with the stage transforming almost every five to seven minutes, scene changes were swift and covered by clever crowd-appealing music, which was either familiar or added to the atmosphere of the scene preceding or following.
The playlist included popular tracks like the A Team theme song, Love and Marriage, Staying Alive, Chunari Chunari (from Monsoon Wedding), Justin Timberlake I’m bringing sexy back, how will I know if he really loves me, the Frog mix and penny lover, amongst others…
After a little break-up just before the wedding because of cold feet and relationship differences, the couple in the final scene come together with every intention to spend forever together…
The entire story takes place in front of elaborate sets, with each scene change quick and impressive, making ample use of the technical facilities that the Playhouse Drama has on offer… my favourite setting was the flashback to when Shalendra proposed to Yash, the entire backstage was covered in floor to ceiling fairy lights, a giant tree, a very post-modern white tree centre stage, with a picnic bench and a picnic spot set up…. a beautifully comic scene with hilarious consequences that wowed the audience. On the technical side, the scene during which Action, the hired decorator sets up the hall in a manner of a conductor of an orchestra, is a brilliant example of all aspects of the theatre coming together in a brilliant theatre moment.
Buckled, is a brilliantly written piece of art, entertainment and a great vision on the festivities of the Indian wedding. The play was brilliant in all aspects from direction, performance, set changes, lighting and sound…a true theatre piece with all the components working to their optimum. Meren Reddy’s performance was as impressive as he always is, with a stirring display of different accents. Leeanda Reddy’s performance was outstanding beyond comparison, every character she portrayed was alive with truth and her comic timing is unlike any South African female actress I’ve seen recently.
If you missed this show, you’ve missed out… it is a show that entertains all, you need not know anything specific about Indian culture or weddings to enjoy this work of art, and if you do know what to expect from the typical Indian wedding experience, all the more reasons to attend. The short run at the Playhouse Drama from December 19 to 21 was sold out. There is no news so far as to its return to the East Coast but if it does return, be sure to book a seat – Shika Budhoo
CATCH!
Jacobus van Heerden takes his delightful one-hander to Hilton.
Catch - The hilarious adventure of Felix and Fred is to have two performances at the Hilton College Theatre.
Felix is a 22 year-old wannabe rock star who runs away from home in search of adventure while Fred is a 12 year old nerd sent to live with his Gran for a year. Both are newcomers to the town of Knysna where they form the unlikeliest of friendships. Together they embark on an illicit night-time fishing expedition which goes horribly wrong, to the tune of R5,000.
They enter the Knysna Big Fish Angling Challenge in the hope of catching their salvation! A sell-out at the 2008 Witness Hilton Arts Festival, Catch! stars Jacobus van Heerden.
There will be performances on January 23 and 24 at 19h30. Tickets R65 booked through Hilton College Theatre on 033 383 0126 or email tickets@hiltoncollege.com
Catch - The hilarious adventure of Felix and Fred is to have two performances at the Hilton College Theatre.
Felix is a 22 year-old wannabe rock star who runs away from home in search of adventure while Fred is a 12 year old nerd sent to live with his Gran for a year. Both are newcomers to the town of Knysna where they form the unlikeliest of friendships. Together they embark on an illicit night-time fishing expedition which goes horribly wrong, to the tune of R5,000.
They enter the Knysna Big Fish Angling Challenge in the hope of catching their salvation! A sell-out at the 2008 Witness Hilton Arts Festival, Catch! stars Jacobus van Heerden.
There will be performances on January 23 and 24 at 19h30. Tickets R65 booked through Hilton College Theatre on 033 383 0126 or email tickets@hiltoncollege.com
DEATH OF PETER MILLIN
Peter Millin was one of my dearest friends. (Tribute by Garth Anderson)
Following the death of Peter Millin in Pietermaritzburg last week, actor and director Garth Anderson pays tribute to a close friend.
We met in Pietermaritzburg in the Eighties, when I was running the Theatre Shop in Harwin’s Arcade. He arrived unannounced in my shop one morning and sparkled like the most precious diamond. He told me he wanted to present his children’s play The Selfish Giant, based on Oscar Wilde’s short story, in “Sleepy Hollow” (as Pietermaritzburg was often affectionately known) and he asked for my assistance.
To entice me, he performed the play there and then, in my shop - without an audience, without costume, without props, and I was enthralled. He was one of South Africa’s superstars and I had never heard of him. He performed with presence. He had a voice that could be heard. He spoke English with love. And from that moment, we became good friends.
Peter performed his play in Mrs Kettley’s beautiful rose garden. Mrs Kettley was set designer Sarah Roberts’ mother. I say his “play”, because he put the play together. He adapted it, he directed himself, he played all the characters.
From then on, Peter and I spoke nothing but theatre. We had wonderful fun compiling The Importance of Being Oscar, filched from pieces out of Oscar Wilde, ranging from the great man’s poems, de Profundis and his plays. We had the time of our lives playing everyone: Lady Bracknell, Gwendolyn, Cecily, the footmen and the stars.
That wasn’t enough for dear Peter. He was also an accomplished pianist. So he added the most beautiful music into the presentation. It was so entrancing. I was never so lucky. When I spoke Wilde’s most beautiful words, Peter accompanied me on the piano. We presented the play with enormous success in the Pietermaritzburg Art Gallery a couple of times. That wasn’t enough for us, so we trundled unannounced to unknown, out-of-the-way venues in the Natal Midlands and performed the play in the evenings. We presented it at Hilton College. Peter had the most companionable rapport with his audience, and he was a star. Whenever Peter performed, audiences were filled with delight by Peter. They loved him.
Peter and Vera Clare also had a wonderful theatrical working relationship. They had the greatest fun performing The Christmas Affair at Pietermaritzburg’s beautiful Cygnet Theatre in the 80s. Vera remembered that Peter cleverly enticed audiences by naughtily announcing in the sedate Natal Witness personal column that he and Vera were having an affair. That was very typically Peter. He had an incorrigibly naughty sense of humour and he loved to cause the normal world to tremble with indignation.
Before I met him, from 1964 to about 1970, Peter had worked for old NAPAC, the Natal Performing Arts Council (now the Playhouse Company) at the Alhambra Theatre.
Peter will be always lovingly remembered by his wife Theresa, his two sons, Mark and Matthew, and their families. – Garth Anderson
Following the death of Peter Millin in Pietermaritzburg last week, actor and director Garth Anderson pays tribute to a close friend.
We met in Pietermaritzburg in the Eighties, when I was running the Theatre Shop in Harwin’s Arcade. He arrived unannounced in my shop one morning and sparkled like the most precious diamond. He told me he wanted to present his children’s play The Selfish Giant, based on Oscar Wilde’s short story, in “Sleepy Hollow” (as Pietermaritzburg was often affectionately known) and he asked for my assistance.
To entice me, he performed the play there and then, in my shop - without an audience, without costume, without props, and I was enthralled. He was one of South Africa’s superstars and I had never heard of him. He performed with presence. He had a voice that could be heard. He spoke English with love. And from that moment, we became good friends.
Peter performed his play in Mrs Kettley’s beautiful rose garden. Mrs Kettley was set designer Sarah Roberts’ mother. I say his “play”, because he put the play together. He adapted it, he directed himself, he played all the characters.
From then on, Peter and I spoke nothing but theatre. We had wonderful fun compiling The Importance of Being Oscar, filched from pieces out of Oscar Wilde, ranging from the great man’s poems, de Profundis and his plays. We had the time of our lives playing everyone: Lady Bracknell, Gwendolyn, Cecily, the footmen and the stars.
That wasn’t enough for dear Peter. He was also an accomplished pianist. So he added the most beautiful music into the presentation. It was so entrancing. I was never so lucky. When I spoke Wilde’s most beautiful words, Peter accompanied me on the piano. We presented the play with enormous success in the Pietermaritzburg Art Gallery a couple of times. That wasn’t enough for us, so we trundled unannounced to unknown, out-of-the-way venues in the Natal Midlands and performed the play in the evenings. We presented it at Hilton College. Peter had the most companionable rapport with his audience, and he was a star. Whenever Peter performed, audiences were filled with delight by Peter. They loved him.
Peter and Vera Clare also had a wonderful theatrical working relationship. They had the greatest fun performing The Christmas Affair at Pietermaritzburg’s beautiful Cygnet Theatre in the 80s. Vera remembered that Peter cleverly enticed audiences by naughtily announcing in the sedate Natal Witness personal column that he and Vera were having an affair. That was very typically Peter. He had an incorrigibly naughty sense of humour and he loved to cause the normal world to tremble with indignation.
Before I met him, from 1964 to about 1970, Peter had worked for old NAPAC, the Natal Performing Arts Council (now the Playhouse Company) at the Alhambra Theatre.
Peter will be always lovingly remembered by his wife Theresa, his two sons, Mark and Matthew, and their families. – Garth Anderson
Monday, December 29, 2008
AMERICAN AUCTION
Lindsay Gallery continues American auctions on artworks in the gallery to end January.
The Lindsay Gallery is continuing an American auction on the artworks in the Gallery until the end of January 2009.
“We have work by Margaret Gradwell, Charmaine Eastment, Dave Griffiths, Hussein Salim, Raja Oshi, Makiwa Mutomba, Jane Digby and Judy Wentzel amongst others on display,” says gallery owner Lindsay Sommer.
The Lindsay Gallery is at 289 Blackburn Road, Durban North, and the telephone number is 031 563 3961.
The Lindsay Gallery is continuing an American auction on the artworks in the Gallery until the end of January 2009.
“We have work by Margaret Gradwell, Charmaine Eastment, Dave Griffiths, Hussein Salim, Raja Oshi, Makiwa Mutomba, Jane Digby and Judy Wentzel amongst others on display,” says gallery owner Lindsay Sommer.
The Lindsay Gallery is at 289 Blackburn Road, Durban North, and the telephone number is 031 563 3961.
DAS BOOT
MNet to screen dramatic war movie on January5.
On January 5 at 21h00, MNet will screen Das Boot with Jurgen Prochnow and Herbert Gronemeyer directed in 1982 by Wolfgang Petersen.
Assigned to sink Allied war ships in the Atlantic, German submarine U-96 departs France and heads to sea. Joining the mission is Lt. Werner (Herbert Gröenemeyer), a journalist who's been assigned to the crew.
Sighting a convoy, the Captain (Jürgen Prochnow) torpedoes three ships, and then watches as the helpless survivors drown. Spotted by the enemy, U-96 becomes involved in a desperate game of cat and mouse, resulting in a near-death episode when, forced to submerge to impossible depths, the sub breaks down on the ocean's floor.
On January 5 at 21h00, MNet will screen Das Boot with Jurgen Prochnow and Herbert Gronemeyer directed in 1982 by Wolfgang Petersen.
Assigned to sink Allied war ships in the Atlantic, German submarine U-96 departs France and heads to sea. Joining the mission is Lt. Werner (Herbert Gröenemeyer), a journalist who's been assigned to the crew.
Sighting a convoy, the Captain (Jürgen Prochnow) torpedoes three ships, and then watches as the helpless survivors drown. Spotted by the enemy, U-96 becomes involved in a desperate game of cat and mouse, resulting in a near-death episode when, forced to submerge to impossible depths, the sub breaks down on the ocean's floor.
MNET TO SCREEN AGUILERA’S LIVE PERFORMANCES
Christina Aguilera “Back to Basics: Live & Down Under” to be screened on MNet on January 1.
On January 1 at 21h30, MNet will screen one of Christina Aguilera's most energetic live performances which took place in Australia as a lead–up to the release of her Back to Basics – Live & Down Under concert DVD.
Her vocal abilities are strongly emphasised in this special, as she features the songs that made her music career a success, including the hits, Ain't No Other Man, Candyman, Dirrty, Come On Over, What A Girl Wants, Hurt, Fighter and the Grammy-winning smash hit Beautiful.
On January 1 at 21h30, MNet will screen one of Christina Aguilera's most energetic live performances which took place in Australia as a lead–up to the release of her Back to Basics – Live & Down Under concert DVD.
Her vocal abilities are strongly emphasised in this special, as she features the songs that made her music career a success, including the hits, Ain't No Other Man, Candyman, Dirrty, Come On Over, What A Girl Wants, Hurt, Fighter and the Grammy-winning smash hit Beautiful.
SNOW WHITE
MNet to screen Janice Honeyman’s pantomime on January 1 at 14h10.
On January 1 at 14h10, MNet is to screen Snow White The Pantomime, another Janice Honeyman brainchild.
The cast include irrepressible and irreplaceable Tobie Cronje, singer and actress Bianca le Grange, former Idols Top 5 finalist Daniel Buys and Steven Hicks, lead actor in Full Monty
On January 1 at 14h10, MNet is to screen Snow White The Pantomime, another Janice Honeyman brainchild.
The cast include irrepressible and irreplaceable Tobie Cronje, singer and actress Bianca le Grange, former Idols Top 5 finalist Daniel Buys and Steven Hicks, lead actor in Full Monty
FRINGE
New sci-fi drama to be screened on MNet from January 8.
Starting on January 8 at 21h30, Fringe is a new sci-fi drama series that revolves around FBI special agent Olivia Dunham (played by Anna Torv) and Peter Bishop (played by Joshua Jackson) who investigate phenomena like telepathy, invisibility and genetic mutation that take place for unknown reasons.
In an attempt to stop the spread and determine the source, they enlist the assistance of Bishop’s estranged father, the institutionalised scientist, Dr Walter Bishop (played by John Noble).
Starting on January 8 at 21h30, Fringe is a new sci-fi drama series that revolves around FBI special agent Olivia Dunham (played by Anna Torv) and Peter Bishop (played by Joshua Jackson) who investigate phenomena like telepathy, invisibility and genetic mutation that take place for unknown reasons.
In an attempt to stop the spread and determine the source, they enlist the assistance of Bishop’s estranged father, the institutionalised scientist, Dr Walter Bishop (played by John Noble).
90210
New international series to start on MNet on January 8.
Starting on MNet on January 8 at 19h30 is the new international series 90210.
If you enjoyed the likes of Tori Spelling, Matt Damon and Jason Priestley from Beverley Hills 90210, then the ‘new 90210’ will definitely keep you glued to your screen.
As a contemporary spin-off of the iconic drama Beverly Hills 90210, the new 90210 looks at life through the eyes of Annie Wilson (played by Shenae Grimes) and her brother Dixon (Tristan Wilds), whose first day at West Beverly Hills High School leaves no doubt that they're not in Kansas anymore. The Wilson family, including dad Harry (played by Rob Estes) and mom Debbie (Lori Loughlin), have relocated to Beverly Hills to keep an eye on Harry's mother Tabitha (Jessica Walter), a feisty former television star and a charter member of the Betty Ford Clinic.
For Annie and Dixon, the awkwardness of being the new kids is made worse by the fact that their dad has taken a job as the high school principal. As close siblings, their relationship will hopefully help them cope with their teachers and counselors as well as their somewhat bossy classmates.
Even they haven’t yet already, the Wilsons are about to realise how much their lives are about to change.
Starting on MNet on January 8 at 19h30 is the new international series 90210.
If you enjoyed the likes of Tori Spelling, Matt Damon and Jason Priestley from Beverley Hills 90210, then the ‘new 90210’ will definitely keep you glued to your screen.
As a contemporary spin-off of the iconic drama Beverly Hills 90210, the new 90210 looks at life through the eyes of Annie Wilson (played by Shenae Grimes) and her brother Dixon (Tristan Wilds), whose first day at West Beverly Hills High School leaves no doubt that they're not in Kansas anymore. The Wilson family, including dad Harry (played by Rob Estes) and mom Debbie (Lori Loughlin), have relocated to Beverly Hills to keep an eye on Harry's mother Tabitha (Jessica Walter), a feisty former television star and a charter member of the Betty Ford Clinic.
For Annie and Dixon, the awkwardness of being the new kids is made worse by the fact that their dad has taken a job as the high school principal. As close siblings, their relationship will hopefully help them cope with their teachers and counselors as well as their somewhat bossy classmates.
Even they haven’t yet already, the Wilsons are about to realise how much their lives are about to change.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
KZN ARTISTS TO GET START-ED!
Visual artists over 18 and at the early stage of their art career are invited to enter prestigious competition.
Visual artists of all art mediums, with an exception of video, residing in KwaZulu-Natal have the opportunity to get their career off to a flying ‘start’ by entering the fifth START THE NIVEA ART AWARD. This exciting competition provides the opportunity for one talented artist to win R20,000 cash, a sponsored art studio and art materials for six months and a solo exhibition at KZNSA Gallery.
In addition, the second and third prize winners will take home R10,000 and R5,000 cash respectively. At an awards ceremony to be held on July 14, 2009, the three winners will be announced and the cash prizes presented.
Mitja Zupancic, Managing Director of Beiersdorf South Africa, comments, “For the many extremely talented artists in KwaZulu-Natal, turning their talents into a career is just a dream. Sadly, limited opportunity and means prevents most of the undiscovered talent in this region from turning mainstream. Through START THE NIVEA ART AWARD, we are able to help some of these artists each year to kick start their careers in the visual arts.”
To qualify, artists must be over 18 years of age and should be at the early stage of their art career, having not yet won any previous prestigious art awards. For the first time, the competition is now open to all visual art mediums except video.
To enter, artists should submit an entry form together with an art portfolio comprising no less than three A5 size photographs of their best existing artworks, as well as short curriculum vitae of their art career.
From entries that come in from throughout KwaZulu-Natal, 60 artists will be short-listed and will be required to submit one of their best artworks to KZNSA Gallery. A distinguished panel of judges will select 25 finalists from these 60 artworks. The 25 finalists will each receive R1,500 from Beiersdorf to create a unique, commissioned artwork, within a three-month time frame. The artists are required to incorporate this year’s theme, Beauty Is ... into their competition piece. All artworks will be unique interpretations of this theme and will be exhibited for sale at the final exhibition, which runs from July 14 to August 8, 2009, at KZNSA Gallery.
Each finalist will have the opportunity to work with well-known South African artists who will be their mentors for the creation phase. These mentors will offer guidance creatively and technically, as well as on other aspects such as the use of materials and pricing of the finished artworks.
Entry forms are available at most KwaZulu-Natal art galleries, or can be obtained by phoning 031 573 2154 or emailing nivea.art.award@beiersdorf.com
NIVEA has been synonymous with care for people all around the world for almost a century, representing reliability, understanding, humanity, love and harmony. These values form the essence of START THE NIVEA ART AWARD, an initiative designed to help identify, develop, uplift and inspire talented KwaZulu-Natal artists. In line with NIVEA’s philosophy to help bring out the best in individuals, START THE NIVEA ART AWARD was created by Beiersdorf. It is an investment which aims to assist artists with great potential to carve a career for themselves in the arts and, ultimately, to enhance South Africa’s art heritage in the process.
Visual artists of all art mediums, with an exception of video, residing in KwaZulu-Natal have the opportunity to get their career off to a flying ‘start’ by entering the fifth START THE NIVEA ART AWARD. This exciting competition provides the opportunity for one talented artist to win R20,000 cash, a sponsored art studio and art materials for six months and a solo exhibition at KZNSA Gallery.
