The Tim Wells Blues Band will launch their much awaited CD, Everything You Want on January 27. The evening is hosted by the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre with MC Iain Ewok Robinson and guest artists Colin Peddie and Kerry Wood of Rise fame, Joseph Clark and Brendan Jury.
Sponsored lighting and staging will be by Michael Broderick and staging/direction by Dean Bennewith of Eeny Meeny Mini Mo Entertainment. Sound and management will be by Jackie Cunniffe.
The Tim Wells Blues Band comprises Tim on vocals, Nux Schwartz on guitar, Peter Enslin on keys, Jason Andrew on bass and Steve du Plessis on drums. The band often collaborates with Colin Peddie (guitar) and Smelly Fellows on bass (who may be able to make a guest appearance on the night).
The band has performed at two of the Durban International Blues Festivals (2010 and 2011) to acclaim and at the 2010 Fifa World Cup fan parks as well as the Durban World Music Festival 2011 plus various private functions. The band also presented the show Big Blue at the Rhumbelow Theatre in 2010 for which Nux Schwartz and Tim Wells were nominated for Mercury Durban Theatre Awards.
The new CD, produced by Nux Schwartz, promises something for everyone and the material is largely written by Tim Wells with only three of the tracks being the band’s versions of “covers” or standards. These include a moving rendition of Van Morrison’s Into the Mystic and BB King’s Woke up this Morning which was made famous by Snowy White. A bonus track on the CD will be a remix of one Tim’s songs Every Little Bit Counts featuring spoken word/rap by Iain Ewok Robinson.
The launch will take place on January 27 at 19h30 at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre. Copies of Everything You Want will be available for sale at R100. Tickets R30 booked at Computicket, www.computicket.com or 0861 915 8000
Saturday, December 31, 2011
RESIDENCIES IN SWITZERLAND
The Swiss Arts Council invites applications from Southern African arts practitioners from all disciplines for residencies in Switzerland in 2012/13.
Pro Helvetia Cape Town, the Swiss Arts Council, invites applications from Southern African arts practitioners (including curators, event organisers, and mediators from all disciplines (Visual Arts, Theatre, Dance, Music, Literature) for studio and research residencies in Switzerland in 2012/13.
Studio residencies are up to three months long and give practitioners the chance to gain a broad insight into a different cultural environment. During this time, they can find inspiration, establish networks and make their work known in a new context, without being under any professional obligations. Research residencies, generally four weeks in duration, enable practitioners to carry out research in Switzerland. The aim of the residency is to prepare a project.
In both instances, Pro Helvetia will provide a specialist in the field to support the artist in residence. Pro Helvetia also covers the costs of travel, insurance, accommodation and per diem expenses.
Applicants should have a convincing track record, having produced artistic work on a public platform for at least three years, and adequate English or German language skills. Pro Helvetia Cape Town will be able to approve four or five applications for studio residencies under this call.
For studio residencies, applications must be submitted - in English - on or before March 1, 2012, at myprohelvetia.ch Applications for research residencies may be submitted via myprohelvetia.ch at any time up to three months before the start of the trip. Application forms are also available, upon request from communications@prohelvetia.org.za or on 021 465 9033.
For more information about Pro Helvetia, its residency programme and previous artists in residence, visit www.prohelvetia.org.za
Pro Helvetia Cape Town, the Swiss Arts Council, invites applications from Southern African arts practitioners (including curators, event organisers, and mediators from all disciplines (Visual Arts, Theatre, Dance, Music, Literature) for studio and research residencies in Switzerland in 2012/13.
Studio residencies are up to three months long and give practitioners the chance to gain a broad insight into a different cultural environment. During this time, they can find inspiration, establish networks and make their work known in a new context, without being under any professional obligations. Research residencies, generally four weeks in duration, enable practitioners to carry out research in Switzerland. The aim of the residency is to prepare a project.
In both instances, Pro Helvetia will provide a specialist in the field to support the artist in residence. Pro Helvetia also covers the costs of travel, insurance, accommodation and per diem expenses.
Applicants should have a convincing track record, having produced artistic work on a public platform for at least three years, and adequate English or German language skills. Pro Helvetia Cape Town will be able to approve four or five applications for studio residencies under this call.
For studio residencies, applications must be submitted - in English - on or before March 1, 2012, at myprohelvetia.ch Applications for research residencies may be submitted via myprohelvetia.ch at any time up to three months before the start of the trip. Application forms are also available, upon request from communications@prohelvetia.org.za or on 021 465 9033.
For more information about Pro Helvetia, its residency programme and previous artists in residence, visit www.prohelvetia.org.za
DON’T/PANIC
DON’T/PANIC brings together many powerful voices as it engages African artists dealing with the current ecological situation. Many of these voices are critical; sometimes overt, sometimes subtle, sometimes humorous, sometimes standing as an indictment. Some of the works may raise awareness, others offer a vision; some may simply be poetic statements.
DON’T/PANIC contributes to the dialogue around culture and climate change by adding a unique African artistic perspective to the discussion, with written contributions by Gabi Ngcobo, Nomaduma Masilela, Sean Slemon, Sean O’Toole and Jyoti Mistry.
The Goethe-Institut South Africa and the Heinrich-Böll Foundation partnered to commission the DON’T/PANIC exhibition, taking place at the Durban Art Gallery from November 23, 2011 – timed to coincide with the COP17 Climate Change conference. This book accompanies the exhibition.
Included among the artists featured are Durban’s Doung Anwar Jahangeer, John Roome, Mlu Zondi and Zamani Makhanya.
Edited by Gabi Ngcobo DON’T/PANIC is published by Fanele, an imprint of Jacana Media.
DON’T/PANIC contributes to the dialogue around culture and climate change by adding a unique African artistic perspective to the discussion, with written contributions by Gabi Ngcobo, Nomaduma Masilela, Sean Slemon, Sean O’Toole and Jyoti Mistry.
The Goethe-Institut South Africa and the Heinrich-Böll Foundation partnered to commission the DON’T/PANIC exhibition, taking place at the Durban Art Gallery from November 23, 2011 – timed to coincide with the COP17 Climate Change conference. This book accompanies the exhibition.
Included among the artists featured are Durban’s Doung Anwar Jahangeer, John Roome, Mlu Zondi and Zamani Makhanya.
Edited by Gabi Ngcobo DON’T/PANIC is published by Fanele, an imprint of Jacana Media.
MATTHEW WILLMAN FOUNDATION
(Pic taken by Matthew Willman)Motivated by humanitarian icons around the world, visual communication photographer Matthew Willman has used the power of the visual medium since 2001 to actively promote awareness of human rights issues, promote the creative arts and advocate for the preservation of South Africa’s National Heritage sites.
Through his work in the field of documentary and commercial photography, Willman has the privilege of serving as photographer to some of the world’s foremost charitable organisations, and leaders in their respective fields. He has committed his focus as a photographer to creating a voice for people affected and infected with HIV & Aids through notable global NGO’s active in Southern Africa, Europe and Australia.
“Photography is a passport. I use it to tell the stories of others, who they are and what they have shaped themselves to be,” commented Willman.
Willman has always been intrigued by people – who they are and what they shape themselves to be - and, none more so than the great man, Nelson Mandela. Over the past seven years, Willman has worked as a commissioned photographer to the Nelson Mandela Foundation and has been afforded many personal experiences with a man who is loved the world over and who has inspired him to adopt the attitude to “keep paying it forward”!
To this end, he has founded the Matthew Willman Visual Arts Foundation. A registered Section 21 organisation, it aims to further the development of individuals and communities through programmes and projects that inspire change and progression through the impact and promotion of the visual arts.
Committed to making a difference to individuals and communities, the Foundation will inspire individual change while helping to uplift the communities in which they are active. Its objectives are threefold. to inspire change through the visual arts; nurture artistic talent, and uplift communities through the visual arts.
“For years, I’ve written down the incredible experiences I’ve shared, scribbled them on loose pieces of paper and filed them away. I had always hoped that together with the images, they would one day take the form of a book, not quite a novel or a documentary but a collection of images that tell the story of life’s little experiences,” elaborated Willman.
With the establishment of the Matthew Willman Visual Arts Foundation, the opportunity arose for him to take a collection of work and use it to ‘keep paying forward’ - not only his personal story but the stories of others through the images.
A total of 500 magnificent limited edition coffee table books overflowing with fascinating stories and evocative images have been printed. All contributions through the sale of this book are going to the Matthew Willman Visual Arts Foundation to keep paying forward using the arts as an opportunity to uplift and educate so that others have a chance to dream!
For more information visit: www.mwvaf.org
Friday, December 30, 2011
SIBIKWA AUDITIONS
Are you a dancer looking for the perfect company to join? Sibikwa Arts Dance Company is looking for two exciting dancers and one intern to complete their company.
The Dance Company was established in 2008. It is made up of an eclectic group of dancers, who are charismatic and passionate about their craft. They perform anything from traditional Indlamu and Tswana dance to an African infused Japanese dance form, Butoh.
The company has a well established community arts and education dance programme. The dancers visit schools demonstrating aspects of South African dance and provide teachers with support material.
