Love is in the air – at the most romantic time of the year, what can be better than spending it with your sweetie listening to great music in Durban. The Rhumbelow Theatre presents My Funny Valentine with Belinda Dolphin and Jaziel Vaugh’hann for one Valentine show only on February 13, 2011. Show starts 18h30 and the venue opens 90 minutes before show for picnic dinner.
Born of friendship and four years’ crooning as a duo, Belinda Dolphin and Jaziel Vaugh’hann present a night’s celebration of togetherness, heartbreak and all things fun and lovely. If you’re in the mood for love, or simply a cabaret aficionado or a lover of the old musical standards, this will be for you.
From the sounds of Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand to Bryan Adams and Lady Anthebelum, this show promises to serenade you through the rich, diverse tapestry of emotion that is Love …
R100 a ticket Bring food picnic baskets and braais will be available. There is limited secure parking and booking is essential. A cash bar is available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises). Rhumbelow Theatre is situated in Cunningham Avenue off Bartle Road.
Booking is through Computicket or contact Roland on 031 205 7602 (h) or 082 499 8636, email roland@stansell.za.net or visit www.rhumbelow.za.net
Monday, January 31, 2011
ALL SOAPED UP
Riveting cabaret performance by accomplished versatile actor Terrence Bridgett, star of SABC TV’s Isidingo (Review by Maurice Kort).
If you are not a “soapies” addict, you might not have heard of the Cape Town born actor Terence Bridgett who has become a household name through his appearances on SABC’s Isidingo and M-NET’s Binneland Sub Judice. If so, now is your chance to see this most versatile classically trained actor (at UCT) at the Rhumbelow Theatre over two weekends in All Soaped Up.
He is certainly much more than a "Soapies Slut" (his words), but a very accomplished and versatile actor. Using his experiences as one of the stars of Isidingo as a sounding board, he takes the audience through the audition agonies, his rise to fame and much of his life experiences, not least of which his constant weight gain problems a la Oprah and efforts to look good as per a TV star always in the limelight. His frank, revealing, behind-the-scenes look at life as a ‘Soap Star’ is interspersed with several songs, all very apropos the narrative and these, too, show his versatility. For these he is accompanied by renowned Musical Director, Coenraad Rall. Tickling the ivories he is a delightful foil for many of Bridgett’s comments, supplying many laughs along the way.
Here is Cabaret in its truest form and is enjoyment from start to end. This 90-minute tour de force could have held the audience spellbound for longer. It is one of the few shows at this venue that has ended in a well-deserved standing ovation.The show is directed by acclaimed, Cape Town born, actor and director Kurt Wustmann and the sound and lighting are professionally handled by the Rhumbelow Theatre crew.
Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, scenes capture cameo appearances by his Isidingo co-stars Karin van der Laag (Maggie), Ilse Klink (Vanessa) and Kim Cloete (Bianca). One does not have to be a soapie fanatic, or even have seen any episodes of Isidingo to appreciate and enjoy All Soaped Up to the fullest. It certainly stands on its own as a thoroughly enjoyable theatrical experience. The script is very funny and flows smoothly from one item to the next. Terence Bridgett's attention to detail shows in every movement and action, from the smallest finger gestures.
All Soaped Up runs at the intimate Rhumbelow Theatre, Cunningham Rd, Umbilo, next weekend (February 4 to 6) with performances on Friday and Saturday at 20h00 and Sunday at 18h30. The venue opens 90 minutes before the shows for picnic dinners with braai facilities being available. With a bar on the premises, no alcohol or drinks are to be brought on to the premises. Tickets R100 pp and booking is essential at Computicket or by phoning/e-mailing Roland at H: 031 205 7602, cell 082 499 8636 or e-mail: roland@stansell.za.net Limited secure parking is available. For more information see www.rhumbelow.za.net - Maurice Kort
If you are not a “soapies” addict, you might not have heard of the Cape Town born actor Terence Bridgett who has become a household name through his appearances on SABC’s Isidingo and M-NET’s Binneland Sub Judice. If so, now is your chance to see this most versatile classically trained actor (at UCT) at the Rhumbelow Theatre over two weekends in All Soaped Up.
He is certainly much more than a "Soapies Slut" (his words), but a very accomplished and versatile actor. Using his experiences as one of the stars of Isidingo as a sounding board, he takes the audience through the audition agonies, his rise to fame and much of his life experiences, not least of which his constant weight gain problems a la Oprah and efforts to look good as per a TV star always in the limelight. His frank, revealing, behind-the-scenes look at life as a ‘Soap Star’ is interspersed with several songs, all very apropos the narrative and these, too, show his versatility. For these he is accompanied by renowned Musical Director, Coenraad Rall. Tickling the ivories he is a delightful foil for many of Bridgett’s comments, supplying many laughs along the way.
Here is Cabaret in its truest form and is enjoyment from start to end. This 90-minute tour de force could have held the audience spellbound for longer. It is one of the few shows at this venue that has ended in a well-deserved standing ovation.The show is directed by acclaimed, Cape Town born, actor and director Kurt Wustmann and the sound and lighting are professionally handled by the Rhumbelow Theatre crew.
Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, scenes capture cameo appearances by his Isidingo co-stars Karin van der Laag (Maggie), Ilse Klink (Vanessa) and Kim Cloete (Bianca). One does not have to be a soapie fanatic, or even have seen any episodes of Isidingo to appreciate and enjoy All Soaped Up to the fullest. It certainly stands on its own as a thoroughly enjoyable theatrical experience. The script is very funny and flows smoothly from one item to the next. Terence Bridgett's attention to detail shows in every movement and action, from the smallest finger gestures.
All Soaped Up runs at the intimate Rhumbelow Theatre, Cunningham Rd, Umbilo, next weekend (February 4 to 6) with performances on Friday and Saturday at 20h00 and Sunday at 18h30. The venue opens 90 minutes before the shows for picnic dinners with braai facilities being available. With a bar on the premises, no alcohol or drinks are to be brought on to the premises. Tickets R100 pp and booking is essential at Computicket or by phoning/e-mailing Roland at H: 031 205 7602, cell 082 499 8636 or e-mail: roland@stansell.za.net Limited secure parking is available. For more information see www.rhumbelow.za.net - Maurice Kort
DUREX ULTIMATE BATTLE VI
The Durex Ultimate Battle VI is now open for entries and the organisers are looking for bands in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Cape Town, Bloemfontein, Witbank, East London, Port Elizabeth and Potchefstroom
South Africa’s biggest national live band contest is back and much bigger than ever before! On offer is more than R100,000 of amazing prizes, cash and equipment. Over 150 bands will compete across the nation in this top quality show production which is all filmed for future broadcast.
The Durban Battle dates and venues are as follows: Prelim Battle Heats will take place on March 25 at Unit 11 and on March 26 at Burn. The Semi Final Battle Heats will be held on April 30 at Unit 11. The final Battle takes place on June 4 at Cool Runnings at Fourways in Johannesburg.
Bands who think they’ve got what it takes to succeed on the live scene, should take their chances now on the biggest annual live music platform.
For more information and entry forms please email your Name, Band Name and Where you are from to clint@authenticideas.co.za or nancy@authenticideas.co.za or visit www.ultimatebattle.co.za
South Africa’s biggest national live band contest is back and much bigger than ever before! On offer is more than R100,000 of amazing prizes, cash and equipment. Over 150 bands will compete across the nation in this top quality show production which is all filmed for future broadcast.
The Durban Battle dates and venues are as follows: Prelim Battle Heats will take place on March 25 at Unit 11 and on March 26 at Burn. The Semi Final Battle Heats will be held on April 30 at Unit 11. The final Battle takes place on June 4 at Cool Runnings at Fourways in Johannesburg.
Bands who think they’ve got what it takes to succeed on the live scene, should take their chances now on the biggest annual live music platform.
For more information and entry forms please email your Name, Band Name and Where you are from to clint@authenticideas.co.za or nancy@authenticideas.co.za or visit www.ultimatebattle.co.za
DEATH OF NEVILLE HEBRARD
Musician and incomparable tax consultant Neville Hebrard passed away yesterday (January 29, 2011) morning.“Many arts practitioners, including myself, benefited considerably through his vast tax expertise and it was a glorious joy to hand over into his capable hands all my expenses and income at the end of the tax year,” says artSMart editor, Caroline Smart. “I know I speak for all his clients in the creative world that he relieved us of a huge annual headache! He suffered so much in the past years that while we mourn him, for him it is a blessed release.”
Actor and raconteur Frank Graham also remembers Neville Hebrard with fondness: “He was a hugely likable man. His tax company has served me well down the years.”
Neville's first band was known as The Insound and consisted of Neville Hebrard (singer/ guitarist/ entertainer); Clive Lesley; Dave Skippage; John Anderson and Tony Harris; all of whom played together professionally from 1966 to 1970. After the band broke up, Neville and Clive Lesley continued to play together from 1992 to 1994.
Neville's second professional band was known as The Clan and was also a five-piece group with Neville joined by Christine Schutter on keyboard; Chris Grindley-Ferris; Mark Kirkbride and Richard McCrystal. The band started in the early 90’s as a professional group and only broke up when two of the band members emigrated overseas.
Chris Grindley-Ferris, musician and former SABC Durban video editor who now lives in Canada, sent this tribute:
“I remember things like meeting him for the first time when we played Daddy Warbucks (in Annie) at his daughter's school, Maris Stella,“ says Chris. “I can also remember practicing in his dining room, preparing for many, many gigs.
“Parts of one particular gig stays with me,” he continues. “We went to Swaziland to do a performance, I can't remember who for but, apart from riding in a limo for the first time, the actual gig eludes me. However! On our way too - or from - the venue, we were stopped by the police on the road, I think they thought we were drug dealers or something. Anyway, we explained that we were a band, but they didn't believe us, so we all got out the cars and proceeded to do an a capella song by the, then popular, Boyz 2 Men. They were obviously very impressed with Nev's voice and with broad smiles they let us proceed on our way. Music is an international language!”
Neville also played on numerous occasions at private parties and functions with his good friend Eddy Watts. He also sung at weddings in a professional capacity with his daughter Monique Hebrard.
In about 1977 Neville and his good friend Andrew Stengel started playing music together in the Pinetown Catholic Church, at the request of the then Father Chiz. In 1980, flautist Rose McArthur joined the group and this was the beginning of the Pinetown Catholic church 'Folk Group' as they were so fondly known. They continued to play together, with others 'joining & leaving' the group over time, until Neville suffered a second debilitating stroke in 2005 which lost him the ability to play the guitar and sing.
“This was extremely difficulty for Neville to accept,” says Neville’s wife Sally, “and he really tried to continue playing in the group, but could no longer understand the cords or coordinate the music. It was a huge blow to his confidence and he was never able to re-gain his musical ability. Thankfully, this all happened after his eldest daughter, Charnell's wedding when Neville and his youngest daughter Monique, sang The Prayer by André Bochellie & Cylean Dion, and they received a standing ovation. This was Neville's last public performance.”
The funeral will take place on Friday (February 4) at the St. Francis Xavier, Bluff Catholic Church, 21 Sormany Road, (off Marine Drive) at 11h00.
EVITA’S KOSSIE SIKELELA
Evita Bezuidenhout wins Gourmand Award.
Evita Bezuidenhout’s cookbook, Evita’s Kossie Sikelela, has been named the South African winner of the Gourmand World Cookbooks Awards 2010. Her very first cookbook won in the category Best Easy Recipes Book and over 40,000 copies have been sold since its release in March 2010.
This qualifies Mrs Bezuidenhout’s book for the next round in which its peers from all other countries compete for the Gourmand Best In The World award. The award ceremony takes place in Paris (France – not Parys in the Free State, Evita hastens to add) on March 3, 2011, on the first day of the Paris Cookbook Fair.
Evita, who is no stranger to fame and the limelight, says: “I am thrilled and delighted at this news and pay a special tribute to Linda Vicquery who did most of the work, while I picked up most of the weight! Best in South Africa is better than best in the world!”
Publisher Frederik de Jager says: “The delight of having to do with Tannie Evita is like standing in the crowd and cheering her along the red carpet. She is glamour and generosity personified and makes magic of everything she touches. And her partner in this book Linda Vicquery is as bounteous in the arts of cooking and drawing as she is in her love of life. Eating one’s way through this entire book couldn’t give greater pleasure than seeing the two of them thus honoured.”
Author royalties from the sale of this book, matched by the publishers, go to the Darling Trust, founded by Pieter-Dirk Uys to serve the community of Darling in the Western Cape through art and culture, education and health. Visit www.thedarlingtrust.org
The book is also available in Afrikaans as Evita Se Kossie Sikelela. (Review to follow)
Evita Bezuidenhout’s cookbook, Evita’s Kossie Sikelela, has been named the South African winner of the Gourmand World Cookbooks Awards 2010. Her very first cookbook won in the category Best Easy Recipes Book and over 40,000 copies have been sold since its release in March 2010.
This qualifies Mrs Bezuidenhout’s book for the next round in which its peers from all other countries compete for the Gourmand Best In The World award. The award ceremony takes place in Paris (France – not Parys in the Free State, Evita hastens to add) on March 3, 2011, on the first day of the Paris Cookbook Fair.
Evita, who is no stranger to fame and the limelight, says: “I am thrilled and delighted at this news and pay a special tribute to Linda Vicquery who did most of the work, while I picked up most of the weight! Best in South Africa is better than best in the world!”
