Compelling read by a writer who is highly skilled at dialogue and narrative. (Review by Caroline Smart)
Writer, theatre director and university lecturer Craig Higginson had a winner at the last National Arts Festival in Grahamstown with his play, the compelling and superbly performed The Girl in the Yellow Dress. Added to his successful list of plays, which includes Dream of the Dog, is his novel Last Summer.
His latest novel, The Landscape Painter, is a wide-sweeping story that covers two eras in the life of one man, Arthur Bailey, who became a member of the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolours at the age of 19.
Inspired by Constable, he explored various mediums and in later life finds himself occasionally working as a scenery painter for theatre and film and selling smaller sketches in watercolour and ink for what he called his Woodbine money.
An accomplished artist he may be, but Arthur Bailey is not well-versed in the ways of love and makes a seriously ill-advised choice when he decides to follow his best friend Christian Hamilton to South Africa, because he is wildly in love with Christian’s sister, the beautiful and complex Carwyn.
He moves in with the family and soon discovers that this is a dysfunctional unit, aggravated by the attendance of the former governess, the rigid Miss Klimt. Arthur and Carwyn are forced to explore their relationship in private and this in itself is a complicated and often unfulfilled process.
The reader’s suspicions are aroused long before Arthur realises the cause of the problem and his position becomes so untenable that he walks away – or in this case, sails away – from it, back to England.
Craig Higginson gives a good description of life in South Africa at the turn of the 20th century, offering evocative glimpses into the traditions, transport and environment of the period. The story moves through the Boer War and focuses on the horrors of Spion Kop.
Back in London, his convoluted relationship with Carwyn colours the rest of his life and lands him in serious trouble when he falls in love with his new neighbour in the flat adjoining his.
Looking back on his life, he recognises that he ruined his chance of achieving anything with a glimmer of miracle running through it and that he had only ever lived in order to gratify himself.
The Landscape Painter is a fascinating read by a writer who is highly skilled at dialogue and narrative. Published by Picador Africa – ISBN 978-1-77010-100-5 – Caroline Smart
Thursday, April 28, 2011
MOSES KHUBISA
(One of the photographic works on show)Opening at the DUT Art Gallery on April 31 will be an exhibition by Moses Khubisa.
In partial submission towards his Masters Degree in Photography, Moses Khubisa will present a body of work that is informed by his research into his 30-year practice as a photographer. The exhibition will look into aspects of his practice as a self taught street photographer and that of his work as a lecturer at the DUT in the same department.
He has also been working closely with a group of street photographers who he has been mentoring over the years. The collective of street photographers is called Imvunge Street Photographers. The exhibition will also attempt to visit that aspect of his professional life. Images on show will vary in textures, with both colour and black and white photographs dominating the show.
Moses Khubisa’s exhibition runs from April 31 to May 27. The DUT Art Gallery is situated above the library on the Steve Biko Campus in Mansfield Road. For more information contact the Curator, Nathi Gumede, on 031 373 2207 or 082 2200 368 or email: nkosinathig@dut.ac.za
HUSSEIN SALIM @ EGG
(“Next Friday” by Hussein Salim)The Elizabeth Gordon Gallery is hosting an exhibition by Hussein Salin titled Echo from May 4.
Hussein Salim was born in Karima, Sudan, and graduated at the Sudan University in Khartoum in 1994. The conflict in the Sudan caused him to seek refuge in a supportive environment and he has lived in Germany, Wales and Norway. He spent a few months in Egypt before coming to South Africa in 2005. In 2007, he completed his MA in Fine Arts at the University of KZN, Pietermaritzburg, where he currently lives with his wife and two children.
Hussein’s current exhibition is entitled Echo which is his reconstruction of images indelibly fixed in his memory – memories of a boyhood in a harsh desert environment to the equally harsh conditions of life, as an adult, in a European landscape of cold and snow. His works are a dialogue between different continents and the products of a rich heritage, stimulating and haunting experiences, and definite hopes for the future.
“Hussein is possibly one of the only professional artists in South Africa from the Sudan and we are privileged to have him in our country,” says Joy Reynolds of the Elizabeth Gordon Gallery. “He is represented in major national collections within Africa, Europe and the USA.”
The Elizabeth Gordon Gallery is situated at 120 Florida Road. For further information phone 031 303 8133, fax 031 303 8136 or email: joy@elizabethgordon.co.za
SCENT OF INVISIBLE FOOTPRINTS EGAGASINI
The Durban Art Gallery is the first public institution in South Africa to buy sculptures made by internationally renowned artist Pitika Ntuli.
It has acquired two of his major works. The first, Madiba Reconfigured’, is carved from the 200-year-old wild mahogany tree that fell in Mitchell’s Park in 2005. The symbolic piece raises fundamental question about who Madiba is and who he would like to be.
The second with its explicit title that speaks to centuries of oppression and colonisation, Please Don’t Push Me Around Anymore, is a metal work crafted from workers tools including wheelbarrows, spades and hoes.
Asked about the work, Pitika Ntuli said: “Rummaging through scrap heaps and dumps, tearing my flesh and my clothes, I uncover putative works of art - wheelbarrows, motor bike frames, differentials, spanners, spades and forks, hoes and picks. As a poet and academic as well as a community person, I seek a language that is accessible but deep. This piece, which is about recycling, is also about the need to recycle our original intentions when we set out to liberate ourselves from oppression.”
The concept of African Art has been, and continues to be, much contested. Since its ‘discovery’ by the great western explorers, African Art has been boxed and limited, marginalised and misunderstood. Curiosities collected and frozen in museums, African masks, thrones, weapons, headrests and cutlery have been denuded of their spiritual and communal, their practical and aesthetic, significance. So African Art is predominantly seen through the looking glass of a jaundiced western eye, and rarely is modern African Art considered to be a serious contender for great art. Thus the purchase of these recently made pieces has profound importance for the development of art and art appreciation in South Africa.
The significance of Durban Art Gallery’s decision is even greater when the scarcity of local sculptors is taken into consideration. Despite the wealth of culture that survives within South Africa, very few sculptors have attained widespread acclaim. In contrast with West Africa where sculpture is thriving, it is only Dumile Fene, Noria Mabasa, Lucas Sithole, Andries Botha and Jackson Hlongwane who are considered leading South African sculptors. The addition of Pitika Ntuli to this august group can only benefit the country and the region.
Scent of Invisible Footprints eGagasini, the retrospective exhibition of Ntuli’s work at the Durban Art Gallery, is open until May 4. More information from Mdu Xakaza on 031 311 2269 or xakazamm@durban.gov.za
It has acquired two of his major works. The first, Madiba Reconfigured’, is carved from the 200-year-old wild mahogany tree that fell in Mitchell’s Park in 2005. The symbolic piece raises fundamental question about who Madiba is and who he would like to be.
The second with its explicit title that speaks to centuries of oppression and colonisation, Please Don’t Push Me Around Anymore, is a metal work crafted from workers tools including wheelbarrows, spades and hoes.
Asked about the work, Pitika Ntuli said: “Rummaging through scrap heaps and dumps, tearing my flesh and my clothes, I uncover putative works of art - wheelbarrows, motor bike frames, differentials, spanners, spades and forks, hoes and picks. As a poet and academic as well as a community person, I seek a language that is accessible but deep. This piece, which is about recycling, is also about the need to recycle our original intentions when we set out to liberate ourselves from oppression.”
The concept of African Art has been, and continues to be, much contested. Since its ‘discovery’ by the great western explorers, African Art has been boxed and limited, marginalised and misunderstood. Curiosities collected and frozen in museums, African masks, thrones, weapons, headrests and cutlery have been denuded of their spiritual and communal, their practical and aesthetic, significance. So African Art is predominantly seen through the looking glass of a jaundiced western eye, and rarely is modern African Art considered to be a serious contender for great art. Thus the purchase of these recently made pieces has profound importance for the development of art and art appreciation in South Africa.
The significance of Durban Art Gallery’s decision is even greater when the scarcity of local sculptors is taken into consideration. Despite the wealth of culture that survives within South Africa, very few sculptors have attained widespread acclaim. In contrast with West Africa where sculpture is thriving, it is only Dumile Fene, Noria Mabasa, Lucas Sithole, Andries Botha and Jackson Hlongwane who are considered leading South African sculptors. The addition of Pitika Ntuli to this august group can only benefit the country and the region.
Scent of Invisible Footprints eGagasini, the retrospective exhibition of Ntuli’s work at the Durban Art Gallery, is open until May 4. More information from Mdu Xakaza on 031 311 2269 or xakazamm@durban.gov.za
WATOTO CHILDREN’S CHOIR
Watoto and LIV, in partnership, will present the Watoto Children’s Choir in KwaZulu-Natal during their country-wide tour of South Africa. Watoto (“children” in Kiswahili) is a holistic care programme, initiated to serve the needs of Africa and her people. LIV is modelling their first children’s village in Verulam, on the successful Watoto villages which have been operating for the past 17 years in Uganda.
In KZN, the choir will perform at a Gala evening at the Playhouse in Durban, alongside the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra and the Drakensberg Boys Choir on May 7 to raise funds and awareness.
With its genuine appeal, accompanied by music and dance - an energetic fusion of contemporary gospel and traditional African rhythm - the globally acclaimed Watoto Children’s Choirs have travelled internationally since 1994, as ambassadors for the 47.5 million children in Africa, orphaned as a result of HIV/AIDS, war, poverty and disease. Each of child in the choir has suffered the loss of one or both parents. They live in Watoto Children’s Villages where they receive the care and nurture they need to grow up as productive citizens of their country. Choir members are selected by an audition process and have the opportunity to travel at least once.
Since its inception, 47 choirs have travelled globally, providing the children with a bigger world view. Four choirs are currently on the road in Canada, Europe and the USA. Choir 48 started their tour in South Africa in February 2011.
Other venues include various churches, schools and community halls. Information on these performances will also be made available on the LIV website. Contact LIV for further information at 031 562 9986 or email Claire@liv-village.com. For regular updates on choirs on the road visit http://watotochoirs.wordpress.com or www.watoto.com
In KZN, the choir will perform at a Gala evening at the Playhouse in Durban, alongside the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra and the Drakensberg Boys Choir on May 7 to raise funds and awareness.
With its genuine appeal, accompanied by music and dance - an energetic fusion of contemporary gospel and traditional African rhythm - the globally acclaimed Watoto Children’s Choirs have travelled internationally since 1994, as ambassadors for the 47.5 million children in Africa, orphaned as a result of HIV/AIDS, war, poverty and disease. Each of child in the choir has suffered the loss of one or both parents. They live in Watoto Children’s Villages where they receive the care and nurture they need to grow up as productive citizens of their country. Choir members are selected by an audition process and have the opportunity to travel at least once.
Since its inception, 47 choirs have travelled globally, providing the children with a bigger world view. Four choirs are currently on the road in Canada, Europe and the USA. Choir 48 started their tour in South Africa in February 2011.
Other venues include various churches, schools and community halls. Information on these performances will also be made available on the LIV website. Contact LIV for further information at 031 562 9986 or email Claire@liv-village.com. For regular updates on choirs on the road visit http://watotochoirs.wordpress.com or www.watoto.com
KUMISA
The KwaZulu-Natal Music Industry finds a new voice!
KZN has never had a shortage of musical talent! However, what has been in short supply are opportunities, support and information. The former is finally to be addressed by a newly formed, locally based organisation, KUMISA.
With a vision to promote, protect and invest in the growth and diversity of the provincial music industry, the KwaZulu-Natal United Music Industry Association (KUMISA) will play a vital role in aiding the sustainable development of the local music industry. This non-profit organisation will provide a platform for performers, managers, promoters and record labels that will address various challenges including severe skills shortage, skills and services drain, and a lack of access to markets that has previously plagued the province. KUMISA wishes to dispel the “grass is greener” mentality that has seen so many of our finest artists and support personnel migrate upcountry. KUMISA aims to grow the KZN music industry so that artists can be sustained and launched to the world from home.
KUMISA was established following studies commissioned by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, KZN and eThekwini Municipality 2008/2009, which included extensive consultation with the music industry. During these sessions, artists and other sector personnel were encouraged to express their concerns and frustrations regarding the local industry and recommended interventions that they believed would address the status quo. The former directly inspired the creation of KUMISA.
In September 2009, individuals from the music sector volunteered to serve on the interim board to facilitate the registration and development of the organisation, including prioritising the programme action plan of KUMISA. The interim board comprises representatives of the various functions of the music industry value chain, namely, Johnny Dimba, Karen Van Pletsen, Percy Tshabalala, Nise Malange, Neil Comfort, William Charlton-Perkins, Thandekile Mbhele and Zakhele ‘Zakes Bantwini’ Madida. The interim board also has representatives from the funding partners, Toni Monty, Acting CEO of the Durban Film Office for eThekwini Municipality and Buti Moloi, Project Manager, Creative Industries of the KZN Department of Economic Development and Tourism who serve as ex-officio board members.
KUMISA will enable better co-ordination and facilitate the development of a cohesive strategic plan between government and industry to address the challenges and opportunities in the sector. KUMISA’s ultimate goal is to serve nationally as well as profile KZN music in the global market through strategic engagement with international role players.
The membership drive for KUMISA began in March 2011. KUMISA invites all individuals involved in the music industry to become members. You can join by applying online at www.kumisa.com or filling in an application form available at your nearest Community Art Centre.
KUMISA’s long-term goal is to make an impact in local industry professional development, improve access to markets for local products, and forge international partnerships to expand promotional platforms for the KZN music industry.
For more information please contact info@kumisa.co.za
KZN has never had a shortage of musical talent! However, what has been in short supply are opportunities, support and information. The former is finally to be addressed by a newly formed, locally based organisation, KUMISA.
With a vision to promote, protect and invest in the growth and diversity of the provincial music industry, the KwaZulu-Natal United Music Industry Association (KUMISA) will play a vital role in aiding the sustainable development of the local music industry. This non-profit organisation will provide a platform for performers, managers, promoters and record labels that will address various challenges including severe skills shortage, skills and services drain, and a lack of access to markets that has previously plagued the province. KUMISA wishes to dispel the “grass is greener” mentality that has seen so many of our finest artists and support personnel migrate upcountry. KUMISA aims to grow the KZN music industry so that artists can be sustained and launched to the world from home.
KUMISA was established following studies commissioned by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, KZN and eThekwini Municipality 2008/2009, which included extensive consultation with the music industry. During these sessions, artists and other sector personnel were encouraged to express their concerns and frustrations regarding the local industry and recommended interventions that they believed would address the status quo. The former directly inspired the creation of KUMISA.
In September 2009, individuals from the music sector volunteered to serve on the interim board to facilitate the registration and development of the organisation, including prioritising the programme action plan of KUMISA. The interim board comprises representatives of the various functions of the music industry value chain, namely, Johnny Dimba, Karen Van Pletsen, Percy Tshabalala, Nise Malange, Neil Comfort, William Charlton-Perkins, Thandekile Mbhele and Zakhele ‘Zakes Bantwini’ Madida. The interim board also has representatives from the funding partners, Toni Monty, Acting CEO of the Durban Film Office for eThekwini Municipality and Buti Moloi, Project Manager, Creative Industries of the KZN Department of Economic Development and Tourism who serve as ex-officio board members.
KUMISA will enable better co-ordination and facilitate the development of a cohesive strategic plan between government and industry to address the challenges and opportunities in the sector. KUMISA’s ultimate goal is to serve nationally as well as profile KZN music in the global market through strategic engagement with international role players.
The membership drive for KUMISA began in March 2011. KUMISA invites all individuals involved in the music industry to become members. You can join by applying online at www.kumisa.com or filling in an application form available at your nearest Community Art Centre.
KUMISA’s long-term goal is to make an impact in local industry professional development, improve access to markets for local products, and forge international partnerships to expand promotional platforms for the KZN music industry.