In addition, the second and third prize winners will take home R10,000 and R5,000 cash respectively. At an awards ceremony to be held on July 14, 2009, the three winners will be announced and the cash prizes presented.
Mitja Zupancic, Managing Director of Beiersdorf South Africa, comments, “For the many extremely talented artists in KwaZulu-Natal, turning their talents into a career is just a dream. Sadly, limited opportunity and means prevents most of the undiscovered talent in this region from turning mainstream. Through START THE NIVEA ART AWARD, we are able to help some of these artists each year to kick start their careers in the visual arts.”
To qualify, artists must be over 18 years of age and should be at the early stage of their art career, having not yet won any previous prestigious art awards. For the first time, the competition is now open to all visual art mediums except video.
To enter, artists should submit an entry form together with an art portfolio comprising no less than three A5 size photographs of their best existing artworks, as well as short curriculum vitae of their art career.
From entries that come in from throughout KwaZulu-Natal, 60 artists will be short-listed and will be required to submit one of their best artworks to KZNSA Gallery. A distinguished panel of judges will select 25 finalists from these 60 artworks. The 25 finalists will each receive R1,500 from Beiersdorf to create a unique, commissioned artwork, within a three-month time frame. The artists are required to incorporate this year’s theme, Beauty Is ... into their competition piece. All artworks will be unique interpretations of this theme and will be exhibited for sale at the final exhibition, which runs from July 14 to August 8, 2009, at KZNSA Gallery.
Each finalist will have the opportunity to work with well-known South African artists who will be their mentors for the creation phase. These mentors will offer guidance creatively and technically, as well as on other aspects such as the use of materials and pricing of the finished artworks.
Entry forms are available at most KwaZulu-Natal art galleries, or can be obtained by phoning 031 573 2154 or emailing nivea.art.award@beiersdorf.com
NIVEA has been synonymous with care for people all around the world for almost a century, representing reliability, understanding, humanity, love and harmony. These values form the essence of START THE NIVEA ART AWARD, an initiative designed to help identify, develop, uplift and inspire talented KwaZulu-Natal artists. In line with NIVEA’s philosophy to help bring out the best in individuals, START THE NIVEA ART AWARD was created by Beiersdorf. It is an investment which aims to assist artists with great potential to carve a career for themselves in the arts and, ultimately, to enhance South Africa’s art heritage in the process.
SALLY SILVER
Former South African outstanding lyric coloratura soprano signed by Robert Clarke Management Ltd.
Robert Clarke Management Ltd. is delighted to announce the signing of outstanding lyric coloratura soprano, Sally Silver.
Sally's career began in her home country of South Africa, where she became one of their renowned young opera singers, performing nationwide both in opera and in concert with all the major orchestras.
Durban audiences will remember her for her appearances with the KZN Philharmonic as well as in Geoffrey Sutherland’s original Queen at the Opera at the Playhouse.
Since her move to London, Sally has appeared throughout Europe as well as in the UK with such organisations as English National Opera, Scottish Opera, the London Symphony Orchestra and the BBC Symphony Orchestra. She performed with the KZNPO on its prestigious Euro Tour in 2004 when it appeared at the Barbican alongside the London Symphony Orchestra.
Her repertoire includes Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor (Lucia) and Maria Stuarda; Ades’ Powder Her Face (Duchess); Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro (Susanna and Contessa), Don Giovanni (Donna Elvira) and Cosi fan tutte (Despina and Fiordiligi); Verdi's La Traviata (Violetta), Rigoletto (Gilda) and Falstaff (Nanetta) as well as works by Meyerbeer, J Strauss, Puccini, Menotti and Berlioz.
Sally makes her role debut as Elvira in Bellini's I Puritani in a concert performance with Scottish Opera in March, 2009.
For a full biography and repertoire visit www.sallysilver.org.uk
Robert Clarke Management Ltd. is delighted to announce the signing of outstanding lyric coloratura soprano, Sally Silver.
Sally's career began in her home country of South Africa, where she became one of their renowned young opera singers, performing nationwide both in opera and in concert with all the major orchestras.
Durban audiences will remember her for her appearances with the KZN Philharmonic as well as in Geoffrey Sutherland’s original Queen at the Opera at the Playhouse.
Since her move to London, Sally has appeared throughout Europe as well as in the UK with such organisations as English National Opera, Scottish Opera, the London Symphony Orchestra and the BBC Symphony Orchestra. She performed with the KZNPO on its prestigious Euro Tour in 2004 when it appeared at the Barbican alongside the London Symphony Orchestra.
Her repertoire includes Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor (Lucia) and Maria Stuarda; Ades’ Powder Her Face (Duchess); Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro (Susanna and Contessa), Don Giovanni (Donna Elvira) and Cosi fan tutte (Despina and Fiordiligi); Verdi's La Traviata (Violetta), Rigoletto (Gilda) and Falstaff (Nanetta) as well as works by Meyerbeer, J Strauss, Puccini, Menotti and Berlioz.
Sally makes her role debut as Elvira in Bellini's I Puritani in a concert performance with Scottish Opera in March, 2009.
For a full biography and repertoire visit www.sallysilver.org.uk
THE BLARNEY BROTHERS
Durban’s famous Irish group appearing at Riverside until December 30.
Durban's famous Irish group, The Blarney Brothers, are at The Riverside Hotel's Conference Centre in Durban North until December 30.
The legendary three-man group have been at the heart of South Africa's music business for 34 years, livening up parties and other gala events with their unique style of music, including Irish ballads, foot tapping pub songs, popular 'newies' and even the occasional Irish jig. The Blarney Brothers are Paul and Damien McIlroy and Tony Fisher.
Tickets R70. Booking: 031 563 0600.
Durban's famous Irish group, The Blarney Brothers, are at The Riverside Hotel's Conference Centre in Durban North until December 30.
The legendary three-man group have been at the heart of South Africa's music business for 34 years, livening up parties and other gala events with their unique style of music, including Irish ballads, foot tapping pub songs, popular 'newies' and even the occasional Irish jig. The Blarney Brothers are Paul and Damien McIlroy and Tony Fisher.
Tickets R70. Booking: 031 563 0600.
BOTSOTSO POETRY PUBLICATIONS
Contemporary poetry burning with love and anger.
Botsotso Publishing launches three new books in Pretoria and Johannesburg.
Bluesology and Bofelosophy by Mphutlane wa Bofelo: The poems, stories and essays of Mphutlane wa Bofelo work within a framework of thinking that is an amalgam of philosophies: Black Consciousness, humanistic Islam and socialism. His voice is both lyrical and satirical, even as his barbs are sharp and his kisses tender. His beats are complex poly-rhythms that roll on in incantatory style or achieve a mystical brevity. This multi-genre collection appropriately represents his spiritually creative and socially active life.
Izinhlungu Zomphefumulo (Emotional Pain) by Bongekile Mbanjwa; English translations by Siphiwe ka Ngwenya. These thirty-five poems reflect life in Kwa-Zulu/Natal but have a wider relevance as the perspectives of a woman dealing with the uprooting of the 'old' ways and the uncertain evolution of the New South Africa. As Bongekile Mbanjwa says, "Inhloso yokubhala lencwadi yezinkondlo kumbhali kwabe kungukwenza ubuhlungu, ukudideka kanye nokuhlukumezeka okwahlukahlukene esibhekana nacho imihla ngemihla yokuphila kwethu. Leminjunju kuyofuneka ilandelwe yisisombululo salenkanankana." (My aim in writing this book was to expose pain, confusion and the different types of abuse we face every day of our lives. I also wish to show that this suffering and pain must be followed by solutions.)
Sections of Six (edited by Allan Kolski Horwitz) features work by Khanyi Magubane, Matodzi Gift Ramashia and Alison Green (who will be present) and Natalie Railoun, Abu Bakr Solomons and Thuto Mako. The book contains compact selections of 20 poems by each and is complemented by photographs by Natalie Railoun, Neo Ntsoma and Thuto Mako. The range of South Africans' often fragmented experience is best captured when individual testimonies are placed side by side – not to replace but to augment each other. These six poets cover a wide spectrum of situations, moods and concerns – sections of six spirits laid bare for those who wish to appreciate the multiplicity of our identities.
Botsotso Publishing launches three new books in Pretoria and Johannesburg.
Bluesology and Bofelosophy by Mphutlane wa Bofelo: The poems, stories and essays of Mphutlane wa Bofelo work within a framework of thinking that is an amalgam of philosophies: Black Consciousness, humanistic Islam and socialism. His voice is both lyrical and satirical, even as his barbs are sharp and his kisses tender. His beats are complex poly-rhythms that roll on in incantatory style or achieve a mystical brevity. This multi-genre collection appropriately represents his spiritually creative and socially active life.
Izinhlungu Zomphefumulo (Emotional Pain) by Bongekile Mbanjwa; English translations by Siphiwe ka Ngwenya. These thirty-five poems reflect life in Kwa-Zulu/Natal but have a wider relevance as the perspectives of a woman dealing with the uprooting of the 'old' ways and the uncertain evolution of the New South Africa. As Bongekile Mbanjwa says, "Inhloso yokubhala lencwadi yezinkondlo kumbhali kwabe kungukwenza ubuhlungu, ukudideka kanye nokuhlukumezeka okwahlukahlukene esibhekana nacho imihla ngemihla yokuphila kwethu. Leminjunju kuyofuneka ilandelwe yisisombululo salenkanankana." (My aim in writing this book was to expose pain, confusion and the different types of abuse we face every day of our lives. I also wish to show that this suffering and pain must be followed by solutions.)
Sections of Six (edited by Allan Kolski Horwitz) features work by Khanyi Magubane, Matodzi Gift Ramashia and Alison Green (who will be present) and Natalie Railoun, Abu Bakr Solomons and Thuto Mako. The book contains compact selections of 20 poems by each and is complemented by photographs by Natalie Railoun, Neo Ntsoma and Thuto Mako. The range of South Africans' often fragmented experience is best captured when individual testimonies are placed side by side – not to replace but to augment each other. These six poets cover a wide spectrum of situations, moods and concerns – sections of six spirits laid bare for those who wish to appreciate the multiplicity of our identities.
COLOUR ME BEAUTIFUL!
Decorex Durban & Hirsch’s Kitchen & Bathroom Faire:
Decorex Durban & Hirsch’s Kitchen & Bathroom Faire will be blazing into Durban again in March next year. Until then, and in an attempt to sustain all budding and professional designers in the city, the team has sprung into action and identified some of the latest trends emerging in Europe and the United States.
The colour palette for 2009 has turned away from solid panels of colour to a more varied approach which features elements from the same tonal families. While 2008 trends are still in force, they have undergone a subtle transformation to reflect various global movements - the dominant earthy hues have matured into a more meditative state, featuring cool blues and greens, with a touch of indigo and violet. Another exciting trend for next year is that of global fusion, an eclectic blend of colours influenced by traditional folklore and local markets. Think jewel colours, spice tones, richly embroidered Indian saris and the sensory delights of the Marrakech markets.
The eco-friendly movement is still gaining momentum, with a strong focus going forward on natural, simple colours. The inspiration here is on purity and the dramatic interplay of light and shadow. The palette consists of soft greys, toasts and corals and offers a sharp contrast to the embellishment of the solar hued trend of mandarin orange, fuchsia red and wineberry that is still very popular. Mustard and plum are also out in force and are carried through the décor in homes internationally in soft furnishings and finishes.
Safari chic has re-emerged but with an understated and elegant touch, featuring toned-down and washed-out animal prints combined with organic colouring and textures. Vintage is still strong with antique pieces being revamped with fun, colourful and bold fabrics lending an eye-popping element to Regency and Chippendale chairs.
The glamour of yesteryear’s Hollywood starlets has been reinvented in the bedroom, with classy and elegant shimmer finishes and mirrored furniture artfully blending Neo-Classic, Asian Baroque and Art Deco into a sumptuous and decadent sensual experience. Soft furnishings are also displaying a distinct ethnic slant, with inspiration being found in Shwe-Shwe fabric and Masai Mira body painting.
Asian lacquer furniture and metallic patinas are cutting a broad swath in design circles and this chic, stylish trend is complimented by the bright and vibrant colours of India and Africa. The influence of New England is also becoming popular – this trend invokes shots of bright colour mixed in with rustic worn neutrals and shabby chic. Matt black and high gloss white has not lost its impact and is highlighted by a new trend in kitchens of combining these with frosted glass finishes and patterned glass lighting featuring snowflakes and delicate flowers. Metallic accents and metal grillwork, together with fleur de lis and stripes, are the motifs and highlights of choice.
These trends have been spotted at prominent trade shows in Las Vegas and London and are sure to be pivotal influences at the show in March 2009 – where a ‘new fusion’ theme of Eclectic & Charming will highlight the best that the Durban design scene has to offer.
With Plascon as main sponsor and SABC3 as media partner, the show is to be held again at the International Convention Centre. As the Director of Decorex, Melanie Robinson, says, “The trends flowing into South Africa at the moment are very exciting - and we are perfectly suited to this wave of combining cultural influences to create unique and inspiring homes!” Don’t forget to pick up the latest copy of Plascon COLOUR for more COLOUR tips, tricks and inspiration.
Creative inspiration drawn from the rich, free spirit of Durban is what makes this year so exciting. Cairey Slater, general manager exhibitions, says “The Decorex experience is a playing field where differences are celebrated and where it’s more about the mix than the match. Combining local material with the sophistication of international trends has resulted in a collaboration of true design diversity. Decorex Durban & Hirsch’s Kitchen & Bathroom Faire 2009 brings an echo of Durban’s colourful vibrant cultural and warm cheer mixed with an affluent colonial seaside adventure.”
Decorex Durban & Hirsch’s Kitchen & Bathroom Faire takes place from March 19 to 22 at ICC Durban. Tickets R40. More information from Hunt PR on 031 566 1777 or email: kirsten@huntpr.co.za
Decorex Durban & Hirsch’s Kitchen & Bathroom Faire will be blazing into Durban again in March next year. Until then, and in an attempt to sustain all budding and professional designers in the city, the team has sprung into action and identified some of the latest trends emerging in Europe and the United States.
The colour palette for 2009 has turned away from solid panels of colour to a more varied approach which features elements from the same tonal families. While 2008 trends are still in force, they have undergone a subtle transformation to reflect various global movements - the dominant earthy hues have matured into a more meditative state, featuring cool blues and greens, with a touch of indigo and violet. Another exciting trend for next year is that of global fusion, an eclectic blend of colours influenced by traditional folklore and local markets. Think jewel colours, spice tones, richly embroidered Indian saris and the sensory delights of the Marrakech markets.
The eco-friendly movement is still gaining momentum, with a strong focus going forward on natural, simple colours. The inspiration here is on purity and the dramatic interplay of light and shadow. The palette consists of soft greys, toasts and corals and offers a sharp contrast to the embellishment of the solar hued trend of mandarin orange, fuchsia red and wineberry that is still very popular. Mustard and plum are also out in force and are carried through the décor in homes internationally in soft furnishings and finishes.
Safari chic has re-emerged but with an understated and elegant touch, featuring toned-down and washed-out animal prints combined with organic colouring and textures. Vintage is still strong with antique pieces being revamped with fun, colourful and bold fabrics lending an eye-popping element to Regency and Chippendale chairs.
The glamour of yesteryear’s Hollywood starlets has been reinvented in the bedroom, with classy and elegant shimmer finishes and mirrored furniture artfully blending Neo-Classic, Asian Baroque and Art Deco into a sumptuous and decadent sensual experience. Soft furnishings are also displaying a distinct ethnic slant, with inspiration being found in Shwe-Shwe fabric and Masai Mira body painting.
Asian lacquer furniture and metallic patinas are cutting a broad swath in design circles and this chic, stylish trend is complimented by the bright and vibrant colours of India and Africa. The influence of New England is also becoming popular – this trend invokes shots of bright colour mixed in with rustic worn neutrals and shabby chic. Matt black and high gloss white has not lost its impact and is highlighted by a new trend in kitchens of combining these with frosted glass finishes and patterned glass lighting featuring snowflakes and delicate flowers. Metallic accents and metal grillwork, together with fleur de lis and stripes, are the motifs and highlights of choice.
These trends have been spotted at prominent trade shows in Las Vegas and London and are sure to be pivotal influences at the show in March 2009 – where a ‘new fusion’ theme of Eclectic & Charming will highlight the best that the Durban design scene has to offer.
With Plascon as main sponsor and SABC3 as media partner, the show is to be held again at the International Convention Centre. As the Director of Decorex, Melanie Robinson, says, “The trends flowing into South Africa at the moment are very exciting - and we are perfectly suited to this wave of combining cultural influences to create unique and inspiring homes!” Don’t forget to pick up the latest copy of Plascon COLOUR for more COLOUR tips, tricks and inspiration.
Creative inspiration drawn from the rich, free spirit of Durban is what makes this year so exciting. Cairey Slater, general manager exhibitions, says “The Decorex experience is a playing field where differences are celebrated and where it’s more about the mix than the match. Combining local material with the sophistication of international trends has resulted in a collaboration of true design diversity. Decorex Durban & Hirsch’s Kitchen & Bathroom Faire 2009 brings an echo of Durban’s colourful vibrant cultural and warm cheer mixed with an affluent colonial seaside adventure.”
Decorex Durban & Hirsch’s Kitchen & Bathroom Faire takes place from March 19 to 22 at ICC Durban. Tickets R40. More information from Hunt PR on 031 566 1777 or email: kirsten@huntpr.co.za
GOLDEN GLOBE PRESENTERS
Glenn Close, Ricky Gervais and Jake Gyllenhaal set as presenters at Golden Globe Awards
Glenn Close, Ricky Gervais and Jake Gyllenhaal have been set as presenters at The 66th Annual Golden Globe Awards, set to take place on January 11 at The Beverly Hilton and to be screened on M-Net.
They join previously announced presenters Simon Baker, Drew Barrymore, Sacha Baron Cohen, Salma Hayek, Jennifer Lopez, Amy Poehler and Seth Rogen.
Steven Spielberg will receive this year's Cecil B. DeMille Award from the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for his "outstanding contribution to the entertainment field."
The 66th Annual Golden Globe Awards will be seen in more than 160 countries worldwide and is one of the few awards ceremonies that span both television and motion picture achievements. There will be a live crossing on January 12 at 03h00 on MM1 and again on M-Net at 20h30 on the same night.
Glenn Close, Ricky Gervais and Jake Gyllenhaal have been set as presenters at The 66th Annual Golden Globe Awards, set to take place on January 11 at The Beverly Hilton and to be screened on M-Net.
They join previously announced presenters Simon Baker, Drew Barrymore, Sacha Baron Cohen, Salma Hayek, Jennifer Lopez, Amy Poehler and Seth Rogen.
Steven Spielberg will receive this year's Cecil B. DeMille Award from the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for his "outstanding contribution to the entertainment field."