Publisher Frederik de Jager says: “The delight of having to do with Tannie Evita is like standing in the crowd and cheering her along the red carpet. She is glamour and generosity personified and makes magic of everything she touches. And her partner in this book Linda Vicquery is as bounteous in the arts of cooking and drawing as she is in her love of life. Eating one’s way through this entire book couldn’t give greater pleasure than seeing the two of them thus honoured.”
Author royalties from the sale of this book, matched by the publishers, go to the Darling Trust, founded by Pieter-Dirk Uys to serve the community of Darling in the Western Cape through art and culture, education and health. Visit www.thedarlingtrust.org
The book is also available in Afrikaans as Evita Se Kossie Sikelela. (Review to follow)
DURBAN FILMMART 2011 DEADLINE
The deadline for the submissions for the second annual Durban FilmMart is looming. Set to take place in Durban from July 22 to 26, 2011, during the 32nd edition of the Durban International Film Festival, the closing date for entries is February 15, 2011.
Aimed at raising the visibility of projects from the African continent and creating opportunities for African filmmakers, the Durban FilmMart is a joint venture between DFO, the film-industry development arm of the eThekwini Municipality and the Durban International Festival (DIFF), which is organised by the Centre for Creative Arts (University of KwaZulu-Natal).
The inaugural Durban FilmMart in 2010 saw 200 producers, directors, sales agents, distributors, financiers and funding organisations from across the world, attending meetings, project presentations and a series of master classes and workshops on the latest trends in film finance, marketing, distribution and new media technologies. Of the 75 qualifying applicants, 12 projects in both the feature film and documentary genres from as far afield as Egypt, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Zambia and Burkina Faso, were chosen to participate in the Finance Forum segment of the Durban FilmMart.
Commenting on the success of the first edition and noting the anticipatory interest of potential investors, Toni Monty of the Durban Film Office (DFO) added, “Film practitioners from all corners of the African continent are encouraged to take this opportunity as a means of promoting their projects, meeting lead experts and networking with industry professionals from across the globe”.
Peter Rorvik, Director of the Durban International Film Festival echoed Monty's sentiments: “The Durban FilmMart will stimulate African cinema production and facilitate project collaboration between African filmmakers.”
The Durban FilmMart will also allow aspiring film producers the opportunity to be spotted for inclusion in the International Film Festival Rotterdam's CineMart, one of the world's most respected co-production markets. Three producers who participated in last year's Durban FilmMart will attend the CineMart's 2011 Rotterdam Lab, a high-level producer workshop that supports independent film production, and provides an opportunity to meet and network with global film industry players.
Filmmakers preparing submissions to the Durban FilmMart can note the comments of Egyptian filmmaker Hossan Elouan, whose film Hawi scooped an award at the Doha Tribeca Film Festival. Elouan took part in the Durban FilmMart in July 2010 and described it as “an exciting experience - it gets all the participants under one roof, so they can exchange ideas, and do business together. It is also important because it puts African filmmakers and producers with the right industry contacts in Europe and North America, which opens doors for international co-productions with Africa, and better distribution possibilities for African films across the globe.”
Entry is open to projects with an African citizen attached to one of the three key creative roles of producer, director or writer. Proof of African citizenship or birth must be provided through a certified copy of a valid African passport/birth certificate. It also includes Africans living in the Diaspora, but who still have African citizenship or have proof of birth in Africa, as well as projects with a producer attached.
For more information on the Durban FilmMart and how to submit projects visit www.durbanfilmmart.com Further information on email: durbanfilmmart@durban.gov.za or durbanfilmmart@gmail.com
Aimed at raising the visibility of projects from the African continent and creating opportunities for African filmmakers, the Durban FilmMart is a joint venture between DFO, the film-industry development arm of the eThekwini Municipality and the Durban International Festival (DIFF), which is organised by the Centre for Creative Arts (University of KwaZulu-Natal).
The inaugural Durban FilmMart in 2010 saw 200 producers, directors, sales agents, distributors, financiers and funding organisations from across the world, attending meetings, project presentations and a series of master classes and workshops on the latest trends in film finance, marketing, distribution and new media technologies. Of the 75 qualifying applicants, 12 projects in both the feature film and documentary genres from as far afield as Egypt, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Zambia and Burkina Faso, were chosen to participate in the Finance Forum segment of the Durban FilmMart.
Commenting on the success of the first edition and noting the anticipatory interest of potential investors, Toni Monty of the Durban Film Office (DFO) added, “Film practitioners from all corners of the African continent are encouraged to take this opportunity as a means of promoting their projects, meeting lead experts and networking with industry professionals from across the globe”.
Peter Rorvik, Director of the Durban International Film Festival echoed Monty's sentiments: “The Durban FilmMart will stimulate African cinema production and facilitate project collaboration between African filmmakers.”
The Durban FilmMart will also allow aspiring film producers the opportunity to be spotted for inclusion in the International Film Festival Rotterdam's CineMart, one of the world's most respected co-production markets. Three producers who participated in last year's Durban FilmMart will attend the CineMart's 2011 Rotterdam Lab, a high-level producer workshop that supports independent film production, and provides an opportunity to meet and network with global film industry players.
Filmmakers preparing submissions to the Durban FilmMart can note the comments of Egyptian filmmaker Hossan Elouan, whose film Hawi scooped an award at the Doha Tribeca Film Festival. Elouan took part in the Durban FilmMart in July 2010 and described it as “an exciting experience - it gets all the participants under one roof, so they can exchange ideas, and do business together. It is also important because it puts African filmmakers and producers with the right industry contacts in Europe and North America, which opens doors for international co-productions with Africa, and better distribution possibilities for African films across the globe.”
Entry is open to projects with an African citizen attached to one of the three key creative roles of producer, director or writer. Proof of African citizenship or birth must be provided through a certified copy of a valid African passport/birth certificate. It also includes Africans living in the Diaspora, but who still have African citizenship or have proof of birth in Africa, as well as projects with a producer attached.
For more information on the Durban FilmMart and how to submit projects visit www.durbanfilmmart.com Further information on email: durbanfilmmart@durban.gov.za or durbanfilmmart@gmail.com
Sunday, January 30, 2011
ART OF THE CONSTRUCTION SITE
The Art of the Construction Site is an exhibition of digital photography by Julie Mayo which is running in the Middle Gallery at artSPACE durban.Having an extensive background in Architecture, Durban artist Julie Mayo has always had a fascination for construction sites: the energy, chaos, and danger. The smell of wet concrete and newly dug earth; the noisy, carefree chattering of the labourers; the ear-splitting sound of metal against metal; the visuals created by scaffolding, danger tape, cranes, the geometric skyline.
For this body of work, Mayo has photographed the progress of the construction of the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa, and digitally manipulated them to create these stunning images that are imbued with her own sensitivity to colour, emotion and atmosphere.
The Art of the Construction Site runs until February 12. artSPACE durban is situated at 3 Millar Road (off Umgeni Road) close to the Waste Centre. More information on 031 312 0793 or visit www.artspacedurban.co.za or www.artspacedurban.blogspot.com
SUCCESS PROCESS
(Petros Ghebrehiwot)artSPACE Durban is currently hosting paintings by Petros Ghebrehiwot in the Main Gallery in an exhibition titled Success Process.
An Eritrean-born, South Africa-based artist, Ghebrehiwots’ works focus on society’s movement towards positive values reflecting the power of unity, sharing, communication, agreement, conflict management, etc. His interest in this concept was inspired by the Eritrean people’s united resistance against oppression, which has proved successful after a prolonged struggle.
Success Process runs until February 12. artSPACE durban is situated at 3 Millar Road (off Umgeni Road) close to the Waste Centre. More information on 031 312 0793 or visit www.artspacedurban.co.za or www.artspacedurban.blogspot.com
NITE FEVER
The Barnyard Theatre at Gateway takes Durbanites tripping back in time to the 1970’s when Nite Fever lights up its stage. For many people the 70’s was a decade of disillusionment, the years in which the heady idealism of the 1960s - the belief of millions of young people that they could really change the world - collapsed. But then came disco with the mantra I Will Survive, and things started to look up as they donned their platform boots and Afro wigs, and spun their glitterballs. The 1970s became an incredible rollercoaster ride that will always be remembered for the break-up of The Beatles, the introduction of VCRs and pocket calculators, Mark Spitz winning seven gold medals, Paul Getty being kidnapped, President Richard Nixon resigning, Microsoft being founded, Elvis being found dead, the thrill of the Star War movie, Mother Theresa winning the Nobel Peace Prize, Sony introducing the Walkman and Manhattan’s Studio 54.
Nite Fever is a celebration of a decade that we will musically never forget. Some of the greatest music of our time comes from the 70’s, from The Bee Gees, John Paul Young, The Village People, Rod Stewart and Boney M, to the funky sounds of Stevie Wonder, The Jackson Five, Kool & The Gang and Showaddywaddy.
The 70s was also a time of diversity which can be seen in everything from the iconic movie soundtracks of Saturday Night Fever, Grease and The Rocky Horror Picture Show; to the disco hits Jive Talking, Love Is In The Air, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Stayin’ Alive and Freak Out; some epic ballads with You Light Up My Life, You’re So Vain, I Wanna Kiss You All Over; the sultry sounds of Baker Street; and the uplifting Delta Dawn, Lean On Me, and Knocking on Heavens Door.
This decade is brought to life from that vibey 70’s night club called Nite Fever, where the eccentric owner Leo broadcasts back-to-back hits to get the party started! Nite Fever is fronted by a dynamic 11-piece cast, including four vocalists and a rocking six-piece band.
Nite Fever runs from February 1 to March 6. Tickets R125 pp Wednesday to Saturday (R90 pp Tuesday night and Sunday matinees). For bookings and enquiries, phone The Barnyard Theatre on 031 566 3045, e-mail gateway@barnyardtheatres.co.za or visit www.barnyardtheatres.co.za for more information.
CLOUD 9 AT ST CLEMENTS
Appearing in the regular Mondays At Seven programme at St. Clements in Musgrave Road on January 31 will be Cloud 9 with Geoff Salt on drums and vocals, Dennis Bronner on bass and Pete Misselbrook on guitar and vocals.
Do they play blues, rockabilly, rock, folk, jazz or pop? None of the above and yet all of the above – it is a unique, eclectic mix of original and cover music, which would probably be best described as Durban Poison.
St Clements is situated at 191 Musgrave Road on the righthand side a short way down Musgrave after the St Thomas Road intersection. Mondays at Seven run between 19h00 and 20h00. Booking is advised on 031 202 2511.
Do they play blues, rockabilly, rock, folk, jazz or pop? None of the above and yet all of the above – it is a unique, eclectic mix of original and cover music, which would probably be best described as Durban Poison.
St Clements is situated at 191 Musgrave Road on the righthand side a short way down Musgrave after the St Thomas Road intersection. Mondays at Seven run between 19h00 and 20h00. Booking is advised on 031 202 2511.
NOVEL-SCRIPT PROJECT III
Calling theatre script-writers!
The Novel-Script Project is an annual writer’s project that is co-ordinated by Twist Theatre Development Projects, in partnership with the Netherlands-based theatre group Siberia, the National Arts Festival, and the Performing Arts Network of South Africa (PANSA).
This project brings together established and emerging writers from Holland and South Africa for a ten-day workshop in Grahamstown. Writers will be asked to create scenes based on a selected local novel (this year this will be Kopano Matlwa’s Spilt Milk) and will be mentored through the process of shaping and rewriting these scenes in order to further develop their craft.
One writer will be selected by a jury panel at the festival, and be commissioned to create a new play for the 2012 NAF Arena.
The workshop will be followed by a second phase in August/ September 2011, where selected writers will work with a Durban-based director and a community theatre group as part of the Twist project. The writers will be commissioned to write a new play in collaboration with these community theatre groups.
The project is looking for six South African writers to participate in this process. The Grahamstown workshop focuses on professional development and the further mastery of the craft of script-writing, and is not for first-time writers.
Writers must have proven theatre script-writing experience, be fluent in English and able to write in English. They must be computer literate, with their own lap-top computer. They must be open to constructive criticism and workshop processes.
Those wishing to take part must be available to be in Grahamstown between June 26 and July 8, 2011. They must also be prepared to work with community theatre groups and available to travel to Durban later in 2011 for follow-up work with Twist Theatre Development Projects.
To apply, send a short relevant CV of theatre writing experience as well as a sample of 2 pages from a recent theatre script (no TV/film, please). These documents must be emailed to info@twistprojects.co.za by February 25, 2011, before 16h00. No late entries will be considered.
Writers will be short-listed and a selection made by March 31, 2011.
Travel expenses and accommodation in Grahamstown will be provided, and a daily S&T allowance given to writers. There is no payment for participation in the workshop. However, those writers who are commissioned to work with community groups later in the year will be paid.
More information on 082 673 6662 or email: info@twistprojects.co.za
The Novel-Script Project is an annual writer’s project that is co-ordinated by Twist Theatre Development Projects, in partnership with the Netherlands-based theatre group Siberia, the National Arts Festival, and the Performing Arts Network of South Africa (PANSA).
This project brings together established and emerging writers from Holland and South Africa for a ten-day workshop in Grahamstown. Writers will be asked to create scenes based on a selected local novel (this year this will be Kopano Matlwa’s Spilt Milk) and will be mentored through the process of shaping and rewriting these scenes in order to further develop their craft.
One writer will be selected by a jury panel at the festival, and be commissioned to create a new play for the 2012 NAF Arena.