For more information please contact info@kumisa.co.za
BUSHFIRE 2011
(The venue of Bushfire Festival)Swaziland is getting ready for a three-day fever-pitch party when the fifth annual Bushfire Festival scorches into town over the weekend of May 27 to 29, 2011.
Top South African music acts such as wildly popular electronic dance duo Goldfish, “silent gig” pioneers Tonik and house music innovator Black Coffee, as well as leading Jamaican-Canadian dub poet D’Bi.Young, have already been confirmed for this year’s line-up.
More acts will be announced soon, ensuring that Bushfire 2011 will be a piping-hot fiesta of live music, theatre, poetry, dance DJs, film, interactive workshops, a crafts and design fair-trade market, a global food fair and much, much more.
Bushfire is an explosion of entertainment that lights up the picturesque kingdom of Swaziland every year at the acclaimed House on Fire performance venue. It is the country’s biggest live music happening, attracting in the region of 20,000 visitors during the three days of the event.
The festival’s theme for 2011 is “Mixing the Point”, and the focus will be on artistic and cultural collaboration, on a pan-African and international level – and audiences can expect some serious musical fireworks!
Says festival founder Jiggs Thorne: “The main concept of the theme is to promote cultural meeting points through collaboration, cultivating creative synergies and celebrating our common humanity, finding harmony in contrast. Bushfire celebrates bringing diverse people together and encouraging integration. Bushfire’s eclectic programme of World-music and multi-disciplinary performances reflects our theme ‘Mixing the Point’–and this year we’ll be introducing some very exciting collaborative projects to the line-up.”
Every year, Bushfire attracts an array of premier music acts from Southern Africa, Africa and the globe – cementing its status as one of the top festivals in the region. Part of its allure is the enchanting venue, located on Malandela’s Farm in Swaziland’s Malkerns Valley. Eclectic, unusual and fantasy-rich – from the soapstone sculptures to the quirky performance amphitheatre – this rural dreamscape was the brainchild of Thorne, a Swazi-born entrepreneur and artist.
This international arts festival is not only about having an awesome time with good friends in a gorgeous setting, but is also a pioneer on the continent in socially responsible and sustainable event-staging. It supports the growth and development of the arts while highlighting the need to raise funds for some of the most pressing social needs facing Swaziland. As such, 100% of the profits from the Bushfire Festival will be donated to Young Heroes, an NGO providing education, healthcare, food and general support to Aids orphans.
Pre-booking for House on Fire is essential, as only a limited number of tickets are available. Discounted early-bird tickets are available online at www.computicket.com at R400 for a full festival pass, or R650 for a full festival VIP pass, which includes access to a raised, comfortable seating area in the new “Top Deck”, with a private bar and waiter service and VIP parking. One-day tickets range in price from R150 to R200, and one-day VIP tickets vary from R350 to R400. Children enjoyed discounted rates, with free admission for under-fives.
Tickets are also available internationally at http://www.swazi.travel/ which includes information on where to stay during the festival, from backpackers and campsites to chalets and hotels. For more information visit www.bush-fire.com
ACT FESTIVAL GRANTS
KZN’s Ishashalazi Women’s Theatre Festival to appear in ACT programme.
The Board of Trustees of the Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) has approved nine festivals for support through the ACT Festivals Programme.
Included in the programme is the Ishashalazi Women’s Theatre Festival. Launched in 2008, this Festival is aimed at female performing artists in KwaZulu-Natal. Ten short drama pieces of approximately 30 minutes each are presented at the festival which is scheduled to take place from August 25 to 28, 2011.
“ACT recognises how increasingly powerful the FESTIVAL space has become in South Africa. It is of great value for our young participants and future creative entrepreneur’s to be exposed to not just the high level artistry of the work, but to be made aware of how the basic economy of a festival works. Enabling the participation of young under-resourced artists and learners in diverse festivals across the country promises to fuel creative and entrepreneurial dreams in going forward,” comments Brenda Devar, Chairperson of the Trust.
The ACT Festivals Programme is sponsored by Breadline Africa (BLA), an African-based charity organisation which aims to help break the cycle of poverty within Africa. The Festivals Programme makes funding available to assist organisers to extend their programmes by subsidising the participation of artists, performers and groups from peri-urban and rural areas who may not otherwise be able to participate.
The festivals selected for support include KZN’s Ishashalazi Women’s Theatre Festival as well as the Back to the City Urban Youth Festival in Johannesburg; The Cape Town International Guitar Youth Festival; the Market Laboratory’s Community Theatre Youth Festival; the Family Season of Performances in the Western Cape; as well as HRMC at NAF.
Regarding the latter, for the past 27 years, high school students in Denmark have given a day of their education to raise funds for educational projects in the developing world. Representatives of Operation Dagsværk visited South Africa in 2005 and based on their research, decided to spend the funds they raised to benefit vulnerable youth on the Cape Flats. The project trained youth as oral historians and media practitioners to tell their life stories in a book and exhibition. The project took three years, from 2008 to 2010, to produce a 354 paged book titled Edge of the Table - Fourteen Cape Flats Youth tell their life stories and the multi-media travelling exhibition consisting of 14 installations based on the stories. The book will be launched and exhibited as part of the Fringe Wordfest at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown.
Also included is the SA Schools Festivals Series which currently presents 11 festivals around the country in eight regions with more than 47 productions, 150 workshops and 18 lectures. Costs directly related to facilitating the participation of previously disadvantaged learners who find difficulty in raising funds in order to attend the festivals are subsidized by the grant from ACT.
Other festivals are the Open Book Cape Town annual literary festival and the Out The Box International Festival of Puppetry & Visual Performance directed by Janni Younge and Yvette Hardie, taking place in Cape Town.
The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) is South Africa’s premier, independent arts and culture funding and development agency. Internationally acclaimed South African playwright, Athol Fugard, is the Patron of the Trust. For more information visit www.act.org.za
The Board of Trustees of the Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) has approved nine festivals for support through the ACT Festivals Programme.
Included in the programme is the Ishashalazi Women’s Theatre Festival. Launched in 2008, this Festival is aimed at female performing artists in KwaZulu-Natal. Ten short drama pieces of approximately 30 minutes each are presented at the festival which is scheduled to take place from August 25 to 28, 2011.
“ACT recognises how increasingly powerful the FESTIVAL space has become in South Africa. It is of great value for our young participants and future creative entrepreneur’s to be exposed to not just the high level artistry of the work, but to be made aware of how the basic economy of a festival works. Enabling the participation of young under-resourced artists and learners in diverse festivals across the country promises to fuel creative and entrepreneurial dreams in going forward,” comments Brenda Devar, Chairperson of the Trust.
The ACT Festivals Programme is sponsored by Breadline Africa (BLA), an African-based charity organisation which aims to help break the cycle of poverty within Africa. The Festivals Programme makes funding available to assist organisers to extend their programmes by subsidising the participation of artists, performers and groups from peri-urban and rural areas who may not otherwise be able to participate.
The festivals selected for support include KZN’s Ishashalazi Women’s Theatre Festival as well as the Back to the City Urban Youth Festival in Johannesburg; The Cape Town International Guitar Youth Festival; the Market Laboratory’s Community Theatre Youth Festival; the Family Season of Performances in the Western Cape; as well as HRMC at NAF.
Regarding the latter, for the past 27 years, high school students in Denmark have given a day of their education to raise funds for educational projects in the developing world. Representatives of Operation Dagsværk visited South Africa in 2005 and based on their research, decided to spend the funds they raised to benefit vulnerable youth on the Cape Flats. The project trained youth as oral historians and media practitioners to tell their life stories in a book and exhibition. The project took three years, from 2008 to 2010, to produce a 354 paged book titled Edge of the Table - Fourteen Cape Flats Youth tell their life stories and the multi-media travelling exhibition consisting of 14 installations based on the stories. The book will be launched and exhibited as part of the Fringe Wordfest at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown.
Also included is the SA Schools Festivals Series which currently presents 11 festivals around the country in eight regions with more than 47 productions, 150 workshops and 18 lectures. Costs directly related to facilitating the participation of previously disadvantaged learners who find difficulty in raising funds in order to attend the festivals are subsidized by the grant from ACT.
Other festivals are the Open Book Cape Town annual literary festival and the Out The Box International Festival of Puppetry & Visual Performance directed by Janni Younge and Yvette Hardie, taking place in Cape Town.
The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) is South Africa’s premier, independent arts and culture funding and development agency. Internationally acclaimed South African playwright, Athol Fugard, is the Patron of the Trust. For more information visit www.act.org.za
GOD OF CARNAGE
(Pic by Val Adamson: Jailoshini Naidoo, Iain "Ewok" Robinson, Tim Wells and Clare Mortimer)KickstArt is to stage the wickedly funny social comedy, The God of Carnage, for a three-week run at Seabrooke’s Theatre.
Having already commenced its artistic programme for this year with the highly successful musical review, I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, Durban’s top theatre company has announced the first of four new productions that will form the basis of an exciting and diverse theatrical calendar for the company in 2011.
Described as the hottest ticket on Broadway, The God of Carnage features a brilliant local cast of multi-award winning actors: Clare Mortimer, Jailoshini Naidoo, Tim Wells and Iain ‘Ewok’ Robinson.
Tony Award winner Yasmina Reza (writer of Art) brings a razor wit and profound understanding of human subtleties to her play in which two civilized married couples meet up to sort out a playground fight. The son of one couple has broken two of the teeth of the son of another. At first, diplomatic niceties are observed, but as the meeting progresses and the rum flows, huge tensions emerge and the gloves come off, leaving their liberal principles in tatters, and the audience in stitches!
Translated by Christopher Hampton, The God of Carnage is the winner of a number of prestigious awards, such as Best New Comedy! - 2009 Olivier Awards; Best Play of the 2009 Drama League Awards and 2009 Tony Awards, as well as Winner Best New Play for the 2009 Outer Circle Critics Awards.
The play is directed by Steven Stead and designed by Greg King, with lighting design by Tina le Roux.
The God of Carnage will run from May 10 to 29 at the newly refurbished and re-designed Seabrooke’s Theatre, DHS. Performances are at 19h30 from Tuesday to Saturday (15h00 on Sundays). Tickets R90 from Tuesday to Thursdays and R100 from Friday to Sunday. Booking is at Computicket (unreserved seating)
For more details about KickstArt and the 2011 season visit www.kickstart-theatre.co.za
THOSE INDIAN GUYS
Gautengers just can't seem to get enough of former Durban actors Sans Moonsamy and Kaseran Pillay.
Their highly popular show, Those Indian Guys will be back at Gold Reef City Casino's The Globe Theatre in May following their successful set of shows at the venue in both 2009 and 2010. Performances take place at 20h15 every night (and 17h15 on Sunday) from May 20 to 22 and again from May 27 to 29. Tickets R120 booked through The Globe Theatre Box Office on 011 248 5000 or Computicket. More information at www.goldreefcity.co.za
Their highly popular show, Those Indian Guys will be back at Gold Reef City Casino's The Globe Theatre in May following their successful set of shows at the venue in both 2009 and 2010. Performances take place at 20h15 every night (and 17h15 on Sunday) from May 20 to 22 and again from May 27 to 29. Tickets R120 booked through The Globe Theatre Box Office on 011 248 5000 or Computicket. More information at www.goldreefcity.co.za
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
DEATH OF ALAN RENDLE
Brian Phillips of the North Coast Art Group has forwarded the information of the death of Alan Rendle, former Chairman of the Upper South Coast Art Association based in Amanzimtoti.
The message was originally received from Rosemary Dickens addressed to members of USCAA:
“Please note that the funeral of Alan Rendle, Chairman of our Art Association, will be held on Thursday 28 April at 14h30 at the Methodist Church, Athlone Park. We shall miss him a great deal May he rest in peace. From the Committee of USCAA.”
Contact Rosemary Dickens on email: rose@neomail.co.za
The message was originally received from Rosemary Dickens addressed to members of USCAA:
“Please note that the funeral of Alan Rendle, Chairman of our Art Association, will be held on Thursday 28 April at 14h30 at the Methodist Church, Athlone Park. We shall miss him a great deal May he rest in peace. From the Committee of USCAA.”
Contact Rosemary Dickens on email: rose@neomail.co.za
MEMOIRS: THE MUSIC OF SIMON & GARFUNKEL
(Johan and Aaron Nel)Come along to the Stirling Theatre in May and catch The Brothers Nel – Johan and Aaron – who grew up with the music of Simon & Garfunkel constantly playing in their childhood home, in the small town of Marble Hall in Mpumalanga, South Africa. It is only fitting that their first professional collaboration should be Memoirs: the Music of Simon & Garfunkel. Both play guitar and sing, blending into unique harmony, achieved only by two musicians who have the same level of appreciation for the sheer brilliance, yet simplicity that is Simon & Garfunkel.
Memoirs: the Music of Simon & Garfunkel features hit songs Bridge over Troubled Water, The Boxer, Sound Of Silence, America, and many other foot-stomping, hand clapping, sing-along hits, as well as some of the more dramatic and poetic offerings from this duo, and is sure to entertain all who attend.
Simon & Garfunkel emerged in the early 1960’s as a young, typically harmony-enthralled folk duo. They’d cut their teeth on The Everly Brothers and knew the Great Traditional Songbook as well as the next folk group of their era. Driven by the same strivings of their American contemporaries – to get into a good college, to please their parents, to be admired by their peers – they were determined to have some fun along the way! As it turned out though, they were far from your average folkies. The two natives from Forest Hills, Queens, were musical sponges, and broke onto the Billboard Top50, at the age of 15 as Tom & Jerry – as they called themselves then – with The Everly Brothers knock off Hey Schoolgirl – their first song ever written together.
Their debut studio album was Wednesday Morning, 3am in 1964, their last Bridge over Troubled Water, which remained the number one album on the Billboard charts for six weeks after its release date.
Performances take place on May 13, 14, 20, and 21 at 20h00 and on May 22 at 15h00. Tickets R80. For an extra R80 on May 22, patrons can enjoy a two-course Italian Club Lunch before the show at 15h00.
The Stirling Theatre is situated in the Italian Club along Fairway near the Beachwood Golf Course. Take your own picnic or snacks but the venue offers The Italian Club’s optional a la carte menu for patrons wishing to eat, and a fully stocked bar at affordable club prices. There is plenty of secure parking. Bookings 076 786 1127 or email bookings@stirlingtheatre.co.za (Regret no Credit Card Facilities) More information at www.stirlingtheatre.co.za
PLAYHOUSE’S 2ND COMMUNITY ARTS FESTIVAL
The Playhouse Company proudly hosts its second Community Arts Festival in the Playhouse Loft Theatre from May 5 to 21, 2011.
The festival is geared to offer a platform for artists and arts practitioners to stage their performance works in a professional environment.
Three productions, entitled Just Don’t, Rice and Sisenga Ilala, will be featured in the festival. Each work focuses on important social issues.
“In staging our second exciting Community Arts Festival, we are happy to follow through on our initiative of last year, in fulfilling a vital part of our mandate,” says Playhouse Company Chief Executive and Artistic Director, Linda Bukhosini. “This includes fostering developmental work within our arts community. To this end, we have again engaged a team of professional mentors, specialists in stage craft, script writing, music, dance and choreography, to teach and guide the community artists we are working with, helping them to take their productions to the next level.”
The dynamic team of mentors engaged by The Playhouse Company comprises Edmund Mhlongo (Project Director), Caroline Smart (Voice Coach), Faca Kulu and Linda Gcwensa (Music Mentors), Zinhle Gumede and Musa Hlatshwayo (Movement and Dance Mentors), Ashwin Singh (Script Writing Mentor); and Christopher Hurst (Direction).