“We seek young ambitious dancers who have an interest in developing the community within the industry and a high teaching interest, plus further more people who can explore the signature of Sibikwa in our productions of 2012 and years to come,” says the Sibikwa Arts Dance Company's Yuhl Headman.
“The Dance Company is poised for another active year in 2012. We are currently putting all our plans in place for the forthcoming year, as in hosting the Motsamai community dance festival, an education programme with schools in the Ekurhuleni area and a prison programme,” says Headman.
If this sounds like the perfect position for you, and you have at least one year professional dance experience, shake a leg and submit a CV that details your training and relevant production experience to yuhl@sibikwa.co.za before January 5.
Auditions will be held on January 11 and 12 at the Sibikwa Community Arts Centre on the corner of Liverpool and Bolton roads in Benoni.
Dancers who wish to audition should prepare a three-minute solo dance piece, be able to teach a short combination that illustrates their signature style as dancers/choreographers, and be prepared for an interview on the second day of auditions. The audition process will extend over two days commencing at 10h00 on both days.
The Dance Company was established in 2008. It is made up of an eclectic group of dancers, who are charismatic and passionate about their craft. They perform anything from traditional Indlamu and Tswana dance to an African infused Japanese dance form, Butoh.
The company has a well established community arts and education dance programme. The dancers visit schools demonstrating aspects of South African dance and provide teachers with support material.
“We seek young ambitious dancers who have an interest in developing the community within the industry and a high teaching interest, plus further more people who can explore the signature of Sibikwa in our productions of 2012 and years to come,” says the Sibikwa Arts Dance Company's Yuhl Headman.
“The Dance Company is poised for another active year in 2012. We are currently putting all our plans in place for the forthcoming year, as in hosting the Motsamai community dance festival, an education programme with schools in the Ekurhuleni area and a prison programme,” says Headman.
If this sounds like the perfect position for you, and you have at least one year professional dance experience, shake a leg and submit a CV that details your training and relevant production experience to yuhl@sibikwa.co.za before January 5.
Auditions will be held on January 11 and 12 at the Sibikwa Community Arts Centre on the corner of Liverpool and Bolton roads in Benoni.
Dancers who wish to audition should prepare a three-minute solo dance piece, be able to teach a short combination that illustrates their signature style as dancers/choreographers, and be prepared for an interview on the second day of auditions. The audition process will extend over two days commencing at 10h00 on both days.
MUDDY PAWS CREATIVE ARTS HOLIDAY CAMP
Due to the excellent response to previous Holiday Camps, Muddy Paws Farm have already run two camps during December and will hold two more in January.
“Tired of seeing your child sit in front of a TV screen in the holidays?” asks Charmaine Holloway. “Send them to our holiday day camps filled with fresh air, sunshine and creative learning the good old-fashioned way! Activities include organic gardening, herb crafting, cooking, art, drama and games offered by an experienced creative arts specialist.”
The next camps take place from January 3 to 5 and again from January 10 to 12. Grade 1 to 6: Cost R250 per child for three-day camp. R100 per day from 09h00 to 15h00. All snacks and lunches and craft materials included.
Early booking is advised to avoid disappointment – a limited number of 8 children per day are catered for in order to ensure personal attention.
Contact Charmaine Holloway at Muddy Paws Farm, Crestholme, Waterfall, on 031 776 3145. Muddy Paws is usually open from 11h00 to 16h00 from Wednesday to Sunday and is situated on the outskirts of the Valley of a Thousand Hills. More information at www.muddypawsfarm.co.za / www.muddypawsfarm.blogspot.com/
“Tired of seeing your child sit in front of a TV screen in the holidays?” asks Charmaine Holloway. “Send them to our holiday day camps filled with fresh air, sunshine and creative learning the good old-fashioned way! Activities include organic gardening, herb crafting, cooking, art, drama and games offered by an experienced creative arts specialist.”
The next camps take place from January 3 to 5 and again from January 10 to 12. Grade 1 to 6: Cost R250 per child for three-day camp. R100 per day from 09h00 to 15h00. All snacks and lunches and craft materials included.
Early booking is advised to avoid disappointment – a limited number of 8 children per day are catered for in order to ensure personal attention.
Contact Charmaine Holloway at Muddy Paws Farm, Crestholme, Waterfall, on 031 776 3145. Muddy Paws is usually open from 11h00 to 16h00 from Wednesday to Sunday and is situated on the outskirts of the Valley of a Thousand Hills. More information at www.muddypawsfarm.co.za / www.muddypawsfarm.blogspot.com/
BLUE ROAD DURBAN JAZZ
Just Friends, Espresso and Moonchild will appear in Blue Road Durban Jazz at The UpRising at the BAT Centre on December 30 from 18h00 until late.Guest artist will be Ernie Smith.
Entrance R150. The BAT Centre is situated at 45 Maritime Place, Small Craft Harbour. Durban, 4001. More information from Lindi on 083 378 8140.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
KZN STREET CHALLENGE
Street-level creative interventions can go a long way towards affecting positive social change on the street. The Your Street KwaZulu-Natal Challenge, inspired by Design Indaba, calls on KZN designers, students, residents and creatives to use their creativity to enhance an aspect of their street.
Following the successful Your Street Challenge in Cape Town and Gauteng, Design Indaba launched the Your Street KZN Challenge at the Design Indaba event at Dube TradePort in Durban in November.
A total of R250,000 is up for grabs for designers with the best, most feasible ideas for owning, loving and improving their street, together with a plan for implementing the idea.
“After successfully launching the Your Street Challenge in both Cape Town and Gauteng, we’re excited to be including KZN in this creative venture. We’re looking forward to receiving innovative and transformative ideas for improving the street-level experience in KwaZulu-Natal,” says Design Indaba founder Ravi Naidoo.
So KZN, Your Street needs you. Think as far as sustainable solutions for low-cost housing or as wide as a city-wide system that makes recycling easier. All original, creative and innovative socially-minded ideas will be considered. The prize money for the Your Street KZN Challenge must be used to implement a creative intervention on a KZN street.
The following cash prizes will be awarded: the first prize of R100,000 will be awarded to the designer that comes up with the best idea and a sound business model that illustrates how their idea can feasibly be implemented.
Three second-place winners will each receive R50,000 for innovative design solutions that can be immediately implemented using the prize money.
Proposals will be judged on the following six cornerstones of design for social change: Generosity: How many people other than you does your design solution effect positively?; International excellence and innovation: Does your design solution stand up to and trump similar world-class ideas? Is it new, original and forward-thinking?; Feasibility: How do you propose to allocate the R50,000?; Fun: How much pleasure, enjoyment, beauty and smiles does your design solution inspire?; Do: Can and will the design solution actually be executed? A better world through creativity: How does your design solution make the world better and further inspire other people to make the world even better?
Design Indaba will appoint its own independent judging panel for the Your Street Challenge to ensure the integrity of the process.
For more information and to enter the Your Street Challenge visit www.designindaba.com/yourstreet. Be sure to enter before January 31 2012.
Following the successful Your Street Challenge in Cape Town and Gauteng, Design Indaba launched the Your Street KZN Challenge at the Design Indaba event at Dube TradePort in Durban in November.
A total of R250,000 is up for grabs for designers with the best, most feasible ideas for owning, loving and improving their street, together with a plan for implementing the idea.
“After successfully launching the Your Street Challenge in both Cape Town and Gauteng, we’re excited to be including KZN in this creative venture. We’re looking forward to receiving innovative and transformative ideas for improving the street-level experience in KwaZulu-Natal,” says Design Indaba founder Ravi Naidoo.
So KZN, Your Street needs you. Think as far as sustainable solutions for low-cost housing or as wide as a city-wide system that makes recycling easier. All original, creative and innovative socially-minded ideas will be considered. The prize money for the Your Street KZN Challenge must be used to implement a creative intervention on a KZN street.
The following cash prizes will be awarded: the first prize of R100,000 will be awarded to the designer that comes up with the best idea and a sound business model that illustrates how their idea can feasibly be implemented.
Three second-place winners will each receive R50,000 for innovative design solutions that can be immediately implemented using the prize money.
Proposals will be judged on the following six cornerstones of design for social change: Generosity: How many people other than you does your design solution effect positively?; International excellence and innovation: Does your design solution stand up to and trump similar world-class ideas? Is it new, original and forward-thinking?; Feasibility: How do you propose to allocate the R50,000?; Fun: How much pleasure, enjoyment, beauty and smiles does your design solution inspire?; Do: Can and will the design solution actually be executed? A better world through creativity: How does your design solution make the world better and further inspire other people to make the world even better?
Design Indaba will appoint its own independent judging panel for the Your Street Challenge to ensure the integrity of the process.
For more information and to enter the Your Street Challenge visit www.designindaba.com/yourstreet. Be sure to enter before January 31 2012.
MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: GHOST PROTOCOL
The Impossible Force is back! Watch the exhilarating action-packed Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol which is part of an exciting range of titles linked to Ster-Kinekor’s My Happy Holiday promotion offering the chance to win fantastic prizes, such as PSPs, games, PS3 Moves, luggage sets and imported movie merchandise hampers. Not forgetting the grand prize of a family trip for four to Dubai, worth the value of R100,000, courtesy of Definitely Dubai.