The workshop will be followed by a second phase in August/ September 2011, where selected writers will work with a Durban-based director and a community theatre group as part of the Twist project. The writers will be commissioned to write a new play in collaboration with these community theatre groups.
The project is looking for six South African writers to participate in this process. The Grahamstown workshop focuses on professional development and the further mastery of the craft of script-writing, and is not for first-time writers.
Writers must have proven theatre script-writing experience, be fluent in English and able to write in English. They must be computer literate, with their own lap-top computer. They must be open to constructive criticism and workshop processes.
Those wishing to take part must be available to be in Grahamstown between June 26 and July 8, 2011. They must also be prepared to work with community theatre groups and available to travel to Durban later in 2011 for follow-up work with Twist Theatre Development Projects.
To apply, send a short relevant CV of theatre writing experience as well as a sample of 2 pages from a recent theatre script (no TV/film, please). These documents must be emailed to info@twistprojects.co.za by February 25, 2011, before 16h00. No late entries will be considered.
Writers will be short-listed and a selection made by March 31, 2011.
Travel expenses and accommodation in Grahamstown will be provided, and a daily S&T allowance given to writers. There is no payment for participation in the workshop. However, those writers who are commissioned to work with community groups later in the year will be paid.
More information on 082 673 6662 or email: info@twistprojects.co.za
AFRICAN THEATRE 11
Festivals. Call for papers
A roll-call of venues and examination of programmes indicate that Festivals are thriving in Africa, and that theatrical encounters are taking place at those events. For an older generation of theatre people, Dakar 1965, Algiers 1969 and Festac ’77 resonate.
For those who have come to theatrical maturity more recently, some of those names now have a new meaning: in 2009 international spotlights shone on African productions at a Second ‘World Festival‘ in Dakar and then at a second ‘Panaf’ in Algiers. Meanwhile in Nigeria, the National Theatre in Iganmu, built for Festac, continues to provide a venue for performances and is the focus for discussion about Nigerian cultural policies and national theatrical ambitions.
The list of hosts to regular theatrical gatherings on the continent is impressive and triggers a tureen full of alphabet soup. The list includes Cairo (CIFT - Cairo International Festival of Experimental Theatre), Cape Coast (Panafest – Pan-African Festival of Historical Drama), Grahamstown (National Arts Festival), Harare (HIFA - Harare International Festival of the Arts), and Yaoundé (FATEJ - Festival Africain de Theatre Pour L'Enfance et la Jeunesse). While the bi-ennial East African Theatre Institute (EATI) Festival is peripatetic, rotating around the member countries.
The resilient and flexible festival format has been used by various groups including educators, politicians, cultural engineers, nation-builders, and prophets. After organisational tweaking and adding resonant rhetoric, they have used the format to give expression to a wide variety of ideologies, historical experiences and aspirations. For example, the Worldwide Festival of Black Arts / Festival mondial des arts negres referred to above as Dakar 1965 embodied Leopold Senghor’s vision of Negritude - with a carefully worked-out definition of who it was for and what it was about. The second World Black Festival had a significantly different agenda, just as the Second Panaf (2009) was, in turn, unlike the Panaf of 40 years earlier. Festivals have moved with African thinking and in response to urgent issues. For this reason the 6th EATI Theatre Festival (2008), held in Addis Ababa during a time of mounting regional tension bravely undertook to celebrate ‘Cultural diversity for African Solidarity and Peace’
Large-scale Festivals such as those mentioned affect cultural planning because of they become ‘flag-ship’ projects carrying personal reputations and absorbing huge amounts of money. They also provide intense experiences that can have an enduring impact on creative individuals and even shape national theatrical traditions. So, incidentally, can more modest Festivals organised on town, district or national levels. The power of theatre is such that they can decisively challenge and enrich the lives of creative young people.
It is against this background that the editors of African Theatre have decided to dedicate an issue of the journal to the historical, critical and comparative analysis of Festivals. Contributors are invited to work around the theme, to, for example, examine the organisation, impact and legacy of the drama component of post-Independence festivals in Africa.
Suggested lines of enquiry include the analysis of particular issues as reflected in African theatre festivals (issues might include Negritude, censorship, funding) or studies of particular national traditions through Festivals. (Egypt, Senegal, and South Africa are among the countries that have very impressive national traditions of theatre festivals.) There is also scope for analysing the impact of Festivals on a particular man or woman of the theatre, for comparative studies of, for example, schools drama festivals in different countries, or for looking at the impact of performing in international festivals on a particular drama group.
While the bulk of the volume will be given over to refereed, academic articles, space will be reserved for a play-script – preferably one written for a Festival. There is a certain amount of flexibility and room may be found for an interview with, for example, a Festival organiser.
Submit abstracts and contributions, following the style-sheet printed in each African Theatre title, as Word documents to James Gibbs at Jamesgibbs@btinternet.com or 8 Victoria Square, Bristol, BS8 4ET. Deadline for Abstracts: May 15, 2011; deadline for Papers: August 31, 2011. Maximum number of words: 5,000. Contact James Gibbs if an initial response to a proposed submission is required.
A roll-call of venues and examination of programmes indicate that Festivals are thriving in Africa, and that theatrical encounters are taking place at those events. For an older generation of theatre people, Dakar 1965, Algiers 1969 and Festac ’77 resonate.
For those who have come to theatrical maturity more recently, some of those names now have a new meaning: in 2009 international spotlights shone on African productions at a Second ‘World Festival‘ in Dakar and then at a second ‘Panaf’ in Algiers. Meanwhile in Nigeria, the National Theatre in Iganmu, built for Festac, continues to provide a venue for performances and is the focus for discussion about Nigerian cultural policies and national theatrical ambitions.
The list of hosts to regular theatrical gatherings on the continent is impressive and triggers a tureen full of alphabet soup. The list includes Cairo (CIFT - Cairo International Festival of Experimental Theatre), Cape Coast (Panafest – Pan-African Festival of Historical Drama), Grahamstown (National Arts Festival), Harare (HIFA - Harare International Festival of the Arts), and Yaoundé (FATEJ - Festival Africain de Theatre Pour L'Enfance et la Jeunesse). While the bi-ennial East African Theatre Institute (EATI) Festival is peripatetic, rotating around the member countries.
The resilient and flexible festival format has been used by various groups including educators, politicians, cultural engineers, nation-builders, and prophets. After organisational tweaking and adding resonant rhetoric, they have used the format to give expression to a wide variety of ideologies, historical experiences and aspirations. For example, the Worldwide Festival of Black Arts / Festival mondial des arts negres referred to above as Dakar 1965 embodied Leopold Senghor’s vision of Negritude - with a carefully worked-out definition of who it was for and what it was about. The second World Black Festival had a significantly different agenda, just as the Second Panaf (2009) was, in turn, unlike the Panaf of 40 years earlier. Festivals have moved with African thinking and in response to urgent issues. For this reason the 6th EATI Theatre Festival (2008), held in Addis Ababa during a time of mounting regional tension bravely undertook to celebrate ‘Cultural diversity for African Solidarity and Peace’
Large-scale Festivals such as those mentioned affect cultural planning because of they become ‘flag-ship’ projects carrying personal reputations and absorbing huge amounts of money. They also provide intense experiences that can have an enduring impact on creative individuals and even shape national theatrical traditions. So, incidentally, can more modest Festivals organised on town, district or national levels. The power of theatre is such that they can decisively challenge and enrich the lives of creative young people.
It is against this background that the editors of African Theatre have decided to dedicate an issue of the journal to the historical, critical and comparative analysis of Festivals. Contributors are invited to work around the theme, to, for example, examine the organisation, impact and legacy of the drama component of post-Independence festivals in Africa.
Suggested lines of enquiry include the analysis of particular issues as reflected in African theatre festivals (issues might include Negritude, censorship, funding) or studies of particular national traditions through Festivals. (Egypt, Senegal, and South Africa are among the countries that have very impressive national traditions of theatre festivals.) There is also scope for analysing the impact of Festivals on a particular man or woman of the theatre, for comparative studies of, for example, schools drama festivals in different countries, or for looking at the impact of performing in international festivals on a particular drama group.
While the bulk of the volume will be given over to refereed, academic articles, space will be reserved for a play-script – preferably one written for a Festival. There is a certain amount of flexibility and room may be found for an interview with, for example, a Festival organiser.
Submit abstracts and contributions, following the style-sheet printed in each African Theatre title, as Word documents to James Gibbs at Jamesgibbs@btinternet.com or 8 Victoria Square, Bristol, BS8 4ET. Deadline for Abstracts: May 15, 2011; deadline for Papers: August 31, 2011. Maximum number of words: 5,000. Contact James Gibbs if an initial response to a proposed submission is required.
TOKOLOSHE COME AGAIN
(Liam Magner and Jacobus van Heerden)Neon Anthems bring their highly popular production to the recently renovated Seabrooke’s Theatre.
The Seabrooke’s Theatre at Durban High School has undergone renovations to the seating of the venue which will offer better sightlines for the whole audience.
As a “re-opener”, the first professional production for this year will be Tokoloshe Come Again from the multi-award winning Neon Anthems as Liam Magner and Jacobus van Heerden (both DHS Old Boys) offer a supernatural journey of magic, mystery and comic mayhem.
After touring Tokoloshe Come and Go! around the country, headlining at festivals like Hilton, Grahamstown, HIFA and Uplands, as well as performing at the Baxter, The State, The Playhouse and The Civic theatre, Durban's hottest comedy duo are fresh from a successful run in Grahamstown with the smash-hit sequel, Tokoloshe Come Again!
The Tokoloshe monster rears its head in the new instalment of the extremely popular, outrageously funny, Tokoloshe Chronicles. The show sees the combined talents of Jacobus van Heerden and Liam Magner – who write, direct and perform in their own brand of whacky African storytelling. Follow the life of Moses, the little orphan boy as he struggles to gain recognition in a world of odds. “Be prepared to participate,” warn Neon Anthems. “Be ready for anything and make sure to check under your chairs, the Tokoloshe is back and he’s ready to bite!
Tokoloshe Come Again runs from February 1 to 5 at 19h30 (February 2 is a sold performance) and the duration is approximately an hour with no interval. Tickets are R60 booked through Colin Chapman at seabrooke’s@durbanhighschool.co.za (preferred) or call 031 277 1500. Seating is unreserved. Refreshments can be purchased from The Horsefly Cafe which opens at 18h30. Secure parking is available on-site or in St Thomas Road (guards are present).
DANCE UMBRELLA
Dance Forum, presenter of the annual Dance Umbrella Festival, is pleased to announce that this highlight of the South African arts calendar is happening.
From February 24 to March 6, 2011, there will be a ten-day programme of new contemporary dance works by choreographers from Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, Grahamstown and beyond. The venues will include Wits Theatre, The Dance Factory, the Goethe on Main and UJ Arts Centre.
The full programme for Dance Umbrella 2011 will be released in the first week in February.
Dance Umbrella 2011 extends a big thank-you to its many partners, without whom the festival would not have been presented, Goethe-Institut-Johannesburg; National Arts Council; Business and Arts South Africa (BASA); Rand Merchant Bank; Netherlands Embassy; French Institute of South Africa and the French Embassy, South Africa; British Council; Art Moves Africa; CitiVibe and Classic Feel Magazine.
More information on 011 492 0709/2033 or e-mail danceumbrella@artslink.co.za Dance Umbrella 2011 hot-line for updates and programme schedules is 072 703 9332. Visit www.artslink.co.za/arts
From February 24 to March 6, 2011, there will be a ten-day programme of new contemporary dance works by choreographers from Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, Grahamstown and beyond. The venues will include Wits Theatre, The Dance Factory, the Goethe on Main and UJ Arts Centre.
The full programme for Dance Umbrella 2011 will be released in the first week in February.
Dance Umbrella 2011 extends a big thank-you to its many partners, without whom the festival would not have been presented, Goethe-Institut-Johannesburg; National Arts Council; Business and Arts South Africa (BASA); Rand Merchant Bank; Netherlands Embassy; French Institute of South Africa and the French Embassy, South Africa; British Council; Art Moves Africa; CitiVibe and Classic Feel Magazine.
More information on 011 492 0709/2033 or e-mail danceumbrella@artslink.co.za Dance Umbrella 2011 hot-line for updates and programme schedules is 072 703 9332. Visit www.artslink.co.za/arts
Saturday, January 29, 2011
I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE
(Pic by Val Adamson: Roland Perold and Steven Stead with Lisa Bobbert and Jessica Sole)Durban’s KickstArt begins the year by staging an un-missable Valentine’s treat from February 9 - the intelligent, funny, romantic musical comedy, I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change.
This hilarious, American musical comedy by Joe DiPietro and Jimmy Roberts looks at love and relationships from dating to marriage, to becoming parents and, finally, to old age. It is the second-longest running Off-Broadway musical in the history of Broadway. It is also everything you have ever secretly thought about dating, romance, marriage, lovers, husbands, wives and in-laws, but were afraid to admit!
Off-Broadway’s phenomenal longest-running musical celebrates the modern-day suburban mating game. I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change is presented in the form of a series of vignettes connected by the central theme of love and relationships.
Now it comes to Durban in a brand new production by Durban’s premier theatre producers, KicksArt. Starring Lisa Bobbert, Steven Stead, Roland Perold and Jessica Sole, it is directed by Greg King supported by Janna Ramos-Violante, who also choreographs. Musical direction is by Justin Southey; set design is by Greg King and costume design by Clint Singh and Marklyn Govender. Live on stage music will be provided by Justin Southey on piano and Jane Baillie on violin.