The 66th Annual Golden Globe Awards will be seen in more than 160 countries worldwide and is one of the few awards ceremonies that span both television and motion picture achievements. There will be a live crossing on January 12 at 03h00 on MM1 and again on M-Net at 20h30 on the same night.
MR BONES 2 RACES TO ANOTHER RECORD
Leon Schuster’s latest movie earns almost R19m in less than three weeks.
Leon Schuster’s Mr Bones 2 has raced to another box office record by earning almost R19 million in less than three weeks, reaching this record figure faster than any other film opening before the start of a holiday season in South Africa. The Gateway Cinema in Durban has emerged as the highest earning complex in the country, earning almost R1.2 million in this period.
The film has also earned more at the South African box office than High School Musical 3, Quantum of Solace, Mamma Mia and Titanic in the comparative period.
“We are delighted that Mr Bones 2 is performing exceptionally well at the box office despite competition from international blockbuster films,” commented producer, Anant Singh. “This proves yet again that South Africa audiences simply love Leon Schuster and his brand of comedy.”
Industry insiders are impressed with the performance of Mr Bones 2 and estimate that in two weeks from now, it will out-gross Mamma Mia’s total box office revenue of R25 million which was earned over a three month period. They also predict that Mr Bones 2 will out-gross the record box office of R40 million earned by Titanic by the end of February 2009.
Mr Bones 2 is a Videovision Entertainment release through United International Pictures (South Africa).
Mr Bones 2: Back From The Past is a Videovision Entertainment production in association with the SABC, Distant Horizon and Mr Bones (Pty) Ltd. The film stars Leon Schuster, Leeanda Reddy, Tongayi Chirisa and Kaseran Pillay. It is edited by Johan Lategan and director of photography is Chris Schutte with music by Didi Kriel. The film is executive produced by Sudhir Pragjee and Sanjeev Singh with the screenplay by Leon Schuster and Gray Hofmeyr. It is produced by Anant Singh and Helena Spring and directed by Gray Hofmeyr.
Leon Schuster’s Mr Bones 2 has raced to another box office record by earning almost R19 million in less than three weeks, reaching this record figure faster than any other film opening before the start of a holiday season in South Africa. The Gateway Cinema in Durban has emerged as the highest earning complex in the country, earning almost R1.2 million in this period.
The film has also earned more at the South African box office than High School Musical 3, Quantum of Solace, Mamma Mia and Titanic in the comparative period.
“We are delighted that Mr Bones 2 is performing exceptionally well at the box office despite competition from international blockbuster films,” commented producer, Anant Singh. “This proves yet again that South Africa audiences simply love Leon Schuster and his brand of comedy.”
Industry insiders are impressed with the performance of Mr Bones 2 and estimate that in two weeks from now, it will out-gross Mamma Mia’s total box office revenue of R25 million which was earned over a three month period. They also predict that Mr Bones 2 will out-gross the record box office of R40 million earned by Titanic by the end of February 2009.
Mr Bones 2 is a Videovision Entertainment release through United International Pictures (South Africa).
Mr Bones 2: Back From The Past is a Videovision Entertainment production in association with the SABC, Distant Horizon and Mr Bones (Pty) Ltd. The film stars Leon Schuster, Leeanda Reddy, Tongayi Chirisa and Kaseran Pillay. It is edited by Johan Lategan and director of photography is Chris Schutte with music by Didi Kriel. The film is executive produced by Sudhir Pragjee and Sanjeev Singh with the screenplay by Leon Schuster and Gray Hofmeyr. It is produced by Anant Singh and Helena Spring and directed by Gray Hofmeyr.
FREEDOM EXTRAVAGANZA
Newlands West educational theatre group completes six years of existence.
Freedom Extravaganza is an educational theatre group founded in May 2002 by artist and director Thami “TK” Khuzwayo to fight and tackle the social issues facing South African youth especially HIV/AIDS. The group has its roots in the community of Newlands West, a large township in Durban. Freedom Extravaganza comprises 24 dedicated and motivated young people practicing theatre, dance and music to empower other young people of South Africa. Most of the shows include African traditional dance, songs and music and modern choreography, all composed by the members.
“The main reason to start this positive theatre initiative was that many young people of Newlands West were starting to engage themselves in negative things such as crime and drugs, and worse of all the increasing rate of young people who were dying from HIV/AIDS,” explains TK. “A need for a change was in demand, since not much was done about the situation in our community where everyone is struggling for life.
“In South Africa more than four out of ten people are HIV positive. This number is expected to grow in the next five years. The young people are expected to be the main victims of this killer disease. Since the 1980’s, the world has become familiar with the AIDS virus. Especially in Southern Africa, the disease is taking millions of lives. As an organization with its roots in using theatre as a tool for AIDS education, we want to keep on putting energy in the fight against this disease. We want to find a fresh, strong path in which we can catch and keep the attention from the people.”
Freedom Extravaganza approaches the end of 2008 with a feeling of achievement having completed six years of its existence.
In September, they hosted the Amasiko Theatre Festival at the school hall of Riverdene which included the support of the Newlands SAPS, Newlands West Taxi Assoc, Freedom Extravaganza, and the Interfellowship Church. All the high schools in the area were invited as well as the Newlands and Westrich communities.
The highlights of the festival were two of Freedom Extravaganza’s main productions. These were: Heroes of South Africa, which covers the struggle of the past and present with a strong focus on HIV Aids, and Ntombi in the River which deals with how Zulu men used to approach women with respect in the past and how different the situation is today.
The theatre festival included a poetry section as well as a debate on the theme of whether the much-vaunted 2010 would benefit the poor.
The group then embarked on a two-week tour of Namibia in December where they have been performing their play titled The Healing Journey.
Productions include Heroes of South Africa (2005-2006) and The Song in your Head (2004-2005).
In 2004, the drama student Jasper Hoogenboom from the Netherlands joined Freedom Extravaganza for two months in a production called Moving Mountains which was the first location theatre production to take place in Newlands.
Two of the members of Freedom Extravaganza were guest actors in the Dutch-Namibian co-production The Waterhole. In 2006, this show was part of the EARTH Festival in Vancouver (Canada) and at the NCDO Wilde Ganzen Day in the Netherlands. The play takes audiences back in time to a world where silence goes before sound, where slow pace goes before hurry and where fur patterns are natural and not trendy.
Contact Thami Khuzwayo (TK), Freedom Extravaganza’s director, on 076 968 3066. Mail should be addressed to 2145 Westrich, Rockrich, Newlands West, Durban, 4037, or pay them a visit at Riverdene Secondary School, 317 Riverdene Drive, Newlands West, Durban. Phone 031 578 78 22 or 082 685 3480, email: info@extravaganza.org.za or visit www.extravaganza.org.za
Freedom Extravaganza is an educational theatre group founded in May 2002 by artist and director Thami “TK” Khuzwayo to fight and tackle the social issues facing South African youth especially HIV/AIDS. The group has its roots in the community of Newlands West, a large township in Durban. Freedom Extravaganza comprises 24 dedicated and motivated young people practicing theatre, dance and music to empower other young people of South Africa. Most of the shows include African traditional dance, songs and music and modern choreography, all composed by the members.
“The main reason to start this positive theatre initiative was that many young people of Newlands West were starting to engage themselves in negative things such as crime and drugs, and worse of all the increasing rate of young people who were dying from HIV/AIDS,” explains TK. “A need for a change was in demand, since not much was done about the situation in our community where everyone is struggling for life.
“In South Africa more than four out of ten people are HIV positive. This number is expected to grow in the next five years. The young people are expected to be the main victims of this killer disease. Since the 1980’s, the world has become familiar with the AIDS virus. Especially in Southern Africa, the disease is taking millions of lives. As an organization with its roots in using theatre as a tool for AIDS education, we want to keep on putting energy in the fight against this disease. We want to find a fresh, strong path in which we can catch and keep the attention from the people.”
Freedom Extravaganza approaches the end of 2008 with a feeling of achievement having completed six years of its existence.
In September, they hosted the Amasiko Theatre Festival at the school hall of Riverdene which included the support of the Newlands SAPS, Newlands West Taxi Assoc, Freedom Extravaganza, and the Interfellowship Church. All the high schools in the area were invited as well as the Newlands and Westrich communities.
The highlights of the festival were two of Freedom Extravaganza’s main productions. These were: Heroes of South Africa, which covers the struggle of the past and present with a strong focus on HIV Aids, and Ntombi in the River which deals with how Zulu men used to approach women with respect in the past and how different the situation is today.
The theatre festival included a poetry section as well as a debate on the theme of whether the much-vaunted 2010 would benefit the poor.
The group then embarked on a two-week tour of Namibia in December where they have been performing their play titled The Healing Journey.
Productions include Heroes of South Africa (2005-2006) and The Song in your Head (2004-2005).
In 2004, the drama student Jasper Hoogenboom from the Netherlands joined Freedom Extravaganza for two months in a production called Moving Mountains which was the first location theatre production to take place in Newlands.
Two of the members of Freedom Extravaganza were guest actors in the Dutch-Namibian co-production The Waterhole. In 2006, this show was part of the EARTH Festival in Vancouver (Canada) and at the NCDO Wilde Ganzen Day in the Netherlands. The play takes audiences back in time to a world where silence goes before sound, where slow pace goes before hurry and where fur patterns are natural and not trendy.
Contact Thami Khuzwayo (TK), Freedom Extravaganza’s director, on 076 968 3066. Mail should be addressed to 2145 Westrich, Rockrich, Newlands West, Durban, 4037, or pay them a visit at Riverdene Secondary School, 317 Riverdene Drive, Newlands West, Durban. Phone 031 578 78 22 or 082 685 3480, email: info@extravaganza.org.za or visit www.extravaganza.org.za
MUSHO INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL
Festival of One and Two Hander Theatre at Catalina Theatre and BAT Centre.
The Performing Arts Network of South Africa (PANSA) in KZN will host the fourth Musho International Theatre Festival of One and Two Person Theatre, at the Catalina Theatres as well as, for the first time, the BAT Centre theatre in Durban from January 8 to 18, 2009.
Musho – isiZulu for an enthusiastic praise response, something similar to “Bravo!” - embraces all true and accepted forms of theatre: from mime to physical theatre, drama to comedy-theatre. It pays tribute to the smaller works featuring one and two performers.
“The first three festivals held in January 2006, 07 and 08, were astonishingly inspiring and successful with some fabulous productions, interesting dialogue, master-classes and amazing support,” says Musho Festival Director, Emma Durden.
Productions from abroad, throughout South Africa and around Durban, will have two performances each – either at the BAT Centre or the Catalina Theatre.
There are three international productions including ones from Holland and Israel.
From outside Durban, Mary Steward’s hilarious take on the journey from girl to grown-up in Womanhood; Aldo Brincat’s memories or growing up in a household of magicians in My Father's Hat from Botswana; Presley Chweneyegae’s (Tsotsi) recently written script Cell 4; the dark and fabulously physical Afrikaans piece called Wraak Engel from Cape-Town's Floyed De Waal; the big bang farce Gods, fate and a librarian from Cape Town from Erica Glyn Jones and Haidee Crowe which formed the opening performance of the Harare International Festival of the Arts (a satirical comedy of religion, belief, politics and assassination and how they are all part of the same big plan); It's not Me a story of thwarted love and the tyranny of culture from a group in PE, mentored by Winston Ntshona; Between Cup and Lip the moving story of the relationship between two women: a maid and her madam written by Kemble Elliott.
Productions from in and around Durban include: Gisele Turner and Mpume Mthobeni's fascinating San story Rain; local actress Janna Ramos Violante in Biography of a Blue Monkey; Conversations with your Ex by local theatre luminary Gail Snyman, and the tale of Sepia Seamstress - young women coming to terms with traditional Indian cultural values by Mayuri Naidoo and Kajal Maharaj written by Clinton Marius who was comedy finalist in last year’s NLDTF PANSA New Writing Festival and directed by Clinton Marius and Caroline Smart.
The festival will once again showcase the most innovative, interesting, articulate, sophisticated and cutting edge theatre available currently and will be a real feast of contemporary and acclaimed fresh new works sourced from throughout South Africa and abroad.
The festival is presented by PANSA with support from the NAC and Africalia. For more info contact the Catalina Theatre on 031 305 6889 or PANSA office on kzn@pansa.org.za
Full schedules can be emailed / faxed to you on request.
To book tickets to performances at either venue, call Thandeka at the Catalina on 031 305 6889. Full programme available at www.mushofestival.co.za
Tickets can be purchased online at www.strictlytickets.com or at www.goingplacessa.co.za / www.goingplacessa.com
The Musho Festival runs from January 8 to 18 at the BAT Centre and the Catalina Theatre at Wilson’s Wharf. For more details see www.mushofestival.co.za (Shortly after the close of each show, reviews will appear on Musho website)
The Performing Arts Network of South Africa (PANSA) in KZN will host the fourth Musho International Theatre Festival of One and Two Person Theatre, at the Catalina Theatres as well as, for the first time, the BAT Centre theatre in Durban from January 8 to 18, 2009.
Musho – isiZulu for an enthusiastic praise response, something similar to “Bravo!” - embraces all true and accepted forms of theatre: from mime to physical theatre, drama to comedy-theatre. It pays tribute to the smaller works featuring one and two performers.
“The first three festivals held in January 2006, 07 and 08, were astonishingly inspiring and successful with some fabulous productions, interesting dialogue, master-classes and amazing support,” says Musho Festival Director, Emma Durden.
Productions from abroad, throughout South Africa and around Durban, will have two performances each – either at the BAT Centre or the Catalina Theatre.
There are three international productions including ones from Holland and Israel.
From outside Durban, Mary Steward’s hilarious take on the journey from girl to grown-up in Womanhood; Aldo Brincat’s memories or growing up in a household of magicians in My Father's Hat from Botswana; Presley Chweneyegae’s (Tsotsi) recently written script Cell 4; the dark and fabulously physical Afrikaans piece called Wraak Engel from Cape-Town's Floyed De Waal; the big bang farce Gods, fate and a librarian from Cape Town from Erica Glyn Jones and Haidee Crowe which formed the opening performance of the Harare International Festival of the Arts (a satirical comedy of religion, belief, politics and assassination and how they are all part of the same big plan); It's not Me a story of thwarted love and the tyranny of culture from a group in PE, mentored by Winston Ntshona; Between Cup and Lip the moving story of the relationship between two women: a maid and her madam written by Kemble Elliott.
Productions from in and around Durban include: Gisele Turner and Mpume Mthobeni's fascinating San story Rain; local actress Janna Ramos Violante in Biography of a Blue Monkey; Conversations with your Ex by local theatre luminary Gail Snyman, and the tale of Sepia Seamstress - young women coming to terms with traditional Indian cultural values by Mayuri Naidoo and Kajal Maharaj written by Clinton Marius who was comedy finalist in last year’s NLDTF PANSA New Writing Festival and directed by Clinton Marius and Caroline Smart.
The festival will once again showcase the most innovative, interesting, articulate, sophisticated and cutting edge theatre available currently and will be a real feast of contemporary and acclaimed fresh new works sourced from throughout South Africa and abroad.
The festival is presented by PANSA with support from the NAC and Africalia. For more info contact the Catalina Theatre on 031 305 6889 or PANSA office on kzn@pansa.org.za
Full schedules can be emailed / faxed to you on request.
To book tickets to performances at either venue, call Thandeka at the Catalina on 031 305 6889. Full programme available at www.mushofestival.co.za
Tickets can be purchased online at www.strictlytickets.com or at www.goingplacessa.co.za / www.goingplacessa.com
The Musho Festival runs from January 8 to 18 at the BAT Centre and the Catalina Theatre at Wilson’s Wharf. For more details see www.mushofestival.co.za (Shortly after the close of each show, reviews will appear on Musho website)
DANCE WITH ME BABY
Suncoast Casino & Entertainment World kick off 2009 with glitz and glamour!
Start 2009 off with a bit of glitz and glamour!
Dance with me Baby, the Bollywood dance show with ‘spice’, produced, directed and choreographed by Shivani Kara of Eastern Moves Productions, will take place at Suncoast in early January.
Dance with me Baby promises to dazzle audiences with show-stopping dance, toe-tapping music and glamorous costumes. Expect rhythmic beats, pulsating music and experienced dancers to mesmerize you from beginning to end.
The show runs from January 4 to 11, 2009, at Suncoast Casino & Entertainment World. Book at Computicket.
Start 2009 off with a bit of glitz and glamour!
Dance with me Baby, the Bollywood dance show with ‘spice’, produced, directed and choreographed by Shivani Kara of Eastern Moves Productions, will take place at Suncoast in early January.
Dance with me Baby promises to dazzle audiences with show-stopping dance, toe-tapping music and glamorous costumes. Expect rhythmic beats, pulsating music and experienced dancers to mesmerize you from beginning to end.
The show runs from January 4 to 11, 2009, at Suncoast Casino & Entertainment World. Book at Computicket.
CRAFT ON THE HOME CHANNEL
Creative new ways to preserve family memories.
Converting an old book into a hip baby album; sewing family heirlooms into homemade paper; creating an incognito shadowbox; hot ways display old matchbooks! Looking for a new creative way to preserve your family memories?
On The Home Channel (DSTV Channel182), professional scrap booker and archivist, Scott Petti shares untraditional techniques to take traditional paper crafting projects over the top! Starting with one of the coolest baby books ever, Scott cuts up a used book and creates pockets for everything from booties to a lock of baby hair. Then award-winning paper crafter Laurie Stamas teaches Scott how to use a sewing machine to create a paper shirt, perfect for displaying heirloom textiles. Then Scott and his nephew Mason pay tribute to his grandfather's World War II medal in a custom shadowbox album which hides in plain sight.
Finally, Scott takes viewers on a ride to his private studio and shows off his giant wooden matchbook collection which is unlike anything they’ve ever seen! Host Scott Petti shares untraditional techniques to take traditional paper crafting projects over the top, including a cool baby book, a paper shirt scrapbooking page and more.
Programmes will be screened on January 5 (11h30); January 6 (15h00); January 8 (19h30) and January 9 (22h00)
Converting an old book into a hip baby album; sewing family heirlooms into homemade paper; creating an incognito shadowbox; hot ways display old matchbooks! Looking for a new creative way to preserve your family memories?
On The Home Channel (DSTV Channel182), professional scrap booker and archivist, Scott Petti shares untraditional techniques to take traditional paper crafting projects over the top! Starting with one of the coolest baby books ever, Scott cuts up a used book and creates pockets for everything from booties to a lock of baby hair. Then award-winning paper crafter Laurie Stamas teaches Scott how to use a sewing machine to create a paper shirt, perfect for displaying heirloom textiles. Then Scott and his nephew Mason pay tribute to his grandfather's World War II medal in a custom shadowbox album which hides in plain sight.
Finally, Scott takes viewers on a ride to his private studio and shows off his giant wooden matchbook collection which is unlike anything they’ve ever seen! Host Scott Petti shares untraditional techniques to take traditional paper crafting projects over the top, including a cool baby book, a paper shirt scrapbooking page and more.