Academy Award winning director, Brad Bird, presents over two hours of spine-chilling hair-raising action with Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol, the next instalment in the action thriller franchise. When the Impossible Force is accused of a terrorist attack on the Russian Kremlin, the US president issues a ghost protocol order to close down the Force and renounce all its members. It is up to Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his team of experts, Carter (Paula Patton), Dunn (Simon Pegg) and Brandt (Jeremy Renner) to clear their names as well as the name of their organisation in an undercover mission unlike any other.
Collect a My Happy Holiday movie card at your local Ster-Kinekor and get it stamped every time you watch any of the hot titles this festive season which include The Adventures of Tintin, Happy Feet Two, Arthur Christmas, Platteland, Alvin & The Chipmunks: Chipwrecked, Dolphin’s Tale, New Year’s Eve, Footloose, We bought a Zoo, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows and Real Steel!
Academy Award winning director, Brad Bird, presents over two hours of spine-chilling hair-raising action with Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol, the next instalment in the action thriller franchise. When the Impossible Force is accused of a terrorist attack on the Russian Kremlin, the US president issues a ghost protocol order to close down the Force and renounce all its members. It is up to Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his team of experts, Carter (Paula Patton), Dunn (Simon Pegg) and Brandt (Jeremy Renner) to clear their names as well as the name of their organisation in an undercover mission unlike any other.
Collect a My Happy Holiday movie card at your local Ster-Kinekor and get it stamped every time you watch any of the hot titles this festive season which include The Adventures of Tintin, Happy Feet Two, Arthur Christmas, Platteland, Alvin & The Chipmunks: Chipwrecked, Dolphin’s Tale, New Year’s Eve, Footloose, We bought a Zoo, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows and Real Steel!
SKY DINING EXPERIENCE
A unique dining experience is what adventurous souls can savour while enjoying Sky Dining at Suncoast Casino & Entertainment World. Be one of the first to indulge in a unique gourmet experience 60 metres above the ground, and transform a meal into a wonderful lasting memory.
The Sky Dining experience, the culinary event that originates from Europe, has taken the world by storm.
Get seated around a 22-person sky table and relish gourmet dining like never before. Enjoy a mesmerising breakfast, lunch, dinner or snacks while taking in the fascinating views of Durban’s amazing beachfront and surrounds.
“Sky Dining is now in 42 countries and is an exciting experience we are thrilled to be able to offer those looking for a bit of fun and adventure out of the ordinary,” says Suncoast’s Marketing Manager Louise Howell.
Suncoast’s Sky Dining runs until January 5. Lifts start at 09h00 with eight lifts each day. Guests can enjoy snacks from as little as R180 pp, lunch from R320 pp and dinner from R525 pp. Tickets available from Computicket.
The Sky Dining experience, the culinary event that originates from Europe, has taken the world by storm.
Get seated around a 22-person sky table and relish gourmet dining like never before. Enjoy a mesmerising breakfast, lunch, dinner or snacks while taking in the fascinating views of Durban’s amazing beachfront and surrounds.
“Sky Dining is now in 42 countries and is an exciting experience we are thrilled to be able to offer those looking for a bit of fun and adventure out of the ordinary,” says Suncoast’s Marketing Manager Louise Howell.
Suncoast’s Sky Dining runs until January 5. Lifts start at 09h00 with eight lifts each day. Guests can enjoy snacks from as little as R180 pp, lunch from R320 pp and dinner from R525 pp. Tickets available from Computicket.
BEST OF GETAWAY GALLERY
The Best of Getaway Gallery is a celebration of the photographers who constantly brave hot and cold, rain and shine, early mornings and late nights to capture the unbelievable pictures that are submitted to Getaway magazine every month. It is their dedication to their art, and their determination to capture these fleeting moments of beauty, that has produced the fantastic images that appear in this showcase of the best wildlife and travel photography that South Africa has to offer.
Any of the staff photographers who have worked at Getaway over the past 22 years are bound to agree that judging Getaway Gallery is the highlight of the month. The seemingly simple task of choosing the most beautiful, or most intriguing, or most amazing of the submitted photographs is given some perspective when considering that more than 500 images are received every month, and that this collection is a showcase of the past seven years of Gallery winners. What started in 1989 as a simple idea – a space for readers to share their best images – has developed over the years to become the foremost African travel wildlife photography competition in South Africa – if not the world.
The images collected together in the pages of The Best of Getaway Gallery represent the work of almost 100 photographers, and are a true reflection of the incredible talent we have in South Africa.
The Best of Getaway Gallery is edited by Cameron Ewart-Smith, the current editor of Getaway magazine. He has been a travel journalist and photographer since he can remember and has worked on and off for Getaway for the past 12 years. The book is published in Hardcover and retails at R275 (World Rights) ISBN 978-1-4314-0261-8
Watch this space for a review of this beautiful publication.
Any of the staff photographers who have worked at Getaway over the past 22 years are bound to agree that judging Getaway Gallery is the highlight of the month. The seemingly simple task of choosing the most beautiful, or most intriguing, or most amazing of the submitted photographs is given some perspective when considering that more than 500 images are received every month, and that this collection is a showcase of the past seven years of Gallery winners. What started in 1989 as a simple idea – a space for readers to share their best images – has developed over the years to become the foremost African travel wildlife photography competition in South Africa – if not the world.
The images collected together in the pages of The Best of Getaway Gallery represent the work of almost 100 photographers, and are a true reflection of the incredible talent we have in South Africa.
The Best of Getaway Gallery is edited by Cameron Ewart-Smith, the current editor of Getaway magazine. He has been a travel journalist and photographer since he can remember and has worked on and off for Getaway for the past 12 years. The book is published in Hardcover and retails at R275 (World Rights) ISBN 978-1-4314-0261-8
Watch this space for a review of this beautiful publication.
BRETT GOLDIN AWARD WINNERS
Brett Goldin 2012 Bursary winners: Nkosinathi Gaar and Timothy Redpath with Denise GoldinTimothy Redpath (28) from KZN and Nkosinathi Gaar (26) from Johannesburg are the latest recipients of the Brett Goldin Bursary award for 2012.]
The Brett Goldin Bursary was set up immediately after the young actor Goldin and his friend, fashion designer Richard Bloom, both 28, were brutally murdered over the Easter weekend on April 16, five years ago, just days before he was due to leave for Stratford-upon-Avon. Goldin was due to perform the role of Guildenstern in the Baxter’s production of Hamlet, directed by Dame Janet Suzman, which launched the prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company’s Complete Works Festival. The double murder sent shockwaves throughout South Africa and England.
The Royal Shakespeare Company, The Actors Centre and the Baxter Theatre Centre established the bursary, which was kick-started by donations from respected South African-born actors Sir Antony Sher and Honorary RSC Associate Dame Janet Suzman, to give other young actors the opportunity which Brett was denied, and to honour his memory in an appropriate manner.
Denise Goldin, mother of the late Brett, said, “My family and I are deeply honoured that Brett’s memory continues to be upheld with the incredible success of this unique opportunity and it has been a joy to see how it has benefited the young actors who have been through the programme. Besides enhancing their own performances these actors have brought back to South Africa their passion for Shakespeare and positively used this to encourage and inspire upcoming actors to share their love of Shakespeare. I would like to congratulate Nkosinathi and Timothy, who are both superb young actors, on becoming the latest recipients of this important bursary.”
The two actors were chosen from four finalists and a shortlist of 17 (out of nearly 60 applications received countrywide) who took part in the three-day audition process at the Baxter Theatre Centre. The other two finalists were Adrian Collins and Chiedza Mhende.
Formerly from KZN, Timothy graduated from Rhodes University in 2007 with a BA in Drama and Philosophy. He has received great acclaim for his performances in the one-man plays Prodigal and Mouche both in South Africa and in the UK. At the 2009 Edinburgh Festival he won the Sweet Entertainment Best Actor Award for his portrayal in Mouche. Tim is a member of the fledgling Framework Company and has performed the role of Hamlet for them. He has performed in the classic play Woza Albert in theatres and at schools throughout the country.
Nkosinathi graduated from UCT with honours in theatre-making in 2007. He performed in the Magnet Theatre's Voices Made Night, Janni Younge's Dolod, Handspring Puppet Company's Woyzeck on the Highveld (European tour) and his one-man show H.O.T.T. in Cape Town and Johannesburg. He has directed two original works professionally, Ouma/A Little Red for the Festival of Fame and Her Honey like Lips at the Out the Box Festival at the Baxter Theatre Centre. Nkosinathi was a cast member in the Baxter and Royal Shakespeare’s Company’s production of The Tempest, directed by Janice Honeyman in 2009.
In July 2012 the two successful bursars will travel to the home of the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, birthplace of the world’s most famous playwright. They will be based in the Artist Development Department and it is hoped that much of the learning experience will come from observation, discussion with personnel working in production, press and casting departments and through contact with other actors, directors and members of the RSC.
The bursary is a short post graduate course designed to enhance and fine-tune actors who are committed to the need and desire to expand their knowledge and acting ability of Shakespeare. Furthermore, their willingness to use the skills gained to enthuse and, on their return, to encourage others towards a love and understanding of Shakespeare is essential.
KZN actress now based in Johannesburg, Josette Eales, was the joint 2010 recipient with Thato Moraka.