The musical premiered in New York City, on August 1, 1996, and closed on July 27, 2008, after 5,003 performances. So universal is its appeal that it has since been translated into 13 languages including Hebrew, Spanish, Dutch, Hungarian, Czech, Japanese, Korean, Italian, Portuguese, German, Catalan, Finnish and Mandarin! It has also been seen by audiences in Los Angeles, Toronto, Boston, Chicago, London, Tel Aviv, Mexico City, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Budapest, Sydney, Prague, Seoul, Milan, Rio de Janeiro, Johannesburg, Dublin, Buenos Aires, Berlin, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing, Taipei, Tokyo, Manila, Wiesbaden, Heidelberg and Christchurch!
I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change runs from February 9 to 27 at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre. Tickets R100 or R120 can be booked at Computicket. Performances are Wednesday to Saturday at 19h30 with a matinee on Saturdays at 14h30 (Sundays at 18h00). There is a special additional performance on Valentine’s Day, February 14, at 19h30. Tickets R150 include a glass of sparkling wine. For block booking, special event enquiries and package deals, contact Ailsa Windsor on ailswn@mweb.co.za on 083 250 2690.
THE JAZZ SINGER
(Grant Bell)After several sell-out seasons at The Heritage Theatre and many requests to bring it back, Gary McKenzie is re-staging this vibrant musical tribute to Neil Diamond – as a taster before the performer brings his world tour to Durban.
Neil Leslie Diamond was born in Brooklyn 1941 to a poor Jewish family. In 1966 he wrote a song which rocketed to No.1 on the billboards, staying there longer than any other song that year.
The song was I’m a Believer and the artists were The Monkeys. Instantly, this young Jewish boy had established himself as a major recording artist. Now, with over 40 albums to his name and over 110 million record sales worldwide, at the age of 66 he is still the third biggest seller of live concert tickets – only beaten by The Eagles and U2.
The tribute, which stars Grant Bell and Barry Thomson, features many of his hit records such as Sweet Caroline, Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show, Porcupine Pie, Red Red Wine, I Am I Said, Cracklin' Rosie, Holly Holy, as well as others he wrote for movies including Hello Again, Love on The Rocks, Heartlight and Song Sung Blue.
In 1984 at the age of 43, Neil Diamond was inducted into the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame. He has appeared on the cover of Time Magazine, entertained the US president at the White House and waltzed with the late Princess Diana.
For some 35 years, Neil Diamond has been the people's singer. From his early days as a Brill Building songwriter-for-hire, to his still-yearly presence in arenas all over the US, Diamond has shared his brand of catchy, hard to classify pop songs with the masses. It's not unusual to see two or more generations of family attending his shows together.
There are special low-price previews from February 1 to 3 at R150 for meal and show. Tickets R190 Wednesdays to Saturdays at 19h00 (R165 Tuesday at 19h00 and Sunday at 12h30) include a two-course meal. For more information or to book call 031 765 4197 or go to www.heritagetheatre.co.za
ARTSCAPE FINALISTS AT HILTON
Hilton College is proud to present a concert by the finalists of the Artscape National Youth Music Competition 2010 on February 19.
The Artscape National Youth Music Competition took place in Cape Town in October 2010. Talented instrumentalists Caryn Reed and Visser Liebenberg were both finalists in the piano and woodwind category respectively.
Caryn Reed has been awarded the UNISA Hennie Joubert Merit Award for seven consecutive years. She has been an overall winner three times in the various age groups at Artstrust National Piano Competition. During 2006, she competed internationally in the Czech Republic. Caryn participated in the Sanlam National Music Competition since the age of eight, reaching the finals several times. She won the piano category at the age of 10. In 2007, she received the Gold Medal as overall winner. She has performed several piano concertos with various symphony orchestras. In 2009, she reached the semi-finals at the Artscape National Youth Music Competition and received the prize for the most promising candidate not to reach the finals. In 2010, she reached the finals at the Artscape National Youth Music Competition and came second in the piano category.
Visser Liebenberg started his schooling in Bethal, Mpumalanga. He started trumpet lessons at age 11 and clarinet lessons at age 12 with Edwin Randell at Ermelo High School. At age 15 he started trumpet and clarinet lessons with Tania Lerquin en Lizet Smith respectively. He matriculated from Pro Arte Alphen Park in Pretoria. In 2008 and 2010, he appeared as soloist with Simfonia Juventi and in 2009 he was awarded a Pretorium Trust bursary. Visser is a member of the "Miagi Jeugorkes" and for two years participated in the Stellenbosch Chamber Music festival. He is the leader of the Liebenberg- Quartet which performs at corporative functions. In 2010, he reached the finals at the Artscape National Youth Music Competition and won the woodwind category.
The concert will take place at 19h00 in the Memorial Hall at Hilton College. Entrance is free but booking is essential through email: hn@hiltoncollege.com
The Artscape National Youth Music Competition took place in Cape Town in October 2010. Talented instrumentalists Caryn Reed and Visser Liebenberg were both finalists in the piano and woodwind category respectively.
Caryn Reed has been awarded the UNISA Hennie Joubert Merit Award for seven consecutive years. She has been an overall winner three times in the various age groups at Artstrust National Piano Competition. During 2006, she competed internationally in the Czech Republic. Caryn participated in the Sanlam National Music Competition since the age of eight, reaching the finals several times. She won the piano category at the age of 10. In 2007, she received the Gold Medal as overall winner. She has performed several piano concertos with various symphony orchestras. In 2009, she reached the semi-finals at the Artscape National Youth Music Competition and received the prize for the most promising candidate not to reach the finals. In 2010, she reached the finals at the Artscape National Youth Music Competition and came second in the piano category.
Visser Liebenberg started his schooling in Bethal, Mpumalanga. He started trumpet lessons at age 11 and clarinet lessons at age 12 with Edwin Randell at Ermelo High School. At age 15 he started trumpet and clarinet lessons with Tania Lerquin en Lizet Smith respectively. He matriculated from Pro Arte Alphen Park in Pretoria. In 2008 and 2010, he appeared as soloist with Simfonia Juventi and in 2009 he was awarded a Pretorium Trust bursary. Visser is a member of the "Miagi Jeugorkes" and for two years participated in the Stellenbosch Chamber Music festival. He is the leader of the Liebenberg- Quartet which performs at corporative functions. In 2010, he reached the finals at the Artscape National Youth Music Competition and won the woodwind category.
The concert will take place at 19h00 in the Memorial Hall at Hilton College. Entrance is free but booking is essential through email: hn@hiltoncollege.com
MUSIC AT THE LAKE
Old Mutual’s regular Music at the Lake concerts at the Durban Botanic Gardens get into the swing of things in February 14 at 19h00. This will be a Valentine Concert featuring Mango Groove. Thomas Krane will open the concert at 19h00 to be followed by Mango Groove from 20h00 to 21h00.
The Old Mutual Music at the Lake Concert on March 6 will feature Prime Circle who will perform from 15h30 to 16h30, preceded by an opening act at 14h30.
Online Tickets available from www.ticketbreak.co.za Tickets R100 Earlybird Adults (R120 adults on concert day/R20 concession for children aged six to 12). More information on 031 202 5819 (o/hrs) or the DBG Info Centre on 031 3091170.
The Old Mutual Music at the Lake Concert on March 6 will feature Prime Circle who will perform from 15h30 to 16h30, preceded by an opening act at 14h30.
Online Tickets available from www.ticketbreak.co.za Tickets R100 Earlybird Adults (R120 adults on concert day/R20 concession for children aged six to 12). More information on 031 202 5819 (o/hrs) or the DBG Info Centre on 031 3091170.
TIFFANY'S NIGHT
Tiffany’s Night at the Durban Showcase on February 2 will host The Kickstands, who put a unique spin on the progressive elements of acoustic guitar playing. Watch out for strong vocal hooks and solid songwriting. They are influenced by the guitar revolutionaries of Candyrat records (Andy Mckee, Ewan Dobson) and also the metal/shredding guitar genre. Classical and Spanish influences are obvious, too.
The Kickstands - Rudi Greyvenstein and Gary Nixon - are steadily gaining fans in the Durban area and have recorded an album with Sonic Studios. They gig everywhere from Scottburgh to White Mountain and their live DVD is due out shortly.
“Tony Fisher - is the fourstar general from the sadly missed Star Cafe which has been a haven for true acoustic music in Durban in recent years,” say the organisers. “Of course, he has a musical CV as long as a Polish surname but suffice it to say he plays fiddle, mandolin, bass, whistle, and some obscure Irish instruments like the shillelagh, with a fluency which comes only from a lifetime in music.
“Carol and Daniela - is an act that brings together our own Dina (Daniela) Daniels with a former musical colleague of hers, Carol, who now lives in Oz,” continues the publicity information. “Carol is here for only a few weeks so don't miss this opportunity to hear her. Her jazz chords are unbelievable - and not just for a woman! Oops I can see Dina loading her handbag! Your host is Tiffany and she is a songwriter of beauty and honesty.”
The show takes place on February 2 starting at 19h30 and due to finish by 22h00 at the latest. The German Club (Moonshadow restaurant) is on Barnham Road in Westville with signs from the Essex terrace off-ramp off the M13. There is good food, safe parking and an audience of kindred spirits. More info from Joh on 082 330 9652.
The Kickstands - Rudi Greyvenstein and Gary Nixon - are steadily gaining fans in the Durban area and have recorded an album with Sonic Studios. They gig everywhere from Scottburgh to White Mountain and their live DVD is due out shortly.
“Tony Fisher - is the fourstar general from the sadly missed Star Cafe which has been a haven for true acoustic music in Durban in recent years,” say the organisers. “Of course, he has a musical CV as long as a Polish surname but suffice it to say he plays fiddle, mandolin, bass, whistle, and some obscure Irish instruments like the shillelagh, with a fluency which comes only from a lifetime in music.
“Carol and Daniela - is an act that brings together our own Dina (Daniela) Daniels with a former musical colleague of hers, Carol, who now lives in Oz,” continues the publicity information. “Carol is here for only a few weeks so don't miss this opportunity to hear her. Her jazz chords are unbelievable - and not just for a woman! Oops I can see Dina loading her handbag! Your host is Tiffany and she is a songwriter of beauty and honesty.”
The show takes place on February 2 starting at 19h30 and due to finish by 22h00 at the latest. The German Club (Moonshadow restaurant) is on Barnham Road in Westville with signs from the Essex terrace off-ramp off the M13. There is good food, safe parking and an audience of kindred spirits. More info from Joh on 082 330 9652.
MUSIC AT JACKIE HORNER
The Jackie Horner Pub and Grill at 47 Helen Joseph (Davenport) Road, Glenwood, hosts popular outfit Band 33 on February 4 from 20h00 to midnight.
On February 6, Music Unlimited by Murphy takes the stage with popular classics from 13h00 to 15h00. The stylish pub also offers a Sunday roast special for R49. Entrance is free. Bookings on 031 202 9192.
On February 6, Music Unlimited by Murphy takes the stage with popular classics from 13h00 to 15h00. The stylish pub also offers a Sunday roast special for R49. Entrance is free. Bookings on 031 202 9192.
JULIET & HER ROMEOS
“We all know what happens when a woman sets here mind on something .... no-one rests until it is achieved. One such ... woman is Juliet Cupido who tells the hapless story of her search for the ideal man in her life.”
So says the publicity material for Juliet & Her Romeos due to open at Catalina Theatre on February 10.
Devised and directed by Charon Williams-Ros and starring Daisy Spencer, Grant Jacobs, Lyle Buxton and Rory Booth, this comedy musical revue takes a wacky look at the world of love, men and women.
Under the musical direction of Shem Mahabeer on keyboards, the Solid Gold band also features Llewellyn Chetty on bass, Dane Francis on guitar and Dillan Kanny on drums. A perfect Valentine’s offering for the month of February, the show features the music of Michael Jackson, John Legend, Lionel Ritchie, Michael Bublé, Bruno Mars, Whitney Houston, the Cornelius Brothers, Smokey Robinson, the Ting-tings and many others.
Juliet & Her Romeos runs from February 10 to 27 at Catalina Theatre, Wilson's Wharf, the performance on February 13 being a Valentine’s early bird special. Performances take place Thursday to Saturday at 10h00 with an early show on Saturdays at 17h00 (Sundays 14h00 and 18h00) Tickets R90 (R70 student/pensioner and matinee). Bookings on 031 305 6889 or visit http://www.facebook.com/l/c2338;www.strictlytickets.com
So says the publicity material for Juliet & Her Romeos due to open at Catalina Theatre on February 10.
Devised and directed by Charon Williams-Ros and starring Daisy Spencer, Grant Jacobs, Lyle Buxton and Rory Booth, this comedy musical revue takes a wacky look at the world of love, men and women.
Under the musical direction of Shem Mahabeer on keyboards, the Solid Gold band also features Llewellyn Chetty on bass, Dane Francis on guitar and Dillan Kanny on drums. A perfect Valentine’s offering for the month of February, the show features the music of Michael Jackson, John Legend, Lionel Ritchie, Michael Bublé, Bruno Mars, Whitney Houston, the Cornelius Brothers, Smokey Robinson, the Ting-tings and many others.