Directed by Keaorata Gaokgwathe, Rice is a two-hander production, using boxes in place of props. It reflects the story of two Lerole Brothers, Karabo and Mothusimang, who tragically lose their parents in a fatal car accident. Karabo, the older brother, finds himself having to fend for both himself and his younger brother… Things get tough as their entrusted aunt turns against them, and Karabo loses his job due to nepotism. Drawn into a downward spiral of crime, from manufacturing and distributing of pirated DVD’s and music CD’s, to drug trafficking, ATM bombings, and the betrayal of his best friend Thami, Karabo gets arrested while his younger brother perseveres through to his final year of university. Performed by Orapeleng Mongale and Christopher Mathe, this experimental theatre piece by the Atlegang Creatives theatre group won first place in the 2010 Crime Stop Festival in Mafekeng.
A Julazza Theatre Arts Company production featuring seven actors, Sisenga Ilala talks about peace and reconciliation through a cultural conflict resolution system in a tribal court. Set in a small village of the Amambo Tribe under the rule of chief Colongo, the legend of peace, the play promotes and encourages communication in society. Directed by Mbheki Mabhida, Sisenga Ilala is performed by Thami Silindana, Bonginkosi Myeza, Lindani Mthethwa, Khetha Mbatha and Phumelela Khawula.
Just Don’t, an Ekhaya Multi Arts Centre project based on real life experiences, is a drama that carries a cautionary tale. A group of prisoners follow the journey of Jesu, a young boy from a well-off family, who commits a petty crime stealing a cellphone as a birthday gift for his girlfriend. He lands in jail where he is abused by prison gangsters. Fighting for his life, he ends up paralyzed and HIV positive. The cast of this production includes Lucky Simayile, Ntuthuko Ndwandwe, Sandile Mchunu, Sphephelo Nxumalo, Sandile Nxumalo and Phumlani Ngubane.
Admission to the Playhouse’s Community Arts Festival is free. Performances of Just Don’t are on May 5 and 6 at 14h00 and on May 7 at 12h00 and 15h00.
Rice will be performed on 12 and 13 May at 14h00 and on May 14 at 12h00 and 13h00.
Performances of Sisenga Ilala are on May 19 and 20 at 14h00, and on May 21 at 12h00 and 15h00. For more information or to book, call Thubelihle on 031 369 9456 or e-mail marketingexec@playhousecompany.com
(Individual stories on the plays with photographs are featured separately)
The festival is geared to offer a platform for artists and arts practitioners to stage their performance works in a professional environment.
Three productions, entitled Just Don’t, Rice and Sisenga Ilala, will be featured in the festival. Each work focuses on important social issues.
“In staging our second exciting Community Arts Festival, we are happy to follow through on our initiative of last year, in fulfilling a vital part of our mandate,” says Playhouse Company Chief Executive and Artistic Director, Linda Bukhosini. “This includes fostering developmental work within our arts community. To this end, we have again engaged a team of professional mentors, specialists in stage craft, script writing, music, dance and choreography, to teach and guide the community artists we are working with, helping them to take their productions to the next level.”
The dynamic team of mentors engaged by The Playhouse Company comprises Edmund Mhlongo (Project Director), Caroline Smart (Voice Coach), Faca Kulu and Linda Gcwensa (Music Mentors), Zinhle Gumede and Musa Hlatshwayo (Movement and Dance Mentors), Ashwin Singh (Script Writing Mentor); and Christopher Hurst (Direction).
Directed by Keaorata Gaokgwathe, Rice is a two-hander production, using boxes in place of props. It reflects the story of two Lerole Brothers, Karabo and Mothusimang, who tragically lose their parents in a fatal car accident. Karabo, the older brother, finds himself having to fend for both himself and his younger brother… Things get tough as their entrusted aunt turns against them, and Karabo loses his job due to nepotism. Drawn into a downward spiral of crime, from manufacturing and distributing of pirated DVD’s and music CD’s, to drug trafficking, ATM bombings, and the betrayal of his best friend Thami, Karabo gets arrested while his younger brother perseveres through to his final year of university. Performed by Orapeleng Mongale and Christopher Mathe, this experimental theatre piece by the Atlegang Creatives theatre group won first place in the 2010 Crime Stop Festival in Mafekeng.
A Julazza Theatre Arts Company production featuring seven actors, Sisenga Ilala talks about peace and reconciliation through a cultural conflict resolution system in a tribal court. Set in a small village of the Amambo Tribe under the rule of chief Colongo, the legend of peace, the play promotes and encourages communication in society. Directed by Mbheki Mabhida, Sisenga Ilala is performed by Thami Silindana, Bonginkosi Myeza, Lindani Mthethwa, Khetha Mbatha and Phumelela Khawula.
Just Don’t, an Ekhaya Multi Arts Centre project based on real life experiences, is a drama that carries a cautionary tale. A group of prisoners follow the journey of Jesu, a young boy from a well-off family, who commits a petty crime stealing a cellphone as a birthday gift for his girlfriend. He lands in jail where he is abused by prison gangsters. Fighting for his life, he ends up paralyzed and HIV positive. The cast of this production includes Lucky Simayile, Ntuthuko Ndwandwe, Sandile Mchunu, Sphephelo Nxumalo, Sandile Nxumalo and Phumlani Ngubane.
Admission to the Playhouse’s Community Arts Festival is free. Performances of Just Don’t are on May 5 and 6 at 14h00 and on May 7 at 12h00 and 15h00.
Rice will be performed on 12 and 13 May at 14h00 and on May 14 at 12h00 and 13h00.
Performances of Sisenga Ilala are on May 19 and 20 at 14h00, and on May 21 at 12h00 and 15h00. For more information or to book, call Thubelihle on 031 369 9456 or e-mail marketingexec@playhousecompany.com
(Individual stories on the plays with photographs are featured separately)
RICE
( Pic by Val Adamson: Christopher Mathe and Orapeleng Mongale)Two-hander from Kimberley features in community arts festival.
The Playhouse Company’s second Community Arts Festival runs in the Playhouse Loft Theatre from May 5 to 21, 2011. The festival is geared to offer a platform for artists and arts practitioners to stage their performance works in a professional environment.
Three productions, entitled Just Don’t, Rice and Sisenga Ilala, will be featured in the festival. Each work focuses on important social issues.
Directed by Keaorata Gaokgwathe, Rice is a two-hander production, using boxes in place of props. It reflects the story of two Lerole Brothers, Karabo and Mothusimang, who tragically lose their parents in a fatal car accident. Karabo, the older brother, finds himself having to fend for both himself and his younger brother… Things get tough as their entrusted aunt turns against them, and Karabo loses his job due to nepotism.
Drawn into a downward spiral of crime, from manufacturing and distributing of pirated DVD’s and music CD’s, to drug trafficking, ATM bombings, and the betrayal of his best friend Thami, Karabo gets arrested while his younger brother perseveres through to his final year of university. Performed by Orapeleng Mongale and Christopher Mathe, this experimental theatre piece by the Atlegang Creatives theatre group won first place in the 2010 Crime Stop Festival in Mafekeng.
Rice will be performed on May 12 and 13 at 14h00 and May 14 at 12h00 and 13h00. For more information or to book, call Thubelihle on 031 369 9456 or e-mail marketingexec@playhousecompany.com
SISENGA ILALA
(Pic by Val Adamson: Phumelela Khawula and Thami Silindana)The Playhouse Company’s second Community Arts Festival runs in the Playhouse Loft Theatre from May 5 to 21, 2011. The festival is geared to offer a platform for artists and arts practitioners to stage their performance works in a professional environment.
Three productions, entitled Just Don’t, Rice and Sisenga Ilala, will be featured in the festival. Each work focuses on important social issues.
A Julazza Theatre Arts Company production featuring seven actors, Sisenga Ilala talks about peace and reconciliation through a cultural conflict resolution system in a tribal court. Set in a small village of the Amambo Tribe under the rule of chief Colongo, the legend of peace, the play promotes and encourages communication in society.
Directed by Mbheki Mabhida, Sisenga Ilala is performed by Thami Silindana, Bonginkosi Myeza, Lindani Mthethwa, Khetha Mbatha and Phumelela Khawula.
Performances of Sisenga Ilala are on May 19 and 20 at 14h00, and May 21 at 12h00 and 15h00. For more information or to book, call Thubelihle on 031 369 9456 or e-mail marketingexec@playhousecompany.com
JUST DON’T
(Pic by Val Adamson: Sandile Nxumalo, Sphephelo Nxumalo, Sandile Mchunu, Phumlani Ngubane and Ntuthuko Ndwandwe)The Playhouse Company’s second Community Arts Festival runs in the Playhouse Loft Theatre from May 5 to 21, 2011. The festival is geared to offer a platform for artists and arts practitioners to stage their performance works in a professional environment.
Three productions, entitled Just Don’t, Rice and Sisenga Ilala, will be featured in the festival. Each work focuses on important social issues.
Just Don’t, an Ekhaya Multi Arts Centre project based on real life experiences, is a drama that carries a cautionary tale. A group of prisoners follow the journey of Jesu, a young boy from a well-off family, who commits a petty crime stealing a cellphone as a birthday gift for his girlfriend. He lands in jail where he is abused by prison gangsters. Fighting for his life, he ends up paralyzed and HIV positive.
The cast of this production includes Lucky Simayile, Ntuthuko Ndwandwe, Sandile Mchunu, Sphephelo Nxumalo, Sandile Nxumalo and Phumlani Ngubane.
Admission to the Playhouse’s Community Arts Festival is free. Performances of Just Don’t are on May 5 and 6 at 14h00 and on May 7 at 12h00 and 15h00. For more information or to book, call Thubelihle on 031 369 9456 or e-mail marketingexec@playhousecompany.com
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
STORY VASES
(Pic by Anna Lönnerstam: Story Vases from Siyazama)Last month, Editions in Craft presented the Story Vases by Front and the Siyazama Project at Spazio Rossana Orlandi during the Salone Internazionale del Mobile / Milan Design Week 2011.
The Story Vases tells the personal stories of five women, Beauty Ndlovu, Thokozani Sibisi, Kishwepi Sitole, Tholiwe Sitole and Lobolile Ximba, living in remote villages in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. They are all members of the Siyazama Project, a collective of women who work with traditional beadcraft.
Recorded by the Swedish design collective Front, the stories are a unique documentation of the daily life of women in rural post-apartheid South Africa. They are stories that are rarely told and seldom heard.
“Together we created a project in which the women’s personal stories decorate the vases. Beauty, Kishwepi, Lobolile, Tholiwe and Thokozani told us about their everyday lives, their dreams, their finances, about what they wanted and what they would do, or buy, if they could afford it. We talked about family, love, life and death. They also talked about the Siyazama Project and what beadwork means to them,” says Sofia Lagerkvist of Front.
After Front and the women together selected the parts of conversations to work with, each woman formed their own story into text by threading glass beads on to metal wires. These wires were made into vase-shaped moulds, into which glass was blown. The glass process was then completed in Stockholm by master glassblower Reino Björk.
Bead craft is an important part of Zulu tradition, not only as a way of expression, but also as a means of communication and storytelling. In the past, patterns and colours were woven into beadwork, symbolizing feelings and ideas to lovers and friends, in a way almost similar to written language.
With the Story Vases, Front combines its conceptual approach to design, material and narrative to explore new ways of working with bead craft, as well as to provide an opportunity for the woman of the Siyazama Project to have their stories heard.
The Story Vases was conceived during a workshop held in Durban in November 2010 with Front and the five members of the Siyazama project. The vision was to develop a new product together by sharing techniques and exchanging ideas. The workshop was initiated and organised by Editions in Craft. The Story Vases is an ongoing series and each vase is available in a limited edition produced by Editions in Craft.
More information at www.editionsincraft.com
PHOTOGARAGE 2011
Running in the Middle Gallery of artSPACE Durban is a group exhibition of photographers mentored by Angela Buckland titled Photogarage 2011.
Photogarage 2011 opens on May 9 at 18h30 and runs until May 28. 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
Photogarage 2011 opens on May 9 at 18h30 and runs until May 28. 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
PERENNIAL
(“Herbarium at Durban Botanical Gardens", mixed media on paper by Lesley Magwood Fraser)Running at artSPACE Durban in conjunction with the Ceramics SA KZN Regional is the Garret Artists Exhibition titled Perennial.
The name “Perennial” reflects the growth of the Garret Artists Drawing Group year after year. The group was started by Jeanette Gilks in 1989 and, after her retirement from Garret Artists two years ago, the members have continued to work together on a weekly basis using Jeanette’s techniques and methods.
After a very successful exhibition with Ceramics SA in 2010, Garret Artists have once again been invited to exhibit in 2011, showing their innovative and exciting work from the past year. They have been exploring local architecture, dressmakers’ forms, landscape, Cubism and botanical life.
Participants include: Zelma Reuning, Annette Henderson, Brenda Richardson, Chris Reabow, Christina Godfrey, Colin Meyer, Dianne Sampson, Elize Rowan, Estelle Hudson, Gail Milne, Gill van Wyk, Gloria Adams, Jane Bishop, Lyndy Hurst, Patty Douglas, Daryl Houghton, Gayle Walters, Mary Slack, Renee Leslie, Ritha Fenske, Sally van Huyzen, Sue Blanckenburg, and Lesley Magwood. Fraser.
Perennial opens on May 9 at 18h30 and runs until May 28. 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
NEW VANSA WEBSITE
Message from the Visual Arts Network of South Africa (VANSA) team to all visual artists:
“VANSA is proud to introduce you to a better, brighter, more useful website with an unprecedented number of exciting new work, funding and other opportunities accompanying out site going ‘live’. The result of an extended period of research and consideration of industry needs, we hope that you like it as much as we do. The site replaces the two existing VANSA websites to provide a single, authoritative platform for accessing information about all sorts of opportunities in our industry (with a Calendar of deadlines), professional practice resources, industry research and the burning issues that we face as a sector. It also includes an industry map for South African contemporary art where you can get an overview of the infrastructure that drives our sector, from museums and galleries through to project spaces, arts schools and consultancies.
The website also incorporates linkage to our new ‘sister site’ for professional practice resources – ARTRIGHT - developed together with a variety of partners, including the WITS School of Arts, Webber Wentzel Attorneys, the Goethe Institute and the Dramatic, Artistic and Literary Rights Organisation (DALRO). And a big thank-you to Brendan Copestake, the development manager for this important project, who has put in many hours of (often unpaid) time to bring it to fruition.
Many thanks to the Gauteng Department of Sports, Arts, Recreation and Culture for supporting the development of the site, and all of the individuals and organisations that share our vision for a sharper, more connected and more open sector, and the unique and - at times - uncomfortable contribution that it makes to building a society in a complex process of transition and change. And enormous thanks to Audrey Anderson, our on-line communication/database person, for the sleepless nights and frustrations that accompany any new project.
Please send your thoughts – positive and negative – on the new site to Audrey at communications@vansa.co.za. And go to our membership section to join and strengthen a dynamic network of visual arts professionals who are changing the face of the visual arts in South Africa.
Our next mailout will also introduce you to our new and improved format for email communication with the industry – in the meantime, please browse through the Opportunities section for all of the latest information on local and international work and employment opportunities, funding deadlines, competitions, residencies, learning opportunities, networking events and calls/commissions.
We would like to dedicate the site to the memory of Goddy Leye, who passed away suddenly on Friday the 19th of February 2011.” - The VANSA Team
“VANSA is proud to introduce you to a better, brighter, more useful website with an unprecedented number of exciting new work, funding and other opportunities accompanying out site going ‘live’. The result of an extended period of research and consideration of industry needs, we hope that you like it as much as we do. The site replaces the two existing VANSA websites to provide a single, authoritative platform for accessing information about all sorts of opportunities in our industry (with a Calendar of deadlines), professional practice resources, industry research and the burning issues that we face as a sector. It also includes an industry map for South African contemporary art where you can get an overview of the infrastructure that drives our sector, from museums and galleries through to project spaces, arts schools and consultancies.