Programmes will be screened on January 5 (11h30); January 6 (15h00); January 8 (19h30) and January 9 (22h00)
Saturday, December 27, 2008
NCAG AT FRESH PAINT
North Coast Art Group exhibiting at Fresh Paint Gallery in Glenwood.
The North Coast Art Group is exhibiting at Fresh Paint Gallery in Glenwood’s buzzing Davenport Rd. from December 17 for three weeks. On offer is a carefully-chosen selection of drawings, paintings and other art forms.
Active since 1976, the North Coast Art Group (NCAG) has 80 active members, of which just a few have been selected for this, the final showing of 2008 for both Fresh Paint and the NCAG.
Among those exhibiting are Elaine Carstensen who this year won trophies for both painting and alternative art forms and Emma Robb whose charcoal drawing The Prayer was another winner. Maureen Lesser’s delightful ink and charcoal drawings will also be on exhibit. There will be a splendid array of oil paintings by Jeanette Edwards, Colleen Hamer, Vicky Harte, Michelle Scott and Rita van Wetten whilst Jill Endean, Yvonne Smith and Pearl Murray’s watercolours and pastels will also grace the gallery walls.
The exhibition of works by the North Coast Art Group, combined with the innovative works on display at the gallery combines to create an array of captivating, fresh material which should not be passed over - especially with a view to investing in value-for-money quality pieces.
Fresh Paint Gallery is open daily from 09h00 to 16h00 (Saturday 09h00 until 13h00) - or after hours by appointment. For more information, contact the Gallery on 031 201 8367.
The North Coast Art Group is exhibiting at Fresh Paint Gallery in Glenwood’s buzzing Davenport Rd. from December 17 for three weeks. On offer is a carefully-chosen selection of drawings, paintings and other art forms.
Active since 1976, the North Coast Art Group (NCAG) has 80 active members, of which just a few have been selected for this, the final showing of 2008 for both Fresh Paint and the NCAG.
Among those exhibiting are Elaine Carstensen who this year won trophies for both painting and alternative art forms and Emma Robb whose charcoal drawing The Prayer was another winner. Maureen Lesser’s delightful ink and charcoal drawings will also be on exhibit. There will be a splendid array of oil paintings by Jeanette Edwards, Colleen Hamer, Vicky Harte, Michelle Scott and Rita van Wetten whilst Jill Endean, Yvonne Smith and Pearl Murray’s watercolours and pastels will also grace the gallery walls.
The exhibition of works by the North Coast Art Group, combined with the innovative works on display at the gallery combines to create an array of captivating, fresh material which should not be passed over - especially with a view to investing in value-for-money quality pieces.
Fresh Paint Gallery is open daily from 09h00 to 16h00 (Saturday 09h00 until 13h00) - or after hours by appointment. For more information, contact the Gallery on 031 201 8367.
NEW YEAR’S EVE AT USHAKA
Party into 2009 at uShaka Marine World’s Phantom Ship.
Making a splash at uShaka Marine World’s phantom ship on December 31 will be the New Year’s Eve party headed by top Durban DJ Martin McHale. Joining him on the decks are local favourites, including Roddy Rogan and Claudio, and a line-up of international deejays.
The “funky” dance floor is in the Cargo Hold with magnificent views of the shark tank, while the main dance floor is on the upper deck with views of the Durban skyline and the beachfront. Tickets R150 available from Idols stores and Zoo York, Gateway. Tickets at the door R200. Party time is from 20h00 to sunrise. For more details go to www.330.co.za
Making a splash at uShaka Marine World’s phantom ship on December 31 will be the New Year’s Eve party headed by top Durban DJ Martin McHale. Joining him on the decks are local favourites, including Roddy Rogan and Claudio, and a line-up of international deejays.
The “funky” dance floor is in the Cargo Hold with magnificent views of the shark tank, while the main dance floor is on the upper deck with views of the Durban skyline and the beachfront. Tickets R150 available from Idols stores and Zoo York, Gateway. Tickets at the door R200. Party time is from 20h00 to sunrise. For more details go to www.330.co.za
ACT/BLA FUNDING
Arts & Culture Trust and Breadline Africa funding supports four new beneficiaries.
The partnership between The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) and Breadline Africa (BLA) speaks to a strategic shift in the different types of funding ACT will announce in 2009.
“Our new programmatic approach allows us to match the needs of a range of donors, while maintaining the ethos and purpose of ACT’s own objectives,” said Pieter Jacobs, projects manager of the Trust.
The agreement between BLA and ACT has seen a range of arts, culture and heritage projects receiving support in 2008 and the final four beneficiaries for 2008 are as follows:
Vuka Design for Artist Blacksmithing Applied Training project: The Artist Blacksmithing Applied Training project empowers youth at risk and deaf learners from impoverished communities. Learners are trained to work as crafters, designers, workshop managers and trainers. Skills transfer in traditional metal craft (blacksmithing), candle making, business and life skills lies at the heart of this project.
Ntsoana Contemporary Dance Theatre: This Training and Development Programme of the Ntsoana Contemporary Dance Theatre aims to develop the skills of young dance practitioners in Sebokeng to empower them to become employable, rounded artists who have international competitive standards of performance, movement analysis and choreographic skills that in turn will benefit South African Contemporary Dance.
Craft Development Initiative: The aim of this initiative is to support craft development through delivering appropriate training in Arts Education to the artists of the Cookhouse community and assist them in developing marketable products for sale at arts festivals and tourists.
Sthebu Events: The arts and crafts exhibition at the annual Jazz Festival in KwaZulu-Natal will showcase the best work from artists in this region. A diversified range of exhibitions eg fashion accessories, ceramics, wire works, clay pots, etc. will offer consumers wide variety of choice at this year’s festival on December 26. This platform is ideal for artists of KwaZulu-Natal to showcase their finest work to an audience that would be difficult to access via other commercial routes. This event will also contribute in creating jobs, empowering artists, especially women and developing small businesses.
Breadline Africa (BLA) is an African based charity organisation which aims to help break the cycle of poverty within Africa by helping communities to help themselves. ACT/BLA funding supports arts, culture and heritage projects which will make a permanent difference in the lives of rural and peri-urban communities affected by extreme poverty, lack of skills- training and unemployment.
ACT is South Africa’s premier independent arts funding and development agency. Established to secure financial and other resources for arts, culture and heritage and to project the needs and role of the sector into the public domain, former President Nelson Mandela, endorsed the initiative and agreed to serve as the Patron-in-Chief of ACT. In this way ACT was initially called the Arts and Culture Trust of the President until 1999. Athol Fugard is now the Patron of the Trust.
For more information about BLA go to www.breadlineafrica.org and for more information on ACT go to www.act.org.za Note that the new ACT funding programmes are not yet available on the website but these will be announced in January 2009. For notification of the new programmes please register your details on the site.
The partnership between The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) and Breadline Africa (BLA) speaks to a strategic shift in the different types of funding ACT will announce in 2009.
“Our new programmatic approach allows us to match the needs of a range of donors, while maintaining the ethos and purpose of ACT’s own objectives,” said Pieter Jacobs, projects manager of the Trust.
The agreement between BLA and ACT has seen a range of arts, culture and heritage projects receiving support in 2008 and the final four beneficiaries for 2008 are as follows:
Vuka Design for Artist Blacksmithing Applied Training project: The Artist Blacksmithing Applied Training project empowers youth at risk and deaf learners from impoverished communities. Learners are trained to work as crafters, designers, workshop managers and trainers. Skills transfer in traditional metal craft (blacksmithing), candle making, business and life skills lies at the heart of this project.
Ntsoana Contemporary Dance Theatre: This Training and Development Programme of the Ntsoana Contemporary Dance Theatre aims to develop the skills of young dance practitioners in Sebokeng to empower them to become employable, rounded artists who have international competitive standards of performance, movement analysis and choreographic skills that in turn will benefit South African Contemporary Dance.
Craft Development Initiative: The aim of this initiative is to support craft development through delivering appropriate training in Arts Education to the artists of the Cookhouse community and assist them in developing marketable products for sale at arts festivals and tourists.
Sthebu Events: The arts and crafts exhibition at the annual Jazz Festival in KwaZulu-Natal will showcase the best work from artists in this region. A diversified range of exhibitions eg fashion accessories, ceramics, wire works, clay pots, etc. will offer consumers wide variety of choice at this year’s festival on December 26. This platform is ideal for artists of KwaZulu-Natal to showcase their finest work to an audience that would be difficult to access via other commercial routes. This event will also contribute in creating jobs, empowering artists, especially women and developing small businesses.
Breadline Africa (BLA) is an African based charity organisation which aims to help break the cycle of poverty within Africa by helping communities to help themselves. ACT/BLA funding supports arts, culture and heritage projects which will make a permanent difference in the lives of rural and peri-urban communities affected by extreme poverty, lack of skills- training and unemployment.
ACT is South Africa’s premier independent arts funding and development agency. Established to secure financial and other resources for arts, culture and heritage and to project the needs and role of the sector into the public domain, former President Nelson Mandela, endorsed the initiative and agreed to serve as the Patron-in-Chief of ACT. In this way ACT was initially called the Arts and Culture Trust of the President until 1999. Athol Fugard is now the Patron of the Trust.
For more information about BLA go to www.breadlineafrica.org and for more information on ACT go to www.act.org.za Note that the new ACT funding programmes are not yet available on the website but these will be announced in January 2009. For notification of the new programmes please register your details on the site.
IT’S A WOMAN’S WORLD POSTPONED
Upmarket exhibition for women now postponed until early 2010.
The organisers of It’s A Woman’s World, an upmarket exhibition for women, planned from January 30 to February 1 2009 at the ICC Durban, regretfully announce that, due to the severe economic restraints facing would-be exhibitors, the show has had to be postponed until early 2010.
Plans for a bigger, better show will be announced early in the New Year. The organisers wish to thank all sponsors and members of the media for their support, and trust that they will continue to support this worthwhile show, which focuses on the upliftment of all women of South Africa, in the year to come.
For more information go to www.womansworld.co.za or contact Devra on 083 259 1481.
The organisers of It’s A Woman’s World, an upmarket exhibition for women, planned from January 30 to February 1 2009 at the ICC Durban, regretfully announce that, due to the severe economic restraints facing would-be exhibitors, the show has had to be postponed until early 2010.
Plans for a bigger, better show will be announced early in the New Year. The organisers wish to thank all sponsors and members of the media for their support, and trust that they will continue to support this worthwhile show, which focuses on the upliftment of all women of South Africa, in the year to come.
For more information go to www.womansworld.co.za or contact Devra on 083 259 1481.
INJUSTICE
Vijay Maharaj returns to South Africa to launch his book early in January.
Vijay Maharaj, a South African emigrant to Canada, is returning over the holiday season and will launch his book – Injustice - early in January. Part autobiography, part historical narrative and part sociological analysis, the book looks at the fall of apartheid from a distinctly Indian perspective and shows how South Africa’s Indians have found themselves stuck in the middle – caught in a mire of racism and persecution.
The book is said to be thoughtful and provides a very personal insight into the experiences of one family, also giving ideas on how everyone with their different cultures can co-operate to enable all to have freedom of speech and freedom of thought and so build a democracy.
The book will be launched on January 7 and thereafter will be available at Adams Musgrave shop as well as other well-known book stores.
Vijay Maharaj, a South African emigrant to Canada, is returning over the holiday season and will launch his book – Injustice - early in January. Part autobiography, part historical narrative and part sociological analysis, the book looks at the fall of apartheid from a distinctly Indian perspective and shows how South Africa’s Indians have found themselves stuck in the middle – caught in a mire of racism and persecution.
The book is said to be thoughtful and provides a very personal insight into the experiences of one family, also giving ideas on how everyone with their different cultures can co-operate to enable all to have freedom of speech and freedom of thought and so build a democracy.
The book will be launched on January 7 and thereafter will be available at Adams Musgrave shop as well as other well-known book stores.
CITY VARSITY CT ADVANCED ACTING COURSE
CityVarsity Cape Town’s line-up of directors for their Advanced Acting Course 2009 includes two former Durbanites.
CityVarsity Cape Town has announced the line-up of directors for their Advanced Acting Course 2009.
Throughout the year, all registered students will be eligible to take part in movies shot by CityVarsity’s Film Department. In 2009, three of these are to be full-length feature films which will be screened nationally at festivals around the country. AAC actors will also have the opportunity of performing in a 20-part television series to be shot on location in Cape Town during the first semester. Auditions for this project will take place during the first term. While many of the AAC acting projects focus on screen acting, actors are also afforded the opportunity to hone their theatrical skills in a number of live productions directed by some of the country’s leading theatre practitioners.
These multi-talented actor/director former Durbanite Grant Swanby who will workshop an original play to be staged at the Grahamstown Festival in July. All actors registered for the full-time course will take part in the production, which will offer exposure on a national platform at the country’s most prestigious arts festival. The play will also be staged at the Arena Theatre in Cape Town after the festival.
Also formerly from Durban will be Stunt Showcase: Director - Sensei Thulani Ndlovu. The award winning actor, choreographer, dancer, martial arts expert and one of the country’s leading stunt co-ordinators, will conduct an intensive four week stunt-training programme which will culminate in a stunt-oriented performance. The final show will be shot on digital camera and made available to the actors for show reel purposes.
Other directors include Jori Snell (Exploring Grotowski); Shirley Johnston (Multi-camera Acting Project), and Evert Lombaert (Original Short Film)
Entrance requirements for the Advanced Acting Course: a diploma or degree in performance or a minimum of two years’ training at a recognised institution or two years’ professional experience. Applicants may be required to audition. Places are limited.
For further information, contact Werner Marx on 021 488 2000 or Shirley Johnston on email: sjohnston@iafrica.com or visit www.cityvarsity.co.za
CityVarsity Cape Town has announced the line-up of directors for their Advanced Acting Course 2009.
Throughout the year, all registered students will be eligible to take part in movies shot by CityVarsity’s Film Department. In 2009, three of these are to be full-length feature films which will be screened nationally at festivals around the country. AAC actors will also have the opportunity of performing in a 20-part television series to be shot on location in Cape Town during the first semester. Auditions for this project will take place during the first term. While many of the AAC acting projects focus on screen acting, actors are also afforded the opportunity to hone their theatrical skills in a number of live productions directed by some of the country’s leading theatre practitioners.
These multi-talented actor/director former Durbanite Grant Swanby who will workshop an original play to be staged at the Grahamstown Festival in July. All actors registered for the full-time course will take part in the production, which will offer exposure on a national platform at the country’s most prestigious arts festival. The play will also be staged at the Arena Theatre in Cape Town after the festival.
Also formerly from Durban will be Stunt Showcase: Director - Sensei Thulani Ndlovu. The award winning actor, choreographer, dancer, martial arts expert and one of the country’s leading stunt co-ordinators, will conduct an intensive four week stunt-training programme which will culminate in a stunt-oriented performance. The final show will be shot on digital camera and made available to the actors for show reel purposes.
Other directors include Jori Snell (Exploring Grotowski); Shirley Johnston (Multi-camera Acting Project), and Evert Lombaert (Original Short Film)
Entrance requirements for the Advanced Acting Course: a diploma or degree in performance or a minimum of two years’ training at a recognised institution or two years’ professional experience. Applicants may be required to audition. Places are limited.
For further information, contact Werner Marx on 021 488 2000 or Shirley Johnston on email: sjohnston@iafrica.com or visit www.cityvarsity.co.za
MALUSI FIPAZA WINS!
Malusi Fipaza takes home top Footsteps to Fortune prize
An enthusiastic, capacity crowd celebrated Malusi Fipaza’s victory as the first Footsteps To Fortune winner of R15,000 at the grand final dance-off held at Suncoast recently.
After six tense weeks since the start of the competition when over 500 young hopefuls auditioned, the final 11 dancers in the inaugural dance talent competition were in top form as they performed to their own choreography and music for judges Musa Hlatswayo, Megan Lamb and Rajiv Mothie. The entertainment-packed evening was choreographed and styled by Durban style-guru and choreographer Kevin Ellis.
Second place and R5,000 cash went to Chanel Besson from Glenwood, third position to Durban North’s Teagan de Marigny and the final money prize of R1,000 went to Londiwe Dhlomo. The prize for the Most Promising Dancer, sponsored by the Independent on Saturday, went to Sandile Phakathi from Pinelands and East Coast Radio’s Nelisa Kala and dance partner Clinton Green garnered a cool R5,000 for NOAH, an organisation caring for AIDS orphans.
Every contestant went home with a prize donated by Hirsh with Suncoast generously donating the cash prizes. The competition was sponsored by Suncoast Casino & Entertainment World (Suncoast) and Makulu Event Producers (Makulu).
The other finalists were Sinenhlanhla Mbatha from Durban North; Jemma Shankland from Amanzimtoti; Clayton Gow from Seaview; Jamaine Hogg from Glenwood; Drew Mathie from Hillcrest; Tebogo Mncwabe from Kwa Mashu, and Lorin Sokool.
More information from Tumbleweed Communications on 083 627 7249 or e-mail: weeds@iafrica.com
An enthusiastic, capacity crowd celebrated Malusi Fipaza’s victory as the first Footsteps To Fortune winner of R15,000 at the grand final dance-off held at Suncoast recently.
After six tense weeks since the start of the competition when over 500 young hopefuls auditioned, the final 11 dancers in the inaugural dance talent competition were in top form as they performed to their own choreography and music for judges Musa Hlatswayo, Megan Lamb and Rajiv Mothie. The entertainment-packed evening was choreographed and styled by Durban style-guru and choreographer Kevin Ellis.
Second place and R5,000 cash went to Chanel Besson from Glenwood, third position to Durban North’s Teagan de Marigny and the final money prize of R1,000 went to Londiwe Dhlomo. The prize for the Most Promising Dancer, sponsored by the Independent on Saturday, went to Sandile Phakathi from Pinelands and East Coast Radio’s Nelisa Kala and dance partner Clinton Green garnered a cool R5,000 for NOAH, an organisation caring for AIDS orphans.
Every contestant went home with a prize donated by Hirsh with Suncoast generously donating the cash prizes. The competition was sponsored by Suncoast Casino & Entertainment World (Suncoast) and Makulu Event Producers (Makulu).
The other finalists were Sinenhlanhla Mbatha from Durban North; Jemma Shankland from Amanzimtoti; Clayton Gow from Seaview; Jamaine Hogg from Glenwood; Drew Mathie from Hillcrest; Tebogo Mncwabe from Kwa Mashu, and Lorin Sokool.
More information from Tumbleweed Communications on 083 627 7249 or e-mail: weeds@iafrica.com
SKILL SET 1 GRAPHIC DESIGN
David Krut publishes primer in South African Graphic Design
David Krut Publishing (DKP) has released the publication of Skill Set 1 Graphic Design: A Primer in South African Graphic Design.
The first in the series of Skill Set books on design by David Krut Publishing, it is the first book of its kind in South Africa.
Skill Set is a new multi-volume Knowledge Resource and Educational Series on design. Using a practicable, outcomes-based approach, Skill Set will provide instruction in various fields of design, including graphic design, stage design, fashion design and industrial design. Skill Set will feature locally relevant content, as well as commentary and work by leading local design professionals. The series is aimed at a broad audience that includes learners at secondary schools and tertiary institutions, as well as emerging and established professionals.