Juliet & Her Romeos runs from February 10 to 27 at Catalina Theatre, Wilson's Wharf, the performance on February 13 being a Valentine’s early bird special. Performances take place Thursday to Saturday at 10h00 with an early show on Saturdays at 17h00 (Sundays 14h00 and 18h00) Tickets R90 (R70 student/pensioner and matinee). Bookings on 031 305 6889 or visit http://www.facebook.com/l/c2338;www.strictlytickets.com
MYSTERY GHOST BUS TOUR
While the Mystery Ghost Bus Tour organisation does not operate public tours in Durban, group tours can be booked by contacting organiser Vanessa 071 671 0728 or email: vanessa.noome@lil-lets.co.za
The tours take in Pub & Grub stops, haunted houses, poltergeists, graveyards and much more. They run from 19h00 to 12 Midnight (of course!) Fee R295 pp More information at www.mysteryghostbus.co.za... if you dare !!
The tours take in Pub & Grub stops, haunted houses, poltergeists, graveyards and much more. They run from 19h00 to 12 Midnight (of course!) Fee R295 pp More information at www.mysteryghostbus.co.za... if you dare !!
FILM SCRIPTWRITING WORKSHOP
Pippa Jazmine Dyer, a Durban actress who has been living in Johannesburg for many years and now relocated back to Durban, believes that South Africa is an incredibly talented country. “It’s full of bright ideas, and a cacophony of experiences,” she says, “but people don't necessarily know how to put those ideas into a cohesive format and express them in a way that is not only accessible to the public at large, but which can be competitive on an international stage.”
Coming from quite a diverse background herself, Dyer is interested in drawing out those stories and making people find their own voice ... to tell their stories from a perspective of their own cultural expertise. No matter what culture, creed, or ethnic derivation, “a story well-told is a story worth listening to”.
"I think one of the main problems with inexperienced South African writers (note: inexperienced, not young) is that they can be long-winded,” Dyer explains. “They might have brilliant stories, but if you can't keep the tension then you will lose the audience half way ... even for South Africans who have an understanding of our beautiful land, but for an international audience, you lose them in the beginning! And that's just not good enough.
“I have had two brilliant mentors, in particular, Thandi Brewer and Julie Hall,” Dyer continues. “They call it ... keeping the spine of the story! It’s actually easier to see what works and what doesn’t in other people’s work so we will be working in small groups. Out of ten scriptwriting mentors that I have had to date, I have felt that there have been gaps in the training (except for Julie and Thandi). I am going to try and fill those gaps by teaching the methodology in a way that is accessible and encourages the voice of the writer instead of clamping it down."
An initiative of Pippa Jazmine Dyer through her CC, IQU Nettworks in Media Entertainmentt, (IQU), The Writers Club is designed as a starting point for those lay-people who have incredible stories to tell but don't quite know how to put pen to paper. The objective is to guide the storyteller through the principles of Film writing from Opening sequence, to Inciting Incident, Turning points at the end of Act One and Two, to Crisis, Climax, and resolution in a typical Three Act structure. These principles can be used for stage and novels too …
This workshop is the first of its kind, and will be developed further in time … The principles in the workshop are a combination of what Dyer has learnt from her own experience through UCT Drama School, Hal Croasmun's internet scriptwriting course, the NFVF (National Film and Video foundation) Sediba course, and the Script Institute.
A Film Scriptwriting Workshop will take place on February 5 and 6 from 09h00 to 17h00. Entry R1,000 includes tea and a light sandwich lunch. Bookings through Pippa Dyer on 083 303 7433 or email: jazmineva@iafrica.com or visit www.jazminepippadyer.co.za
Coming from quite a diverse background herself, Dyer is interested in drawing out those stories and making people find their own voice ... to tell their stories from a perspective of their own cultural expertise. No matter what culture, creed, or ethnic derivation, “a story well-told is a story worth listening to”.
"I think one of the main problems with inexperienced South African writers (note: inexperienced, not young) is that they can be long-winded,” Dyer explains. “They might have brilliant stories, but if you can't keep the tension then you will lose the audience half way ... even for South Africans who have an understanding of our beautiful land, but for an international audience, you lose them in the beginning! And that's just not good enough.
“I have had two brilliant mentors, in particular, Thandi Brewer and Julie Hall,” Dyer continues. “They call it ... keeping the spine of the story! It’s actually easier to see what works and what doesn’t in other people’s work so we will be working in small groups. Out of ten scriptwriting mentors that I have had to date, I have felt that there have been gaps in the training (except for Julie and Thandi). I am going to try and fill those gaps by teaching the methodology in a way that is accessible and encourages the voice of the writer instead of clamping it down."
An initiative of Pippa Jazmine Dyer through her CC, IQU Nettworks in Media Entertainmentt, (IQU), The Writers Club is designed as a starting point for those lay-people who have incredible stories to tell but don't quite know how to put pen to paper. The objective is to guide the storyteller through the principles of Film writing from Opening sequence, to Inciting Incident, Turning points at the end of Act One and Two, to Crisis, Climax, and resolution in a typical Three Act structure. These principles can be used for stage and novels too …
This workshop is the first of its kind, and will be developed further in time … The principles in the workshop are a combination of what Dyer has learnt from her own experience through UCT Drama School, Hal Croasmun's internet scriptwriting course, the NFVF (National Film and Video foundation) Sediba course, and the Script Institute.
A Film Scriptwriting Workshop will take place on February 5 and 6 from 09h00 to 17h00. Entry R1,000 includes tea and a light sandwich lunch. Bookings through Pippa Dyer on 083 303 7433 or email: jazmineva@iafrica.com or visit www.jazminepippadyer.co.za
COLOMBO NIGHT MARKET
(Kyle Fraser; Cooks Gasela and Darryl Hofmann)A night market boasting a fabulous selection of whole food; deli items; smooth jazz - and brilliant coffee – will be on offer at the third Colombo Night Market in the spacious Colombo Tea and Coffee warehouse in Gale Street on February 3.
Glenwood Community Forum member and market convenor Darryl Hofmann intends to offer a series of inspired gourmet-events in interesting places in and around the Glenwood area. After visiting the beautiful airy Colombo warehouse and coffee roasting studio, Hofmann was inspired to use the venue to host a night market to allow the public to visit the beautiful historic space. Colombo has been brewing fine coffee for almost a century - the aroma and presence of roasting coffee permeates through the building.
Hofmann has carefully chosen stall holders which will create a deli-vibe – allowing visitors to purchase produce from the stalls, and assemble a meal, indoor picnic style. Included in the stallholders mix is organic meats; oyster farmers; organic pizzas; artisan breads; fresh olives; marinated feta cheese; fresh herbs; and fresh fruit and veg. There will be plenty of coffee to taste, as well as boutique wines, cocktails, salon beers and beer from micro-breweries.
Colombo Fine Beverage marketing director, Kyle Fraser, is hugely excited about the concept and is eager to open up his venue so the public can explore and learn more about the coffee roasting process and spend a relaxing evening in his beautiful space.
To add ambiance to the evening will be “U C” – a funky jazz band under the baton of trombonist / drummer Xolani Hlongwa featuring Cooks Gasela on sax. Hlongwa teaches music at Umlazi Com Tech, and the band will feature some of his most promising students.
The Colombo Whole Food Night Market runs from 18h00 until 22h00 on February 3 at 369 Gale Street. More information from Yossis on 031 201 0090.
DYNAMIC DUO FOR NAF
The National Arts Festival, Grahamstown has brought on board two dynamic women to head up the technical division of the Festival, running from June 30 to July 10 this year.
Following the resignation of the Festival’s technical director, Tony Groenewald, the Festival has appointed Nicci Spalding as the new Technical Director and Michelle Lowry as the new Technical Manager. Both will assume their new roles at the beginning of February.
"Over its 37 year history, the National Arts Festival has demonstrated an outstanding level of excellence in providing technical services to theatre, music, dance and visual arts companies that present their work in Grahamstown," said Festival Director Ismail Mahomed. “For many of these years, the Festival's technical division was headed by Tony Groenewald whose passion for a high level of technical service contributed to both the artists and the audiences enjoying many memorable productions at the Festival. Tony has relocated to Johannesburg to take on newer challenges and, though he is no longer with the Festival, we can all rejoice that he has chosen to still remain in the arts industry.
“Nicci Spalding, who holds an honours bachelor degree in Dramatic Arts from the University of the Witwatersrand, has been working in the production side of the entertainment industry since 1994,” Mahomed continues. “She has extensive cross-disciplinary experience, having worked on the technical side of productions in almost every genre. Spalding is also no stranger to the Festival where she previously worked as the assistant technical manager to Tony Groenewald. Her experience also includes working as operations and site manager at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, as a crew-member for the Garsington Opera Festival and having toured extensively on shows of varying scale around the United Kingdom, Europe and Asia.”
Nicci Spalding responds: “I have been touring internationally fairly consistently for the past eight years, and am now looking forward to a post which will offer me an opportunity to invest my skills and experiences in South Africa.”
Michelle Lowry has over 25-years of experience in staging theatrical and event productions. “I am passionate about the industry,” said Lowry, who locally has worked with John Kani, Barney Simon and Mannie Manim; and internationally at the National Theatre with Jason Barnes of the Cottesloe Theatre, and with theatre directors such as Sir Richard Eyre, Trevor Nunn and Sam Mendes. She has extensive experience in the events industry drawn from years of working in productions across a broad range of genres. Her credits include some of South Africa’s highest profile events such as the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the 7th All Africa Games in 1999 and in 2002 at the Opening Ceremony of the World Summit on Sustainable Development. Also no stranger to Grahamstown, Lowry has worked as the Resident Stage Manager and Venue Manager of Rhodes Theatre at the Festival for two years.
"Both Nicci Spalding and Michelle Lowry have a long tradition of expertise of working with the festival circuit both nationally and internationally," adds Ismail Mahomed. “Their skills, experiences and passion for the arts will allow the Festival to continue to sustain its reputation of providing our visiting companies with excellence in technical workmanship, professional stage services and the ability to see their artistic and creative visions come alive at the Festival.”
The National Arts Festival is sponsored by Standard Bank, The Eastern Cape Government, The National Arts Council, The National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund, The Sunday Independent and M Net.
Artists who want to be part of the Fringe of the Amaz!ng 2011 National Arts Festival must remember that their application forms are to be submitted by January 29, 2011. Registration forms and the Info Booklets can be requested by email: fringe@nationalartsfestival.co.za or telephone 046 603 1103. Online submissions can be made at www.nationalartsfestival.co.za/fringe. Telephone enquiries are welcome to Zee or Kate on 046 603 1103.
Following the resignation of the Festival’s technical director, Tony Groenewald, the Festival has appointed Nicci Spalding as the new Technical Director and Michelle Lowry as the new Technical Manager. Both will assume their new roles at the beginning of February.
"Over its 37 year history, the National Arts Festival has demonstrated an outstanding level of excellence in providing technical services to theatre, music, dance and visual arts companies that present their work in Grahamstown," said Festival Director Ismail Mahomed. “For many of these years, the Festival's technical division was headed by Tony Groenewald whose passion for a high level of technical service contributed to both the artists and the audiences enjoying many memorable productions at the Festival. Tony has relocated to Johannesburg to take on newer challenges and, though he is no longer with the Festival, we can all rejoice that he has chosen to still remain in the arts industry.
“Nicci Spalding, who holds an honours bachelor degree in Dramatic Arts from the University of the Witwatersrand, has been working in the production side of the entertainment industry since 1994,” Mahomed continues. “She has extensive cross-disciplinary experience, having worked on the technical side of productions in almost every genre. Spalding is also no stranger to the Festival where she previously worked as the assistant technical manager to Tony Groenewald. Her experience also includes working as operations and site manager at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, as a crew-member for the Garsington Opera Festival and having toured extensively on shows of varying scale around the United Kingdom, Europe and Asia.”
Nicci Spalding responds: “I have been touring internationally fairly consistently for the past eight years, and am now looking forward to a post which will offer me an opportunity to invest my skills and experiences in South Africa.”
Michelle Lowry has over 25-years of experience in staging theatrical and event productions. “I am passionate about the industry,” said Lowry, who locally has worked with John Kani, Barney Simon and Mannie Manim; and internationally at the National Theatre with Jason Barnes of the Cottesloe Theatre, and with theatre directors such as Sir Richard Eyre, Trevor Nunn and Sam Mendes. She has extensive experience in the events industry drawn from years of working in productions across a broad range of genres. Her credits include some of South Africa’s highest profile events such as the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the 7th All Africa Games in 1999 and in 2002 at the Opening Ceremony of the World Summit on Sustainable Development. Also no stranger to Grahamstown, Lowry has worked as the Resident Stage Manager and Venue Manager of Rhodes Theatre at the Festival for two years.
"Both Nicci Spalding and Michelle Lowry have a long tradition of expertise of working with the festival circuit both nationally and internationally," adds Ismail Mahomed. “Their skills, experiences and passion for the arts will allow the Festival to continue to sustain its reputation of providing our visiting companies with excellence in technical workmanship, professional stage services and the ability to see their artistic and creative visions come alive at the Festival.”
The National Arts Festival is sponsored by Standard Bank, The Eastern Cape Government, The National Arts Council, The National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund, The Sunday Independent and M Net.
Artists who want to be part of the Fringe of the Amaz!ng 2011 National Arts Festival must remember that their application forms are to be submitted by January 29, 2011. Registration forms and the Info Booklets can be requested by email: fringe@nationalartsfestival.co.za or telephone 046 603 1103. Online submissions can be made at www.nationalartsfestival.co.za/fringe. Telephone enquiries are welcome to Zee or Kate on 046 603 1103.