The website also incorporates linkage to our new ‘sister site’ for professional practice resources – ARTRIGHT - developed together with a variety of partners, including the WITS School of Arts, Webber Wentzel Attorneys, the Goethe Institute and the Dramatic, Artistic and Literary Rights Organisation (DALRO). And a big thank-you to Brendan Copestake, the development manager for this important project, who has put in many hours of (often unpaid) time to bring it to fruition.
Many thanks to the Gauteng Department of Sports, Arts, Recreation and Culture for supporting the development of the site, and all of the individuals and organisations that share our vision for a sharper, more connected and more open sector, and the unique and - at times - uncomfortable contribution that it makes to building a society in a complex process of transition and change. And enormous thanks to Audrey Anderson, our on-line communication/database person, for the sleepless nights and frustrations that accompany any new project.
Please send your thoughts – positive and negative – on the new site to Audrey at communications@vansa.co.za. And go to our membership section to join and strengthen a dynamic network of visual arts professionals who are changing the face of the visual arts in South Africa.
Our next mailout will also introduce you to our new and improved format for email communication with the industry – in the meantime, please browse through the Opportunities section for all of the latest information on local and international work and employment opportunities, funding deadlines, competitions, residencies, learning opportunities, networking events and calls/commissions.
We would like to dedicate the site to the memory of Goddy Leye, who passed away suddenly on Friday the 19th of February 2011.” - The VANSA Team
RHYTHMS IN CLAY
(Glazed ceramic by Tania Babb)The 2011 Ceramics Southern Africa KZN Regional Exhibition titled Rhythms in Clay opens shortly in the Main Gallery of artSPACEdurban.
The exhibition showcases current ceramics made by KwaZulu-Natal artists and features invited guest artists Tania Babb, Leanne Frisinger, Carina van Heerden and Clive Sithole as well as members of the Ceramic Association. The public will also be able to see work by students from various ceramic teaching studios in Durban.
Rhythms in Clay opens on May 9 at 18h30 and runs until May 28. 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
DURBAN HIGH SCHOOLS ISICATHAMIYA FESTIVAL
(Playhouse Company CEO Linda Bukhosini, Chris Ntuli and MC Thanda Ndlovu congratulate the winners, Mthusi High School from Port Shepstone)Durban Black Drifters will host its 11th annual choir festival on the May 6 of 2011 at the Playhouse Opera. 60 choirs from Durban townships and surrounding areas will compete in this award-winning, vibrant, energetic and youth-based music competition. Huge cash prizes, trophies, certificates, computers and give-aways on offer. The event aims to preserve promote and develop Isicathamiya at grass root level.
Popular Ukhozi FM DJ and SABC sports presenter Thanda Ndlovu will compère the event for the third time. Veteran Isicathamiya groups Easy Walkers & Xolo Home Boys will entertain the audience while Izangoma from Nkandla will re-kindle ancestors with burning of traditional incense (impepho) at the opening of the show.
Other top names invited to this prestigious music experience are those who have been associated with Durban Black Drifters since its inception: Joseph Shabalala of Ladysmith Black Mambazo , Paul Mfuphi of SATMA , Prof Pitika Ntuli and Prof Cosbie Mbhele, Dr Vera Dubin, Vusi Mkhize, Prof D.B.Z Ntuli, Director of KZN Schools B. Ntuli and Caroline Smart, to name but a few.
For over the past 18 years, Durban Black Drifters have been involved in teaching Isicathamiya in townships, urban and rural schools. It is the only group that teaches Isicathamiya at school level, encouraging schools to create their own groups which will eventually reach a high enough level to enter the competition. Led by singer, composer, producer and Nkandla-born Chris Ntuli, Durban Black Drifters have toured overseas in France, Belgium, China, Norway, Japan, Canada and the U.S.A. Ntuli has been involved in the music industry for almost 30 years, and has worked and recorded with top artists such as Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the late (both) Jabu Khanyile and Sipho Gumede as well as Madala Kunene, Busi Mhlongo and Aerto Moreira (Brazil).
Durban Black Drifters has also released their fifth album entitled Lathini Ilembe. Ntuli has also initiated, recorded and produced the first Isicathamiya compilation album featuring 13 popular and veteran Durban-based Isicathamiya groups entitled The Best of Isicathamiya Groups.
The 11th Caltex Isicathamiya High Schools Choir Competition is sponsored by Chevron SA and managed by DBD Entertainment. The show starts at 10h00 sharp and entrance is free. Dress smart casual or traditional. More information on 073 301 6740.
RAINBOW NEWS
Rainbow Restaurant presents Bongani Nkwanyana in concert in association with Castle Lager on May 1.
For many years, Nkwanyana was second bassist in Sipho Gumede's band. With the release of his own solo album, Ithemba Lami on the Sheer Sound label in 2009,
“Nkwanyana has built up a solid fan base and regulars at the Rainbow request songs from the album on a daily basis and ask when he will be back on our stage,” says Rainbow co-owner Neil Comfort. “Nkwanyana's backing band features the sublime guitar work of Mdu Mahlobo who will also hopefully be launching his debut album in 2011, Thabiso Mnanyana on drums, Mazwakhe Gumede on second bass, Siyabonga Duma on saxophone, Nelson Gumede on piano and Simphiwe Cebekhulu on keyboard. Handling lead vocals is Xoliswa Dlamini and the backing singers are Hlengiwe Qwili, Andile Ndlovu and Njabulo Ntaka. A big 11-piece band that is sure to have to up and dancing.” Tickets R40 presale (R60 at door)
Coming up at Rainbow over the next couple of months:
May 29: Sazi no Skokiana. Tickets R30 presale (R50 at door). Watch out for one or two special guests at this one.
June 26: Just Friends featuring Khaya Dlamini. Tickets R30 (R50 at door). Good old township jive first introduced to the Rainbow audience in October last year.
July 24: Sharon Katz and the Peace Train (tickets tbc.) “We do not normally do gigs before pay day but Katz has a bunch of visitors from the US of A who depart South Africa after this concert so we agreed to give them a good old Rainbow "bon voyage",” says Neil Comfort.
July 31: Themba Mkhize. Tickets tbc.
August 28: McCoy Mrubata and Paul Hanmer with Prince Bulo and Paki Peloeole taking care of rhythm.
September 25: Shabalala Rhythm. The day after Heritage Day and two years since Shabalala Rhythm last rocked out on the Rainbow stage with their maskanda driven grooves.
Doors open at 12 noon with the first set just after 13h00. The Rainbow Restaurant Estd 1981 is situated at 23 Stanfield Lane, Pinetown. More information on 031 702 9161 or 083 463 8044 or email: bandwagon@artslink.co.za or visit www.therainbow.co.za
For many years, Nkwanyana was second bassist in Sipho Gumede's band. With the release of his own solo album, Ithemba Lami on the Sheer Sound label in 2009,
“Nkwanyana has built up a solid fan base and regulars at the Rainbow request songs from the album on a daily basis and ask when he will be back on our stage,” says Rainbow co-owner Neil Comfort. “Nkwanyana's backing band features the sublime guitar work of Mdu Mahlobo who will also hopefully be launching his debut album in 2011, Thabiso Mnanyana on drums, Mazwakhe Gumede on second bass, Siyabonga Duma on saxophone, Nelson Gumede on piano and Simphiwe Cebekhulu on keyboard. Handling lead vocals is Xoliswa Dlamini and the backing singers are Hlengiwe Qwili, Andile Ndlovu and Njabulo Ntaka. A big 11-piece band that is sure to have to up and dancing.” Tickets R40 presale (R60 at door)
Coming up at Rainbow over the next couple of months:
May 29: Sazi no Skokiana. Tickets R30 presale (R50 at door). Watch out for one or two special guests at this one.
June 26: Just Friends featuring Khaya Dlamini. Tickets R30 (R50 at door). Good old township jive first introduced to the Rainbow audience in October last year.
July 24: Sharon Katz and the Peace Train (tickets tbc.) “We do not normally do gigs before pay day but Katz has a bunch of visitors from the US of A who depart South Africa after this concert so we agreed to give them a good old Rainbow "bon voyage",” says Neil Comfort.
July 31: Themba Mkhize. Tickets tbc.
August 28: McCoy Mrubata and Paul Hanmer with Prince Bulo and Paki Peloeole taking care of rhythm.
September 25: Shabalala Rhythm. The day after Heritage Day and two years since Shabalala Rhythm last rocked out on the Rainbow stage with their maskanda driven grooves.
Doors open at 12 noon with the first set just after 13h00. The Rainbow Restaurant Estd 1981 is situated at 23 Stanfield Lane, Pinetown. More information on 031 702 9161 or 083 463 8044 or email: bandwagon@artslink.co.za or visit www.therainbow.co.za
SUNDOWNERS AT BLUE ZOO
Sundowner Acoustic Sessions at Blue Zoo, at Mitchell Park will be launched officially on May 6 at 18h00 and promise to become popular family affairs.
If the weather is cold or wet (or both) the function will simply move inside where it will be nice and cosy with a heater going.
Blue Zoo is situated at Mitchell Park at the top of Florida Road, Durban.
If the weather is cold or wet (or both) the function will simply move inside where it will be nice and cosy with a heater going.
Blue Zoo is situated at Mitchell Park at the top of Florida Road, Durban.
COLLIN RULE @ JACKIE HORNER
The Jackie Horner Pub and Grill at 47 Helen Joseph (Davenport) Road, Glenwood, hosts Collin Rule on April 29 playing a mix of contemporary sounds and old favourites from 20h00. The stylish pub also offers a great Sunday roast special for R49. Entrance is free. To book a table call 031 202 9192.
MUSIC BUSINESS WORKSHOP
In collaboration with Alliance Française, Onexus presents David Chislett, author of 1, 2, 1, and 2: A Step By Step Guide to the SA Music Industry who will present a music business workshop on May 14 focused on marketing for artists and managers alike.
The workshop is set to take place at Alliance Française de Durban. It will cover the common misconceptions about marketing artists and sets out the key tools and methodologies that can be used to create a groundswell of public and media attention. Topics covered include Written Materials, Photographs, and Building contacts, talking to the media, your web presence, and Social media. All of this, and much more, will be covered during this workshop.
While many artists have overcome many of the challenges associated with writing and performing their music, even recording their own albums, many still struggle with how to get the word out there via the media to the public. This workshop covers how to deal with most marketing challenges, and includes advice on social media and direct marketing to the public... It will tell the ‘real deal’ of what musicians are up against making your personalized journey as a musician.
All are welcome to attend and listen to the advice and experience of Chislett, who has spent more than 20 years working with artists in South Africa. The book 1, 2, 1, 2: A Step by Step Guide to the SA Music Industry will also be on sale.
The workshop will take place from May 14 from 10h00 to 13h00 at the Alliance Française, 22 Sutton Crescent (Corner Windermere Road), Morningside. The entrance fee is R30. More information and reservations on 079 707 7773 (sms) or info@onexus.co.za
The workshop is set to take place at Alliance Française de Durban. It will cover the common misconceptions about marketing artists and sets out the key tools and methodologies that can be used to create a groundswell of public and media attention. Topics covered include Written Materials, Photographs, and Building contacts, talking to the media, your web presence, and Social media. All of this, and much more, will be covered during this workshop.
While many artists have overcome many of the challenges associated with writing and performing their music, even recording their own albums, many still struggle with how to get the word out there via the media to the public. This workshop covers how to deal with most marketing challenges, and includes advice on social media and direct marketing to the public... It will tell the ‘real deal’ of what musicians are up against making your personalized journey as a musician.
All are welcome to attend and listen to the advice and experience of Chislett, who has spent more than 20 years working with artists in South Africa. The book 1, 2, 1, 2: A Step by Step Guide to the SA Music Industry will also be on sale.
The workshop will take place from May 14 from 10h00 to 13h00 at the Alliance Française, 22 Sutton Crescent (Corner Windermere Road), Morningside. The entrance fee is R30. More information and reservations on 079 707 7773 (sms) or info@onexus.co.za
OSAMA
Every first and third Thursday of the month, the KZNSA Gallery lawn transforms into a picnic theatre with a selection of international art-house, classic, foreign, experimental and generally interesting films.
Supported by the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund, this project offers an eclectic mix of memorable films from across space and time for those who have a taste for the alternative.
The current season is titled Girlhood and the Middle East. Entering the realm of womanhood is a complex, difficult and deeply personal experience for adolescent girls universally, if diversely. While the experience is deeply private, leaving girlhood carries with it the weight of entering into the adult world of the social order and social roles which are simultaneously very public. In regions such as Iran and Afghanistan, where the two films in this theme are located, the bodies of women are defined and limited in ways that are different to those experienced in a more westernised space that has a history of emancipatory feminist politics. These two films unravel, in quite different ways, the intimacies of blossoming femininity against a backdrop of the Middle East.
The film to be seen on May 5 will be Osama directed by Siddiq Barmak in 2003 in Afghanistan. A 12-year-old Afghan girl and her mother lose their jobs when the Taliban closes the hospital where they work. The Taliban have also forbidden women to leave their houses without a male "legal companion." With her husband and brother dead, killed in battle, there is no-ne left to support the family. Without being able to leave the house, the mother is left with nowhere to turn. Feeling that she has no other choice, she disguises her daughter as a boy. Now called 'Osama,' the girl embarks on a terrifying and confusing journey as she tries to keep the Taliban from finding out her true identity.
Inspired by a true story, Osama is the first entirely Afghan film shot since the fall of the Taliban. Harrowing and moving, this promises to be an unmissable piece of cinema.
Bring blankets, snacks and vino, and relive the era of the drive-in as the screen flickers under the starry sky. If the temperamental Durban weather threatens to rain on the parade, the screening will move inside to the tiered café seating. Entrance is free of charge. However, a collection box will be passed around at the screenings for those who wish to place a donation in order to cover running costs incurred by the KZNSA. The KZNSA Gallery is situated at 166 Bulwer Road, Glenwood. For further information, please contact Sarah Dawson on 083 777 1130 or email: sarahandmiffy@gmail.com
Supported by the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund, this project offers an eclectic mix of memorable films from across space and time for those who have a taste for the alternative.
The current season is titled Girlhood and the Middle East. Entering the realm of womanhood is a complex, difficult and deeply personal experience for adolescent girls universally, if diversely. While the experience is deeply private, leaving girlhood carries with it the weight of entering into the adult world of the social order and social roles which are simultaneously very public. In regions such as Iran and Afghanistan, where the two films in this theme are located, the bodies of women are defined and limited in ways that are different to those experienced in a more westernised space that has a history of emancipatory feminist politics. These two films unravel, in quite different ways, the intimacies of blossoming femininity against a backdrop of the Middle East.
The film to be seen on May 5 will be Osama directed by Siddiq Barmak in 2003 in Afghanistan. A 12-year-old Afghan girl and her mother lose their jobs when the Taliban closes the hospital where they work. The Taliban have also forbidden women to leave their houses without a male "legal companion." With her husband and brother dead, killed in battle, there is no-ne left to support the family. Without being able to leave the house, the mother is left with nowhere to turn. Feeling that she has no other choice, she disguises her daughter as a boy. Now called 'Osama,' the girl embarks on a terrifying and confusing journey as she tries to keep the Taliban from finding out her true identity.
Inspired by a true story, Osama is the first entirely Afghan film shot since the fall of the Taliban. Harrowing and moving, this promises to be an unmissable piece of cinema.
Bring blankets, snacks and vino, and relive the era of the drive-in as the screen flickers under the starry sky. If the temperamental Durban weather threatens to rain on the parade, the screening will move inside to the tiered café seating. Entrance is free of charge. However, a collection box will be passed around at the screenings for those who wish to place a donation in order to cover running costs incurred by the KZNSA. The KZNSA Gallery is situated at 166 Bulwer Road, Glenwood. For further information, please contact Sarah Dawson on 083 777 1130 or email: sarahandmiffy@gmail.com
MONKEY NUTS
Winner of the prestigious Naledi Award for Best Comedy Performance, Monkey Nuts is one of the finest and funniest shows ever seen in Durban. To be staged at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre from May 5 to 15, this comical masterpiece is created by writer/director Geraldine Naidoo; the creator of the hit shows Hoot and The Chilli Boy.