The Brett Goldin Bursary is held every two years and two winners are selected. For more information on how to support the Brett Goldin Bursary Fund visit www.baxter.co.za under the heading “Fundraising”.
THE MUSIC NEVER STOPPED
Releasing exclusively at Cinema Nouveau Theatres nationally on December 30 2011, The Music Never Stopped is based on the case study The Last Hippie by Dr. Oliver Sacks MD, and chronicles the journey of a father (Henry) and son (Gabriel) adjusting to cerebral trauma and a lifetime of missed opportunities. Through the music that embodied the generation gap of the 1960s, the film weaves the heart-warming progress of Henry (J.K. Simmons) and Gabriel (Lou Taylor Pucci).
Director Jim Kohlberg is a veteran film producer, but he had never before directed for the screen. “I’d directed theatre before, so both my producing experience and working theatre really informed the way I work with actors,” he recalls from the set. “This script was a great first project because it is a small, intimate film - except for the Grateful Dead concert! Most of all, it was about the material. It’s one of the best scripts I’ve ever read. The reason I direct is to bring stories to life, and this was a story that needed to be brought to life.” Producer Peter Newman agrees: “This is one of those films where people will say, ‘They don’t make films like that anymore. I think we’ve made one.’”
With father and son on the opposite side of musical tastes as well as politics and the war in Vietnam, Gabriel disappears into the counterculture following a devastating confrontation with his father. The film opens nearly two decades later, when Henry and wife Helen (Cara Seymour) are told their son has been found wandering the streets of New York City.
Gabriel has a brain tumour that has caused extensive brain damage, and needs immediate surgery. When he recovers, he is in a near-catatonic state, his brain damaged to the point that it cannot recall or create any long-term memories. Effectively, Gabriel still thinks he is in 1968. Unhappy with Gabriel’s progress, Henry researches brain injuries, which leads him to Dr. Dianne Daly (Julia Ormond). She is a music therapist who has made progress with victims of brain tumours using music.
As Diane works more with Gabriel, she realizes that he seems to respond actively to the music of the psychedelic era – the Beatles, Bob Dylan, and particularly the Grateful Dead – which has a remarkable effect on Gabriel.
While his own health fails, Henry begins his own pilgrimage through the bands of the sixties. As he learns the songs that animate his son’s soul, he indeed begins to form a most unusual but emotionally vibrant bond with the child he thought he had lost.
In The Music Never Stopped, the music not only defines the characters, it defines their relationships. The music literally moves the characters through their lives, signifying layers of loss, tragedy, recovery, and hope.
The Music Never Stopped will be released in KZN on December 30 at Cinema Nouveau Gateway. Running time is 105 minutes.
Director Jim Kohlberg is a veteran film producer, but he had never before directed for the screen. “I’d directed theatre before, so both my producing experience and working theatre really informed the way I work with actors,” he recalls from the set. “This script was a great first project because it is a small, intimate film - except for the Grateful Dead concert! Most of all, it was about the material. It’s one of the best scripts I’ve ever read. The reason I direct is to bring stories to life, and this was a story that needed to be brought to life.” Producer Peter Newman agrees: “This is one of those films where people will say, ‘They don’t make films like that anymore. I think we’ve made one.’”
With father and son on the opposite side of musical tastes as well as politics and the war in Vietnam, Gabriel disappears into the counterculture following a devastating confrontation with his father. The film opens nearly two decades later, when Henry and wife Helen (Cara Seymour) are told their son has been found wandering the streets of New York City.
Gabriel has a brain tumour that has caused extensive brain damage, and needs immediate surgery. When he recovers, he is in a near-catatonic state, his brain damaged to the point that it cannot recall or create any long-term memories. Effectively, Gabriel still thinks he is in 1968. Unhappy with Gabriel’s progress, Henry researches brain injuries, which leads him to Dr. Dianne Daly (Julia Ormond). She is a music therapist who has made progress with victims of brain tumours using music.
As Diane works more with Gabriel, she realizes that he seems to respond actively to the music of the psychedelic era – the Beatles, Bob Dylan, and particularly the Grateful Dead – which has a remarkable effect on Gabriel.
While his own health fails, Henry begins his own pilgrimage through the bands of the sixties. As he learns the songs that animate his son’s soul, he indeed begins to form a most unusual but emotionally vibrant bond with the child he thought he had lost.
In The Music Never Stopped, the music not only defines the characters, it defines their relationships. The music literally moves the characters through their lives, signifying layers of loss, tragedy, recovery, and hope.
The Music Never Stopped will be released in KZN on December 30 at Cinema Nouveau Gateway. Running time is 105 minutes.
CONCORD NKABINDE NEW DVD
Concord Nkabinde Live in Joburg, South Africa DVD Release.
In 2005 Concord Nkabinde defied advice and went on to record and film his very first performance as a bandleader. It has been eight years now since the release of his successful debut CD, The Time, The Season (2003), which was followed by his second release This Is My World (2007). Nkabinde therefore felt that now was the perfect time and season to take his fans back to where his world as a solo artist began.
“For my first concert ever to be sold out and having to turn people away at the door, was truly a humbling experience,” said Nkabinde. Amongst the musicians performing with Concord on this DVD are guitar maestro Louis Mhlanga and singer extraordinaire Gloria Bosman.
This Live DVD will take you through ideas and thoughts that propel Nkabinde to write the kind of music that has been embraced by people from all walks of life, locally and internationally. It also includes interviews by media experts as well as fellow musicians who have been observing Nkabinde’s musical journey over the years, such as HHP, Themba Mkhize, Tamara Dey and others.
This DVD offering is supplemented with additional footage that includes a separate live concert, music videos and a photographic gallery. Attention paid to the crafting of the music itself is equally matched by the attention given to the artwork design of the DVD Menu and packaging.
More information on the DVD’s availability as well as info on performances and appearances on Facebook: Concord Nkabinde (Artist page) / Twitter: Concord Nkabinde / YouTube: Concord Nkabinde.
In 2005 Concord Nkabinde defied advice and went on to record and film his very first performance as a bandleader. It has been eight years now since the release of his successful debut CD, The Time, The Season (2003), which was followed by his second release This Is My World (2007). Nkabinde therefore felt that now was the perfect time and season to take his fans back to where his world as a solo artist began.
“For my first concert ever to be sold out and having to turn people away at the door, was truly a humbling experience,” said Nkabinde. Amongst the musicians performing with Concord on this DVD are guitar maestro Louis Mhlanga and singer extraordinaire Gloria Bosman.
This Live DVD will take you through ideas and thoughts that propel Nkabinde to write the kind of music that has been embraced by people from all walks of life, locally and internationally. It also includes interviews by media experts as well as fellow musicians who have been observing Nkabinde’s musical journey over the years, such as HHP, Themba Mkhize, Tamara Dey and others.
This DVD offering is supplemented with additional footage that includes a separate live concert, music videos and a photographic gallery. Attention paid to the crafting of the music itself is equally matched by the attention given to the artwork design of the DVD Menu and packaging.
More information on the DVD’s availability as well as info on performances and appearances on Facebook: Concord Nkabinde (Artist page) / Twitter: Concord Nkabinde / YouTube: Concord Nkabinde.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
CINDERELLA & ROYAL VARIETY
MNet Domestic will screen a special for the whole family with Janice Honeyman's spectacular all-star pantomime, Cinderella, on December 31 at 18h00. The pantomime stars Tobie Cronje and Robert Whitehead as Cinderella's ugly sisters.
Further spectacle will follow as later in the evening MNet Domestic will feature this year’s Royal Variety Performance at 21h45. The show was held at the Lowry’s Lyric Theatre in Salford, Manchester (December 5) in the presence of Queen Elizabeth.
The Royal Variety Performance is presented annually in aid of the Entertainment Artistes' Benevolent Fund (the EABF), now often known as simply the Royal Variety Charity; the first show being staged in 1912 when His Majesty King George V and Her Majesty Queen Mary attended the first 'Royal Performance'
Further spectacle will follow as later in the evening MNet Domestic will feature this year’s Royal Variety Performance at 21h45. The show was held at the Lowry’s Lyric Theatre in Salford, Manchester (December 5) in the presence of Queen Elizabeth.
The Royal Variety Performance is presented annually in aid of the Entertainment Artistes' Benevolent Fund (the EABF), now often known as simply the Royal Variety Charity; the first show being staged in 1912 when His Majesty King George V and Her Majesty Queen Mary attended the first 'Royal Performance'
BOEP IDLES
The irrepressible Gee Jays, Gary McKenzie, Grant Bell and John Didlick present the final week of their smash-hit, Boep Idles.
Running at The Heritage Theatre in Hillcrest, the show is an absolute slap in the face for the TV reality show Pop Idols, and one definitely not for the fainthearted – but a real foot-stomping, thigh-slapping all-out laugh for the Festive Season. The Gee Jays pose the question – “what happened to those stars of yester year? The ones who made the big time in the 60s and 70s? Have they now got boeps of their own? We’ll tell you what happened. They’re sitting at home with a beer watching all these wanna be Pop Idols”.