BEAUTY AT THE HEX
Radio personality, writer and comic sensation Ben Voss is back with his razor-sharp, motor mouth alter - ego Beauty Ramapelepele in Bend It Like Beauty.
As the gap between Africa and the West widens, Beauty is torn between the capitalist trappings of western society and the familiar traditions of her home, South Africa. To keep her options open she has strengthened her ANC ties and at the same time taken an all-expenses first class trip with the Department of Tourism to showcase South Africa to the old foe, England, as well as some other western powers. That's what her itinerary says, anyway. But is she just looking to fast track her own immigration?
In Bend it Like Beauty South Africa's loudmouth seers the colonizer she is trying to impress and skewers the ailing colony she is tired of living in. With vitriolic candour she dishes out her verdict on her trip to the United Kingdom and what it is like to be a South African abroad.
In the process she answers such pressing questions as: Should "British Museum" not just read "Britain - a Museum" Why do Indians in London talk with an English accent and why are western politicians so much more expensive? Also she checks out whether, on his visit to the UK, Jacob Zuma made it into Buckingham Palace during the Changing of the Guard and showed the Queen his own crown jewels and could Julius get into Britain on a woodwork scholarship?
From an anal probe at Heathrow airport (the British were convinced she was smuggling cocaine) to her final speech to the South African cabinet she gives us a fly on the wall account of being a Black Beauty in Britain.
Ramapelepele, who is fast becoming a recognized socialite and self-made woman amongst South Africa's business and political elite, will enjoy a brief season where she shares a few secrets of her success.
Funny, fiery and fresh, Bend It Like Beauty has played in London for a three week season and now tours South Africa, taking in Durban, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pretoria, and The National Arts Festival in Grahamstown where Bend it Like Beauty won an Ovation Award for Best Comedy.
Bend It Like Beauty runs at the Hexagon Theatre in Pietermaritzburg from February 16 to 19 at 19h30. Tickets R90 (R70 students/seniors). Bookings e-mail hexagon@ukzn.ac.za or on 033 260 5537.
As the gap between Africa and the West widens, Beauty is torn between the capitalist trappings of western society and the familiar traditions of her home, South Africa. To keep her options open she has strengthened her ANC ties and at the same time taken an all-expenses first class trip with the Department of Tourism to showcase South Africa to the old foe, England, as well as some other western powers. That's what her itinerary says, anyway. But is she just looking to fast track her own immigration?
In Bend it Like Beauty South Africa's loudmouth seers the colonizer she is trying to impress and skewers the ailing colony she is tired of living in. With vitriolic candour she dishes out her verdict on her trip to the United Kingdom and what it is like to be a South African abroad.
In the process she answers such pressing questions as: Should "British Museum" not just read "Britain - a Museum" Why do Indians in London talk with an English accent and why are western politicians so much more expensive? Also she checks out whether, on his visit to the UK, Jacob Zuma made it into Buckingham Palace during the Changing of the Guard and showed the Queen his own crown jewels and could Julius get into Britain on a woodwork scholarship?
From an anal probe at Heathrow airport (the British were convinced she was smuggling cocaine) to her final speech to the South African cabinet she gives us a fly on the wall account of being a Black Beauty in Britain.
Ramapelepele, who is fast becoming a recognized socialite and self-made woman amongst South Africa's business and political elite, will enjoy a brief season where she shares a few secrets of her success.
Funny, fiery and fresh, Bend It Like Beauty has played in London for a three week season and now tours South Africa, taking in Durban, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pretoria, and The National Arts Festival in Grahamstown where Bend it Like Beauty won an Ovation Award for Best Comedy.
Bend It Like Beauty runs at the Hexagon Theatre in Pietermaritzburg from February 16 to 19 at 19h30. Tickets R90 (R70 students/seniors). Bookings e-mail hexagon@ukzn.ac.za or on 033 260 5537.
THE GREEN REVOLUTION!
Chantal Snyman, Thobani Mbhele, Gisele Turner and Mandla BiyelaThe Green Revolution! is an exciting new eco-production from the Arley’s Workshop stable. Directed by Gisele Turner who scripted and devised the production with Chantal Snyman, The Green Revolution! features three talented local artists. Experienced actress Chantal Snyman is joined by DUT graduates Thobani Mbhele and Mandla Biyela and these versatile performers act, dance, sing, rap and operate a variety of zany props and puppets.
Infectious, outrageous, full of the unexpected, The Green Revolution! aims to surprise, delight and educate! With gumboot rhythms as a base for a call & response rap, a moving tale of the First People's Walk Out of Africa, a peep at what really happens at the land-fill site, the transformation of a community through reforestation, victorious anti-eco-villains celebrating their conquest of the world, three escapees from the Funny Farm and a wild adventure at sea tracking the endangered Blue Whale, The Green Revolution! tackles some of the most serious ecological issues in brand new ways.
Find out why it’s cool to save energy and water, plant indigenous trees, recycle waste, eat less meat and grow your own veggies! So - get with the solution! Join The Green Revolution!!
Funded by the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund and available free of charge to schools in disadvantaged areas only, The Green Revolution! is suitable for Senior Primary learners. Contact Karen James to book 031 262 7823 and 083 607 4954.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
NGIQALAZISE
(“Umkhokha” by Mandlenkosi Khoza)Running concurrently with the exhibition by Clive Sithole, the BAT Centre will host a solo exhibition of paintings by Mandlenkosi Khoza in the Democratic Gallery from February 9.
Mandlenkosi Khoza was born in KwaZulu-Natal in Durban and his passion for designing led him to study Civil Drafting at the Mangosuthu University of Technology. Growing up in a township he noticed lack of motivation in his community and developed a desire to paint mostly about life in Durban. He draws inspiration from nature and animals and depicts various issues ranging from lust and the abuse of woman abuse to piracy and cultural rituals. He uses his paintings to raise awareness to people who engage with it which is his reason for titling his exhibition Ngiqalazise (help raise awareness).
A self-taught painter, Mandlenkosi Khoza started painting a few years ago after discovering a medium of expression, a medium that best suited his need to address issues facing his community. He likes to work with bright colours and most of his paintings are abstract and rough in texture.
Ngiqalazise will open on February 9 at 18h00 and runs until March 11. The BAT Centre is situated in the Small Crafts Harbour and can be approached via the road running past the Point Yacht Club, parallel to the Embankment. More information on 031 332 0451.
UKUPHUCA
“Ukuphucuzeka”, acrylic on paper by Clive Sithole)The BAT Centre is to host a solo exhibition of ceramics and paintings by Clive Sithole in the Menzi Mchunu Gallery from February 9.
From moulding award-winning ceramics to painting edgy conceptual paintings, the artist has titled his exhibition Ukuphuca (to scrape off / to takeout). This word is also used when one is shaving which brings irony to his concept. The work Ukuphucuzeka (civilisation) questions Beauty in an African Context.
Clive Sithole is an internationally well-known ceramicist. Since 1997, his prominence led to an invitation to attend ceramic classes at the Babumbi Clay Project, a ceramics project which helped enhance his career in the art industry.
He was born in Soweto, Gauteng, where he developed love of fashion Design. He attended the London International School of Fashion Design in Johannesburg and established a fashion business. After relocating to Durban he developed a career in ceramics.
Combining ceramics and painting, Clive Sithole expresses anarchic identity in a society predisposed by hybridity. His concerns are expressed using edgy sketchily yet raw painting. The exhibition questions Black women in a modern society and their perception of beauty. He believes that this perception of beauty leaves Black women in a vacuum in which they lack self-pride so they create appropriate masks.
“I like to paint on brown paper because of its natural texture and colour,” explains Clive Sithole. He argues how can one be proud of what they are not? “Has anyone come across a bull with feathers? A bull is comfortable in its own skin” is one of the issues he raises.
Curated by Nomusa Mtshali, Ukuphuca will be opened officially by Anthea Martin on February 9 at 18h00 and runs until March 11. The BAT Centre is situated in the Small Crafts Harbour and can be approached via the road running past the Point Yacht Club, parallel to the Embankment. More information on 031 332 0451.
ON PAPER
(“Farm Life”- silkscreen by Nonhlanhla Mhlongo)For over 50 years, the African Art Centre has focused on providing a space for both established and emerging artists from KwaZulu-Natal to showcase their work and to provide patrons to the Centre with a perspective on the multiplicity, depth and diversity of art and culture in the Province.
By doing so, the African Art Centre has consistently managed to assist in giving momentum and impetus to numerous KZN artists, among them being the late Gabisele Nkosi as well as Siphiwe Zulu, Raphael Magwaza, Philemon Sangweni and Derrick Nxumalo.
On Paper, a new exhibition at the African Art Centre, features artworks in a range of paper-based media including etchings, drawings, paintings, lithographs and linocuts representing a variety of techniques and media by both celebrated and highly skilled emerging artists.
The exhibition of artworks, drawn from the holdings of the African Art Centre are all priced below R1,200 and showcases the works from diverse periods in the artists' careers highlighting differences, similarities and trends.
Drawing together a group of artists including William Zulu, Sphiwe Zulu, Nonhlanhla Mhlongo, Lingo Diko and Bongani Ngubeni working in a diversity of approaches, works on the exhibition provide insight into the personal passages that each artist has experienced and recorded on paper, whilst others explore the artist’s hopes and expectations.
On Paper will be on view from January 20 until February 13. The exhibition is supported by the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund and the W K Kellogg Foundation. The African Art Centre is situated at 94 Florida Road, Morningside. More information from the Director, Sharon Crampton, on 031 312 3805 or email africanartcentre@afri-art.co.za or visit www.afriart.co.za
ART GIVES SIGHT TO THE BLIND
BrightlyColouredSight, the Art Exhibition of the Lions Club Potchefstroom, is taking place again from March 22 to April 15. Last year a record amount of R80,000 was handed over to the SA Guide Dogs Association through this initiative.
The Club call for donations from artists in South Africa and these works are displayed for a month, with all proceeds from sales going towards the SAGA.
Artists wishing to take part in this project should contact Phillip van Dyk on 082 907 8599 or visit www.potchlions.co.za
The Club call for donations from artists in South Africa and these works are displayed for a month, with all proceeds from sales going towards the SAGA.
Artists wishing to take part in this project should contact Phillip van Dyk on 082 907 8599 or visit www.potchlions.co.za
GRAMMY AWARDS
The 53rd Annual Grammy Awards will take place in Los Angeles at the Staples Center with fantastic nominees such as Bruno Mars, Eminem & Arcade Fire on the guest list. The ceremony will be broadcast on M-Net on February 14 at 21h30 in a Grammy Awards 2011 three-hour Special.
ARNO CARSTENS & ALBERT FROST
Arno Carstens and Albert Frost will appear “unplugged” at The Pumpkin Theatre Club in Ballito for one show only on January 26. Snack platters on request – contact the venue for a quote.
The performance takes place at 20h30 on January 26. Tickets R140pp. Booking is essential as there is limited seating. The Pumpkin Theatre Club is situated at 100 Compensation Road, Ballito. More information from Erika du Toit, Deputy General Manager of the La Montagne Resort, Ballito, on 032 946 2121, fax 086 622 9715, e-mail: erikadu@firstresorts.co.za or visit www.lamontagne.co.za
The performance takes place at 20h30 on January 26. Tickets R140pp. Booking is essential as there is limited seating. The Pumpkin Theatre Club is situated at 100 Compensation Road, Ballito. More information from Erika du Toit, Deputy General Manager of the La Montagne Resort, Ballito, on 032 946 2121, fax 086 622 9715, e-mail: erikadu@firstresorts.co.za or visit www.lamontagne.co.za
PLAYHOUSE VALENTINE’S CONCERT
(Natalie Rungan will be among the soloists)Love is in the air! Join the Playhouse Company and the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra in celebrating in style the build-up to Valentine’s Day this year with a special Valentine’s Concert to be presented in The Playhouse Opera on February 12.
Directed and choreographed by showbiz luminary Mark Hawkins, this glitzy event promises to be a night to remember and will feature a starry line-up of top acts. These include popular vocalist, Tim Moloi, jazz diva Natalie Rungan, lyric tenor Cobus Venter and sax whizz Andrew Young, along with a high profile line-up of leading South African dancers. Conducted by Naum Rousine, the evening’s lavish programme is geared to offer a wealth of musical enchantment.
East Coast Radio celebrity Damon Beard will bring a special buzz to this memorable experience as the evening’s MC, and members of the audience are invited to contribute to the glamour of the evening by joining the artists in appearing in designer evening wear, while the Playhouse foyers and performance venue will be decked out in style to match the occasion.
Popular hit numbers featured on the programme will include Strauss’s On the Blue Danube; O Sole Mio; Makes So Little Sense; Gimme the Night; Georgia On My Mind; Pink Panther; In The Mood; Unforgettable; River Deep, Mountain High; Can’t Take My Eyes Off You; If They Could See Me Now; That’s Amore; You Raise Me Up; Blue Tango; Baker Street; Islands in the Stream and Together Again.
The Valentine’s Day Concert takes place on February 12 at 19h30.Tickets R120 and R135. Book through Computicket on 083 915 8000 or online at www.computicket.com or call the Playhouse Box Office on 031 369 9540 / 9596 (during office hours).
ONE LOVE: THE MEDITATORS
(Simphiwe Sikhakhane; Khekuthula “Dan” Msomi; Sandile “Shante” Bekwa; Nkosinathi “Bunny” Mkhize; Thabani “Barrett” Hlela; Sifisokuhle Mphanza and Simon “Benjy” Khumalo)Bob Marley fans, stand by for a show to remember at uShaka!
uShaka Marine World will be in high spirits on February 6, when the local eight-piece reggae style band The Meditators will perform for Bob Marley Earth Day. This worldwide celebration of the reggae legend’s birthday takes place in South Africa, USA and Jamaica, to name just a few countries.