The play is a clever mix of situational comedy, storytelling and hilarious (unforgettable) characters. It tells the story of Edgar Chambers; an odd bod obsessed with entering all sorts of competitions. Edgar, a bank teller by profession, also has the unusual knack of sniffing out free stuff and special offers. Edgar's main hobby is monitoring the prices of grocery items in various stores. So skilled is he at his hobby that he can tell you the price of any grocery item, anywhere and at any given time. It is, however, his obsessive competition-entering that sparks off the madcap story that has had audiences in stitches. Edgar's only friend is a monkey that lives in the back of a pet shop but, as the story unfolds, audiences are spoilt with a bevy of brilliantly portrayed (hysterical) characters - all with some sort of connection to Edgar.
Performed by multi-award winning actor Matthew Ribnick, Monkey Nuts is a definite must-see for anybody craving brilliant quality entertainment. Ribnick has thrilled local and international audiences for the past few years with his breathtaking talent in performances of Hoot and The Chilli Boy. While creating Monkey Nuts, Naidoo anticipated that the new show would be a lot more physically (and vocally) demanding than the previous two shows and started signing up her performer for various activities: including yoga, Tai Chi and singing lessons. It is not uncommon for Ribnick to attend seven yoga classes and eight Tai chi classes a week in order to be fit enough to perform Monkey Nuts. Both Naidoo and Ribnick share the belief that stage actors need to be as fit as professional athletes to truly realise their potential on the stage.
The new show again has Ribnick portraying characters from vastly different backgrounds and it is also the show with the most characters out of Naidoo's three plays. The script for Monkey Nuts has drawn a huge positive response from audiences with countless audience members repeating numerous lines out loud as they exit the auditorium excitedly at the end.
Monkey Nuts runs from May 5 to 15 at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre. Booking through Computicket. With half-price on Thursdays and Sundays. There is an age restriction of no under 16's.
The play is a clever mix of situational comedy, storytelling and hilarious (unforgettable) characters. It tells the story of Edgar Chambers; an odd bod obsessed with entering all sorts of competitions. Edgar, a bank teller by profession, also has the unusual knack of sniffing out free stuff and special offers. Edgar's main hobby is monitoring the prices of grocery items in various stores. So skilled is he at his hobby that he can tell you the price of any grocery item, anywhere and at any given time. It is, however, his obsessive competition-entering that sparks off the madcap story that has had audiences in stitches. Edgar's only friend is a monkey that lives in the back of a pet shop but, as the story unfolds, audiences are spoilt with a bevy of brilliantly portrayed (hysterical) characters - all with some sort of connection to Edgar.
Performed by multi-award winning actor Matthew Ribnick, Monkey Nuts is a definite must-see for anybody craving brilliant quality entertainment. Ribnick has thrilled local and international audiences for the past few years with his breathtaking talent in performances of Hoot and The Chilli Boy. While creating Monkey Nuts, Naidoo anticipated that the new show would be a lot more physically (and vocally) demanding than the previous two shows and started signing up her performer for various activities: including yoga, Tai Chi and singing lessons. It is not uncommon for Ribnick to attend seven yoga classes and eight Tai chi classes a week in order to be fit enough to perform Monkey Nuts. Both Naidoo and Ribnick share the belief that stage actors need to be as fit as professional athletes to truly realise their potential on the stage.
The new show again has Ribnick portraying characters from vastly different backgrounds and it is also the show with the most characters out of Naidoo's three plays. The script for Monkey Nuts has drawn a huge positive response from audiences with countless audience members repeating numerous lines out loud as they exit the auditorium excitedly at the end.
Monkey Nuts runs from May 5 to 15 at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre. Booking through Computicket. With half-price on Thursdays and Sundays. There is an age restriction of no under 16's.
SA NEW PLAYS PHASE 2
New writers are invited to apply for the second phase of the South African New Plays Writing Programme.
The Programme is presented by the Wits Theatre in partnership with the Department of Arts and Culture, the British Council, Sustained Theatre UK, the National Arts Festival, Grahamstown, Artscape, the South African State Theatre and the Space.com at Joburg Theatre.
“The Programme has been conceived to provide support in the space that exists between the idea for a play and the final draft of that play for production,” explains Ashraf Johaardien, general manager of the Wits Theatre. “In this way the Programme is intended as a resource for both new writers and producing theatres interested in developing and programming contemporary South African work,’ he adds.
Launched by Arts and Culture Minister Paul Mashatile at the Wits Theatre during January 2011, the first phase of the programme saw 20 writers from across South Africa participating in up-skilling workshops facilitated by Christopher Rodriguez and Ola Animashawun from the UK together with Greg Homann from the Wits School of Arts.
To be considered for the second phase of the Programme, new writers are invited to submit a 10-page writing sample in the form of a scene, a couple of scenes or even a short play that could be developed into a full length work. Submissions should not have been produced previously.
Submissions will be judged on the following criteria: sense of space and/or use of stage, originality of subject/theme/idea, strength and individuality of the writer’s voice.
Selected applicants must be available to attend all five workshop days during the National Arts Festival, Grahamstown (June 30 to July 10 2011).
The workshop will be followed by online mentoring and development and a subsequent workshop period in Johannesburg November. The first year of the Programme will lead to readings of selected works at the State Theatre in Pretoria. The long term aim of the Programme is to select a number of pieces to be fully developed during 2012 and 2013 for possible production in South Africa and/or rehearsed readings and production in the UK.
Interested writers are invited to submit applications as a single Word document together with the following information: One-page CV including contact details; One page letter of motivation, and writing sample (minimum of ten-page) for development (must be original and must not have been previously produced, developed or published)
Applications should be submitted via e-mail to catherine.pisanti@wits.ac.za by no later than May 19, 2011. There will be bursaries to cover accommodation, travel and per diems for writers selected.
All successful candidates will be notified by June 3, 2011. Exact dates of the workshops at the National Arts Festival will be confirmed before the end of May. If applicants have not received a response by June 3, they haven’t been successful this time around.
The Programme is presented by the Wits Theatre in partnership with the Department of Arts and Culture, the British Council, Sustained Theatre UK, the National Arts Festival, Grahamstown, Artscape, the South African State Theatre and the Space.com at Joburg Theatre.
“The Programme has been conceived to provide support in the space that exists between the idea for a play and the final draft of that play for production,” explains Ashraf Johaardien, general manager of the Wits Theatre. “In this way the Programme is intended as a resource for both new writers and producing theatres interested in developing and programming contemporary South African work,’ he adds.
Launched by Arts and Culture Minister Paul Mashatile at the Wits Theatre during January 2011, the first phase of the programme saw 20 writers from across South Africa participating in up-skilling workshops facilitated by Christopher Rodriguez and Ola Animashawun from the UK together with Greg Homann from the Wits School of Arts.
To be considered for the second phase of the Programme, new writers are invited to submit a 10-page writing sample in the form of a scene, a couple of scenes or even a short play that could be developed into a full length work. Submissions should not have been produced previously.
Submissions will be judged on the following criteria: sense of space and/or use of stage, originality of subject/theme/idea, strength and individuality of the writer’s voice.
Selected applicants must be available to attend all five workshop days during the National Arts Festival, Grahamstown (June 30 to July 10 2011).
The workshop will be followed by online mentoring and development and a subsequent workshop period in Johannesburg November. The first year of the Programme will lead to readings of selected works at the State Theatre in Pretoria. The long term aim of the Programme is to select a number of pieces to be fully developed during 2012 and 2013 for possible production in South Africa and/or rehearsed readings and production in the UK.
Interested writers are invited to submit applications as a single Word document together with the following information: One-page CV including contact details; One page letter of motivation, and writing sample (minimum of ten-page) for development (must be original and must not have been previously produced, developed or published)
Applications should be submitted via e-mail to catherine.pisanti@wits.ac.za by no later than May 19, 2011. There will be bursaries to cover accommodation, travel and per diems for writers selected.
All successful candidates will be notified by June 3, 2011. Exact dates of the workshops at the National Arts Festival will be confirmed before the end of May. If applicants have not received a response by June 3, they haven’t been successful this time around.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
THE FOSSIL ARTIST
Well-written story provides a fascinating insight into the world of paleoanthropology and fossil hunting. (Review by Caroline Smart)
Based in Australia, Graeme Friedman is a clinical psychologist and an award-winning writer whose short stories have appeared internationally. He is the author of two biographical books Madiba’s Boys and The Piano War and is the co-editor of A Writer in Stone, an anthology of prose and poetry.
His novel, The Fossil Artist, revolves around Russ Codron who had a unique childhood growing up in Krugersdorp. His father was a fossil hunter and he accompanied him on his expeditions. These invariably led to the nearby limestone caves of Sterkfontein, now a World Heritage Site and known as the Cradle of Humankind. A strong bond was formed between them as he learned to pass his father the correct digging tools and learned through watching the process.
When he was thirteen, his father disappeared without a trace leaving the young boy to deal with the loss and many unanswered questions. In his dreams, he imagines rescuing his father from all manner of disasters.
However, his veneration of his father is shattered in later years when, as a grown married man with children, he sees a newspaper story blazoning the headline “Mummified Mass Murderers Disentombed”. He discovers with shock that his father has been identified as one of the alleged murderers whose mummified remains were found in a collapsed cave. Also found in the cave were chopped-up human bone fragments which the police believe could belong to two teenagers whose disappearance was never solved.
Secrets start emerging that have been kept from him all his life. These lead to the questions - what was his father doing in a cave on the Atlantic Coast and who was the African woman with him.
Russ’s wife, a successful contemporary sculptor, does her best to help him come to terms with this earth-shattering information. His teenage daughter is flexing her adolescent wings and is too involved with her boyfriend to be of much support. Then there’s his mentally challenged son, Luc, who lives in his own little world and uses a mixture of languages from his European antecedents. However, Luc often makes startlingly unexpected appropriate comment to disprove the theory that he is backward and his simplistic outlook provides the key to many of the questions that plague Russ.
While paleontology investigates the history of life on Earth, paleoanthropology focuses more on the study of ancient humans as found in petrified bones and footprints. Graeme Friedman provides a fascinating exploration into this subject and creates a tangible atmosphere of the cave as Russ revisits it, driven to make his own findings and exonerate his father.
The Fossil Artist is published by Jacana. ISBN 978-1-77009-924-1 - Caroline Smart
Based in Australia, Graeme Friedman is a clinical psychologist and an award-winning writer whose short stories have appeared internationally. He is the author of two biographical books Madiba’s Boys and The Piano War and is the co-editor of A Writer in Stone, an anthology of prose and poetry.
His novel, The Fossil Artist, revolves around Russ Codron who had a unique childhood growing up in Krugersdorp. His father was a fossil hunter and he accompanied him on his expeditions. These invariably led to the nearby limestone caves of Sterkfontein, now a World Heritage Site and known as the Cradle of Humankind. A strong bond was formed between them as he learned to pass his father the correct digging tools and learned through watching the process.
When he was thirteen, his father disappeared without a trace leaving the young boy to deal with the loss and many unanswered questions. In his dreams, he imagines rescuing his father from all manner of disasters.
However, his veneration of his father is shattered in later years when, as a grown married man with children, he sees a newspaper story blazoning the headline “Mummified Mass Murderers Disentombed”. He discovers with shock that his father has been identified as one of the alleged murderers whose mummified remains were found in a collapsed cave. Also found in the cave were chopped-up human bone fragments which the police believe could belong to two teenagers whose disappearance was never solved.
Secrets start emerging that have been kept from him all his life. These lead to the questions - what was his father doing in a cave on the Atlantic Coast and who was the African woman with him.
Russ’s wife, a successful contemporary sculptor, does her best to help him come to terms with this earth-shattering information. His teenage daughter is flexing her adolescent wings and is too involved with her boyfriend to be of much support. Then there’s his mentally challenged son, Luc, who lives in his own little world and uses a mixture of languages from his European antecedents. However, Luc often makes startlingly unexpected appropriate comment to disprove the theory that he is backward and his simplistic outlook provides the key to many of the questions that plague Russ.
While paleontology investigates the history of life on Earth, paleoanthropology focuses more on the study of ancient humans as found in petrified bones and footprints. Graeme Friedman provides a fascinating exploration into this subject and creates a tangible atmosphere of the cave as Russ revisits it, driven to make his own findings and exonerate his father.
The Fossil Artist is published by Jacana. ISBN 978-1-77009-924-1 - Caroline Smart
Friday, April 22, 2011
AU PAIR
Explicit yet sensitive recounting of her journey from a straight relationship to a lesbian one. (Review by Caroline Smart)
Michele Macfarlane is a happily and fulfilled (she believes) married woman with three lovely children, a comfortable home and supportive parents. However, she suffers from retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease. This means that she is no longer able to drive so she employs an au pair (Marizette) to help her get the children to and from school
However, while Marizette is accepted into the family, her husband trusts her and the children adore her, Michele finds that she is becoming more attracted to Marizette every day and the relationship develops to the point where they enter a sexual relationship. This grows in passion and commitment until Michele’s husband moves out, leaving the two women to bring up the children while he gets weekend visiting rights.
Michele relates her sexual relationship in candid and graphic detail but also with much humour. The book is racy and you need to keep reminding yourself that it’s a true story.
It is also important to remember that Michele was abused as a young girl and this coloured her attitude towards sex. Despite having a loving relationship with her husband and having had three children by him, it wasn’t until meeting Marizette that she discovered the explosive enjoyment that a sexual relationship with an experienced lover can bring.
Falling in love with your au pair and then leaving your husband is hectic enough in a straight relationship but, when the “other woman” is a lesbian, a whole different set of issues come into force.
Things get even more complicated when Michele and Marizette decide to get married. Bound by convention - and in Marizette’s case, coming from a strict Afrikaans Calvinist upbringing - neither of their parents are emotionally or socially prepared for this.
Over the years, Michele remains emotionally loyal to her husband which Marizette finds difficult to accept. Michele undertakes a further emotional process when she agrees to a counsellor’s suggestion to meet with her abuser (a member of the family) face to face. Accompanied by her parents and her brother, she endures this process. However, this does not provide the closure she desperately seeks. It is only her initial sexual awakening through Marizette’s skilful lovemaking that makes her finally feel a woman.
Macfarlane uses her email messages to a friend in the UK to add a different focus to the text, said friend also being in the same situation as Michele found herself at the beginning of her story – married but in a gay relationship.
With its clever double-meaning title, Au Pair provides a rare insight into lesbian relationships. It also charts a highly emotional journey as one woman comes to terms with who she really is.
Au Pair is published by Jacana – ISBN 978-1-7700009-908-1 – Caroline Smart
Michele Macfarlane is a happily and fulfilled (she believes) married woman with three lovely children, a comfortable home and supportive parents. However, she suffers from retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease. This means that she is no longer able to drive so she employs an au pair (Marizette) to help her get the children to and from school
However, while Marizette is accepted into the family, her husband trusts her and the children adore her, Michele finds that she is becoming more attracted to Marizette every day and the relationship develops to the point where they enter a sexual relationship. This grows in passion and commitment until Michele’s husband moves out, leaving the two women to bring up the children while he gets weekend visiting rights.
Michele relates her sexual relationship in candid and graphic detail but also with much humour. The book is racy and you need to keep reminding yourself that it’s a true story.
It is also important to remember that Michele was abused as a young girl and this coloured her attitude towards sex. Despite having a loving relationship with her husband and having had three children by him, it wasn’t until meeting Marizette that she discovered the explosive enjoyment that a sexual relationship with an experienced lover can bring.
Falling in love with your au pair and then leaving your husband is hectic enough in a straight relationship but, when the “other woman” is a lesbian, a whole different set of issues come into force.