No Gareth Gates or Will Young here. The show features songs from the real idols who put in the hard yards. No instant stardom, just good, old-fashioned talent. We’re talking guys like Cliff Richard, The Beatles, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Billy Joel, Tom Jones and many more.
Following on their success of no less than five record-breaking hit shows, and winning a Mercury Durban Theatre Award for Book Club, the Gee Jays have become a regular drawcard on Durban’s cabaret scene. Performing regularly at corporate events and social fundraisers, the masters of mirth are still plying their trade long after that bloke moved out from “living next door to Alice”.
“When we got together originally”, says McKenzie, “we decided that it had to be fun or it wasn’t worth it. We agreed that when it stopped being fun, we’d stop doing it. We’re still doing it.”
After 27 years together – with a little less hair and a little more midriff - The Gee Jays hold the unquestionable right to be doing this show. Boep Idles looks at how seemingly un-talented artists can make the big time in spite of their complete lack of talent or ability. “If they can attain mediocrity – so can we,” says McKenzie. “Come and join us on the couch.” Watch out, Simon Cowell ... and be prepared to laugh ... A lot...
Boep Idles runs until December 31 at The Heritage Theatre in Hillcrest. Tickets R100 for the show only. Tickets for show plus two-course meal R190 pp Wednesday to Saturdays (R165 pp Tuesday evenings and Sunday lunchtime)
Bookings on 031 765 4197 or online at http://www.heritagetheatre.co.za/
Running at The Heritage Theatre in Hillcrest, the show is an absolute slap in the face for the TV reality show Pop Idols, and one definitely not for the fainthearted – but a real foot-stomping, thigh-slapping all-out laugh for the Festive Season. The Gee Jays pose the question – “what happened to those stars of yester year? The ones who made the big time in the 60s and 70s? Have they now got boeps of their own? We’ll tell you what happened. They’re sitting at home with a beer watching all these wanna be Pop Idols”.
No Gareth Gates or Will Young here. The show features songs from the real idols who put in the hard yards. No instant stardom, just good, old-fashioned talent. We’re talking guys like Cliff Richard, The Beatles, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Billy Joel, Tom Jones and many more.
Following on their success of no less than five record-breaking hit shows, and winning a Mercury Durban Theatre Award for Book Club, the Gee Jays have become a regular drawcard on Durban’s cabaret scene. Performing regularly at corporate events and social fundraisers, the masters of mirth are still plying their trade long after that bloke moved out from “living next door to Alice”.
“When we got together originally”, says McKenzie, “we decided that it had to be fun or it wasn’t worth it. We agreed that when it stopped being fun, we’d stop doing it. We’re still doing it.”
After 27 years together – with a little less hair and a little more midriff - The Gee Jays hold the unquestionable right to be doing this show. Boep Idles looks at how seemingly un-talented artists can make the big time in spite of their complete lack of talent or ability. “If they can attain mediocrity – so can we,” says McKenzie. “Come and join us on the couch.” Watch out, Simon Cowell ... and be prepared to laugh ... A lot...
Boep Idles runs until December 31 at The Heritage Theatre in Hillcrest. Tickets R100 for the show only. Tickets for show plus two-course meal R190 pp Wednesday to Saturdays (R165 pp Tuesday evenings and Sunday lunchtime)
Bookings on 031 765 4197 or online at http://www.heritagetheatre.co.za/
Monday, December 26, 2011
MUSHO! 2012
The Pansa KZN - MUSHO festival of one – two person theatre will run at Catalina Theatre from January 11 to 15 with its usual exciting line-up of new productions.
THE HORSESHOE (Drama): January 11 at 20h00. Performed by Bheki Khabela and Bhekani Shablala, and created with Sduduzo Kawula. The moving story of two young men who make the difficult decision to leave their families and go into exile. After they reach the border, they realise that things are not what they seem and the struggle is almost over. When they return home, their paths diverge and while one man seems to fall into a life of luck, the other is left wondering what passed him by. "Passionate, energetic delivery of a poignant story" Cue. (Duration 55 minutes) Age 14 and up.
COMRADE BABBLE (Satire): January 12 at 20h00. Written and directed by Allan Kolski Horwitz. Performed by Renos Spanoudes and Lebohang Motaung. A political satire inspired by the rise and fall of Brett Kebble, a New South African randlord of mythic proportions, who proved to be one of our most formidable fraudsters, and orchestrated his own murder. The performance sees Kebble/Babble’s return from the dead in order to present the “truth” of his life. (Duration 80 minutes) Age 16 and up.
BIG BOYS DON'T DANCE (Dance/comedy): January 13 at 18h00. Directed by Vanessa Harris and performed by Bradley Searle and Ash Searle. An award-winning comedy play that takes the audience on a wild journey of stereotypical male behaviour and extraordinary, highly entertaining dance routines. This incongruous recipe makes for a unique and fantastic experience that the entire family will enjoy. (Duration 60 minutes) All ages.
MISTERO BUFFO (Satire/ physical theatre): January 13 at 20h00. Written by Dario Fo (translated by Ed Emery), adapted and performed by Andrew Buckland. Buckland brings a wonderful adaptation of Nobel-Prize winner Dario Fo’s controversial work, which combines the grotesque comedy of the Italian medieval performance traditions with razor-sharp contemporary satire. The play criticises the repressions of religious institutions and landowning classes throughout history. (Duration 60 minutes) Age 16 and up.
I-PUPPETi (Children’s theatre): January 14 at 10h00. Written by Clinton Marius, performed by Pume Mthombeni and Shika Budhoo. i-Puppeti is a comic show for primary and pre-primary children, with a vibrant use of the many different types of puppets, including sock, hand, stick, string, shadow and giant puppets. This story teaches children the valuable lessons of self-acceptance, friendship, and how anything is possible if you put your mind to it. (Duration 60 minutes) All ages.
BRU (Physical theatre / comedy): January 14 at 18h00. Written and directed by written and directed by Josh Martin. Performed by Sandi Dlangala and Mikey Frederick von Bardeleben. Bru takes the pursuit of happiness to the surreal levels of the extreme. Join two surfer dudes as they escape the purgatory of the concrete jungle of Jo’burg in search of the freedom of the waves. This fun romp is a high-energy physical theatre fusion with a pair of talented young actors. (Duration 50 minutes) Age 12 and up.
THE SLAP KOEJAWEL & OTHER TIT BITS (Comedy): January 14 at 20h00. Created and performed by Annelisa Weiland and Vanessa Cooke, directed by Robert Whitehead. This absurdly funny and touching play brings two great actresses of stage and television together .The action finds two stressed-out actresses, of a certain age, in a tatty dressing room, preparing for the first preview of a new South African play ... a work not without its problems! Can they pull it off without losing what's left of their marbles? (Duration 55 minutes) Age 14 and up.
MEET BRO SIX-TWO (Drama) January 15 at 14h00. Written and directed by Samson M. Mlambo and performed by Wiseman Mncube. Mentored by Themi Venturas. A hard hitting play that gives insight in to the high rate of unemployment in South Africa. An energetic, intense and intimate physical performance. (Duration 50 minutes) Age 16 and up.
DANCING ON MY GRAVE (Drama): January 15 at 16h00. Created by Malou van Sluis and Denise Lukkenaer, directed by Ferry Spigt. A moving family drama with comic elements that deals with the themes of death, mourning and the role of family in people’s lives. This Dutch play comes fresh from winning Best Production and Best Actress awards at the Festival International de Théâtre in Morocco. (Duration 60 minutes) Age 14 and up
LES PIGEONS (Physical theatre/comedy): January 15 at 18h00. This is Musho! 2012’s closing performance which will be followed by the awards ceremony. Created and performed by Ryan Mayne and Tristan Jacobs. This physical theatre piece takes a startling look into the underground world of ornithological communism, from within the minds of two inpatients. Wit and excellent comic timing characterise this interrogation into the uselessness of military interventions in times of change. (Duration 45 minutes) Age 14 and up.
The MUSHO WITH A TWIST component of the festival takes place on January 15 and features three Double-Bills from the Twist Theatre Development Project:
TWIST 1 (January 15 at 12h00): Life in Pictures (Drama) Created by Uthando Lwabaqulusi with Bheki Mkhwane; based on an original script by Themba Mkhoma. A journalist uncovers a deadly secret that exposes a criminal gang-lord. His faithful henchman has no choice but to turn on the man who he thought was his protector. (Duration: 30 minutes) Ages 14 and up.
Township Life (Drama) Created by the Ubuntubesizwe Theatre Group with Jerry Pooe, based on an original script by Ayanda Mkhize. A vibrant song and dance performance that looks at life in the township of KwaMashu. (Duration 30 minutes) Ages 14 and up.
TWIST 2: (January 15 at 14h00). Milk Factory (Drama). Created by Emuhle All Artists with Bongani Baai and Debbie Lutge; based on an original script by Simphiwe Vikalahle. Lies, deception and dynamite: This is a tale of people adapting to a way of life that is not what they are used to. How do we deal with change when it is an unstoppable force? (Duration 30 minutes) Ages 14 and up.
A Bull Called Bhahlangane (Drama) Created by Big Brotherhood productions with Neil Coppen and Edmund Mhlongo. The story of brothers who come together for their father’s funeral. A tale of corruption, power and brotherly love, all focused around the father’s prize bull, Bhahlangane. (Duration 30 minutes) Ages 14 and up.