It features lively interviews with some of the most important graphic designers in South Africa, an essay by renowned designer Garth Walker, useful descriptions of the elements of graphic design, explanations of design basics and a valuable bibliography and list of design-related resources. It is a must-have for teachers and students of graphic design as well as for individuals, studios and agencies in the design industry. The book is written and designed by Michael MacGarry.
MacGarry is a graphic designer, writer and artist based in Johannesburg. He began his design career in Dublin and London before returning to South Africa to work with The Trinity Session as designer, copywriter, and researcher. He is currently Senior Designer at Fever Identity Design. Michael has an MFA from Wits and is also a visual artist who has exhibited locally and internationally. He is owner of www.alltheorynopractice.com and is a founding member of art collective Avant Car Guard. As a writer Michael is published in several local magazines, and recently co-published, with Lloyd Gedye, a limited-edition magazine titled The Pavement Special.
David Krut Publishing (DKP) has released the publication of Skill Set 1 Graphic Design: A Primer in South African Graphic Design.
The first in the series of Skill Set books on design by David Krut Publishing, it is the first book of its kind in South Africa.
Skill Set is a new multi-volume Knowledge Resource and Educational Series on design. Using a practicable, outcomes-based approach, Skill Set will provide instruction in various fields of design, including graphic design, stage design, fashion design and industrial design. Skill Set will feature locally relevant content, as well as commentary and work by leading local design professionals. The series is aimed at a broad audience that includes learners at secondary schools and tertiary institutions, as well as emerging and established professionals.
It features lively interviews with some of the most important graphic designers in South Africa, an essay by renowned designer Garth Walker, useful descriptions of the elements of graphic design, explanations of design basics and a valuable bibliography and list of design-related resources. It is a must-have for teachers and students of graphic design as well as for individuals, studios and agencies in the design industry. The book is written and designed by Michael MacGarry.
MacGarry is a graphic designer, writer and artist based in Johannesburg. He began his design career in Dublin and London before returning to South Africa to work with The Trinity Session as designer, copywriter, and researcher. He is currently Senior Designer at Fever Identity Design. Michael has an MFA from Wits and is also a visual artist who has exhibited locally and internationally. He is owner of www.alltheorynopractice.com and is a founding member of art collective Avant Car Guard. As a writer Michael is published in several local magazines, and recently co-published, with Lloyd Gedye, a limited-edition magazine titled The Pavement Special.
LOLO VELEKO AT DAG
2008 Standard Bank Young Artist Award winner for Visual Art at Durban Art Gallery.
The 2008 Standard Bank Young Artist Award winner for Visual Art is Nontsikelelo Veleko (30), known as ‘Lolo’.
Visual art nowadays is a discipline that knows no boundaries with dance and photography forming integral parts of this diverse medium. Lolo is only the second photographer to win this award but her ‘art through the lens’ has achieved world recognition with her early project entitled www.notblackenough.lolo which explored perceptions in South Africa of mixed heritage, using clothes as critical props to deliberately challenge assumptions of identity based on appearances and historical background.
Lolo loves her urban environment and the people in it and named one of her projects Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder. Here she captures colourful people wearing colourful clothes that don’t match, but she calls it ‘street fashion’ and represents something of the lives of the people she is photographing. “I look at fashion and how it creates identity, because fashion plays with identity,” she explains. “That’s how I look at fashion in South Africa, it’s fun and it’s like play – my clothes aren’t really me, I just have a style and I have fun.”
Overseas critics have said “It was a shock – an awakening shock – to come upon the bursting contemporary colours worn by the fashion-struck people portrayed by Nontsikelelo “Lolo” Veleko on the streets of Johannesburg.” – Mark Stevens in New York Magazine Art Review.
This colourful young photographer was born in 1977 in Bodibe in the North West Province, but grew up in Cape Town where she matriculated at the Luhlaza High School in Khayalitsha. Art and creative thinking were part and parcel of her extended family. Her father was a musician but most of her artistic influence came from her beloved art teacher, Mr Ackerman, in her formative years and John Fleetwood from the Market Photo Workshop in her latter developmental stages.
Lolo studied graphic design at the Cape Technicon (1995) and then photography at the Market Theatre Photo Workshop (1999–2004). She was nominated for the MTN New Contemporaries in 2003 and was awarded a two-month residency with the International Photographic Research Network (IPRN) in the UK where the project looked at work, identity and clothes.
2006 saw Lolo hitting the broader international circuit, showing work on Personae & Scenarios - the new African photography at Brancolini Grimaldi Arte Contemporanea in Rome, Italy; Olvida Quien Soy - Erase Me from Who I Am at the Centro Atlantico de Arte Mordeno in Las Palmas, Canary Islands; on Snap Judgments: New Positions in Contemporary African Photography, at the ICP in New York; Bieler Fototage: Physiognomie, Museum Schwabe, in Biel, Switzerland and on International contemporary photography: the living is easy at the Flowers East Gallery in London.
On the home front she showed Second to None, curated by Gabi Ngcobo and Virginia MacKenny at Iziko SANG in Cape Town, and Freestyle: Sanlam Fashion Week 2006 at Afronova in Newtown, Johannesburg.
Lolo’s work was also featured in the book, published in 2006, Women by Women, 50 years of Women's photography in South Africa, edited by Robin Comley, George Hallett and Neo Ntsoma.
2007 was a busy year for Lolo - her work was included on Reality Check, an exhibition of contemporary South African photography at the Neuer Berliner Kunstverein (NBK) in Berlin, curated by Pam Warne of Iziko South African National Gallery. Her portraits feature alongside the acclaimed late Malian photographer, Seydou Keita at Danziger Projects, New York in Seydou Keita and Lolo Veleko Fashion. Here Lolo’s portraits show her subjects to be highly individualized and independent and suggest an implicit collaboration between artist and sitter. There is nothing haphazard in the choice of dress or pose or in the execution of the photographs.
On accepting the Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Visual Art, Lolo said, “it’s an affirmation to me that when I self-doubt the work I do, I AM NOT ALONE! This award means that someone in my own country has noticed and acknowledged my ideas that I would like to convey to the world about Africa and Africans. Therefore I am looking forward to collaborating with many Africans to tell our side of the story. I know that Wim Botha, Kathryn Smith and William Kentridge have won it in the past, so it shows me that I am on the right path,” says Lolo with a smile.
Wonderland runs at the Durban Art Gallery until January 18, 2009.
The 2008 Standard Bank Young Artist Award winner for Visual Art is Nontsikelelo Veleko (30), known as ‘Lolo’.
Visual art nowadays is a discipline that knows no boundaries with dance and photography forming integral parts of this diverse medium. Lolo is only the second photographer to win this award but her ‘art through the lens’ has achieved world recognition with her early project entitled www.notblackenough.lolo which explored perceptions in South Africa of mixed heritage, using clothes as critical props to deliberately challenge assumptions of identity based on appearances and historical background.
Lolo loves her urban environment and the people in it and named one of her projects Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder. Here she captures colourful people wearing colourful clothes that don’t match, but she calls it ‘street fashion’ and represents something of the lives of the people she is photographing. “I look at fashion and how it creates identity, because fashion plays with identity,” she explains. “That’s how I look at fashion in South Africa, it’s fun and it’s like play – my clothes aren’t really me, I just have a style and I have fun.”
Overseas critics have said “It was a shock – an awakening shock – to come upon the bursting contemporary colours worn by the fashion-struck people portrayed by Nontsikelelo “Lolo” Veleko on the streets of Johannesburg.” – Mark Stevens in New York Magazine Art Review.
This colourful young photographer was born in 1977 in Bodibe in the North West Province, but grew up in Cape Town where she matriculated at the Luhlaza High School in Khayalitsha. Art and creative thinking were part and parcel of her extended family. Her father was a musician but most of her artistic influence came from her beloved art teacher, Mr Ackerman, in her formative years and John Fleetwood from the Market Photo Workshop in her latter developmental stages.
Lolo studied graphic design at the Cape Technicon (1995) and then photography at the Market Theatre Photo Workshop (1999–2004). She was nominated for the MTN New Contemporaries in 2003 and was awarded a two-month residency with the International Photographic Research Network (IPRN) in the UK where the project looked at work, identity and clothes.
2006 saw Lolo hitting the broader international circuit, showing work on Personae & Scenarios - the new African photography at Brancolini Grimaldi Arte Contemporanea in Rome, Italy; Olvida Quien Soy - Erase Me from Who I Am at the Centro Atlantico de Arte Mordeno in Las Palmas, Canary Islands; on Snap Judgments: New Positions in Contemporary African Photography, at the ICP in New York; Bieler Fototage: Physiognomie, Museum Schwabe, in Biel, Switzerland and on International contemporary photography: the living is easy at the Flowers East Gallery in London.
On the home front she showed Second to None, curated by Gabi Ngcobo and Virginia MacKenny at Iziko SANG in Cape Town, and Freestyle: Sanlam Fashion Week 2006 at Afronova in Newtown, Johannesburg.
Lolo’s work was also featured in the book, published in 2006, Women by Women, 50 years of Women's photography in South Africa, edited by Robin Comley, George Hallett and Neo Ntsoma.
2007 was a busy year for Lolo - her work was included on Reality Check, an exhibition of contemporary South African photography at the Neuer Berliner Kunstverein (NBK) in Berlin, curated by Pam Warne of Iziko South African National Gallery. Her portraits feature alongside the acclaimed late Malian photographer, Seydou Keita at Danziger Projects, New York in Seydou Keita and Lolo Veleko Fashion. Here Lolo’s portraits show her subjects to be highly individualized and independent and suggest an implicit collaboration between artist and sitter. There is nothing haphazard in the choice of dress or pose or in the execution of the photographs.
On accepting the Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Visual Art, Lolo said, “it’s an affirmation to me that when I self-doubt the work I do, I AM NOT ALONE! This award means that someone in my own country has noticed and acknowledged my ideas that I would like to convey to the world about Africa and Africans. Therefore I am looking forward to collaborating with many Africans to tell our side of the story. I know that Wim Botha, Kathryn Smith and William Kentridge have won it in the past, so it shows me that I am on the right path,” says Lolo with a smile.
Wonderland runs at the Durban Art Gallery until January 18, 2009.
Friday, December 26, 2008
SAMRO ACCREDITED
Leading collecting society in the African continent now accredited to administer the Public Playing Rights.
SAMRO is the leading collecting society in the African continent. It grants licences on behalf of composers and publishers of music for the use of musical works in broadcasts, performance in public, transmission through a diffusion service as well as when music is recorded or reproduced (mechanical rights). SAMRO has recently been accredited by the Copyright and Intellectual Property Registration Office (CIPRO) to administer the Public Playing Rights (Needletime) on behalf of performers.
With a total membership in excess of 16,000 - of which close to 7,000 are composers whose music is actively used commercially and have assigned their rights to SAMRO - SAMRO is a significant contributor to the music economy. It has also played a significant role in the establishment of industry bodies such as Moshito Music Industry Exhibition and Conference, the South African Music Export Council as the Association of Independent Record Labels (AIRCO). South African music writers will be unwrapping an early Christmas present this month, in the form of a R56.8 million non-royalty revenue distribution from the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO).
This annual payout is over and above the performing rights royalties that SAMRO members receive, and represents income from interest earned on cash held while awaiting distribution.
SAMRO deposits the licensing revenue it receives from music users in interest-bearing financial instruments such as fixed deposits, to ensure that there is no financial risk to members until distributions are declared, explains Chief Operating Officer Gregory Zoghby. The return on these investments is paid out once a year as non-royalty revenue.
“Despite the declining economy, this year R56.8 million in non-royalty revenue is available for distribution among our members,” says Zoghby. “This represents an impressive payout and is thanks to SAMRO making prudent decisions and heeding the advice of leading investment bankers.”
The payout of non-royalty earnings to members is the cherry on top of a good year for SAMRO, during which the organisation effectively became a one-stop service for performers and composers to collect royalties due to them from the performance of their works and recordings.
Recently, SAMRO announced that it would begin administering needletime rights, paying out royalties to music performers of works that have been broadcast or played in public. SAMRO now also collects royalties for its mechanical rights members, who are paid for the reproduction of their works on CD’s, by broadcasters, ringtones, downloads over the Internet, and so on.
These new revenue streams for artists are in addition to the existing performing rights royalties that SAMRO collects and pays out to authors, composers and publishers of music.
At SAMRO’s Annual General Meeting in November, it was announced that the SAMRO Group had posted record gross revenue in excess of R350 million for the past financial year and that the considerable amount of R250 million will be distributed among its members.
The non-royalty revenue payments that are being made this December will help to ensure that this festive season is a cheery one for South Africa’s composers and publishers.
For more information regarding SAMRO, visit www.samro.org.za
SAMRO is the leading collecting society in the African continent. It grants licences on behalf of composers and publishers of music for the use of musical works in broadcasts, performance in public, transmission through a diffusion service as well as when music is recorded or reproduced (mechanical rights). SAMRO has recently been accredited by the Copyright and Intellectual Property Registration Office (CIPRO) to administer the Public Playing Rights (Needletime) on behalf of performers.
With a total membership in excess of 16,000 - of which close to 7,000 are composers whose music is actively used commercially and have assigned their rights to SAMRO - SAMRO is a significant contributor to the music economy. It has also played a significant role in the establishment of industry bodies such as Moshito Music Industry Exhibition and Conference, the South African Music Export Council as the Association of Independent Record Labels (AIRCO). South African music writers will be unwrapping an early Christmas present this month, in the form of a R56.8 million non-royalty revenue distribution from the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO).
This annual payout is over and above the performing rights royalties that SAMRO members receive, and represents income from interest earned on cash held while awaiting distribution.
SAMRO deposits the licensing revenue it receives from music users in interest-bearing financial instruments such as fixed deposits, to ensure that there is no financial risk to members until distributions are declared, explains Chief Operating Officer Gregory Zoghby. The return on these investments is paid out once a year as non-royalty revenue.
“Despite the declining economy, this year R56.8 million in non-royalty revenue is available for distribution among our members,” says Zoghby. “This represents an impressive payout and is thanks to SAMRO making prudent decisions and heeding the advice of leading investment bankers.”
The payout of non-royalty earnings to members is the cherry on top of a good year for SAMRO, during which the organisation effectively became a one-stop service for performers and composers to collect royalties due to them from the performance of their works and recordings.
Recently, SAMRO announced that it would begin administering needletime rights, paying out royalties to music performers of works that have been broadcast or played in public. SAMRO now also collects royalties for its mechanical rights members, who are paid for the reproduction of their works on CD’s, by broadcasters, ringtones, downloads over the Internet, and so on.
These new revenue streams for artists are in addition to the existing performing rights royalties that SAMRO collects and pays out to authors, composers and publishers of music.
At SAMRO’s Annual General Meeting in November, it was announced that the SAMRO Group had posted record gross revenue in excess of R350 million for the past financial year and that the considerable amount of R250 million will be distributed among its members.
The non-royalty revenue payments that are being made this December will help to ensure that this festive season is a cheery one for South Africa’s composers and publishers.
For more information regarding SAMRO, visit www.samro.org.za
DBD ON THE MOVE AGAIN
Durban Black Drifters preparing to head for the US in 2009.
The well-known isicathamiya group, Durban Black Drifters, has performed overseas in countries such as Belgium, France, China, Canada, Norway, Japan and US.
They recently performed the Salute and Celebrate Samora Machel Soweto Arts Festival in Mofolo Park, Johannesburg, on Reconciliation Day, December 16, 2008.
Drifters were among this year’s SAMA award nominees with their latest CD entitled Obababethu, released under Universal Music. The album was produced by leader Chris Ntuli and co-produced by Robin Hogarth of the Soweto Gospel Choir fame and film producer.
Formed in 1992, the group runs a successful music education and development programme in schools and their annual award-winning 9th Caltex Isicathamiya High Schools Choir competition will take place on May 8, 2009, at the Playhouse Opera in Durban. Over 60 school choirs will converge on the Playhouse to showcase Isicathamiya music heritage which originates from KwaZulu-Natal. Registration for participation in the competition will take place in January.
Durban Black Drifters is resting with their families for Christmas before jetting off at the end of January for Chicago in America for a three-month tour.
For more information please contact Chris Ntuli on 073 301 6740.
The well-known isicathamiya group, Durban Black Drifters, has performed overseas in countries such as Belgium, France, China, Canada, Norway, Japan and US.
They recently performed the Salute and Celebrate Samora Machel Soweto Arts Festival in Mofolo Park, Johannesburg, on Reconciliation Day, December 16, 2008.
Drifters were among this year’s SAMA award nominees with their latest CD entitled Obababethu, released under Universal Music. The album was produced by leader Chris Ntuli and co-produced by Robin Hogarth of the Soweto Gospel Choir fame and film producer.
Formed in 1992, the group runs a successful music education and development programme in schools and their annual award-winning 9th Caltex Isicathamiya High Schools Choir competition will take place on May 8, 2009, at the Playhouse Opera in Durban. Over 60 school choirs will converge on the Playhouse to showcase Isicathamiya music heritage which originates from KwaZulu-Natal. Registration for participation in the competition will take place in January.
Durban Black Drifters is resting with their families for Christmas before jetting off at the end of January for Chicago in America for a three-month tour.
For more information please contact Chris Ntuli on 073 301 6740.
SHOSHOLOZA
(Report by Margaret von Klemperer, Arts Editor, The Witness)
(This article should have been carried in May but as it does not appear on the site, it is being repeated)
Musical Theatre on a big scale comes to the city in May when Sobantu Performing Arts present Shosholoza, a brand new musical dealing with life in the gold mines. A cast of 32 will take to the stage, under the direction of John Malusi Ledwaba, one of South Africa’s theatre veterans and a former Standard Bank Young Artist Award winner. He also wrote the piece.
The play is set on a fictitious mine near Johannesburg and deals with the plight of mineworkers faced with the HIV/Aids epidemic, dangerous working conditions and the introduction of women mineworkers, which happened in 2001. The musical director is Mthandeni Mvelase, who worked on Mbongeni Ngema’s Sarafina, and the choreographer is another theatre veteran, Brian Mazibuko, who also plays the male lead.
The plot follows the life of a newly recruited mineworker from rural KZN. He gets so mesmerized by both the good times and the tough life down the mines that he ends up forgetting his wife back home - he becomes a Stick Fighting Champion and falls in love with a woman colleague.
Rehearsals are in full swing at the Winston Churchill Theatre, where I find Ledwaba busy with his choreographer and cast. I ask him how he came to be involved with the Sobantu-based group.
“They invited me – they had been trying to put together a show about the mines, but they felt they needed someone with more experience. So they asked me to write the show,” he says.
Ledwaba’s first job was to head off to the mines to research. He was not allowed to go underground, but he could see footage filmed deep down, and talked to miners about their personal experiences – and particularly about the introduction of women. “I had to find out about the sexism issues, and how they were handled, as well as about the relationships between the women and the men,” he says.