Things get even more complicated when Michele and Marizette decide to get married. Bound by convention - and in Marizette’s case, coming from a strict Afrikaans Calvinist upbringing - neither of their parents are emotionally or socially prepared for this.
Over the years, Michele remains emotionally loyal to her husband which Marizette finds difficult to accept. Michele undertakes a further emotional process when she agrees to a counsellor’s suggestion to meet with her abuser (a member of the family) face to face. Accompanied by her parents and her brother, she endures this process. However, this does not provide the closure she desperately seeks. It is only her initial sexual awakening through Marizette’s skilful lovemaking that makes her finally feel a woman.
Macfarlane uses her email messages to a friend in the UK to add a different focus to the text, said friend also being in the same situation as Michele found herself at the beginning of her story – married but in a gay relationship.
With its clever double-meaning title, Au Pair provides a rare insight into lesbian relationships. It also charts a highly emotional journey as one woman comes to terms with who she really is.
Au Pair is published by Jacana – ISBN 978-1-7700009-908-1 – Caroline Smart
uTHEMBALETHU – TSHEPANG
Masterful production of the groundbreaking Tshepang by Lara Foot Newton, translated by Bheki Mkhwane into isiZulu, brilliantly starring him and Silindile Ndlovu. (Review by Maurice Kort)
Headlines were made in 2001 by the brutal rape of a nine-month old baby girl, surpassed by the subsequent arrest of six men for the gang rape. They were later found to be innocent and that the rape had been perpetrated by the boyfriend of the little girl's mother in whose care the baby had been left while the mother had gone out drinking in a shebeen. Lara Foot Newton, who had a daughter of about the same age at the time, used these events to write her one act play Tshepang, appropriately "sub-titled" Based on Twenty Thousand True Stories since this unbelievable rape of such a young child had brought to light many further acts of abuse, rape and sodomy of young children, even of a five month old baby.
Although the narrative of the play was inspired by the story and events of Baby Tshepang, and thousands like her, the town in which the play is set, the events and the characters are purely fictional and Lara Foot Newton has credited Bheki Vilakazi for his help and research in Louisvaleweg, in the northern Cape, which was the town where the rape had occurred. The play had been performed to great critical and public acclaim over the years since its first appearance at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown in 2003, throughout South Africa. It has also been performed in both English and Afrikaans, and overseas.
To bring this important subject, and the excellent play, to a wider audience, it was subsequently translated into isiZulu by Bheki Mkhwane and brought to the stage at the Ekhaya Multi Arts Centre, Kwa Mashu, by Mopo Productions under the deft direction of Maurice Podbrey with Bheki Mkhwane and Ntando Cele in this hard-hitting two hander in 2008.
I reviewed the production for artSMart at the time (October 7, 2008) and have quoted considerably from that review here. At the time, I mentioned that the play strongly deserved greater exposure in further venues in Durban and that the Playhouse Loft Theatre would be an ideal venue and its management should rush to book the production, to the benefit of all. Nothing was done until the newly-launched Durban Theatre Company, Just in Time Productions launched by veteran theatre producer/director Maurice Podbrey and theatre personality Bheki Mkhwane, included this play in their trilogy for a short season at the Playhouse Loft Theatre - full kudos to them.
Although the subject matter is so awful to contemplate with the extent of child rape occurring in South Africa, and increasing each year, this difficult subject needs to be brought into the open so that it can be considered and discussed. This play does it admirably with its poetic style, metaphor and striking visual imagery and is a very powerful tool against child abuse, deserving all the attention it can get.
This new production, again directed by Maurice Podbrey and starring Bheki Mkhwane in the pivotal role of Simon who caries almost all the action and virtually all the dialogue, now has Silindile Ndlovu as Ruth, the mother of the raped Baby Tshepang. Simon carves wooden figures which put bread on his table - and enables him to buy his cheap wine. Integral to the plot are a grass broom, a loaf of bread, a bottle of cheap wine and a nativity set which Simon brings out from under a blanket. These are works of art in their own right, bringing as the figures do a crossover into African culture.
Through Simon we get an insight to the people of the village where "nothing ever happens"and the lives of the villagers, warts and all, often with delightful humour. Ruth first appears with a small bed tied on her back with a blanket sitting on a heap of salt rubbing the salt into animal skins. Also on the set is a bed, the home of Simon, with the village in the distance, superbly depicted by models of small houses.
Although I understand no isiZulu, Bheki Mkhwane's riveting performance again had me spellbound, and indeed also the most attentive and appreciative audience of nearly 50 souls. One had to smile with him at his jokes and inflections, even if one did not completely understand the narrative and be moved by his acting. Indeed, his facial expressions and body movements speak volumes and no doubt he is doing full justice to the script, judging from the vociferous reactions of the audience.
Although Bheki Mkhwane carries the bulk of the play as he has all the dialogue and much of the movement over the whole stage, Silindile Ndlovu as the mother of Tshepang has no less of a role in the two-hander and one cannot help but have her in one’s sight at all times. Her body movements convey all her sadness and despair and show how she is completely lost in her own world of unbearable memories. How she conveys her exhaustion, purely in her body language, with her almost frantic rubbing of the salt into the animal skins is most impressive and convincing. Both the actors immerse themselves completely in their roles.
The all too short season of the play at the Playhouse Loft Theatre runs until April 23 at 19h30 and on April 24 at 15h00. Booking through Computicket and 083 915 8000.
Headlines were made in 2001 by the brutal rape of a nine-month old baby girl, surpassed by the subsequent arrest of six men for the gang rape. They were later found to be innocent and that the rape had been perpetrated by the boyfriend of the little girl's mother in whose care the baby had been left while the mother had gone out drinking in a shebeen. Lara Foot Newton, who had a daughter of about the same age at the time, used these events to write her one act play Tshepang, appropriately "sub-titled" Based on Twenty Thousand True Stories since this unbelievable rape of such a young child had brought to light many further acts of abuse, rape and sodomy of young children, even of a five month old baby.
Although the narrative of the play was inspired by the story and events of Baby Tshepang, and thousands like her, the town in which the play is set, the events and the characters are purely fictional and Lara Foot Newton has credited Bheki Vilakazi for his help and research in Louisvaleweg, in the northern Cape, which was the town where the rape had occurred. The play had been performed to great critical and public acclaim over the years since its first appearance at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown in 2003, throughout South Africa. It has also been performed in both English and Afrikaans, and overseas.
To bring this important subject, and the excellent play, to a wider audience, it was subsequently translated into isiZulu by Bheki Mkhwane and brought to the stage at the Ekhaya Multi Arts Centre, Kwa Mashu, by Mopo Productions under the deft direction of Maurice Podbrey with Bheki Mkhwane and Ntando Cele in this hard-hitting two hander in 2008.
I reviewed the production for artSMart at the time (October 7, 2008) and have quoted considerably from that review here. At the time, I mentioned that the play strongly deserved greater exposure in further venues in Durban and that the Playhouse Loft Theatre would be an ideal venue and its management should rush to book the production, to the benefit of all. Nothing was done until the newly-launched Durban Theatre Company, Just in Time Productions launched by veteran theatre producer/director Maurice Podbrey and theatre personality Bheki Mkhwane, included this play in their trilogy for a short season at the Playhouse Loft Theatre - full kudos to them.
Although the subject matter is so awful to contemplate with the extent of child rape occurring in South Africa, and increasing each year, this difficult subject needs to be brought into the open so that it can be considered and discussed. This play does it admirably with its poetic style, metaphor and striking visual imagery and is a very powerful tool against child abuse, deserving all the attention it can get.
This new production, again directed by Maurice Podbrey and starring Bheki Mkhwane in the pivotal role of Simon who caries almost all the action and virtually all the dialogue, now has Silindile Ndlovu as Ruth, the mother of the raped Baby Tshepang. Simon carves wooden figures which put bread on his table - and enables him to buy his cheap wine. Integral to the plot are a grass broom, a loaf of bread, a bottle of cheap wine and a nativity set which Simon brings out from under a blanket. These are works of art in their own right, bringing as the figures do a crossover into African culture.
Through Simon we get an insight to the people of the village where "nothing ever happens"and the lives of the villagers, warts and all, often with delightful humour. Ruth first appears with a small bed tied on her back with a blanket sitting on a heap of salt rubbing the salt into animal skins. Also on the set is a bed, the home of Simon, with the village in the distance, superbly depicted by models of small houses.
Although I understand no isiZulu, Bheki Mkhwane's riveting performance again had me spellbound, and indeed also the most attentive and appreciative audience of nearly 50 souls. One had to smile with him at his jokes and inflections, even if one did not completely understand the narrative and be moved by his acting. Indeed, his facial expressions and body movements speak volumes and no doubt he is doing full justice to the script, judging from the vociferous reactions of the audience.
Although Bheki Mkhwane carries the bulk of the play as he has all the dialogue and much of the movement over the whole stage, Silindile Ndlovu as the mother of Tshepang has no less of a role in the two-hander and one cannot help but have her in one’s sight at all times. Her body movements convey all her sadness and despair and show how she is completely lost in her own world of unbearable memories. How she conveys her exhaustion, purely in her body language, with her almost frantic rubbing of the salt into the animal skins is most impressive and convincing. Both the actors immerse themselves completely in their roles.
The all too short season of the play at the Playhouse Loft Theatre runs until April 23 at 19h30 and on April 24 at 15h00. Booking through Computicket and 083 915 8000.
SIXTIES SUMMER OF LOVE
The Barnyard Theatre at Gateway is taking would-be hippies back to the time of peace, love and flower-power when they celebrate with Sixties Summer of Love until May 29.
What became known as “The Summer of Love” was a social phenomenon that occurred during summer of 1967, when as many as 100,000 people converged on the Haight-Ashbury neighbourhood of San Francisco, creating a cultural and political rebellion. While hippies also gathered in New York, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Seattle, Portland, Washington DC, Chicago, Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, and across Europe, San Francisco was the centre of the hippie revolution. It was a melting pot of music, psychoactive drugs, sexual freedom, creative expression, and politics. The Summer of Love became a defining moment of the 1960s, as the hippie counterculture movement came into public awareness. This unprecedented gathering of young people is often considered to have been a social experiment, because of alternative lifestyles that became common, both during the summer itself and during subsequent years.
The Summer of Love started musically with the release of The Beatles’ album Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band on June 1, 1967, and closed with the Woodstock Music Festival in the summer of 1969. The Barnyard Theatre now presents a musical tribute that relives the days of The Beatles, Woodstock, swinging London and the west coast sound of San Francisco and California.
Featured in The Summer of Love is music from The Beatles; The Mammas and The Pappas; Jimi Hendrix; Creedence Clear Water Revival; Janis Joplin; Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young; and many more. The diversity of the music from this golden era is mind blowing, and the show takes audiences on a long and winding road.
The song San Francisco became a signature tune of this era, followed by the West Coast sound with songs like Monday Monday, California Dreaming and let’s not forget the musical Hair! Then there is a tribute to The Woodstock Music Festival of August 1969 when five hundred thousand people gathered for three days of peace, love and music. Highlights of this festival include Joe Cocker’s With A Little Help From My Friends, and Jimi Hendrix’s Star Spangled Banner and Purple Haze. Let’s not forget the San Francisco band Creedence Clear Water Revival (who also performed at Woodstock) who dominated the charts in 1969 with songs like Down On The Corner, Who’ll Stop The Rain, Proud Mary and Hey Tonight and many more. And what would the 60’s be without The Beatles hits like Hey Jude, Yellow Submarine, Give Peace a Chance and Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds?
The Barnyard has lined up a stellar cast to do this era the justice it deserves, and ex-Durbanite Andrew Webster will be leading the trip as host and on vocals. He is joined by vocalists Bongi Mthombeni, Lizaan Vermeulen and Kashiefa Blaauw. The rock-solid band is made up of Andy Murray (guitar and vocals), Calli Thomson (keyboards), Mark Freel (bass guitar), Chad Harbott (drums), Joanna Dazeley (saxophone) and Blackie Tempi (trumpet).
The Summer of Love is about the music and the cultural rebellion that changed our lives forever – so be sure to wear flowers in your hair and your bellbottoms because this is going to be one big 60’s party!
Tickets R125 pp from Wednesday to Saturday (R90 discounted specials every Tuesday night and Sunday matinee) 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.
What became known as “The Summer of Love” was a social phenomenon that occurred during summer of 1967, when as many as 100,000 people converged on the Haight-Ashbury neighbourhood of San Francisco, creating a cultural and political rebellion. While hippies also gathered in New York, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Seattle, Portland, Washington DC, Chicago, Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, and across Europe, San Francisco was the centre of the hippie revolution. It was a melting pot of music, psychoactive drugs, sexual freedom, creative expression, and politics. The Summer of Love became a defining moment of the 1960s, as the hippie counterculture movement came into public awareness. This unprecedented gathering of young people is often considered to have been a social experiment, because of alternative lifestyles that became common, both during the summer itself and during subsequent years.
The Summer of Love started musically with the release of The Beatles’ album Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band on June 1, 1967, and closed with the Woodstock Music Festival in the summer of 1969. The Barnyard Theatre now presents a musical tribute that relives the days of The Beatles, Woodstock, swinging London and the west coast sound of San Francisco and California.
Featured in The Summer of Love is music from The Beatles; The Mammas and The Pappas; Jimi Hendrix; Creedence Clear Water Revival; Janis Joplin; Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young; and many more. The diversity of the music from this golden era is mind blowing, and the show takes audiences on a long and winding road.
The song San Francisco became a signature tune of this era, followed by the West Coast sound with songs like Monday Monday, California Dreaming and let’s not forget the musical Hair! Then there is a tribute to The Woodstock Music Festival of August 1969 when five hundred thousand people gathered for three days of peace, love and music. Highlights of this festival include Joe Cocker’s With A Little Help From My Friends, and Jimi Hendrix’s Star Spangled Banner and Purple Haze. Let’s not forget the San Francisco band Creedence Clear Water Revival (who also performed at Woodstock) who dominated the charts in 1969 with songs like Down On The Corner, Who’ll Stop The Rain, Proud Mary and Hey Tonight and many more. And what would the 60’s be without The Beatles hits like Hey Jude, Yellow Submarine, Give Peace a Chance and Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds?
The Barnyard has lined up a stellar cast to do this era the justice it deserves, and ex-Durbanite Andrew Webster will be leading the trip as host and on vocals. He is joined by vocalists Bongi Mthombeni, Lizaan Vermeulen and Kashiefa Blaauw. The rock-solid band is made up of Andy Murray (guitar and vocals), Calli Thomson (keyboards), Mark Freel (bass guitar), Chad Harbott (drums), Joanna Dazeley (saxophone) and Blackie Tempi (trumpet).
The Summer of Love is about the music and the cultural rebellion that changed our lives forever – so be sure to wear flowers in your hair and your bellbottoms because this is going to be one big 60’s party!
Tickets R125 pp from Wednesday to Saturday (R90 discounted specials every Tuesday night and Sunday matinee) 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.
LIBEROCCO
Popular pianist Rocco de Villiers pays tribute to the "king of bling", pianist Liberace, in his show Liberocco which runs for two weekends at Rhumbelow Theatre.
Showy, flashy, ostentatious, garish, sensational, vivid - the most flamboyant entertainer ever. These are all words that apply to piano maestro Liberace, the original 'King of Bling', and arguably the most flamboyant entertainer of the century. Just before his death 20 years ago on February 4, 1987, Liberace stated that he wanted to be remembered for three things: his shows, music and costumes.
After Rocco's sell-out seasons at the Rhumbelow and the rest of the country, he is back with this very popular show which has a few new additions: new and bigger candelabra, all the costumes, the quirkiness. However, most importantly, all new music in the updated performance comes from Rocco's new album, including most of Liberace later interpretations. The new music line-up includes Don't Cry for Me, Argentina, Music of the Night, Lara’s Theme from Doctor Zhivago, Music Box Dancer, Ballade for Adeline and Sleepy Shores.