TWIST 3: (January 15 at 16h00). Strokes of Society (Drama) Created by Siyakha Performing Artists with Themi Venturas; based on an original script by Zwai Mgigima. A moving tale of a father and daughter who is not his own child. This story brings together many of the tragic consequences of society’s anti-social behaviours including, rape, abuse, and HIV and AIDS. (Duration 30 minutes) Ages 14 and up.
Seed (Drama). Created by Umsindo theatre Group and Vice Motshabi; based on an original script by Amy Jephta. A father leaves his family to work in the city – he comes back with a strange fruit which his wife plants ... so that the whole family can feed from the tree. This allegorical tale explores the notion of migrant labour and HIV and AIDS. (Duration 30 minutes) Ages 14 and up.
MASTERCLASS (January 16 from 09h30 until 12h00). Physical theatre performer Tristan Jacobs will conduct a master-class for actors at The BAT centre. Charge R30 (PANSA members free) Booking essential on 031 201 4750.
All Musho Festival performances are at the Catalina Theatre. Tickets for all shows R50 (R30 PANSA paid-up members as well as OAPS and children under 12). Special R100/day all-day ticket on Saturday and Sunday. Contact Catalina Theatre on 031 305 6889
For more information, and daily reviews, see the Musho website on www.mushofestival.co.za
This years festival is supported by PANSA KZN, the Daily News, Business and Arts South Africa (BASA), the Ethekwini Municipality, and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and The KZN Department of Arts and Culture through Twist Theatre Development Projects.
THE HORSESHOE (Drama): January 11 at 20h00. Performed by Bheki Khabela and Bhekani Shablala, and created with Sduduzo Kawula. The moving story of two young men who make the difficult decision to leave their families and go into exile. After they reach the border, they realise that things are not what they seem and the struggle is almost over. When they return home, their paths diverge and while one man seems to fall into a life of luck, the other is left wondering what passed him by. "Passionate, energetic delivery of a poignant story" Cue. (Duration 55 minutes) Age 14 and up.
COMRADE BABBLE (Satire): January 12 at 20h00. Written and directed by Allan Kolski Horwitz. Performed by Renos Spanoudes and Lebohang Motaung. A political satire inspired by the rise and fall of Brett Kebble, a New South African randlord of mythic proportions, who proved to be one of our most formidable fraudsters, and orchestrated his own murder. The performance sees Kebble/Babble’s return from the dead in order to present the “truth” of his life. (Duration 80 minutes) Age 16 and up.
BIG BOYS DON'T DANCE (Dance/comedy): January 13 at 18h00. Directed by Vanessa Harris and performed by Bradley Searle and Ash Searle. An award-winning comedy play that takes the audience on a wild journey of stereotypical male behaviour and extraordinary, highly entertaining dance routines. This incongruous recipe makes for a unique and fantastic experience that the entire family will enjoy. (Duration 60 minutes) All ages.
MISTERO BUFFO (Satire/ physical theatre): January 13 at 20h00. Written by Dario Fo (translated by Ed Emery), adapted and performed by Andrew Buckland. Buckland brings a wonderful adaptation of Nobel-Prize winner Dario Fo’s controversial work, which combines the grotesque comedy of the Italian medieval performance traditions with razor-sharp contemporary satire. The play criticises the repressions of religious institutions and landowning classes throughout history. (Duration 60 minutes) Age 16 and up.
I-PUPPETi (Children’s theatre): January 14 at 10h00. Written by Clinton Marius, performed by Pume Mthombeni and Shika Budhoo. i-Puppeti is a comic show for primary and pre-primary children, with a vibrant use of the many different types of puppets, including sock, hand, stick, string, shadow and giant puppets. This story teaches children the valuable lessons of self-acceptance, friendship, and how anything is possible if you put your mind to it. (Duration 60 minutes) All ages.
BRU (Physical theatre / comedy): January 14 at 18h00. Written and directed by written and directed by Josh Martin. Performed by Sandi Dlangala and Mikey Frederick von Bardeleben. Bru takes the pursuit of happiness to the surreal levels of the extreme. Join two surfer dudes as they escape the purgatory of the concrete jungle of Jo’burg in search of the freedom of the waves. This fun romp is a high-energy physical theatre fusion with a pair of talented young actors. (Duration 50 minutes) Age 12 and up.
THE SLAP KOEJAWEL & OTHER TIT BITS (Comedy): January 14 at 20h00. Created and performed by Annelisa Weiland and Vanessa Cooke, directed by Robert Whitehead. This absurdly funny and touching play brings two great actresses of stage and television together .The action finds two stressed-out actresses, of a certain age, in a tatty dressing room, preparing for the first preview of a new South African play ... a work not without its problems! Can they pull it off without losing what's left of their marbles? (Duration 55 minutes) Age 14 and up.
MEET BRO SIX-TWO (Drama) January 15 at 14h00. Written and directed by Samson M. Mlambo and performed by Wiseman Mncube. Mentored by Themi Venturas. A hard hitting play that gives insight in to the high rate of unemployment in South Africa. An energetic, intense and intimate physical performance. (Duration 50 minutes) Age 16 and up.
DANCING ON MY GRAVE (Drama): January 15 at 16h00. Created by Malou van Sluis and Denise Lukkenaer, directed by Ferry Spigt. A moving family drama with comic elements that deals with the themes of death, mourning and the role of family in people’s lives. This Dutch play comes fresh from winning Best Production and Best Actress awards at the Festival International de Théâtre in Morocco. (Duration 60 minutes) Age 14 and up
LES PIGEONS (Physical theatre/comedy): January 15 at 18h00. This is Musho! 2012’s closing performance which will be followed by the awards ceremony. Created and performed by Ryan Mayne and Tristan Jacobs. This physical theatre piece takes a startling look into the underground world of ornithological communism, from within the minds of two inpatients. Wit and excellent comic timing characterise this interrogation into the uselessness of military interventions in times of change. (Duration 45 minutes) Age 14 and up.
The MUSHO WITH A TWIST component of the festival takes place on January 15 and features three Double-Bills from the Twist Theatre Development Project:
TWIST 1 (January 15 at 12h00): Life in Pictures (Drama) Created by Uthando Lwabaqulusi with Bheki Mkhwane; based on an original script by Themba Mkhoma. A journalist uncovers a deadly secret that exposes a criminal gang-lord. His faithful henchman has no choice but to turn on the man who he thought was his protector. (Duration: 30 minutes) Ages 14 and up.
Township Life (Drama) Created by the Ubuntubesizwe Theatre Group with Jerry Pooe, based on an original script by Ayanda Mkhize. A vibrant song and dance performance that looks at life in the township of KwaMashu. (Duration 30 minutes) Ages 14 and up.
TWIST 2: (January 15 at 14h00). Milk Factory (Drama). Created by Emuhle All Artists with Bongani Baai and Debbie Lutge; based on an original script by Simphiwe Vikalahle. Lies, deception and dynamite: This is a tale of people adapting to a way of life that is not what they are used to. How do we deal with change when it is an unstoppable force? (Duration 30 minutes) Ages 14 and up.
A Bull Called Bhahlangane (Drama) Created by Big Brotherhood productions with Neil Coppen and Edmund Mhlongo. The story of brothers who come together for their father’s funeral. A tale of corruption, power and brotherly love, all focused around the father’s prize bull, Bhahlangane. (Duration 30 minutes) Ages 14 and up.
TWIST 3: (January 15 at 16h00). Strokes of Society (Drama) Created by Siyakha Performing Artists with Themi Venturas; based on an original script by Zwai Mgigima. A moving tale of a father and daughter who is not his own child. This story brings together many of the tragic consequences of society’s anti-social behaviours including, rape, abuse, and HIV and AIDS. (Duration 30 minutes) Ages 14 and up.
Seed (Drama). Created by Umsindo theatre Group and Vice Motshabi; based on an original script by Amy Jephta. A father leaves his family to work in the city – he comes back with a strange fruit which his wife plants ... so that the whole family can feed from the tree. This allegorical tale explores the notion of migrant labour and HIV and AIDS. (Duration 30 minutes) Ages 14 and up.
MASTERCLASS (January 16 from 09h30 until 12h00). Physical theatre performer Tristan Jacobs will conduct a master-class for actors at The BAT centre. Charge R30 (PANSA members free) Booking essential on 031 201 4750.
All Musho Festival performances are at the Catalina Theatre. Tickets for all shows R50 (R30 PANSA paid-up members as well as OAPS and children under 12). Special R100/day all-day ticket on Saturday and Sunday. Contact Catalina Theatre on 031 305 6889
For more information, and daily reviews, see the Musho website on www.mushofestival.co.za
This years festival is supported by PANSA KZN, the Daily News, Business and Arts South Africa (BASA), the Ethekwini Municipality, and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and The KZN Department of Arts and Culture through Twist Theatre Development Projects.
JAZZY RAINBOW
Philani Ndigi and Quiet Storm will perform at what promises to be an unforgettable year-end bash at The Jazzy Rainbow on December 28.