It was not Ledwaba’s first experience of mines and miners – he grew up in Diepkloof, near the mine compound. And in 1980 he wrote the two-hander, Egoli City of Gold. It is of course also not his first experience of musicals – he wrote Jozi Jozi, Street Sisters and Township Boy, which he brought to the Hexagon in 1988, the last time he worked in Pietermaritzburg.
Ledwaba has been involved with Shosholoza since June last year when he was first contacted, and began his research. He came down to Pietermaritzburg in October to start work with the actors – most of who are from KZN. The play will run at the Churchill Theatre for a month, with previews starting on May 5.
It is all action at the theatre, with renovations being undertaken by the municipality to get the stage and auditorium up to the standard needed for a big production which requires a set to represent life underground as well as on the surface. Ledwaba takes me to see three scenes being rehearsed: the first is the arrival of the women mineworkers, with Durban actress Ntombenhle Sindane leading them. She plays the lead, the girlfriend of Mazibuko’s character, while another Durban actress, Philisiwe Mpofana, plays the wife he has left behind in rural KZN. Other scenes show mineworkers protesting their conditions; a Zionist church service and a scene in the Shosholoza squatter camp which carries a strong anti-Aids message.
Nokwazi Shandu who working on the marketing aspects for Sobantu Performing Arts explains that there is a strong “edutainment” component in the play, and proposals have been put to the Department of Education to get as many schoolchildren to the play. There are also plans to invite retirement homes and shelters to previews, partly to give them an opportunity to see the play and partly to increase the word-of-mouth publicity for the show.
Shosholoza is a big project, and the backing comes from businessman Mpume Sikhosana, a member of a well-known Sobantu family. He is also a former Director General of the Public Service Commission, and has a strong interest in the arts.
There will be previews at the Winston Churchill Theatre at 19h00 on May 5, 6 and 7, 2008, followed by a full month-long season at the theatre from May 15 to June 15, 2008. Booking details and ticket prices to be announced later.
(This article should have been carried in May but as it does not appear on the site, it is being repeated)
Musical Theatre on a big scale comes to the city in May when Sobantu Performing Arts present Shosholoza, a brand new musical dealing with life in the gold mines. A cast of 32 will take to the stage, under the direction of John Malusi Ledwaba, one of South Africa’s theatre veterans and a former Standard Bank Young Artist Award winner. He also wrote the piece.
The play is set on a fictitious mine near Johannesburg and deals with the plight of mineworkers faced with the HIV/Aids epidemic, dangerous working conditions and the introduction of women mineworkers, which happened in 2001. The musical director is Mthandeni Mvelase, who worked on Mbongeni Ngema’s Sarafina, and the choreographer is another theatre veteran, Brian Mazibuko, who also plays the male lead.
The plot follows the life of a newly recruited mineworker from rural KZN. He gets so mesmerized by both the good times and the tough life down the mines that he ends up forgetting his wife back home - he becomes a Stick Fighting Champion and falls in love with a woman colleague.
Rehearsals are in full swing at the Winston Churchill Theatre, where I find Ledwaba busy with his choreographer and cast. I ask him how he came to be involved with the Sobantu-based group.
“They invited me – they had been trying to put together a show about the mines, but they felt they needed someone with more experience. So they asked me to write the show,” he says.
Ledwaba’s first job was to head off to the mines to research. He was not allowed to go underground, but he could see footage filmed deep down, and talked to miners about their personal experiences – and particularly about the introduction of women. “I had to find out about the sexism issues, and how they were handled, as well as about the relationships between the women and the men,” he says.
It was not Ledwaba’s first experience of mines and miners – he grew up in Diepkloof, near the mine compound. And in 1980 he wrote the two-hander, Egoli City of Gold. It is of course also not his first experience of musicals – he wrote Jozi Jozi, Street Sisters and Township Boy, which he brought to the Hexagon in 1988, the last time he worked in Pietermaritzburg.
Ledwaba has been involved with Shosholoza since June last year when he was first contacted, and began his research. He came down to Pietermaritzburg in October to start work with the actors – most of who are from KZN. The play will run at the Churchill Theatre for a month, with previews starting on May 5.
It is all action at the theatre, with renovations being undertaken by the municipality to get the stage and auditorium up to the standard needed for a big production which requires a set to represent life underground as well as on the surface. Ledwaba takes me to see three scenes being rehearsed: the first is the arrival of the women mineworkers, with Durban actress Ntombenhle Sindane leading them. She plays the lead, the girlfriend of Mazibuko’s character, while another Durban actress, Philisiwe Mpofana, plays the wife he has left behind in rural KZN. Other scenes show mineworkers protesting their conditions; a Zionist church service and a scene in the Shosholoza squatter camp which carries a strong anti-Aids message.
Nokwazi Shandu who working on the marketing aspects for Sobantu Performing Arts explains that there is a strong “edutainment” component in the play, and proposals have been put to the Department of Education to get as many schoolchildren to the play. There are also plans to invite retirement homes and shelters to previews, partly to give them an opportunity to see the play and partly to increase the word-of-mouth publicity for the show.
Shosholoza is a big project, and the backing comes from businessman Mpume Sikhosana, a member of a well-known Sobantu family. He is also a former Director General of the Public Service Commission, and has a strong interest in the arts.
There will be previews at the Winston Churchill Theatre at 19h00 on May 5, 6 and 7, 2008, followed by a full month-long season at the theatre from May 15 to June 15, 2008. Booking details and ticket prices to be announced later.
LOTUSFM ON NEW YEAR’S EVE
Great entertainment and non-stop live music to celebrate Lotusfm’s 25th year on December 31.
Following last year’s hugely successful event, Lotusfm and Premier Attractions combine forces again to make New Year 2008 an evening to remember! For the party of the year and celebrating the culmination of Lotusfm’s 25th year of broadcasting, don party gear for the Premier Attraction Family Fusion Bhangra Party at the International Convention Centre Arena (ICC).
Great entertainment and non-stop live music in the company of popular Lotusfm DJ’s and a host of other entertainers will be the hallmarks of this family occasion which starts at 18h00. The line-up includes father and daughter act Nyrelle and ‘Blondie’, stand-up comedienne Kerosha, fusion dancer Cindy Ramiah and also featuring the popular Fusion Dance Group Karishma Dance Academy.
From 21h00, revellers will count-down the Lotusfm Top 100 best songs of the year as voted by the Lotusfm listeners. MC for the evening is Deven K.
Pre-purchased tickets for the event are R100 (R120 at the door), with free entry for children under 10 are available from Computicket outlets in Shoprite Checkers stores nationwide or by visiting the Lotusfm website on www.lotusfm.co.za
A VIP option at R350 per person is also available. The ticket includes entry, reserved seating and a lavish five-course meal. To book and for more information call 031 2012 447.
The venue provides safe and secure parking and an entertainment area for children, with professional child-minders on hand to assist. Food and refreshments will be available on the evening. For more information visit www.lotusfm.co.za
Following last year’s hugely successful event, Lotusfm and Premier Attractions combine forces again to make New Year 2008 an evening to remember! For the party of the year and celebrating the culmination of Lotusfm’s 25th year of broadcasting, don party gear for the Premier Attraction Family Fusion Bhangra Party at the International Convention Centre Arena (ICC).
Great entertainment and non-stop live music in the company of popular Lotusfm DJ’s and a host of other entertainers will be the hallmarks of this family occasion which starts at 18h00. The line-up includes father and daughter act Nyrelle and ‘Blondie’, stand-up comedienne Kerosha, fusion dancer Cindy Ramiah and also featuring the popular Fusion Dance Group Karishma Dance Academy.
From 21h00, revellers will count-down the Lotusfm Top 100 best songs of the year as voted by the Lotusfm listeners. MC for the evening is Deven K.
Pre-purchased tickets for the event are R100 (R120 at the door), with free entry for children under 10 are available from Computicket outlets in Shoprite Checkers stores nationwide or by visiting the Lotusfm website on www.lotusfm.co.za
A VIP option at R350 per person is also available. The ticket includes entry, reserved seating and a lavish five-course meal. To book and for more information call 031 2012 447.
The venue provides safe and secure parking and an entertainment area for children, with professional child-minders on hand to assist. Food and refreshments will be available on the evening. For more information visit www.lotusfm.co.za
ELECTRIC BOOK WORKS
Lindy Bruce takes “Motherhood and Me” international with Mousehand
Innovative publishing-services company Electric Book Works says it is signing up more and more well-known authors looking to expand the distribution networks for their books. Popular and award-winning authors including Lindy Bruce, Tony Wende, Angela Lloyd and Barbara Erasmus have signed up for EBW’s Mousehand publishing and distribution services.
Lindy Bruce, whose book Motherhood and Me was published by Oshun in March 2008, is the latest author to sign up for this international print-on-demand distribution service. As the holder of the international rights to her book, Bruce searched for the most reliable and affordable way to sell her book internationally without compromising the quality of the final product. Her book will be available to online retailers including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Powells and The Book Depository (UK), and to bookstore suppliers in the UK and the US.
According to Bruce “There is no single person as passionate about the words and message in a book than the person who wrote them. Part of the passion is the deep desire to share the words and the message with everybody, everywhere! Electric Book Works provides an avenue for authors to make this dream come true.”
Print on demand is a print and distribution model that allows for a book to be printed and delivered one copy at a time, when the customer places the order. This technology is becoming increasingly popular because it requires little start-up capital and eliminates the costs of large print runs and warehousing. It also allows publishers to keep books in print when sales have dropped below what would be considered affordable when printing conventionally.
Innovative publishing-services company Electric Book Works says it is signing up more and more well-known authors looking to expand the distribution networks for their books. Popular and award-winning authors including Lindy Bruce, Tony Wende, Angela Lloyd and Barbara Erasmus have signed up for EBW’s Mousehand publishing and distribution services.
Lindy Bruce, whose book Motherhood and Me was published by Oshun in March 2008, is the latest author to sign up for this international print-on-demand distribution service. As the holder of the international rights to her book, Bruce searched for the most reliable and affordable way to sell her book internationally without compromising the quality of the final product. Her book will be available to online retailers including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Powells and The Book Depository (UK), and to bookstore suppliers in the UK and the US.
According to Bruce “There is no single person as passionate about the words and message in a book than the person who wrote them. Part of the passion is the deep desire to share the words and the message with everybody, everywhere! Electric Book Works provides an avenue for authors to make this dream come true.”
Print on demand is a print and distribution model that allows for a book to be printed and delivered one copy at a time, when the customer places the order. This technology is becoming increasingly popular because it requires little start-up capital and eliminates the costs of large print runs and warehousing. It also allows publishers to keep books in print when sales have dropped below what would be considered affordable when printing conventionally.
THE YOUNG CREATORS’ ASSOCIATION (AJC)
December 31 deadline for poetry on the theme of Bridges in verse.
In order to promote artistic creation and encourage cultural communication, the Tangier Young Creators’ Association (AJC) is organizing its eighth poetry competition. This eighth contest is dedicated to the great Arab poets Salah Abdessabour of Egypt and Abdelkrim Tabbal of Morocco. The competition is open to all young creators aged under 35, and entries may be submitted in any of the following languages: Arabic, French, English and Spanish.
The jury will be made up of literary figures and university professors, who will be responsible for evaluating the entries and awarding the following prizes: Prize for the best collection of poems: 5000 DH (in each of the languages accepted); Prize for the best poem: 2500 DH (in each of the languages accepted).
Each entry should include: a letter of application, including details of address, telephone and fax nos., email address, etc. A certified true copy of the candidate’s identity card; two photographs and two copies of the collection of poems submitted, which should be typed or printed.
If the collection has been published, the date of publication should not be more than four years ago. Three copies of each of the three individual poems should be submitted as well as a declaration that the candidate has not already won any literary award for the collection or poem(s) submitted.
The deadline for submission of entries is December 31, 2008. Association Des Jeunes Créateurs; BP 1099; 90000 Tanger, Maroc. E-mail: ajct_maroc@yahoo.fr
The AJC reserves the right to publish the collections and individuals’ works selected, in accordance with Article 9 of the Regulations governing the Tangier Poetry Prize and Article 4 of the Statutes of the AJC.
In order to promote artistic creation and encourage cultural communication, the Tangier Young Creators’ Association (AJC) is organizing its eighth poetry competition. This eighth contest is dedicated to the great Arab poets Salah Abdessabour of Egypt and Abdelkrim Tabbal of Morocco. The competition is open to all young creators aged under 35, and entries may be submitted in any of the following languages: Arabic, French, English and Spanish.
The jury will be made up of literary figures and university professors, who will be responsible for evaluating the entries and awarding the following prizes: Prize for the best collection of poems: 5000 DH (in each of the languages accepted); Prize for the best poem: 2500 DH (in each of the languages accepted).
Each entry should include: a letter of application, including details of address, telephone and fax nos., email address, etc. A certified true copy of the candidate’s identity card; two photographs and two copies of the collection of poems submitted, which should be typed or printed.
If the collection has been published, the date of publication should not be more than four years ago. Three copies of each of the three individual poems should be submitted as well as a declaration that the candidate has not already won any literary award for the collection or poem(s) submitted.
The deadline for submission of entries is December 31, 2008. Association Des Jeunes Créateurs; BP 1099; 90000 Tanger, Maroc. E-mail: ajct_maroc@yahoo.fr
The AJC reserves the right to publish the collections and individuals’ works selected, in accordance with Article 9 of the Regulations governing the Tangier Poetry Prize and Article 4 of the Statutes of the AJC.
CERIDWEN DOVEY
Former Pietermaritzburg woman is only South African shortlisted in international writers’ competition. (Extracted from an article by Sharika Regchand appearing in the Daily News of September 23)
A former Pietermaritzburg woman is the only South African to be shortlisted in an international writers’ competition in which the winner will walk away with £60,000 (about R500,000).
Ceridwen Dovey, now a graduate student in anthropology at the University of New York, was one of six writers to be selected for one of the world’s highest-paying literary awards, the Dylan Thomas Prize.
The prize, which is sponsored by the University of Wales, was designed to encourage creative talent in writers under the age of 30. It is a global award, open to any work, from any genre.
Dovey, who was born in Pietermaritzburg and then moved to East London, wrote the book Blood Kin more than two years ago when she was studying at the University of Cape Town. She was proud to even be on the “long list” of the competition and said: “It is wonderful to represent South Africa in this way>”
Blood Kin is available at Exclusive Books.
(Extracted from an article by Sharika Regchand appearing in the Daily News of September 23)
A former Pietermaritzburg woman is the only South African to be shortlisted in an international writers’ competition in which the winner will walk away with £60,000 (about R500,000).
Ceridwen Dovey, now a graduate student in anthropology at the University of New York, was one of six writers to be selected for one of the world’s highest-paying literary awards, the Dylan Thomas Prize.
The prize, which is sponsored by the University of Wales, was designed to encourage creative talent in writers under the age of 30. It is a global award, open to any work, from any genre.
Dovey, who was born in Pietermaritzburg and then moved to East London, wrote the book Blood Kin more than two years ago when she was studying at the University of Cape Town. She was proud to even be on the “long list” of the competition and said: “It is wonderful to represent South Africa in this way>”
Blood Kin is available at Exclusive Books.
(Extracted from an article by Sharika Regchand appearing in the Daily News of September 23)
BEYOND THE STARS & CADENCE
Martin Sheen stars in two movies to be screened on MNet Stars Channel.
Martin Sheen stars in two movies (one of which he directs) to be screened on MNet Stars Channel (channel 105).
Directed by David Saperstein in 1989 and starring Martin Sheen and Christian Slater, Beyond The Stars will be screened on the MNet Stars Channel on December 29 at 19h30
A teenage boy and an ageing astronaut form an unlikely bond over the course of one summer in this charming character drama starring a young Christian Slater and veteran actor Martin Sheen. Slater plays a misunderstood boy who is suspended after an incident at school and sent to stay with his father until it all blows over. But instead of spending time with his dad, a former Nasa scientist, Eric spends time with his hero, an astronaut turned recluse who will eventually let him into a secret involving his time with the space agency.
Martin Sheen directed and also appears in Cadence along with Charlie Sheen in a story that deals with a rebellious young white soldier who learns valuable lessons after being thrown into a military stockade with five black soldiers. The movie will be screened on the MNet Stars Channel on December 30 at 19h30.
A US army base in West Germany in 1965 is the setting of this drama where Martin Sheen plays a tough officer who locks horns with a rebellious young soldier when the latter gets drunk and disorderly after a funeral. Thinking he’ll break the maverick’s spirit, McKinney throws Bean into a military stockade with five other soldiers, all black. But instead of the expected racial friction, something surprising happens: Bean bonds with his fellow captors.
Martin Sheen stars in two movies (one of which he directs) to be screened on MNet Stars Channel (channel 105).
Directed by David Saperstein in 1989 and starring Martin Sheen and Christian Slater, Beyond The Stars will be screened on the MNet Stars Channel on December 29 at 19h30
A teenage boy and an ageing astronaut form an unlikely bond over the course of one summer in this charming character drama starring a young Christian Slater and veteran actor Martin Sheen. Slater plays a misunderstood boy who is suspended after an incident at school and sent to stay with his father until it all blows over. But instead of spending time with his dad, a former Nasa scientist, Eric spends time with his hero, an astronaut turned recluse who will eventually let him into a secret involving his time with the space agency.
Martin Sheen directed and also appears in Cadence along with Charlie Sheen in a story that deals with a rebellious young white soldier who learns valuable lessons after being thrown into a military stockade with five black soldiers. The movie will be screened on the MNet Stars Channel on December 30 at 19h30.
A US army base in West Germany in 1965 is the setting of this drama where Martin Sheen plays a tough officer who locks horns with a rebellious young soldier when the latter gets drunk and disorderly after a funeral. Thinking he’ll break the maverick’s spirit, McKinney throws Bean into a military stockade with five other soldiers, all black. But instead of the expected racial friction, something surprising happens: Bean bonds with his fellow captors.
TWILIGHT
Not a bad film but nothing Oscar-worthy. (Review by Billy Suter, courtesy of The Mercury)
Three years ago he was known only as a small-part player in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, in which he played senior student Cedric Diggory.
These days, however, 22-year-old Brit Robert Pattinson is hot property, having been named as Yahoo’s top movie heart-throb of 2008, Rolling Stone magazine’s hottest actor of 2008 and the hunk of the year by Entertainment Tonight. He has also been named as one of the Breakout Stars of 2008 by both the Los Angeles Times and Forbes.
All these accolades stem from Pattinson’s lead role in Twilight, a film directed by Catherine (Thirteen) Hardwicke and based on the massively popular youth novel by Stephenie Meyers, the first of four in a series that has sold 25 million copies worldwide and been translated into 37 languages.
Some 3,000 actors auditioned for the role of pale, broody Edward Cullen. It went to Pattinson, who certainly scores in the looks department, even if he’s only an adequate actor and the most mature looking 17-year-old since John Travolta in Grease.