The performance will feature guest bands and DJs, including The Tuffmasters (KZN), David Yaso Reggae Band (Bloemfontein) and DJ Ras Ki (KZN). There will also be a Rasta Flea Market and many of prizes to give away.
The Meditators were formed in the early 90’s and are regular performers at uShaka Marine World over weekends. Their first reggae album was released in 1993 followed by a second in 2000. In 2002 and 2003, they played at the Awesome Africa Festival. In 2004, they were part of Vodacom Beach Africa. They also performed with Rita Marley and the I–threes from Jamaica at the Bat Centre as part of Women’s Day Celebrations in Durban.
Members of the band say that their reggae music appeals to all generations and cultures and their dream is to unite all South Africans through the love of music.
The Meditators are proud to host this annual event in partnership with uShaka Marine World Entertainment and Gearhouse. Their performance on February 6 takes place between 12h00 and 17h00 at Wahooz Beach Bar. More information from uShaka Marine World on 031 328 8000.
LAST NIGHT OF THE MARITZBURG PROMS
Parklane Super Spar in association with the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra will present Last Night of the Maritzburg Proms on February 4.
Don’t miss this gala event featuring the KZNPO conducted by the young South African maestro, Alexander Fokkens. Soloists include KZN-based soprano Bronwen Forbay and the popular Federico Freschi (baritone) in a selection of opera arias. Pianists Christopher Duigan and Andrew Warburton will perform at two pianos in Saint-Saëns’ much-loved Carnival of the Animals. The programme also includes the celebrated Intermezzo from Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana.
The second part of the concert includes the traditional sing-alongs Rule Britannia, Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance March (Land of Hope and Glory) and other audience favourites in a universal musical celebration.
Last Night of the Maritzburg Proms takes place at 19h30 on February 4 in the Pietermaritzburg City Hall. There is secure parking. Booking now open at Parklane Super Spar - contact Jennifer at the Dulce Coffee Shop.
Don’t miss this gala event featuring the KZNPO conducted by the young South African maestro, Alexander Fokkens. Soloists include KZN-based soprano Bronwen Forbay and the popular Federico Freschi (baritone) in a selection of opera arias. Pianists Christopher Duigan and Andrew Warburton will perform at two pianos in Saint-Saëns’ much-loved Carnival of the Animals. The programme also includes the celebrated Intermezzo from Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana.
The second part of the concert includes the traditional sing-alongs Rule Britannia, Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance March (Land of Hope and Glory) and other audience favourites in a universal musical celebration.
Last Night of the Maritzburg Proms takes place at 19h30 on February 4 in the Pietermaritzburg City Hall. There is secure parking. Booking now open at Parklane Super Spar - contact Jennifer at the Dulce Coffee Shop.
BIDING TIME
Biding Time is a new music theatre event for London in 2012, seeking productions adapted in other parts of the world using the same story and aims.
“Biding Time is an experiment to create new pieces of theatre around the world based on the same story and aims in 2012,” say the organisers. ”The show is about change with climate change a significant thread. The story is about a group of young people carving out their future. It is about love, success and how we measure it, time and the relationship between our feelings and the natural environment.
“There is a script as a starting point, recognising that the show needs to be adapted for local audiences and local concerns. There are many ways to get involved. The idea is to create a greener network for international co-production, limit travel and focus on local audiences but share the work virtually and encourage audiences to engage in this project.”
With connections in India, Sweden, Iran, Korea, China, Australia and Mexico; Biding Time is looking for connections in Africa. If you are interested in this project, visit www.bidingtime.org
“Biding Time is an experiment to create new pieces of theatre around the world based on the same story and aims in 2012,” say the organisers. ”The show is about change with climate change a significant thread. The story is about a group of young people carving out their future. It is about love, success and how we measure it, time and the relationship between our feelings and the natural environment.
“There is a script as a starting point, recognising that the show needs to be adapted for local audiences and local concerns. There are many ways to get involved. The idea is to create a greener network for international co-production, limit travel and focus on local audiences but share the work virtually and encourage audiences to engage in this project.”
With connections in India, Sweden, Iran, Korea, China, Australia and Mexico; Biding Time is looking for connections in Africa. If you are interested in this project, visit www.bidingtime.org
LIPS RENDEZVOUS
The next meeting of the Live Poets Society (LiPS) will take place on February 2.
Guest Artist will be the multi-talented, multi-disciplined Chicago-born Nomusa Xaba who is a veteran of the Civil Rights movement. During those years she was trained as a community organizer and served in her native Chicago and in rural Mississippi, her ancestral home. She credits her family and the Civil Rights movement with instilling in her a keen awareness of the potential of all human beings and she uses that awareness to motivate and inspire her audiences.
After meeting her husband in 1970 she became a cultural worker in the anti-apartheid movement.
Mama Nomusa is a multi-talented, multi-disciplined artist and a teacher by profession, she has spent many years teaching in the US, Canada and East Africa. Simultaneously she raised her five children while performing as a poet/ percussionist with her then exiled South African husband, pianist Ndikho Xaba.
In 2000, her many years of teaching and performing experience propelled her to seamlessly wed all of these experiences and leave the classroom in order to become an educational consultant/ storyteller. She has shared her storytelling prowess with thousands of eager students in the US, Tanzania, India and now South Africa.
Mama Nomusa is an author/artist/storyteller in process, a real cultural ambassador, always using her skills to improve and better serve the needs of the global community.
The LiPS Rendezvous takes place on February 2 at 17h30 for 18h00 at the Point Yacht Club, Victoria Embankment Durban. Entrance is free and new members are welcome.
Guest Artist will be the multi-talented, multi-disciplined Chicago-born Nomusa Xaba who is a veteran of the Civil Rights movement. During those years she was trained as a community organizer and served in her native Chicago and in rural Mississippi, her ancestral home. She credits her family and the Civil Rights movement with instilling in her a keen awareness of the potential of all human beings and she uses that awareness to motivate and inspire her audiences.
After meeting her husband in 1970 she became a cultural worker in the anti-apartheid movement.
Mama Nomusa is a multi-talented, multi-disciplined artist and a teacher by profession, she has spent many years teaching in the US, Canada and East Africa. Simultaneously she raised her five children while performing as a poet/ percussionist with her then exiled South African husband, pianist Ndikho Xaba.
In 2000, her many years of teaching and performing experience propelled her to seamlessly wed all of these experiences and leave the classroom in order to become an educational consultant/ storyteller. She has shared her storytelling prowess with thousands of eager students in the US, Tanzania, India and now South Africa.
Mama Nomusa is an author/artist/storyteller in process, a real cultural ambassador, always using her skills to improve and better serve the needs of the global community.
The LiPS Rendezvous takes place on February 2 at 17h30 for 18h00 at the Point Yacht Club, Victoria Embankment Durban. Entrance is free and new members are welcome.
CREATIVE WRITING
Writers Write offers a number of workshops for interested writers.
Presented by the winner of the Mills & Boon Voice of Africa Competition, This Kiss, the workshop themed “Do you want to write a romance?” runs in Durban on April 9 and 10.
More information on 079 875 3719, email: news@writerswrite.co.za: or Facebook and LinkedIn Twitter amandaonwriting or visit www.writerswrite.co.za
Presented by the winner of the Mills & Boon Voice of Africa Competition, This Kiss, the workshop themed “Do you want to write a romance?” runs in Durban on April 9 and 10.
More information on 079 875 3719, email: news@writerswrite.co.za: or Facebook and LinkedIn Twitter amandaonwriting or visit www.writerswrite.co.za
FESTIVAL DU FILM FRANÇAIS
The Festival du Film Français aims to deliver some of France's finest contemporary films to South African audiences.
France has influenced the art of filmmaking for more than a century and now this local festival will extend this influence across five cities, including Durban, during the first two weeks of February. Its curator is a young South African filmmaker, Oliver Hermanus, who has impressed many with his cinematic feature debut Shirley Adams which won him the Golden Unicorn for Best Feature Film at the 29th Amiens Film Festival. He was the first South African filmmaker selected to participate in the prestigious Cinéfondation in Cannes. He will return to Cannes this year as a guest of the French Embassy.
Hermanus has been has been handed carte blanche on film choice in selecting the movie line-up for the festival. This offers contemporary French cinema dating from 2008 to 2010. Amongst his selection are three avant-premières in South Africa, On Tour, Of Gods and Men and Black Venus. For a few days of the festival, audiences will also be able to savour the characteristics of French cinema – slower plotlines, strong character development and a deviance from ‘happy’ or conclusive endings.
At least ten French films are screened in South Africa each year, with about 500,000 tickets sold. The festival is thus not an isolated event as French cultural exchange is thriving in South Africa supported, at the national level, by the French embassy in South Africa and the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS) and, at the provincial level, by the French Consulate in Cape Town and the language and cultural centres Alliances Françaises in Cape Town and in Mitchell’s Plain, the latter being a satellite theatre of Artscape.
The Festival du Film Français runs from February 2 to 7 in Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg. It then moves to Port Elizabeth and Pretoria from February 9 to 12. It opens officially in Cape Town on February 2. Hermanus will hold film workshops in each city. More information from Frikkie Odendaal on email: odendaal@afrikom.co.za or visit www.artscape.co.za
France has influenced the art of filmmaking for more than a century and now this local festival will extend this influence across five cities, including Durban, during the first two weeks of February. Its curator is a young South African filmmaker, Oliver Hermanus, who has impressed many with his cinematic feature debut Shirley Adams which won him the Golden Unicorn for Best Feature Film at the 29th Amiens Film Festival. He was the first South African filmmaker selected to participate in the prestigious Cinéfondation in Cannes. He will return to Cannes this year as a guest of the French Embassy.
Hermanus has been has been handed carte blanche on film choice in selecting the movie line-up for the festival. This offers contemporary French cinema dating from 2008 to 2010. Amongst his selection are three avant-premières in South Africa, On Tour, Of Gods and Men and Black Venus. For a few days of the festival, audiences will also be able to savour the characteristics of French cinema – slower plotlines, strong character development and a deviance from ‘happy’ or conclusive endings.
At least ten French films are screened in South Africa each year, with about 500,000 tickets sold. The festival is thus not an isolated event as French cultural exchange is thriving in South Africa supported, at the national level, by the French embassy in South Africa and the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS) and, at the provincial level, by the French Consulate in Cape Town and the language and cultural centres Alliances Françaises in Cape Town and in Mitchell’s Plain, the latter being a satellite theatre of Artscape.
The Festival du Film Français runs from February 2 to 7 in Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg. It then moves to Port Elizabeth and Pretoria from February 9 to 12. It opens officially in Cape Town on February 2. Hermanus will hold film workshops in each city. More information from Frikkie Odendaal on email: odendaal@afrikom.co.za or visit www.artscape.co.za
SILIVA ZULU
(One of the photographic works on show)An exquisite photography exhibition entitled Siliva Zulu accompanied by the screening of a silent movie with the same title will be hosted by the UJ Art Gallery at the University of Johannesburg during February 2011.
The movie Siliva Zulu was made in Zululand by an Italian troupe in 1927, probably one of the very first European movies to boast an entirely black cast at a time when both Indian and Black characters were played by white people with painted faces. The very simple love story is essentially a pretext to present a series of scenes of Zulu daily and festive life as it actually was at the time.
Lidio Cipriani, a renowned anthropologist and a member of the Italian troupe, shot a series of behind-the-scenes photographs as well as photos of the Zulus in their environment. These images are highly regarded both for their aesthetic and anthropological value. Some of the photos have been published and showcased on other occasions, but never before in South Africa.
The photographs and documentary background information will be displayed in the gallery and the movie accompanied by live narration and music will be shown in the UJ Theatre on the opening night. Paul Weinberg, senior curator from the Centre for Curating the Archives at the University of Cape Town will do a presentation on the photos and their significance on the same night.
A lecture/walkabout will be presented by Claudia Fratini from the Italian Institute of Culture on February 5 at 10h00.
Siliva Zulu runs from February 2 to 23 at the UJ Art Gallery and was made possible by the Italian Embassy and Italian Institute of Culture as well as the Centre for Curating the Archives at UCT. More information from Annali Cabano-Dempsey on 011 559 2099.
GREIG COETZEE AT CATALINA
(Greig Coetzee in "White Men with Weapons)One of Durban’s favourite writers / actors / directors – Greig Coetzee, now based in London - returns to KZN for a short season of two of his best loved one-handers: White Men With Weapons and Johnny Boskak is Feeling Funny which will be staged at the Catalina for a short season in February.
White Men with Weapons won a fleet of national and international awards including two awards at the Edinburgh Fringe, and responds to Coetzee’s time as a military conscript in the old South African Defence Force. It became an iconic production voicing the challenges, frustrations and absurdities of serving in the SADF. A series of a dozen vignettes featuring some of the characters familiar to conscripts: a corporal from hell, a drug-crazed Durban Rambo and an Anglican Chaplain with Tutu-phobia are just three of the many creatures which takes audiences into the heart of South Africa’s forgotten wars. And along the way Nelson Mandela walks free, forcing these punch-drunk, blood-shot soldiers to face their final battle as the sun rises on a new country
In its review, the Mail and Guardian wrote: ‘Hilarious... swaps characters like a chameleon on cocaine’
White Men with Weapons alternates with another acclaimed Coetzee one-hander: Johnny Boskak Is Feeling Funny which tells of a hard-hitting road trip from hell, performed in rhyming couplets.