Performing R&B, Pop and Jazz grooves, the band includes Mark Royeppen on keyboards, Mageshen Naidoo on guitars and Shaun Duval on saxophone/vocals with special guest Kariem Daries on drums.
The music starts at 20h00 on December 28 at The Jazzy Rainbow. Cover charge R50. The Jazzy Rainbow is situated at 93 Smiso Nkwanyana Road (Goble Road). More information on 031 303 8398.
Performing R&B, Pop and Jazz grooves, the band includes Mark Royeppen on keyboards, Mageshen Naidoo on guitars and Shaun Duval on saxophone/vocals with special guest Kariem Daries on drums.
The music starts at 20h00 on December 28 at The Jazzy Rainbow. Cover charge R50. The Jazzy Rainbow is situated at 93 Smiso Nkwanyana Road (Goble Road). More information on 031 303 8398.
Sunday, December 25, 2011
HAPPY CHRISTMAS!
To all readers celebrating this special time, have a Happy and Blessed Christmas. Please keep safe over the festive season.
Saturday, December 24, 2011
DON 2: THE KING IS BACK!
Near 100% rating. (Review by Raeesa Abdul-Karrim)It seems most appropriate to begin with a mention of DON (1978) and its remake DON: The Chase Begins (2006) as there will undoubtedly be comparisons made between them and DON 2: The King is Back. The 1978 Amitabh Bachchan starrer was a major hit of its time, reaching true cult status in India. With its major star cast, gripping storyline and award winning soundtrack, DON has been a firm favourite amongst its generation of Hindi cinema viewers.
In 2006, director Farhan Akhtar took on the daunting task of remaking the blockbuster - granted having a father (Javed Akhtar) who co-wrote the original script might have helped and inspired him - however that doesn’t secure its success. There are those who will argue that remakes are a waste of time and that the original speaks for itself, however DON: The Chase Begins further increased the popularity of super villain DON.
The 2006 version starred “King Khan” Shah Rukh Khan as DON, Arjun Rampal, Priyanka Chopra, Boman Irani and other popular Bollywood actors, with Kareena Kapoor in a guest appearance. The script was adapted for a more contemporary audience with a few twists being added to the already successful tale, as well as modern special effects and other cinematic treats. There is no doubt that this story was worth being retold as the film went on to being the fifth highest grossing film in India that year.
However, 2011 is definitely the year for slick, stylish, visually mesmerising Hindi films. Starting with Ra. One earlier this year to DON 2: The King is Back. Released under the Excel Entertainment banner, this new concept of DON the villainous hero has the incredibly multi-talented Farhan Akhtar once again at the helm. He has directed, produced and written the film. It can only be described as an action thriller at its best. The first half gradually heightens your interest, while the second half is fever-pitched gripping entertainment. Shot in Malaysia, Switzerland, Germany and India, it is truly a visual feast as far as locale is concerned. It’s also important to note that even though it is a sequel, knowledge of the previous films is not essential.
The story begins with the last words of the previous film and then moves on to DON’s (Shah Rukh Khan) life now five years on. Without revealing too much DON, now the head honcho of the entire Asian underworld wants to expand his drug empire into Europe. Much to the dissatisfaction of the European drug lords, they then launch a plot to eliminate DON. Faced with the dilemma of assassination or arrest and eventual execution, DON devises a cunning plan, which firstly includes getting himself arrested in Malaysia, where we once again meet Roma (Priyanka Chopra) who is now working with the police. She has joined Malik’s (Om Puri) team and has made it her life’s goal to capture DON. DON’s meticulous plot is slowly unravelled with stunning special effects and awesome action sequences that had the audience gasping, sighing and more often than not on the edge of their seats because you never know what DON’s next move will be.
Shah Rukh Khan is flawless as DON, after years of seeing him as the romantic hero, his portrayal of DON is going to leave audiences rooting for the bad guy. It is a rare sight for his fans to see him as a gunslinger donning a scruffy beard and long hair even if it is for a short segment of the film. He is ruthlessly evil, selfish, manipulative and yet charismatic, endearing and sexy all at the same time. His delivery of the Don-isms are quite memorable and they are already doing their rounds on Twitter. Most popular by far is the original “Don ko pakadna mushkil hi nahin, na-mumkin hain” (It is not just difficult to catch Don it is... impossible).’
In her return as Roma, Priyanka Chopra is convincing. She adequately illustrates the determination and frustration of not being able to capture DON after all these years as well the confusion as a result of their relationship in the previous film. Boman Irani, Om Puri, Nawab Shah and Kunal Kapoor all excel in their portrayal of their respective characters. In fact, the entire star cast are commended for the conviction and naturalness they provide to their characters.
Music maestros Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy are responsible for the soundtrack, with lyrics by Javed Akhtar. The music ties in fairly well with the film. However, its appeal actually only increases after watching DON 2: The King is Back. Considering the other soundtracks released this year, DON 2: The King is Back falls a little short. This may be the only minor downfall of the film but it does not make it any less enjoyable or take away from its international appeal.
Unfortunately, only in an ideal world will there ever be a perfect film that satisfies every single audience member. But if you are looking for a fast-paced action thriller filled with a rollercoaster of surprises this festive season, DON 2: The King is Back is highly recommended, whether you are a regular Bollywood movie goer or not. Who knows? It might get you hooked on Hindi films or the DON franchise, as the end of the film hints at a possible third instalment. Exciting News!!
DON 2: The King is Back is now showing at Ster Kinekor Gateway. I’ve give it a near 100% rating. – Raeesa Abdul-Karrim
Thursday, December 22, 2011
MUSIC REVIVAL FESTIVE CONCERTS
Pianist Christopher Duigan will present seven Music Revival concerts over the festive season. These will take place on December 29, 30 and 31 as well as on January 5, 6, 7 and 8.
The programme includes Rondo all turca by WA Mozart; Ritual Fire Dance by Manuel de Falla, and Maple Leaf Rag, and The Entertainer by Scott Joplin. Added to Ernesto Nazareth’s Brajiero and Zez Confrey’s Dizzy Fingers will be three works by Franz Liszt: La Campanella, Consolation No 6 and Hungarian Rhapsody No 6.
Also on the programme will be Christian Sinding’s Rustle of Spring; Nuvolo Bianchi by Ludovico Einaudi; The Man I Love; I Got Rhythm by George Gershwin; Clair de lune by Claude Debussy as well as two works by Frederic Chopin: Fantasie-Impromptu and Polonaise in A flat major op 53.
All concerts will take place at 19h30 (January 8 which starts at 15h30) at 35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg. Tickets R100 including wines and refreshments. Parking is secure and the venue open 30 mins before the start time. Duration is approximately 2 hours including interval.
Booking is vital because of the short notice for these concerts. Email bookings are prefereed on booking@musicrevival.co.za or phone 033 342 3051.
The programme includes Rondo all turca by WA Mozart; Ritual Fire Dance by Manuel de Falla, and Maple Leaf Rag, and The Entertainer by Scott Joplin. Added to Ernesto Nazareth’s Brajiero and Zez Confrey’s Dizzy Fingers will be three works by Franz Liszt: La Campanella, Consolation No 6 and Hungarian Rhapsody No 6.
Also on the programme will be Christian Sinding’s Rustle of Spring; Nuvolo Bianchi by Ludovico Einaudi; The Man I Love; I Got Rhythm by George Gershwin; Clair de lune by Claude Debussy as well as two works by Frederic Chopin: Fantasie-Impromptu and Polonaise in A flat major op 53.
All concerts will take place at 19h30 (January 8 which starts at 15h30) at 35 Montgomery Drive, Pietermaritzburg. Tickets R100 including wines and refreshments. Parking is secure and the venue open 30 mins before the start time. Duration is approximately 2 hours including interval.
Booking is vital because of the short notice for these concerts. Email bookings are prefereed on booking@musicrevival.co.za or phone 033 342 3051.
SEARCHING AFRICA
Award -winning author David Robbins has published Searching Africa
After the return of South Africa to the international family, it became possible for David Robbins to travel regularly in other parts of Africa. He had at last, he said, been released from the bondage of apartheid into his broader home. The result of this release is Searching Africa, containing over 20 travel narratives that take the reader from the continent's expiring settler south to the Sahara and beyond.
While his explorations were still in progress, Robbins published his successful Aspects of Africa (Viking and Penguin), which comprises exactly half the material now assembled. When Aspects was first published, one critic alluded to 'the mindbending and bewildering complexities of a continent marked by natural grace on the one hand and genocide on the other'. (Yves Vanderhaeghen in The Natal Witness)
Through graphic descriptions and revealing encounters, Searching Africa charts the progress of this award-winning writer through such countries as Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Zaire (now DRC), Malawi, Zanzibar, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda (shortly after the genocide and subsequent invasion), Uganda, Brazzaville Congo, Gabon, Cameroon, Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone (during the civil war), Ivory Coast, Mali, Senegal, Mauritania and Morocco, searching not for 'solutions' to Africa's 'problems' but simply for the tactile experience of being at close quarters to the dramas and pains of contemporary Africa's profoundly wrenching transition.