Edward is a vampire – one of five self-confident, glamorous foster children of the equally pale doctor in Forks, a grey US hicktown where it rains often. It’s here that we first meet Twilight’s leading lady – teen Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart), who is new in town to live with her estranged dad, Charlie (Billy Burke), the police chief, when her mom remarries.
When she lays eyes on the enigmatic, taciturn Edward, who keeps to himself at school, there is instant chemistry and, after a short period of Edward trying to avoid Bella, the two are drawn closer. However, the tension escalates when Bella starts to figure out that earnest Ed is no run-of-the-mill pale-face; and he, caught between passion and common-sense to end their relationship, for fear he’ll have her for a snack rather than a cuddle, spills the beans about what he really is.
Cold-to-the-touch Edward is a vampire, yes, but he doesn’t sprout fangs and he and the other Cullens are a vampire vegetarian variation, eating only the blood of animals. But they have been known to make a slip up or two, which explains Edward’s concern that he may go for Bella’s jugular instead of giving her a love bite.
All this love under pressure starts to percolate at a time when Bella faces dangers from other areas as well – rival vampires arrive and one pony-tailed nasty dude called James can’t wait to nibble on her neck.
The film introduces many characters who have very little to do, but seemingly they are being introduced for highlighting in upcoming sequels, the first of which is reportedly already in the pipeline. There is also a problem with pacing – the quick start slows to a crawl before picking up speed again towards the end – and the film is too long at a little over two hours.
The tweaking of vampire rules is also a bit annoying. Besides having no fangs, vampires in Twilight have to be dismembered and burned to be killed (nope, no stakes to the heart) and rather than die horrible deaths in sunlight they simply, um, sparkle when rays hit them.
All considered, however, this is not a bad film. But neither is it anything Oscar-worthy. Teen girls will enjoy it most. Rating 6/10 – Billy Suter
Three years ago he was known only as a small-part player in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, in which he played senior student Cedric Diggory.
These days, however, 22-year-old Brit Robert Pattinson is hot property, having been named as Yahoo’s top movie heart-throb of 2008, Rolling Stone magazine’s hottest actor of 2008 and the hunk of the year by Entertainment Tonight. He has also been named as one of the Breakout Stars of 2008 by both the Los Angeles Times and Forbes.
All these accolades stem from Pattinson’s lead role in Twilight, a film directed by Catherine (Thirteen) Hardwicke and based on the massively popular youth novel by Stephenie Meyers, the first of four in a series that has sold 25 million copies worldwide and been translated into 37 languages.
Some 3,000 actors auditioned for the role of pale, broody Edward Cullen. It went to Pattinson, who certainly scores in the looks department, even if he’s only an adequate actor and the most mature looking 17-year-old since John Travolta in Grease.
Edward is a vampire – one of five self-confident, glamorous foster children of the equally pale doctor in Forks, a grey US hicktown where it rains often. It’s here that we first meet Twilight’s leading lady – teen Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart), who is new in town to live with her estranged dad, Charlie (Billy Burke), the police chief, when her mom remarries.
When she lays eyes on the enigmatic, taciturn Edward, who keeps to himself at school, there is instant chemistry and, after a short period of Edward trying to avoid Bella, the two are drawn closer. However, the tension escalates when Bella starts to figure out that earnest Ed is no run-of-the-mill pale-face; and he, caught between passion and common-sense to end their relationship, for fear he’ll have her for a snack rather than a cuddle, spills the beans about what he really is.
Cold-to-the-touch Edward is a vampire, yes, but he doesn’t sprout fangs and he and the other Cullens are a vampire vegetarian variation, eating only the blood of animals. But they have been known to make a slip up or two, which explains Edward’s concern that he may go for Bella’s jugular instead of giving her a love bite.
All this love under pressure starts to percolate at a time when Bella faces dangers from other areas as well – rival vampires arrive and one pony-tailed nasty dude called James can’t wait to nibble on her neck.
The film introduces many characters who have very little to do, but seemingly they are being introduced for highlighting in upcoming sequels, the first of which is reportedly already in the pipeline. There is also a problem with pacing – the quick start slows to a crawl before picking up speed again towards the end – and the film is too long at a little over two hours.
The tweaking of vampire rules is also a bit annoying. Besides having no fangs, vampires in Twilight have to be dismembered and burned to be killed (nope, no stakes to the heart) and rather than die horrible deaths in sunlight they simply, um, sparkle when rays hit them.
All considered, however, this is not a bad film. But neither is it anything Oscar-worthy. Teen girls will enjoy it most. Rating 6/10 – Billy Suter
BUGSY
Ruthless but charming gangster gets a taste of the good life on the MNet Stars Channel.
Bugsy, directed by Barry Levinson in 1991 and starring Warren Beatty and Annette Bening will be screened on the MNet Stars Channel (105) on December 27 at 19h30.
Ben “Bugsy” Siegel is a ruthless but charming gangster who gets a taste of the good life when he arrives in California. Bugsy befriends movie stars, tries out for a screen test and falls for Virginia Hill, a feisty starlet who shares his taste for glamour and glitz. Things look good until Bugsy’s dream project, a luxury casino in the Las Vegas desert, turns out to be his biggest downfall – and his biggest accomplishment.
Bugsy, directed by Barry Levinson in 1991 and starring Warren Beatty and Annette Bening will be screened on the MNet Stars Channel (105) on December 27 at 19h30.
Ben “Bugsy” Siegel is a ruthless but charming gangster who gets a taste of the good life when he arrives in California. Bugsy befriends movie stars, tries out for a screen test and falls for Virginia Hill, a feisty starlet who shares his taste for glamour and glitz. Things look good until Bugsy’s dream project, a luxury casino in the Las Vegas desert, turns out to be his biggest downfall – and his biggest accomplishment.
UMOJA TROUPE FOR US TV SHOW
Umoja’s gumboot dancers to take US dance show by storm
Twelve performers from the smash-hit South African musical Umoja have jetted off to the United States to take part in a new dance-themed reality television show titled Dance Stars of the World.
This exciting new television series, featuring professional dancers from eight countries, has been dubbed “the Olympics of the dance world”. It will be screened on the USA’s NBC channel from January, 2009.
Top South African dancers touched down in Los Angeles to join their fleet-footed counterparts from China, Ireland, Australia, the USA, Argentina, India and Russia in a bid to assert their global supremacy in the dance arena.
The Umoja dancers will be representing South Africa in the group dance section, performing their renowned gumboot dance.
Umoja – The Spirit of Togetherness, one of South Africa’s longest-running and most highly acclaimed original musicals, is the resident production at the revamped Victory Theatre in Houghton Estate. After much international touring and critical acclaim, the selection of a dozen top cast members to take part in Dance Stars of the World programme signals yet another feather in the show’s already decorated cap.
The television series is the brainchild of Simon Fuller and Nigel Lythgoe, the creators and producers of American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance. It will be hosted by Lord of the Dance star Michael Flatley and actress Susie Castillo.
Each of the selected countries is sending a team of skilled dancers to participate in the solo, duet/pas de deux and group categories, in addition to coaches and judges. Over the course of the competition, the participants will be competing in various styles of dance in a bid to avoid elimination, in the run-up to the nail-biting finale.
“This is a huge opportunity for South Africa and for the world to see our amazing Umoja troupe members dance on an international platform,” says Anne Power, General Manager of the Victory Theatre. “We will be rooting for our boys and are confident that they’ll be flying the South African flag high in America – while thrilling viewers with their explosive gumboot dance moves.”
Visit www.umojatheshow.com for updates.
Twelve performers from the smash-hit South African musical Umoja have jetted off to the United States to take part in a new dance-themed reality television show titled Dance Stars of the World.
This exciting new television series, featuring professional dancers from eight countries, has been dubbed “the Olympics of the dance world”. It will be screened on the USA’s NBC channel from January, 2009.
Top South African dancers touched down in Los Angeles to join their fleet-footed counterparts from China, Ireland, Australia, the USA, Argentina, India and Russia in a bid to assert their global supremacy in the dance arena.
The Umoja dancers will be representing South Africa in the group dance section, performing their renowned gumboot dance.
Umoja – The Spirit of Togetherness, one of South Africa’s longest-running and most highly acclaimed original musicals, is the resident production at the revamped Victory Theatre in Houghton Estate. After much international touring and critical acclaim, the selection of a dozen top cast members to take part in Dance Stars of the World programme signals yet another feather in the show’s already decorated cap.
The television series is the brainchild of Simon Fuller and Nigel Lythgoe, the creators and producers of American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance. It will be hosted by Lord of the Dance star Michael Flatley and actress Susie Castillo.
Each of the selected countries is sending a team of skilled dancers to participate in the solo, duet/pas de deux and group categories, in addition to coaches and judges. Over the course of the competition, the participants will be competing in various styles of dance in a bid to avoid elimination, in the run-up to the nail-biting finale.
“This is a huge opportunity for South Africa and for the world to see our amazing Umoja troupe members dance on an international platform,” says Anne Power, General Manager of the Victory Theatre. “We will be rooting for our boys and are confident that they’ll be flying the South African flag high in America – while thrilling viewers with their explosive gumboot dance moves.”
Visit www.umojatheshow.com for updates.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
MERRY CHRISTMAS !
Here's wishing all readers a very Merry Christmas and all the best over the festive season.
Thank you for supporting artSMart.
Thank you for supporting artSMart.
Monday, December 22, 2008
UNCONQUERABLE SPIRIT
Pippa Skotnes releases publication dealing with the San peoples.
From the author of the praised Claim to the Country: The Archive of Lucy Lloyd and Wilhelm Bleek comes Unconquerable Spirit, a new, equally as beautiful book on the San.
This book, along with Claim to the country…, represents the fulfillment of the wishes of Lucy Lloyd who, shortly before her death in 1914, expressed the hope that one day her and Bleek’s notebooks of |xam and !kun texts, as well as the painted copies of rock paintings by George Stow, would see full publication.
It has taken almost a century for this publication to take place – a long time indeed in view of the significance of the work – yet it is really only in this century, given the possibilities of digital technology, that such a vast archive could have become widely accessible.
George Stow was a Victorian man of many parts - poet, historian, ethnographer and prolific writer. A geologist by profession, he became acquainted through his work in the field, with the extraordinary wealth of rock art paintings in the caves and shelters of the South African interior.
Enchanted and absorbed by them, Stow set out to create a record of this creative work of the people who had tracked and marked the South African landscape decades and centuries before him. Unconquerable Spirit reveals for the first time the beauty and scope of his labours.
George Stow’s paintings are more than just copies of what he found on the rocks. They are interpretations of the art of the San, informed by his own understanding of a particularly turbulent time in South African history and his sense of the tragic demise of the San way of life. This book celebrates his pioneering achievement and reminds us, too, of the richness of the imaginative universe of the San.
Pippa Skotnes has a Master of Fine Art and a Doctor of Literature degree from the University of Cape Town where she is now Professor of Fine Art and Director of the Centre for Curating the Archive at the Michaelis Schools of Fine Art.
She studied art, archaeology and the book arts, and has published several essays on the rock art of the San. She is the author and editor of a number of books, including Miscast: negotiating the presence of the Bushmen (1996), which accompanied a major exhibition on the colonial history of the San at the South African National Gallery in Cape Town, Heaven’s things (1999), and Claim to the Country: the archive of Lucy Lloyd and Wilhelm Bleek (2007).
She has also published a number of private press books, including Sound from the thinking strings (1991) and Lamb of God (2003-8), which is, in part, a narrative inscribed on the bones of horses. She has exhibited her work in many different parts of the world.
Unconquerable Spirit: George Stow’s History Paintings of the San by Pippa Skotnes is published by Jacana Media in hardcover. Recommended Retail Price: R350 - EAN/ISBN-13: 978-0-8214-1869-7
From the author of the praised Claim to the Country: The Archive of Lucy Lloyd and Wilhelm Bleek comes Unconquerable Spirit, a new, equally as beautiful book on the San.
This book, along with Claim to the country…, represents the fulfillment of the wishes of Lucy Lloyd who, shortly before her death in 1914, expressed the hope that one day her and Bleek’s notebooks of |xam and !kun texts, as well as the painted copies of rock paintings by George Stow, would see full publication.
It has taken almost a century for this publication to take place – a long time indeed in view of the significance of the work – yet it is really only in this century, given the possibilities of digital technology, that such a vast archive could have become widely accessible.
George Stow was a Victorian man of many parts - poet, historian, ethnographer and prolific writer. A geologist by profession, he became acquainted through his work in the field, with the extraordinary wealth of rock art paintings in the caves and shelters of the South African interior.
Enchanted and absorbed by them, Stow set out to create a record of this creative work of the people who had tracked and marked the South African landscape decades and centuries before him. Unconquerable Spirit reveals for the first time the beauty and scope of his labours.
George Stow’s paintings are more than just copies of what he found on the rocks. They are interpretations of the art of the San, informed by his own understanding of a particularly turbulent time in South African history and his sense of the tragic demise of the San way of life. This book celebrates his pioneering achievement and reminds us, too, of the richness of the imaginative universe of the San.
Pippa Skotnes has a Master of Fine Art and a Doctor of Literature degree from the University of Cape Town where she is now Professor of Fine Art and Director of the Centre for Curating the Archive at the Michaelis Schools of Fine Art.
She studied art, archaeology and the book arts, and has published several essays on the rock art of the San. She is the author and editor of a number of books, including Miscast: negotiating the presence of the Bushmen (1996), which accompanied a major exhibition on the colonial history of the San at the South African National Gallery in Cape Town, Heaven’s things (1999), and Claim to the Country: the archive of Lucy Lloyd and Wilhelm Bleek (2007).
She has also published a number of private press books, including Sound from the thinking strings (1991) and Lamb of God (2003-8), which is, in part, a narrative inscribed on the bones of horses. She has exhibited her work in many different parts of the world.
Unconquerable Spirit: George Stow’s History Paintings of the San by Pippa Skotnes is published by Jacana Media in hardcover. Recommended Retail Price: R350 - EAN/ISBN-13: 978-0-8214-1869-7
PPC SCULPTORS AWARDS
PPC Cement enhances the lives of young sculptors.
The talent and lives of six of South Africa’s promising young sculptors received a major boost when they shared the R75,000 prize money on offer at this year’s PPC Young Concrete Sculptors Awards, held at the Association of Arts in Pretoria.
The annual competition sponsored by PPC Cement for the past 16 years is fast becoming a must-enter competition for up-and-coming sculptors. The competition attracted 67 entries this year – more than double the number in the previous year.
The award for Best Sculpture on Exhibition went to Ruhan Janse van Vuuren for his work Act I, Scene II, while the award for Technical Excellence was won by Dorothea Nortjé for her work Memorial to the Entrapped Mind. Each of these artists received R25,000.
Runner up in the Best Sculpture on Exhibition category was Molemo Moiloa for her work, Concrete Truth, while the Technical Excellence runner up was Estie Nell with her work “Jas”. Both these artists received R10,000.
Merit awards of R2,500 each went to Brendon Erasmus for Upper Abyssal Jaw, and Pieter Cilliers for Tilted Shelves 2007 – 2008.
“The judges were very pleased with the number of entries submitted for the photographic jury,” said Awards Committee Chairperson, Kay Potts. “The variety of concepts, styles and technical skills made arriving at consensus on the winners daunting. The material we received was both thought provoking and challenging,” she said.
Dr Orrie Fenn, PPC’s Chief Operating Officer said: “We are proud of our long association with the PPC Young Concrete Sculptors Awards and its celebration of the rich and varied artistic talent in South Africa, and honoured to be sponsoring a competition of this magnitude that has benefited so many young aspiring artists over the last sixteen years.”
Nomzamo Basson, PPC Public Relations Manager added that “the fact that our product cement is used as a medium of sculpting underlines our commitment to nation building and our contribution to South Africa’s heritage.”
Pieter van Heerden, Director of the Association of Arts Pretoria, concludes: “The PPC Competition is one of the yearly highlights of our Association, and it is always a tremendous pleasure to present this event. The Pretoria Arts Association is grateful to be the chosen venue and partner in the PPC Young Concrete Sculptor Awards, which gives the opportunity for young artists to present their works to the public. Many of our very prominent sculptors look back with pride at the start of their careers when they first participated in the PPC Competition. This year’s success reflects the ongoing interest and importance of art in our communities. We look forward to many more successful competitions and the launching of many more young artist’s careers.”
The talent and lives of six of South Africa’s promising young sculptors received a major boost when they shared the R75,000 prize money on offer at this year’s PPC Young Concrete Sculptors Awards, held at the Association of Arts in Pretoria.
The annual competition sponsored by PPC Cement for the past 16 years is fast becoming a must-enter competition for up-and-coming sculptors. The competition attracted 67 entries this year – more than double the number in the previous year.
The award for Best Sculpture on Exhibition went to Ruhan Janse van Vuuren for his work Act I, Scene II, while the award for Technical Excellence was won by Dorothea Nortjé for her work Memorial to the Entrapped Mind. Each of these artists received R25,000.
Runner up in the Best Sculpture on Exhibition category was Molemo Moiloa for her work, Concrete Truth, while the Technical Excellence runner up was Estie Nell with her work “Jas”. Both these artists received R10,000.
Merit awards of R2,500 each went to Brendon Erasmus for Upper Abyssal Jaw, and Pieter Cilliers for Tilted Shelves 2007 – 2008.
“The judges were very pleased with the number of entries submitted for the photographic jury,” said Awards Committee Chairperson, Kay Potts. “The variety of concepts, styles and technical skills made arriving at consensus on the winners daunting. The material we received was both thought provoking and challenging,” she said.
Dr Orrie Fenn, PPC’s Chief Operating Officer said: “We are proud of our long association with the PPC Young Concrete Sculptors Awards and its celebration of the rich and varied artistic talent in South Africa, and honoured to be sponsoring a competition of this magnitude that has benefited so many young aspiring artists over the last sixteen years.”
Nomzamo Basson, PPC Public Relations Manager added that “the fact that our product cement is used as a medium of sculpting underlines our commitment to nation building and our contribution to South Africa’s heritage.”
Pieter van Heerden, Director of the Association of Arts Pretoria, concludes: “The PPC Competition is one of the yearly highlights of our Association, and it is always a tremendous pleasure to present this event. The Pretoria Arts Association is grateful to be the chosen venue and partner in the PPC Young Concrete Sculptor Awards, which gives the opportunity for young artists to present their works to the public. Many of our very prominent sculptors look back with pride at the start of their careers when they first participated in the PPC Competition. This year’s success reflects the ongoing interest and importance of art in our communities. We look forward to many more successful competitions and the launching of many more young artist’s careers.”
BLARNEY BROTHERS BARN REUNION
A nostalgic riverside festive season celebration
Great news for fans in party mode this festive season! Durban’s famous Irish group,
The legendary three-man group have been at the heart of South Africa’s music business for 34 years, livening up parties and other gala events with their own unique style of music, including Irish ballads, foot tapping pub songs, popular ‘newies’ and even the occasional Irish jig.
Comprising three of South Africa’s best loved musicians, Paul and Damien McIlroy and Tony Fisher, The Blarney Brothers established their enduring and endearing name by playing "The Barn" at Durban’s former Athlone Hotel every Wednesday and Friday for 13 years.