This is the perfect show for the perfect night. Come and listen and see all the bling, the balls, the sequins, furs and feathers – and the piano excellence of Liberocco. Rocco's CD's, cocktails books, aprons and t-shirts available at the door.
Shows take place on May 6, 7, 13 and 14 at 20h00 with Sunday performances on May 8 at 14h00 and 18h30 and May 15 at 18h30. The venue opens 90 minutes before show for picnic dinner.
Tickets R100. Take along 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
Showy, flashy, ostentatious, garish, sensational, vivid - the most flamboyant entertainer ever. These are all words that apply to piano maestro Liberace, the original 'King of Bling', and arguably the most flamboyant entertainer of the century. Just before his death 20 years ago on February 4, 1987, Liberace stated that he wanted to be remembered for three things: his shows, music and costumes.
After Rocco's sell-out seasons at the Rhumbelow and the rest of the country, he is back with this very popular show which has a few new additions: new and bigger candelabra, all the costumes, the quirkiness. However, most importantly, all new music in the updated performance comes from Rocco's new album, including most of Liberace later interpretations. The new music line-up includes Don't Cry for Me, Argentina, Music of the Night, Lara’s Theme from Doctor Zhivago, Music Box Dancer, Ballade for Adeline and Sleepy Shores.
This is the perfect show for the perfect night. Come and listen and see all the bling, the balls, the sequins, furs and feathers – and the piano excellence of Liberocco. Rocco's CD's, cocktails books, aprons and t-shirts available at the door.
Shows take place on May 6, 7, 13 and 14 at 20h00 with Sunday performances on May 8 at 14h00 and 18h30 and May 15 at 18h30. The venue opens 90 minutes before show for picnic dinner.
Tickets R100. Take along 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
JPO AUDITIONS
Young instrumentalists are invited to apply to take part in the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra’s 2011 Youth Concerto Festival in August.
Entries for this vibrant annual showcase of up-and-coming musical excellence close on May 6, with live auditions taking place on May 28. Should applicants be out of town or unavailable on May 28, the JPO audition panel will accept a live DVD (not an audio CD) recording of their audition performance.
Only a handful of the country’s most exceptional young instrumentalists will subsequently be selected to participate in the prestigious Youth Concerto Festival, alongside the JPO.
Applicants must be aged 25 or younger, and the orchestral parts must be available, or easily obtainable, in South Africa. The repertoire can include short pieces written for soloist and orchestra, and does not necessarily have to be part of a concerto. Each musician’s chosen work should be no longer than 11 minutes in duration.
This year, the JPO’s sixth annual Youth Concerto Festival will be held at 20h00 on August 31 at the Linder Auditorium in Parktown, Johannesburg. The event is headed up by Sonja Bass, who oversees the JPO’s development and education programme.
Reminder – the deadline is May 6 and auditionees have a chance of sharing the spotlight with the cream of young South African musical talent! For further information and application forms, contact Kgaladi Thema at 011 789 2733 or email education@jpo.co.za
Entries for this vibrant annual showcase of up-and-coming musical excellence close on May 6, with live auditions taking place on May 28. Should applicants be out of town or unavailable on May 28, the JPO audition panel will accept a live DVD (not an audio CD) recording of their audition performance.
Only a handful of the country’s most exceptional young instrumentalists will subsequently be selected to participate in the prestigious Youth Concerto Festival, alongside the JPO.
Applicants must be aged 25 or younger, and the orchestral parts must be available, or easily obtainable, in South Africa. The repertoire can include short pieces written for soloist and orchestra, and does not necessarily have to be part of a concerto. Each musician’s chosen work should be no longer than 11 minutes in duration.
This year, the JPO’s sixth annual Youth Concerto Festival will be held at 20h00 on August 31 at the Linder Auditorium in Parktown, Johannesburg. The event is headed up by Sonja Bass, who oversees the JPO’s development and education programme.
Reminder – the deadline is May 6 and auditionees have a chance of sharing the spotlight with the cream of young South African musical talent! For further information and application forms, contact Kgaladi Thema at 011 789 2733 or email education@jpo.co.za
IVUMO NATIONAL CHOIR FESTIVAL
A brand new national choir festival is being introduced in Joburg in association with the Philip H Moore Music Competition. Rules and entry form can be downloaded from the website www.philiphmoore.co.za
The festival is open to all Primary Schools in South Africa (Grades 1–7) and Secondary Schools in South Africa (Grades 8–12) excluding specialist music schools (as per the definition in the Rules).
Fantastic cash and other prizes for first, second and third places to be won with a “Spirit Award” trophy going to the choir with the best overall spirit.
Junior School first prize is R10,000 with the Senior School first prize being R15,000 plus a Casio Privia PX130 Digital Piano worth R9,000 to each winning school.
Closing date for entries is May 16. Format of entries: DVD format only and the entry fee is R750 per choir entry. Size of choirs need to be between 20 and 120 members (including all accompanists).
The finals will take place on August 6 at Jeppe High School for Girls, Kensington, Johannesburg. This will be a day of song held at the school with food and goodies on sale. Entrance is free. Contact: Victoria on 082 958 8133 or email: victoria@myconnection.co.za
The festival is open to all Primary Schools in South Africa (Grades 1–7) and Secondary Schools in South Africa (Grades 8–12) excluding specialist music schools (as per the definition in the Rules).
Fantastic cash and other prizes for first, second and third places to be won with a “Spirit Award” trophy going to the choir with the best overall spirit.
Junior School first prize is R10,000 with the Senior School first prize being R15,000 plus a Casio Privia PX130 Digital Piano worth R9,000 to each winning school.
Closing date for entries is May 16. Format of entries: DVD format only and the entry fee is R750 per choir entry. Size of choirs need to be between 20 and 120 members (including all accompanists).
The finals will take place on August 6 at Jeppe High School for Girls, Kensington, Johannesburg. This will be a day of song held at the school with food and goodies on sale. Entrance is free. Contact: Victoria on 082 958 8133 or email: victoria@myconnection.co.za
CASUAL DAY 2011
Casual Day, South Africa’s foremost fundraising event for persons with disabilities, raised a record amount of R18,026,000 through the 2010 campaign, representing a respectable increase on the 2009 tally.
Says Mrs Annelise De Jager, Casual Day co-ordinator, “Despite the fact that 2010 was an extremely difficult year for the project due to the industrial action in the education sector and the distraction of the Soccer World Cup, we managed to improve on the 2009 income. It is gratifying to see the enthusiasm and passion displayed by the South Africa public and the hundreds of participating NGOs and companies. We are satisfied that with each passing year, the project gains greater acceptance with the public. We believe the public appreciates the opportunity to support a project where they know that their contribution really reaches the people it is intended to assist.”
The funds are raised as a result of each R10 donation for a Casual Day sticker made by South Africans on September 3 last year. Stickers are distributed via the infrastructure of the project’s financial partner – Absa, Game and Edcon stores countrywide, and a wide network of participating organisations rendering services in the field of disability.
Says De Jager, “Casual Day creates a lot of excitement in the workplace, as staff members compete with each other to dress up in humorous outfits. However, underlying all the fun is the serious business of raising money and increasing awareness of the challenges persons with disabilities are faced with. This year’s stars, Game and DionWired stores raised R1,306,090 representing a 20% increase over the previous year and the Edcon group raised R820,000, representing a 43% growth over the previous year.”
Mr Johan Viljoen, National Director of the National Council for Persons with Physical Disabilities in SA (NCPPDSA) has congratulated all the participants of the project on their excellent performance. He says, “Casual Day is a highlight on the calendar of the 270 beneficiary organisations who participated in the project, making use of the opportunity to raise funds for their organisation's needs. The lives of persons with disabilities have been greatly enhanced by the funds they have raised for those they render services to. The money is deployed in many areas, including job creation, poverty alleviation, social upliftment, housing and education. Not only does it raise funds, it also raises awareness of the needs of this sector of the community in a fun way”.
The funds are distributed to the following six national beneficiaries: The National Council for Persons with Physical Disabilities in SA (NCPPDSA); Disabled People South Africa (DPSA); SA National Council for the Blind (SANCB); SA Federation for Mental Health (SAFMH); Deaf Federation of SA (Deafsa); Epilepsy SA (ESA)
Marcia Zungu, Absa Corporate Social Investment Manager says, “We are proud of our long and successful association with Casual Day. The project has gone from strength to strength each year. We could not have achieved this success without the passion and dedication of our employees over the years. We are especially glad that our efforts go towards helping and empower persons with disabilities.”
The Casual Day team has revealed the amount raised by the 2010 project at a series of roadshows across the country. The Casual Day ‘Show & Tell’ functions serve to celebrate the outstanding achievers of the campaign.
Each year Casual Day chooses a wild and wacky theme – and 2011 is no exception. Participants are encouraged to unleash their inner rock star and dress up as musicians, rock stars or music groupies. De Jager is upbeat about 2011, “We have had an extremely positive reaction to this year’s theme announcement. In addition to our usual efforts through corporate South Africa, we have also had great interest from schools in this year’s project and we encourage each and every citizen to get on board and make the world rock!”
Casual Day is a fundraising project where people are encouraged to go to work dressed differently for a day. To earn this right, they make a donation of R10 for the official Casual Day sticker. Proceeds benefit persons with disabilities. Casual Day is a project of the National Council for Persons with Physical Disabilities in SA (NCPPDSA) with Absa as primary sponsorship partner. They further provide an infrastructure for sticker distribution.
Casual Day 2011 will take place on September 2, 2011. More information at www.casualday.co.za
Says Mrs Annelise De Jager, Casual Day co-ordinator, “Despite the fact that 2010 was an extremely difficult year for the project due to the industrial action in the education sector and the distraction of the Soccer World Cup, we managed to improve on the 2009 income. It is gratifying to see the enthusiasm and passion displayed by the South Africa public and the hundreds of participating NGOs and companies. We are satisfied that with each passing year, the project gains greater acceptance with the public. We believe the public appreciates the opportunity to support a project where they know that their contribution really reaches the people it is intended to assist.”
The funds are raised as a result of each R10 donation for a Casual Day sticker made by South Africans on September 3 last year. Stickers are distributed via the infrastructure of the project’s financial partner – Absa, Game and Edcon stores countrywide, and a wide network of participating organisations rendering services in the field of disability.
Says De Jager, “Casual Day creates a lot of excitement in the workplace, as staff members compete with each other to dress up in humorous outfits. However, underlying all the fun is the serious business of raising money and increasing awareness of the challenges persons with disabilities are faced with. This year’s stars, Game and DionWired stores raised R1,306,090 representing a 20% increase over the previous year and the Edcon group raised R820,000, representing a 43% growth over the previous year.”
Mr Johan Viljoen, National Director of the National Council for Persons with Physical Disabilities in SA (NCPPDSA) has congratulated all the participants of the project on their excellent performance. He says, “Casual Day is a highlight on the calendar of the 270 beneficiary organisations who participated in the project, making use of the opportunity to raise funds for their organisation's needs. The lives of persons with disabilities have been greatly enhanced by the funds they have raised for those they render services to. The money is deployed in many areas, including job creation, poverty alleviation, social upliftment, housing and education. Not only does it raise funds, it also raises awareness of the needs of this sector of the community in a fun way”.
The funds are distributed to the following six national beneficiaries: The National Council for Persons with Physical Disabilities in SA (NCPPDSA); Disabled People South Africa (DPSA); SA National Council for the Blind (SANCB); SA Federation for Mental Health (SAFMH); Deaf Federation of SA (Deafsa); Epilepsy SA (ESA)
Marcia Zungu, Absa Corporate Social Investment Manager says, “We are proud of our long and successful association with Casual Day. The project has gone from strength to strength each year. We could not have achieved this success without the passion and dedication of our employees over the years. We are especially glad that our efforts go towards helping and empower persons with disabilities.”
The Casual Day team has revealed the amount raised by the 2010 project at a series of roadshows across the country. The Casual Day ‘Show & Tell’ functions serve to celebrate the outstanding achievers of the campaign.
Each year Casual Day chooses a wild and wacky theme – and 2011 is no exception. Participants are encouraged to unleash their inner rock star and dress up as musicians, rock stars or music groupies. De Jager is upbeat about 2011, “We have had an extremely positive reaction to this year’s theme announcement. In addition to our usual efforts through corporate South Africa, we have also had great interest from schools in this year’s project and we encourage each and every citizen to get on board and make the world rock!”
Casual Day is a fundraising project where people are encouraged to go to work dressed differently for a day. To earn this right, they make a donation of R10 for the official Casual Day sticker. Proceeds benefit persons with disabilities. Casual Day is a project of the National Council for Persons with Physical Disabilities in SA (NCPPDSA) with Absa as primary sponsorship partner. They further provide an infrastructure for sticker distribution.
Casual Day 2011 will take place on September 2, 2011. More information at www.casualday.co.za
NAF YOUNG ARTISTS WARM UP
The 2011 Standard Bank Young Artist Award winners will showcase their newest flagship work on the Main programme of the National Arts Festival, Grahamstown (June 30 to July 10).
"A highlight at the National Arts Festival is always the expectation that builds up as the Standard Bank Young Artist winners commence with the production and creation of their performances and exhibition that will premiere in Grahamstown,” said Ismail Mahomed, Director of the National Arts Festival. “During this past year, all five winners have been incredibly busy with various exciting projects around the country, across the continent and around the world. If this is a fore-taste of what this brand of young, dynamic artists have in store for the Festival then festival-goers can expect yet another year of exciting, innovative and cutting-edge work."
Mamela Nyamza, Standard Bank Young Artist winner for Dance, will once again be pushing boundaries and challenging stereotypes. She performed recently at the Dance Umbrella in a piece entitled Shift, as well as a piece entitled Kutheni, one of the finalists for the Sadler's Wells Global Dance Contest in 2009, for Gay Pride in Cape Town Stadium.
During April, Nyamza travelled to Ethiopia to finish a piece that she started in November 2010, and which will culminate at the National Arts Festival as a collaboration with Adudna Dance Company from Ethiopia and producer, Hannah Loewenthal. “With u-Thuthu and Amafongkong I am trying to go to places that are unknown to me,” said Nyamza. “I am so excited to be part of this year’s Main festival programme, and nervous at the same time,” she added.
Ben Schoeman, Standard Bank Young Artist winner for Music, recorded his first solo album in December 2010 under the South African independent classical music label, TwoPianists Records. This CD, with some of the epic piano works of Franz Liszt, will be released in April 2011, with sponsorship from Standard Bank.
“I am really honoured to be associated with Standard Bank and the National Arts Festival both through this recording as well as the Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Music,” said Schoeman. “The support and encouragement that I have received from this wonderful team of people is the greatest inspiration. This is definitely the most exciting moment of my career so far,” he added. Schoeman is touring South Africa this month (April) to release the album. He will be performing at the KKNK in Oudsthoorn, as well as in Cape Town, Stellenbosch, Pretoria and Bloemfontein. He will also appear at the Wigmore Hall in June, before travelling back to South Africa for the National Arts Festival and a national concert tour with flautist Dawid Venter in August.
"During my recital at the Festival, I shall be performing several works of the great Hungarian master Franz Liszt,” said Schoeman. “In a varied programme, I will pay tribute to the virtuosity and poetry of Liszt. I am also looking forward to my performance with the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra,” he added.
Since returning from the Dundee: Living within History project Neil Coppen, Standard Bank Young Artist winner for Drama, is in the process of developing his piece Abnormal Loads for Grahamstown.
“It’s a really ambitious project which has existed in my head for the past five years,” said Coppen. “To complete it in time I’m going have to turn off my cellphone, place myself under house arrest and wrestle out my story onto the page,” he added. “I’m interested in exploring how entwined our histories are as South Africans, how we tend to inherit and lug about ancestral baggage from past generations without ever knowing it,” said Coppen about his preparations for the new work. “It will be a tragic-comedy of sorts and hopefully boast some innovative theatrical battle scenes,” he added taking time off from co-curating a collaborative event with his Kwa-Cinema partner Karen Logan.