Combining Shakespearean verse and American Rap to write a South African Natural Born Killers using Johannesburg slang, and you might come close to Greig Coetzee's Johnny Boskak Is Feeling Funny. It’s a love story, a quest for faith and a car chase that takes the audience across South Africa from Durban to Secunda to Hillbrow to Hell and back again. “This is a tragicomedy about a whitey and his bubblegum, lip-gloss, kick-arse, troublesome cherry.”
Johnny Boskak Is Feeling Funny is performed with veteran Durban guitarist, Syd Kitchen.
Performances are as follows: White Men with Weapons on February 4 at 20h00 and February 5 at 18h00. Johnny Boskak Is Feeling Funny on February 3 at 20h00, February 4 at 18h00, February 5 at 20h00 and February 6 at 18h00. Bookings and information through the Catalina Theatre on 031 305 6889. Also visit http://www.greigcoetzee.com/white-men-with-weapons.html and http://www.greigcoetzee.com/johnny-boskak-is-feeling-funny.html
Greig Coetzee will take the two productions to the Hexagon Theatre in Pietermaritzburg on February 11 and 12. Bookings on 033 260 5537 or e-mail hexagon@ukzn.ac.za
CRAFT AT SPLASHY
Splashy Fen is known for its great selection of food and craft stalls, and is continually on the lookout for new traders and fresh ideas so as to offer festival-goers an even better Splashy experience.
Bookings for this year’s festival are now open and traders selling original art and handcrafted wares, quality décor and lifestyle items or specialised goods and services are invited to apply. On the food front, the organisers are looking for outlets selling reasonably-priced, quality foods to cater to a wide range of tastes.
Those who haven’t traded at Splashy before should consider the opportunities the festival presents not only as a potentially lucrative outlet for their wares but also from a marketing perspective. Also bear in mind that the festival takes place over the Easter long weekend and that the majority of festival-goers (10,000 in 2010) usually stay for at least four nights.
Those interested in trading at Splashy Fen 2011 should visit http://www.splashyfen.co.za/craft.html and get your application in as soon as possible.
Bookings for this year’s festival are now open and traders selling original art and handcrafted wares, quality décor and lifestyle items or specialised goods and services are invited to apply. On the food front, the organisers are looking for outlets selling reasonably-priced, quality foods to cater to a wide range of tastes.
Those who haven’t traded at Splashy before should consider the opportunities the festival presents not only as a potentially lucrative outlet for their wares but also from a marketing perspective. Also bear in mind that the festival takes place over the Easter long weekend and that the majority of festival-goers (10,000 in 2010) usually stay for at least four nights.
Those interested in trading at Splashy Fen 2011 should visit http://www.splashyfen.co.za/craft.html and get your application in as soon as possible.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
VALENTINES DAY SHOW
The House of Theatre in Amanzimtoti will present a special Valentine’s Day show on February 14 starring Bandile Hlophe and Krystle Temmerman.
Treat your partner to a night out at this comfortable supper theatre venue with a programme of love songs like Bed of Roses, I Would Do Anything for Love, Liefling, Crazy, My Heart Will Go On, You Raise Me Up and many more Afrikaans and English hits.
The Valentine’s Day show starts at 19h30 and tickets are R80. Double brandy and Coke Special at R10, ciders R10 and wine R8. Bookings essential through Computicket or bookings@houseoftheatre.co.za
NORTH COAST ART GROUP
(The winning team with their work: Maureen de Moor, Francis Callanan, Felicity Anne Faill, Greta Woolley, Mark Schartz and Jenny Moon)The first North Coast Art Group monthly meeting for the year will be on February 12 at 09h15 at the La Lucia Library.
New members are welcome and the theme for the monthly competition will be Still Life.
The Still Life Competition held after the AGM at the end of last year was a fun event but produced remarkably good work, reports Brian Phillips of the NCAG. “There were five teams of six each and they were each given a sheet of paper painted with four bottles (two green and two red), six drinking vessels (three yellow and three blue), a bowl, and three green and three orange circles (fruit). Another piece of paper had blocks of various colours to be used as table tops and shading/shadows. Each team was given a pair of scissors and a lump of Prestick.
“The teams were required to produce a still life on a table top using at least one of the items listed above,” continues Brian. “They were to be judged on their Composition, Perspective and use of Light (Shading/Shadows). They had to cut out the items from the painted paper given and Press-stick them together to make the picture. No other rules.”
The winning team included Maureen de Moor (leader), Francis Callanan, Felicity Anne Faill, Greta Woolley, Mark Schartz and Jenny Moon.
More information on the North Coast Art Group from Brian Phillips on 082 921 3517 or 032 946 2878.
EVITA SHOW & STAY
KZN supporters of musical theatre are invited to take advantage of Montecasino’s excellent Show and Stay offer for the current production of Evita.
Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's spectacular musical has been described by critics as “a masterpiece”, “a marvellous modern opera” and “a total triumph”. Featuring the hit songs Don't Cry for Me Argentina, Buenos Aires and High Flying Adored, the highly-acclaimed show tells the tale of Evita Peron’s meteoric rise to sainthood through haunting songs, dazzling melodies and sensational Latin American rhythms – from the tempestuous tango to the seductive samba.
The Evita/Southern Sun Show & Stay packages at the magnificent Montecasino allow patrons the comfort of strolling down the cobbled walkways of the Montecasino Piazza to experience architectural grandeur reminiscent of Buenos Aires’ central plaza, conjure up glimpses of Eva on the whimsical wrought-iron balconies and indulge in the sheer luxury and opulence evoked by her wealth and power.
Capturing the old-world charm of an evening at theatre, the Evita/Southern Sun Show & Stay packages for two include an excellent two-course dinner and theatre tickets to experience Evita at the Teatro Montecasino. Extend the experience overnight by staying in a standard room in one of the three magnificent Montecasino hotels, with a full English breakfast the next morning. The hotels on offer are the 5-star Tuscan-inspired Palazzo Montecasino Hotel; contemporary Venetian-style Southern Sun Montecasino Hotel or the ultra-trendy Sun Square Montecasino Hotel.
The EvitaSouthern Sun Show & Stay packages are available on Friday and Saturday nights from February 25 to March 27, 2011. To book your Evita experience or for more information about the theatre packages contact reservations on 011 510 3720/1/2 or email montecasinoreservations@southernsun.com
Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's spectacular musical has been described by critics as “a masterpiece”, “a marvellous modern opera” and “a total triumph”. Featuring the hit songs Don't Cry for Me Argentina, Buenos Aires and High Flying Adored, the highly-acclaimed show tells the tale of Evita Peron’s meteoric rise to sainthood through haunting songs, dazzling melodies and sensational Latin American rhythms – from the tempestuous tango to the seductive samba.
The Evita/Southern Sun Show & Stay packages at the magnificent Montecasino allow patrons the comfort of strolling down the cobbled walkways of the Montecasino Piazza to experience architectural grandeur reminiscent of Buenos Aires’ central plaza, conjure up glimpses of Eva on the whimsical wrought-iron balconies and indulge in the sheer luxury and opulence evoked by her wealth and power.
Capturing the old-world charm of an evening at theatre, the Evita/Southern Sun Show & Stay packages for two include an excellent two-course dinner and theatre tickets to experience Evita at the Teatro Montecasino. Extend the experience overnight by staying in a standard room in one of the three magnificent Montecasino hotels, with a full English breakfast the next morning. The hotels on offer are the 5-star Tuscan-inspired Palazzo Montecasino Hotel; contemporary Venetian-style Southern Sun Montecasino Hotel or the ultra-trendy Sun Square Montecasino Hotel.
The EvitaSouthern Sun Show & Stay packages are available on Friday and Saturday nights from February 25 to March 27, 2011. To book your Evita experience or for more information about the theatre packages contact reservations on 011 510 3720/1/2 or email montecasinoreservations@southernsun.com
PIZZAZZ
PIZZAZZ, the new Entertainment & Leisure Guide for KZN and the latest addition to The Gardener's Grapevine cc (The Grapevine) portfolio, will be launched in February.PIZZAZZ is a comprehensive guide to all "focus on fun" activities from eating out to going to a show to getting away from it all and much, much more. It offers a total monthly free distribution of 118,000 copies delivered directly to 107,000 Durban households with 7,700 delivered through the Post Office.
The publication will be produced and distributed by the same company that does The Grapevine, which has now been established for 18 years).
The publication would like to hear from non-profit organisations or entities as they would like to list any leisure activities that may interest readers. “So whether you are a hobby club, or organising a charity event, contact PIZZAZZ for a free listing.
Businesses or companies wishing to gain more exposure could take advantage of the exceptional Special Launch Offer. More information from Editor Rose McDonald on 031 465 3431.
CHIC MAGAZINE
CHIC is an acronym for Current, Hip, Inspired Creatives.CHIC Magazine is looking for new talent to be showcased in their brand new magazine which was launched in December. This KZN-based publication in Reservoir Hills invites input from fashion designers, artists, photographers, graphic designers, web designers, interior designers, chefs, writers and performers including actors, musicians, comedians and dancers!
More information from Editor, Sumaiya Wilson, on 084 4711 311, fax 086 218 5177 or email: editor@chicmagazine.co.za or Art Director, Phillisha Paridesi, on 083 728 4077 or fax 086 219 4255 or email: creativedirector@chicmagazine.co.za
For more information visit www.fashion-channel.co.za
PREMISES FOR ASP
(Pippa Jazmine Dyer)Durban based actor, scriptwriter, and businesswoman, Pippa Jazmine Dyer, is looking for reasonably priced premises to house a performing arts studio. A proposal has been sent through to the Municipality for premises, but she is looking for testimonials in support of this idea ...
ASP ... The Dream ... is a studio for performing artists ... ASP ... a place where Durban actors, (young and old), performers, singers, songwriters, filmwriters, musicians, directors, even producers and like-minded people - performing artists - can accumulate, network, connect, enjoy classes and each other. A place where performers can gather daily for writing workshops, voice classes, rehearsals, scriptwriting courses, networking, small displays open to the public, and related media activities. A Central Hub for creative ideas in Durban.
"South Africa is an extraordinary place,” says Pippa Dyer. “There are so many stories to tell … and ideas to develop: the elders who went through Apartheid wish to tell their story of struggle and hardship, how they got by, escaped detention (or not) and how it shaped their personalities; the youth want to tell their stories of their diverse upbringings and interests, how they just want to live their lives and stories of Apartheid bore them to death!; others want to tell intense stories of how they wish to be free from traps!; some want to tell quirky South African comedy’s; and yet other individuals just want to tell their stories of Africa, South Africa, their journey inside this mysterious, wonderful, and extremely colourful country of ours.
“The idea of ASP is to create a playground of activity”, she continues, “to allow the platform to give people focus, allow them to create these ideas, and then assist the development process until they are kicked out into an International Arena. Why not? South Africa is an incredible place with incredible talent. Why should we not have more stories like Tsotsi? … They are out there … we just need to create the space and focus in which they can exist.”
ASP is hoping to create an internationally viable studio where products will first of all be kicked out into the public market place, to test responses, and then bumped onto the International arena even further. The intention of ASP is to create works that can exist both locally and internationally. ASP will not stop the creative process just at the writing stage, there will be various extra mural drama classes, workshops, and staged readings, to work as a testing ground for the written material to be tried and tested before it goes out into the broader public eye. Because of the nature of the work, ASP studio will also be on the look out for developing musical talents ... Dyer believes that many people who are interested in the performing arts have not only theatrical or writing abilities, but often have voices themselves!
"South Africa is a country alive with musical abilities since the beginning of time … with our broad base of rhythmical students, this discipline will be open to be developed here as well,” she adds. “We don't need more talent ... we have loads of that ... what we need is good teachers and mentors! And a place to house the talent available. Why should Durban not provide this place and space!?"
Dance forms are also of interest to ASP. Not necessarily specific dance forms such as Classical Dancing, there are plenty of studios for that, but for alternative dance forms such as Krumping, Clowning, and B-Boy techniques. Dyer is passionate about this possibility, "Krumping and Clowning are forms of American dancing that actually started in the ‘hood’ areas to keep young, afro-American children off the streets. It involves single or group dancing and is often done as a ‘duel’ or ‘challenge’ to a rival group or gang. Rappers also participate with this form of dance/voice/music … The reason why I think that this idea is exciting is because South Africa is often seen to copy American ideas, trends and culture … but we have our own very individual culture! If I could have a shot at it, I’m convinced that I could nurture serious talents in South Africa and allow youth here to find there own form of ‘Krumping and Clowning’. A South African version. We could be the leaders in our own country instead of the followers!"
Also on the cards are tried and tested methods of yoga classes and Pilates as well as a number of show-cases, Open Days and Evenings where the public the community-at-large will be able to come and view the students’ talents. A Tea-Garden, Networking place, is a definite requirement. Integration of Community Involvement is a must! There are several Schools who could benefit from extramural extramural activities such as developing Creative or Writing skills, Drama, or Music.
ASP studio intends to have a space in which all members of society can participate. All in all, Dyer believes that ASP is a win-win situation for all!
Anyone who wishes to assist Pippa Jazmine Dyer with premises, financing or funding of this project, or has teaching skills, or any other skills or ideas that could be utilized should contact her on 083 303 7433.
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