Since finishing there in 1991, they have travelled the length and breadth of South Africa and its neighbouring states, often logging up more than 10 000 km a month. The band has also performed internationally with great success in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Macau, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Australia and the UK.
Says Blarney Brothers band leader, Paul McIlroy: “Our upcoming season in Durban North this month marks something of a nostalgic return to our old stomping ground. The Riverside Hotel stands exactly where The Athlone was situated, and its Conference Centre occupies the very same spot previously held by The Athlone’s old performance venue, ‘The Barn’, our ‘home’ for so many years”.
While fans will need no introduction to the group, new recruits to The Blarney Brothers’ unique brand of humour and music-making can log onto their website at www.blarneybrothers.co.za for full details about their rich performance history, as well as the titles of their CD’s, and other information.
The Blarney Brothers, will appear from December 26 to 30 (inclusive) at The Riverside Hotel’s Conference Centre in Durban North, formerly known as ‘The Barn’ at the old Athlone Hotel, where they performed for many years. Tickets cost R70 for this not-to-be-missed musical reunion. Performances start at 20h00. Book on 031 563 0600, or call George on 084 890 1822.
Great news for fans in party mode this festive season! Durban’s famous Irish group,
The legendary three-man group have been at the heart of South Africa’s music business for 34 years, livening up parties and other gala events with their own unique style of music, including Irish ballads, foot tapping pub songs, popular ‘newies’ and even the occasional Irish jig.
Comprising three of South Africa’s best loved musicians, Paul and Damien McIlroy and Tony Fisher, The Blarney Brothers established their enduring and endearing name by playing "The Barn" at Durban’s former Athlone Hotel every Wednesday and Friday for 13 years.
Since finishing there in 1991, they have travelled the length and breadth of South Africa and its neighbouring states, often logging up more than 10 000 km a month. The band has also performed internationally with great success in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Macau, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Australia and the UK.
Says Blarney Brothers band leader, Paul McIlroy: “Our upcoming season in Durban North this month marks something of a nostalgic return to our old stomping ground. The Riverside Hotel stands exactly where The Athlone was situated, and its Conference Centre occupies the very same spot previously held by The Athlone’s old performance venue, ‘The Barn’, our ‘home’ for so many years”.
While fans will need no introduction to the group, new recruits to The Blarney Brothers’ unique brand of humour and music-making can log onto their website at www.blarneybrothers.co.za for full details about their rich performance history, as well as the titles of their CD’s, and other information.
The Blarney Brothers, will appear from December 26 to 30 (inclusive) at The Riverside Hotel’s Conference Centre in Durban North, formerly known as ‘The Barn’ at the old Athlone Hotel, where they performed for many years. Tickets cost R70 for this not-to-be-missed musical reunion. Performances start at 20h00. Book on 031 563 0600, or call George on 084 890 1822.
TEDDIES BENEFIT CHILDREN
In partnership with UNICEF, the RedCap Foundation has launched a special gift in stores to support children this Christmas. The Kids are Priceless teddy bears will be sold in Mr Price Home stores countrywide and make the perfect Christmas or birthday gift for children.
More importantly, proceeds from the teddies will benefit UNICEF and RedCap Foundation programmes which aim to provide important stimulation and learning to young children across South Africa.
The teddy-bear campaign is part of the wider partnership between the RedCap Foundation and UNICEF to benefit early childhood development in South Africa.
"Our teddies are the perfect way to support less fortunate kids this Christmas, and we hope that all South Africans will show their love and devotion to children as part of the Christmas spirit by buying a bear in-store," said Natasja Ambrosio, Foundation Manager for the RedCap Foundation.
The campaign was also fortunate to receive the support of several UNICEF Celebrity Advocates including Danny K and fiancé’ Lee-Anne Liebenberg, Tshedi from the popular music Group Malaika, and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Yvonne Chaka-Chaka.
Teddies are available in stores from just R19.99 each. Larger teddy bears, which will also benefit UNICEF, will be on sale at Sheet Street during the Christmas period only.
More importantly, proceeds from the teddies will benefit UNICEF and RedCap Foundation programmes which aim to provide important stimulation and learning to young children across South Africa.
The teddy-bear campaign is part of the wider partnership between the RedCap Foundation and UNICEF to benefit early childhood development in South Africa.
"Our teddies are the perfect way to support less fortunate kids this Christmas, and we hope that all South Africans will show their love and devotion to children as part of the Christmas spirit by buying a bear in-store," said Natasja Ambrosio, Foundation Manager for the RedCap Foundation.
The campaign was also fortunate to receive the support of several UNICEF Celebrity Advocates including Danny K and fiancé’ Lee-Anne Liebenberg, Tshedi from the popular music Group Malaika, and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Yvonne Chaka-Chaka.
Teddies are available in stores from just R19.99 each. Larger teddy bears, which will also benefit UNICEF, will be on sale at Sheet Street during the Christmas period only.
HELVETIA GRANT APPLICATIONS
Call for Grant Applications from Swiss Arts Council.
Pro Helvetia Cape Town, the Swiss Arts Council, is inviting applications for grants to support art projects that are innovative, professional and contemporary in any of the disciplines and that support arts and culture exchange between Switzerland and South(ern) Africa (the Pro Helvetia mandate) or exchange between the countries of the SADC region through the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) mandate.
The deadline for Pro Helvetia applications for projects involving exchange between Switzerland and South(ern) Africa is February 28, 2009.
The deadline for SDC applications for projects involving exchange between the regions of South(ern) Africa is February 28, 2009.
The deadline is January 15 for Pro Helvetia and SDC residency applications for residencies in Switzerland, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Harare or Maputo in the disciplines of music, visual arts, performing arts, translation, literature and arts administration.
Download and carefully read the different application forms at http://www.prohelvetia.org.za/
Pro Helvetia Cape Town, the Swiss Arts Council, is inviting applications for grants to support art projects that are innovative, professional and contemporary in any of the disciplines and that support arts and culture exchange between Switzerland and South(ern) Africa (the Pro Helvetia mandate) or exchange between the countries of the SADC region through the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) mandate.
The deadline for Pro Helvetia applications for projects involving exchange between Switzerland and South(ern) Africa is February 28, 2009.
The deadline for SDC applications for projects involving exchange between the regions of South(ern) Africa is February 28, 2009.
The deadline is January 15 for Pro Helvetia and SDC residency applications for residencies in Switzerland, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Harare or Maputo in the disciplines of music, visual arts, performing arts, translation, literature and arts administration.
Download and carefully read the different application forms at http://www.prohelvetia.org.za/
MUSINGS FOR NOVEMBER ‘08
Bev talks about the AMA Awards and a real cracker for a Christmas Stocking.
This month, Bev begins by explaining why she found certain facets of this years’s AMA Awards quite AMAzing…. And ends with a suggestion for a real cracker for that Christmas Stocking!
Having missed the first few seconds of this year’s American Music Association awards as the show aired on M-Net, I have no idea who the host was, nor do I much care, since for me he had absolutely no personality whatsoever! However, some of the performances were pretty AMAzing, in particular the opening sequence by Christina Aguilera, then about halfway through that by up-and-coming recording artist Leona Lewis, quoted as being Britain’s hottest export (who’s been tipped by Simon Cowell as likely to rival the success of the likes of Whitney Houston!) and who I understand has VERY recently visited SA to shoot a new music video! In the final performance, where Alicia Keys was joined by Queen Latifah in her delivery of her hit Superwoman (whose addition of a Hip-Hop element rather spoiled the number for me) came the GREATEST delight of the entire show, the entry onto the stage of an opera singer, no less, forming a highly unique threesome to end the ceremony on (for me at least) a high note! So intrigued was I that I immediately e-mailed Musica (the sponsors, in collaboration with Dick Clark Productions) to see if they could assist with the surname of the talented Kathleen, and was delighted to receive a reply within 24 hours (what service!) which informed me that it’s Battle, and I shall be investigating HER further very shortly.
Yet another AMAzing thing to me the limited number of contestants in some categories! However, there were some pleasant surprises, such as the talented and demure-looking Taylor Swift, with a charming performance of her latest single Fearless which hit No 1 spot on iTunes less than a month after its release. (Not so lucky in love is this pretty girl, though, for boyfriend, Joe Jonas - of teen heart-throb group The Jonas Brothers - broke up with her by way of a 27 second cellphone call, I’ve just read!) Another surprise (perhaps shock might even apply here) was how suave the artist Ne-Yo looked in his slick black-and-white ensemble - such a change from the casual gear most Rap and Hip-Hop performers seem to prefer, their hideous mis-match of colours normally topped off with a baseball cap worn either sideways or backwards! One of these was Kanye West, who seemed to feel it was the responsibility of musical performers to keep pushing the boundaries, concluding with the comment I want to be Elvis!
Billy Ray Cyrus (he of Achey Breaky Heart fame several years back – who also played the lead in the TV mini-series Doc where he exhibited fine acting skills) was obviously highly delighted to introduce his daughter, Miley, who was incidentally celebrating her 16th birthday – and we saw her blow out the Sweet Sixteen candles to prove it! - who has topped the charts three times recently, starred in a movie rated No. 1 at the box office, and in her energetic and somewhat raunchy song, she demonstrated some moves reminiscent of Kylie Minogue’s on-stage style. This gal will doubtless go down in history better known as Hannah Montanna, with a product range far outshining that of Barbie.
A pleasant surprise was seeing Colbie Caillat chosen as a co-presenter of one award category, having had a rapid rise to fame with just one hit single, the charming piece simply titled Bubbly from her album Coco - but I was just a tad disappointed that she chose to wear an exceptionally short frock which for me rather destroyed that fresh-faced girl-next-door image that came across in a documentary screened on her recently on TV.
Mariah Carey was honoured with a special award for having surpassed two historical musical achievements but as she performed her piece of the evening – filled as it was with her myriad of what I call trills - it struck me forcibly how much weaker these artists would come across without the terrifically talented musicians who back ‘em! A case in point recently was Lionel Richie when interviewed on Carte Blanche and Devi Sankaree Govender begged him to sing Endless Love to her. The charm was still there, but the voice lacked some of its lustre without the backing of an orchestra. (And I have to say, I take my hat off to Devi for having the chutzpah to join in, emulating the Diana Ross bits, though that particular exposé journalist would be well advised to stick to her day job, in my opinion!)
The female star of three High School Musical movies was the presenter for an innovative new category, that of the Team Mobile Breakthrough Award which enables viewers to TEXT in their choice, and this was won by the EXTREMELY young (so much so I don’t think their voices have quite broken yet!) Jonas Brothers, the three youthful lads who’ve attracted so much publicity about their Chastity Pledge, and I can’t say I was all that impressed with THEIR performance (a highly energetic one, with good harmonies) but they come across as really sweet when interviewed and it’s easy to understand their appeal to the female teeny-bopper brigade.
Multi-talented Beyoncé performed her hit Single Ladies with all the energetic gyrations she’s famous for, which made me ponder on what’s become of genuine femininity and whether it exists at all any more… However, let’s give the girl her due: she has an AMAzing voice, not to mention the body, and face, to go along with it. Yet she informs interviewers when NOT on stage she’s actually quite shy!
However, it was without a doubt Alicia Keys’ year, scooping a multitude of awards, and accepting them with grace and charm, touching in one of her speeches on the celebration of the diversity of musical talent honoured this year.
The Surprise Guest Presenter of the night was Justin Timberlake (who has certainly come a long, long way since his Mickey Mouse Club days!) and the Merit Award went to 53-year-old legendary performer, Annie Lennox, who I’ve always found rather androgynous-looking, though I give her great credit for the depth of her lyrics, not to mention the long list of her Humanitarian Awards, and she received a standing ovation as she rose from her piano stool, delivering a most heartfelt speech of thanks.
One of my favourite contemporary songwriters is Natasha Bedingfield, who performed her philosophical Unwritten as part of a medley which included Pocketful of Sunshine but I was left, rather sadly, with the impression that she comes across far better in a recording studio than in live performance.
The ubiquitous Rihanna kept popping up but thankfully that awful Umbrella song (el-la, el-la) was so LAST year, dahling that we were spared THAT in favour of her insights into Rehab.
Another AMAzing fact: Kanye West seems to be considered by his peers as a pretty humble fellow - but when he commenced his hip-hop number Heartless it had me reaching for the Fast Forward button, ever so thankful I was watching a recorded version of the previous night’s broadcast!
In closing, let’s fast forward to my find of the month which will certainly put a real cracker in the Christmas stocking of someone you love. I’ve previously mentioned the delightful soprano Natasha Marsh and her first album Amour but she’s now released an eponymous one and although disappointingly there are a few duplications of tracks, there ARE some stunning new ones, so if you have someone special in your life who cherishes really GOOD music, this is the one I’d suggest from a whole host of new releases flooding the market in time for the Festive Season… about which, more NEXT time! - Bev Pulé
This month, Bev begins by explaining why she found certain facets of this years’s AMA Awards quite AMAzing…. And ends with a suggestion for a real cracker for that Christmas Stocking!
Having missed the first few seconds of this year’s American Music Association awards as the show aired on M-Net, I have no idea who the host was, nor do I much care, since for me he had absolutely no personality whatsoever! However, some of the performances were pretty AMAzing, in particular the opening sequence by Christina Aguilera, then about halfway through that by up-and-coming recording artist Leona Lewis, quoted as being Britain’s hottest export (who’s been tipped by Simon Cowell as likely to rival the success of the likes of Whitney Houston!) and who I understand has VERY recently visited SA to shoot a new music video! In the final performance, where Alicia Keys was joined by Queen Latifah in her delivery of her hit Superwoman (whose addition of a Hip-Hop element rather spoiled the number for me) came the GREATEST delight of the entire show, the entry onto the stage of an opera singer, no less, forming a highly unique threesome to end the ceremony on (for me at least) a high note! So intrigued was I that I immediately e-mailed Musica (the sponsors, in collaboration with Dick Clark Productions) to see if they could assist with the surname of the talented Kathleen, and was delighted to receive a reply within 24 hours (what service!) which informed me that it’s Battle, and I shall be investigating HER further very shortly.
Yet another AMAzing thing to me the limited number of contestants in some categories! However, there were some pleasant surprises, such as the talented and demure-looking Taylor Swift, with a charming performance of her latest single Fearless which hit No 1 spot on iTunes less than a month after its release. (Not so lucky in love is this pretty girl, though, for boyfriend, Joe Jonas - of teen heart-throb group The Jonas Brothers - broke up with her by way of a 27 second cellphone call, I’ve just read!) Another surprise (perhaps shock might even apply here) was how suave the artist Ne-Yo looked in his slick black-and-white ensemble - such a change from the casual gear most Rap and Hip-Hop performers seem to prefer, their hideous mis-match of colours normally topped off with a baseball cap worn either sideways or backwards! One of these was Kanye West, who seemed to feel it was the responsibility of musical performers to keep pushing the boundaries, concluding with the comment I want to be Elvis!
Billy Ray Cyrus (he of Achey Breaky Heart fame several years back – who also played the lead in the TV mini-series Doc where he exhibited fine acting skills) was obviously highly delighted to introduce his daughter, Miley, who was incidentally celebrating her 16th birthday – and we saw her blow out the Sweet Sixteen candles to prove it! - who has topped the charts three times recently, starred in a movie rated No. 1 at the box office, and in her energetic and somewhat raunchy song, she demonstrated some moves reminiscent of Kylie Minogue’s on-stage style. This gal will doubtless go down in history better known as Hannah Montanna, with a product range far outshining that of Barbie.
A pleasant surprise was seeing Colbie Caillat chosen as a co-presenter of one award category, having had a rapid rise to fame with just one hit single, the charming piece simply titled Bubbly from her album Coco - but I was just a tad disappointed that she chose to wear an exceptionally short frock which for me rather destroyed that fresh-faced girl-next-door image that came across in a documentary screened on her recently on TV.
Mariah Carey was honoured with a special award for having surpassed two historical musical achievements but as she performed her piece of the evening – filled as it was with her myriad of what I call trills - it struck me forcibly how much weaker these artists would come across without the terrifically talented musicians who back ‘em! A case in point recently was Lionel Richie when interviewed on Carte Blanche and Devi Sankaree Govender begged him to sing Endless Love to her. The charm was still there, but the voice lacked some of its lustre without the backing of an orchestra. (And I have to say, I take my hat off to Devi for having the chutzpah to join in, emulating the Diana Ross bits, though that particular exposé journalist would be well advised to stick to her day job, in my opinion!)
The female star of three High School Musical movies was the presenter for an innovative new category, that of the Team Mobile Breakthrough Award which enables viewers to TEXT in their choice, and this was won by the EXTREMELY young (so much so I don’t think their voices have quite broken yet!) Jonas Brothers, the three youthful lads who’ve attracted so much publicity about their Chastity Pledge, and I can’t say I was all that impressed with THEIR performance (a highly energetic one, with good harmonies) but they come across as really sweet when interviewed and it’s easy to understand their appeal to the female teeny-bopper brigade.
Multi-talented Beyoncé performed her hit Single Ladies with all the energetic gyrations she’s famous for, which made me ponder on what’s become of genuine femininity and whether it exists at all any more… However, let’s give the girl her due: she has an AMAzing voice, not to mention the body, and face, to go along with it. Yet she informs interviewers when NOT on stage she’s actually quite shy!
However, it was without a doubt Alicia Keys’ year, scooping a multitude of awards, and accepting them with grace and charm, touching in one of her speeches on the celebration of the diversity of musical talent honoured this year.
The Surprise Guest Presenter of the night was Justin Timberlake (who has certainly come a long, long way since his Mickey Mouse Club days!) and the Merit Award went to 53-year-old legendary performer, Annie Lennox, who I’ve always found rather androgynous-looking, though I give her great credit for the depth of her lyrics, not to mention the long list of her Humanitarian Awards, and she received a standing ovation as she rose from her piano stool, delivering a most heartfelt speech of thanks.
One of my favourite contemporary songwriters is Natasha Bedingfield, who performed her philosophical Unwritten as part of a medley which included Pocketful of Sunshine but I was left, rather sadly, with the impression that she comes across far better in a recording studio than in live performance.
The ubiquitous Rihanna kept popping up but thankfully that awful Umbrella song (el-la, el-la) was so LAST year, dahling that we were spared THAT in favour of her insights into Rehab.
Another AMAzing fact: Kanye West seems to be considered by his peers as a pretty humble fellow - but when he commenced his hip-hop number Heartless it had me reaching for the Fast Forward button, ever so thankful I was watching a recorded version of the previous night’s broadcast!
In closing, let’s fast forward to my find of the month which will certainly put a real cracker in the Christmas stocking of someone you love. I’ve previously mentioned the delightful soprano Natasha Marsh and her first album Amour but she’s now released an eponymous one and although disappointingly there are a few duplications of tracks, there ARE some stunning new ones, so if you have someone special in your life who cherishes really GOOD music, this is the one I’d suggest from a whole host of new releases flooding the market in time for the Festive Season… about which, more NEXT time! - Bev Pulé
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