Bokani Dyer, Standard Bank Young Artist winner for Jazz, will be doing four shows at the Festival. He is planning to launch a six-piece ensemble called Amaya featuring Marcus Wyatt (trumpet), Buddy Wells (saxophone), Ayanda Sikade (drums), Angelo Syster (guitar) and Shane Cooper (bass), playing compositions written by Dyer over the past year. He will perform with Soweto Kinch, an alto saxophonist from Birmingham, UK, as well as with Soweto Kinch and rapper Tumi. He will also be presenting a trio performance with Kesivan Naidoo (drums) and Hein van der Gein (bass).
Dyer has been busy with an album for his groove band Plan Be, a collaboration with vocalist/composer, Sakhile Moleshe. The album, entitled A soul-housing project, will be released in April. He has been involved in performances with various artists as well, including Jimmy Dludlu, Melanie Scholtz, Moreira Chonguica, Ivan Mazuze and others. “My big focus at the moment is working towards the recording with my new band Amaya in May which will be completed and released before the Festival,” said Dyer.
Nandipha Mntambo, Standard Bank Young Artist winner for Visual Art is in the process of conceptualising and completing a commissioned public sculpture for the Nedbank head offices in Sandton and another for the Gulbenkien Foundation in Portugal. “Grahamstown will see a shift within my art practice,” said Mntambo. “I have begun working in various media and this show is going to be a new and different departure for me as a visual artist.”
The Main Programme of the National Arts Festival has already been launched and Computicket bookings will open on May 3. More details about the Standard Bank Young Artists productions and exhibition will be in the Festival Booking Kit. Or click on the National Arts Festival banner advert at the head of this page which will take you directly to the Festival site.
"A highlight at the National Arts Festival is always the expectation that builds up as the Standard Bank Young Artist winners commence with the production and creation of their performances and exhibition that will premiere in Grahamstown,” said Ismail Mahomed, Director of the National Arts Festival. “During this past year, all five winners have been incredibly busy with various exciting projects around the country, across the continent and around the world. If this is a fore-taste of what this brand of young, dynamic artists have in store for the Festival then festival-goers can expect yet another year of exciting, innovative and cutting-edge work."
Mamela Nyamza, Standard Bank Young Artist winner for Dance, will once again be pushing boundaries and challenging stereotypes. She performed recently at the Dance Umbrella in a piece entitled Shift, as well as a piece entitled Kutheni, one of the finalists for the Sadler's Wells Global Dance Contest in 2009, for Gay Pride in Cape Town Stadium.
During April, Nyamza travelled to Ethiopia to finish a piece that she started in November 2010, and which will culminate at the National Arts Festival as a collaboration with Adudna Dance Company from Ethiopia and producer, Hannah Loewenthal. “With u-Thuthu and Amafongkong I am trying to go to places that are unknown to me,” said Nyamza. “I am so excited to be part of this year’s Main festival programme, and nervous at the same time,” she added.
Ben Schoeman, Standard Bank Young Artist winner for Music, recorded his first solo album in December 2010 under the South African independent classical music label, TwoPianists Records. This CD, with some of the epic piano works of Franz Liszt, will be released in April 2011, with sponsorship from Standard Bank.
“I am really honoured to be associated with Standard Bank and the National Arts Festival both through this recording as well as the Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Music,” said Schoeman. “The support and encouragement that I have received from this wonderful team of people is the greatest inspiration. This is definitely the most exciting moment of my career so far,” he added. Schoeman is touring South Africa this month (April) to release the album. He will be performing at the KKNK in Oudsthoorn, as well as in Cape Town, Stellenbosch, Pretoria and Bloemfontein. He will also appear at the Wigmore Hall in June, before travelling back to South Africa for the National Arts Festival and a national concert tour with flautist Dawid Venter in August.
"During my recital at the Festival, I shall be performing several works of the great Hungarian master Franz Liszt,” said Schoeman. “In a varied programme, I will pay tribute to the virtuosity and poetry of Liszt. I am also looking forward to my performance with the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra,” he added.
Since returning from the Dundee: Living within History project Neil Coppen, Standard Bank Young Artist winner for Drama, is in the process of developing his piece Abnormal Loads for Grahamstown.
“It’s a really ambitious project which has existed in my head for the past five years,” said Coppen. “To complete it in time I’m going have to turn off my cellphone, place myself under house arrest and wrestle out my story onto the page,” he added. “I’m interested in exploring how entwined our histories are as South Africans, how we tend to inherit and lug about ancestral baggage from past generations without ever knowing it,” said Coppen about his preparations for the new work. “It will be a tragic-comedy of sorts and hopefully boast some innovative theatrical battle scenes,” he added taking time off from co-curating a collaborative event with his Kwa-Cinema partner Karen Logan.
Bokani Dyer, Standard Bank Young Artist winner for Jazz, will be doing four shows at the Festival. He is planning to launch a six-piece ensemble called Amaya featuring Marcus Wyatt (trumpet), Buddy Wells (saxophone), Ayanda Sikade (drums), Angelo Syster (guitar) and Shane Cooper (bass), playing compositions written by Dyer over the past year. He will perform with Soweto Kinch, an alto saxophonist from Birmingham, UK, as well as with Soweto Kinch and rapper Tumi. He will also be presenting a trio performance with Kesivan Naidoo (drums) and Hein van der Gein (bass).
Dyer has been busy with an album for his groove band Plan Be, a collaboration with vocalist/composer, Sakhile Moleshe. The album, entitled A soul-housing project, will be released in April. He has been involved in performances with various artists as well, including Jimmy Dludlu, Melanie Scholtz, Moreira Chonguica, Ivan Mazuze and others. “My big focus at the moment is working towards the recording with my new band Amaya in May which will be completed and released before the Festival,” said Dyer.
Nandipha Mntambo, Standard Bank Young Artist winner for Visual Art is in the process of conceptualising and completing a commissioned public sculpture for the Nedbank head offices in Sandton and another for the Gulbenkien Foundation in Portugal. “Grahamstown will see a shift within my art practice,” said Mntambo. “I have begun working in various media and this show is going to be a new and different departure for me as a visual artist.”
The Main Programme of the National Arts Festival has already been launched and Computicket bookings will open on May 3. More details about the Standard Bank Young Artists productions and exhibition will be in the Festival Booking Kit. Or click on the National Arts Festival banner advert at the head of this page which will take you directly to the Festival site.
FREEDOM DAY FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL
A Freedom Day Folk Music Festival will be held at Melville, on the KZN South Coast on April 27 from 10h00 to 17h00.
This Village & Community Festival of “Life, Love, Light in Words & Music”, aims to be a stress-free, laid-back event of note – The Sanctuary of Love is set in beautiful serene South Coast surroundings; a breath away from the majestic Banana Beach (bring surf boards, snorkel and picnic gear) just over the old railway line.
The outdoor Acoustic Folk Music Festival will be complimented with a series of philosophical and spiritual discussions and talks. These will include Elliot Musawenkosi Ndlovu who will talk about natural healing and his recently-launched biography (Penguin Books), A Sangoma’s Story, by Melanie Reeder.
Musicians will include the most prolific and outstanding South African singer-songwriters such as John Ellis; Rob & Garth Warren; Steve Fataar; The Hinds Brothers; Faye Oakes; Shanjeet Teeluck Sitar (Mauritius) and Vishen Kemraj Tablas (India); David Marks; Kevin Hinds; Clive Gardiner; Screaming Doc Hansen & Niedia, and Brian Thomas.
There will be range of arts and crafts stalls and refreshments will be available. Patrons are invited to take their own picnic and umbrellas. Entrance R30 (children free) and there is secure parking.
Directions: Melville Beach, 69 Beach Road – 100k’s from Durban N2 South to the R102 Turn off to Hibberdene -10k’s from Hibberdene to Melville Station Road, turn-off left @ Melville Station Road. Follow Folk Song Festival sign, first right into Beach Road to the end parking lot. Coming North – 12k’s from Port Shepstone R102; right into Melville Station Road - follow Folk Song Festival sign.
More information from 3rd Ear Music at www.3rdearmusic.com or email: thirdear@iafrica.com Patrons are encouraged to bring spare, second-hand or old clothing, blankets etc. for Mother’s Mission & The Red Cross (who will also be in attendance on the day) to distribute to South Coast charities.
This Village & Community Festival of “Life, Love, Light in Words & Music”, aims to be a stress-free, laid-back event of note – The Sanctuary of Love is set in beautiful serene South Coast surroundings; a breath away from the majestic Banana Beach (bring surf boards, snorkel and picnic gear) just over the old railway line.
The outdoor Acoustic Folk Music Festival will be complimented with a series of philosophical and spiritual discussions and talks. These will include Elliot Musawenkosi Ndlovu who will talk about natural healing and his recently-launched biography (Penguin Books), A Sangoma’s Story, by Melanie Reeder.
Musicians will include the most prolific and outstanding South African singer-songwriters such as John Ellis; Rob & Garth Warren; Steve Fataar; The Hinds Brothers; Faye Oakes; Shanjeet Teeluck Sitar (Mauritius) and Vishen Kemraj Tablas (India); David Marks; Kevin Hinds; Clive Gardiner; Screaming Doc Hansen & Niedia, and Brian Thomas.
There will be range of arts and crafts stalls and refreshments will be available. Patrons are invited to take their own picnic and umbrellas. Entrance R30 (children free) and there is secure parking.
Directions: Melville Beach, 69 Beach Road – 100k’s from Durban N2 South to the R102 Turn off to Hibberdene -10k’s from Hibberdene to Melville Station Road, turn-off left @ Melville Station Road. Follow Folk Song Festival sign, first right into Beach Road to the end parking lot. Coming North – 12k’s from Port Shepstone R102; right into Melville Station Road - follow Folk Song Festival sign.
More information from 3rd Ear Music at www.3rdearmusic.com or email: thirdear@iafrica.com Patrons are encouraged to bring spare, second-hand or old clothing, blankets etc. for Mother’s Mission & The Red Cross (who will also be in attendance on the day) to distribute to South Coast charities.
DEKAF
Comedian Siv Ngesi stars in Dekaf which reaches the end of its national tour in Durban at Sibaya Casino on April 28. This is a black, white comedy about blacks who think like whites, as told by a black guy who sounds white.
The show stars the up-and-coming stand-up comic Siv Ngesi in a bold production from the comedic mind of David Newton (Politically Incorrect; Defending the Laid Man and Laugh).
“Contrary to popular belief, there is a new generation of black people who don’t bitch about the ‘struggle’, can swim, aren’t hated by dogs and didn’t vote for Jacob Zuma”, says the publicity. In Dekaf, Ngesi takes audiences into the world of a black man who was raised in the suburbs, schooled in the public school system, dates white women and listens to Josh Groban!
Dekaf debuted at the 2009 Grahamstown National Arts Festival under Newton’s directorship. The show filled its capacity venue and garnered favourable reviews from the local press and audiences alike and at the 2010 Festival, the show won the coveted Golden Ovation Award.
Sivuyile ‘Siv’ Ngesi is a 25-year-old actor and comedian born in Gugulethu, Cape Town. At ten years old, he toured Asia with Les Misèrables in the coveted role of Gavroshe. Since then he has landed roles in films such as Cape of Good Hope, After the Rain, Love in Africa, Zeenon z3, World Unseen and Schweitzer. He first made a name for himself in the popular SABC 1 television programmes Khululeka and The Adventures of Sinbad, Double Shift and Interrogation Room. He was also one of the leads in M-Net’s League of Glory that ran during the Soccer World Cup in 2010. His best credit to date must be his scenes with Keifer Sutherland in 24. His extensive theatre experience, includes Sizwe Banzi is Dead, The Island, Sex and the Citi Golf, Star Wors, Off Your Trolley, Butlers and Brandy and most recently Dekaf, which he co-wrote with Newton.
David Newton is an actor, director and producer. He has become one of South Africa’s most bankable comics, and has made his comedy appealing to his fans through his ability to speak directly and frankly about situations that happen to all of us. Newton has directed all three of his one-man shows namely Defending the Laid Man, Politically Incorrect, both available on DVD, and Laugh. His third DVD, Nothing But The Truth, is a 100min collaboration of the best of the three shows and stars Sivuyile Ngesi as the opening act.
Newton was nominated in 2006 for a prestigious Fleur du Cap Theatre Award for Best Performance and in 2007 for Stand-Up Comedy of the Year at the SA Comedy Awards. He won the National Arts Festival’s ‘Best Stand-up Comedian’ award in 2008 and the most successful comedy performer at Fest ’09. His David’s comedy clips get regular airtime on 5FM’s Fresh Drive Comedy Minute and he has played The Cape Town International Comedy Festival (2006- Danger Zone and 2007- Main Arena) and the Old Mutual Comedy Encounters (2009). He has also appeared on SABC’s Comedy Showcase and has enjoyed sell-out shows at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown from 2005 to 2010.
The show takes place at Krakatoa at Sibaya Casino on April 28 April at 20h00. Tickets booked at Computicket. (PG 12)
The show stars the up-and-coming stand-up comic Siv Ngesi in a bold production from the comedic mind of David Newton (Politically Incorrect; Defending the Laid Man and Laugh).
“Contrary to popular belief, there is a new generation of black people who don’t bitch about the ‘struggle’, can swim, aren’t hated by dogs and didn’t vote for Jacob Zuma”, says the publicity. In Dekaf, Ngesi takes audiences into the world of a black man who was raised in the suburbs, schooled in the public school system, dates white women and listens to Josh Groban!
Dekaf debuted at the 2009 Grahamstown National Arts Festival under Newton’s directorship. The show filled its capacity venue and garnered favourable reviews from the local press and audiences alike and at the 2010 Festival, the show won the coveted Golden Ovation Award.
Sivuyile ‘Siv’ Ngesi is a 25-year-old actor and comedian born in Gugulethu, Cape Town. At ten years old, he toured Asia with Les Misèrables in the coveted role of Gavroshe. Since then he has landed roles in films such as Cape of Good Hope, After the Rain, Love in Africa, Zeenon z3, World Unseen and Schweitzer. He first made a name for himself in the popular SABC 1 television programmes Khululeka and The Adventures of Sinbad, Double Shift and Interrogation Room. He was also one of the leads in M-Net’s League of Glory that ran during the Soccer World Cup in 2010. His best credit to date must be his scenes with Keifer Sutherland in 24. His extensive theatre experience, includes Sizwe Banzi is Dead, The Island, Sex and the Citi Golf, Star Wors, Off Your Trolley, Butlers and Brandy and most recently Dekaf, which he co-wrote with Newton.
David Newton is an actor, director and producer. He has become one of South Africa’s most bankable comics, and has made his comedy appealing to his fans through his ability to speak directly and frankly about situations that happen to all of us. Newton has directed all three of his one-man shows namely Defending the Laid Man, Politically Incorrect, both available on DVD, and Laugh. His third DVD, Nothing But The Truth, is a 100min collaboration of the best of the three shows and stars Sivuyile Ngesi as the opening act.
Newton was nominated in 2006 for a prestigious Fleur du Cap Theatre Award for Best Performance and in 2007 for Stand-Up Comedy of the Year at the SA Comedy Awards. He won the National Arts Festival’s ‘Best Stand-up Comedian’ award in 2008 and the most successful comedy performer at Fest ’09. His David’s comedy clips get regular airtime on 5FM’s Fresh Drive Comedy Minute and he has played The Cape Town International Comedy Festival (2006- Danger Zone and 2007- Main Arena) and the Old Mutual Comedy Encounters (2009). He has also appeared on SABC’s Comedy Showcase and has enjoyed sell-out shows at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown from 2005 to 2010.
The show takes place at Krakatoa at Sibaya Casino on April 28 April at 20h00. Tickets booked at Computicket. (PG 12)
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