David Robbins has received numerous awards for his writing, beginning with a CNA Literary Award in 1986 and culminating 24 years later with a Lifetime Achievement Literary Award supported by the South African Department of Arts and Culture. He is widely regarded as a writer of significant insight and ability. He began publishing in 1985. His books include travel and short fiction, as well as some biography, history and socio-political analysis
Searching Africa is published by Porcupine Press, ISBN: 978-0-9869979-1-4 Recommended retail price: R249. The book is available in most Exclusive and Estirol bookshops nationwide.
After the return of South Africa to the international family, it became possible for David Robbins to travel regularly in other parts of Africa. He had at last, he said, been released from the bondage of apartheid into his broader home. The result of this release is Searching Africa, containing over 20 travel narratives that take the reader from the continent's expiring settler south to the Sahara and beyond.
While his explorations were still in progress, Robbins published his successful Aspects of Africa (Viking and Penguin), which comprises exactly half the material now assembled. When Aspects was first published, one critic alluded to 'the mindbending and bewildering complexities of a continent marked by natural grace on the one hand and genocide on the other'. (Yves Vanderhaeghen in The Natal Witness)
Through graphic descriptions and revealing encounters, Searching Africa charts the progress of this award-winning writer through such countries as Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Zaire (now DRC), Malawi, Zanzibar, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda (shortly after the genocide and subsequent invasion), Uganda, Brazzaville Congo, Gabon, Cameroon, Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone (during the civil war), Ivory Coast, Mali, Senegal, Mauritania and Morocco, searching not for 'solutions' to Africa's 'problems' but simply for the tactile experience of being at close quarters to the dramas and pains of contemporary Africa's profoundly wrenching transition.
David Robbins has received numerous awards for his writing, beginning with a CNA Literary Award in 1986 and culminating 24 years later with a Lifetime Achievement Literary Award supported by the South African Department of Arts and Culture. He is widely regarded as a writer of significant insight and ability. He began publishing in 1985. His books include travel and short fiction, as well as some biography, history and socio-political analysis
Searching Africa is published by Porcupine Press, ISBN: 978-0-9869979-1-4 Recommended retail price: R249. The book is available in most Exclusive and Estirol bookshops nationwide.
KZNSA NEWS
The KZNSA Gallery will be open on December 23, 24 and 27. BUZZArt – Durban’s festive season super store, has a huge range of last minute gifts, collectibles and stocking fillers from R10. BUZZArt closes on January 7 at 15h00.
The exhibition of light boxes and photography is up in the Park Contemporary Gallery, artists include Colwyn Thomas, Skull Boy, Mary-Anne Hampton, Greg Lomas, Elizabeth-Ann Ross and Lauren Fowler.
The annual KZNSA Members exhibition opens on January 17. The theme is RED.
The KZNSA Gallery is situated at 166 Bulwer Road, Glenwood, in Durban. More information on 031 277 1703, fax 031 201 8051 or cell 082 220 0368 or visit www.kznsagallery.co.za
The exhibition of light boxes and photography is up in the Park Contemporary Gallery, artists include Colwyn Thomas, Skull Boy, Mary-Anne Hampton, Greg Lomas, Elizabeth-Ann Ross and Lauren Fowler.
The annual KZNSA Members exhibition opens on January 17. The theme is RED.
The KZNSA Gallery is situated at 166 Bulwer Road, Glenwood, in Durban. More information on 031 277 1703, fax 031 201 8051 or cell 082 220 0368 or visit www.kznsagallery.co.za
BASA KZN PARTNERSHIPS
Two KZN projects are included in a total of nine business-arts partnerships awarded BASA Supporting Grants in the fourth cycle of the 2011/2012 financial year.
Flatfoot Dance Company is sponsored by NCP Alcohols while PANSA’s Musho Theatre Festival is sponsored by the Daily News.
The diversity of projects and geographical spread is testament to the multiple manifestations of the business-arts nexus in South Africa.
They cover small-scale community projects, like the Tiakeni Pottery and Multi-Purpose Cooperative, sponsored by Mafade Trading, in Limpopo, to urban arts events, among them the Johannesburg International Mozart Festival sponsored by Standard Bank, RMB, Lufthansa, Northwards, RCME, Apollo Music Trust and Samro.
Once again, the geographical spread covers several provinces, including Flatfoot Dance Company (sponsored by NCP Alcohols) in KwaZulu-Natal, Mahikeng Jazz Festival (MJF) in North West Province (sponsored by Mosegedi & Associates) and the Open House Architectural Tour – Adele de Santos Monograph Exhibition (sponsored by the Cement and Concrete Institute) in the Western Cape.
The value of a supporting grant is significantly more than the cash sum awarded.
Business and Arts South Africa’s Supporting Grant programme is designed to assist in activating sponsorship for a cross-section of arts projects in different regions of the country. This is done by providing financial support to a project that has come out of an already existing relationship between a business and arts organisation. In this way, the supporting grant helps leverage sponsorship for arts projects.
To apply for a BASA Supporting Grant, both the arts applicant and the sponsor must complete the application forms, which are designed to encourage the two partners to work together and identify areas of potential benefit. Business and Arts South Africa allocates funds to the project once it has assessed how the partnership benefits both the sponsor and the recipient.
The closing date for the next Business and Arts South Africa Supporting Grants cycle is January 16, 2012. More information at www.basa.co.za or e-mail info@basa.co.za
Flatfoot Dance Company is sponsored by NCP Alcohols while PANSA’s Musho Theatre Festival is sponsored by the Daily News.
The diversity of projects and geographical spread is testament to the multiple manifestations of the business-arts nexus in South Africa.
They cover small-scale community projects, like the Tiakeni Pottery and Multi-Purpose Cooperative, sponsored by Mafade Trading, in Limpopo, to urban arts events, among them the Johannesburg International Mozart Festival sponsored by Standard Bank, RMB, Lufthansa, Northwards, RCME, Apollo Music Trust and Samro.
Once again, the geographical spread covers several provinces, including Flatfoot Dance Company (sponsored by NCP Alcohols) in KwaZulu-Natal, Mahikeng Jazz Festival (MJF) in North West Province (sponsored by Mosegedi & Associates) and the Open House Architectural Tour – Adele de Santos Monograph Exhibition (sponsored by the Cement and Concrete Institute) in the Western Cape.
The value of a supporting grant is significantly more than the cash sum awarded.
Business and Arts South Africa’s Supporting Grant programme is designed to assist in activating sponsorship for a cross-section of arts projects in different regions of the country. This is done by providing financial support to a project that has come out of an already existing relationship between a business and arts organisation. In this way, the supporting grant helps leverage sponsorship for arts projects.
To apply for a BASA Supporting Grant, both the arts applicant and the sponsor must complete the application forms, which are designed to encourage the two partners to work together and identify areas of potential benefit. Business and Arts South Africa allocates funds to the project once it has assessed how the partnership benefits both the sponsor and the recipient.
The closing date for the next Business and Arts South Africa Supporting Grants cycle is January 16, 2012. More information at www.basa.co.za or e-mail info@basa.co.za
DEWALD LOUW
25-year-old Dewald Louw is well on his way to superstar status in the South African music industry. He was KykNET’s first Idols winner and his debut album, as well as a video of the title track, In jou oë, was recorded in a record time under Sony Music.
This achievement was followed by his second album, Ek en jy, which received a Huisgenoot Tempo nomination for Most Popular Pop Album, as well as a SAMA award for Best Afrikaans Pop Album. For the past four years Louw’s energetic songs can be heard on several number one hit lists on radio stations nationwide, of which Lekker kry is the most popular.
With over 400 performances at schools, churches, festivals and corporate functions nationwide, both as artist and master of ceremonies, Louw is very popular amongst his fans. His Highlights include shows at the KKNK, Aardklop, the Huisgenoot Kaapse Jol, Jacaranda 94.2 Deuriemikke Carnaval, Hart van Windhoek, and several television appearances.
He performed twice in the very popular Noot-vir-Noot programme on SABC2 and was invited as guest artist for the “Friday Live” Jacaranda 94.2 Frankie & Co Morning Show recently.
Catch Dewald Louw playing with Nick & Travis and DJ Spike at Wet ‘n Wild at uShaka Marine World this festive season from December 26 to 31 with daily performances from 11h00 to 17h00
For more information contact uShaka Marine World on 031 328 8000 or visit www.ushakamarineworld.co.za
This achievement was followed by his second album, Ek en jy, which received a Huisgenoot Tempo nomination for Most Popular Pop Album, as well as a SAMA award for Best Afrikaans Pop Album. For the past four years Louw’s energetic songs can be heard on several number one hit lists on radio stations nationwide, of which Lekker kry is the most popular.
With over 400 performances at schools, churches, festivals and corporate functions nationwide, both as artist and master of ceremonies, Louw is very popular amongst his fans. His Highlights include shows at the KKNK, Aardklop, the Huisgenoot Kaapse Jol, Jacaranda 94.2 Deuriemikke Carnaval, Hart van Windhoek, and several television appearances.
He performed twice in the very popular Noot-vir-Noot programme on SABC2 and was invited as guest artist for the “Friday Live” Jacaranda 94.2 Frankie & Co Morning Show recently.
Catch Dewald Louw playing with Nick & Travis and DJ Spike at Wet ‘n Wild at uShaka Marine World this festive season from December 26 to 31 with daily performances from 11h00 to 17h00
For more information contact uShaka Marine World on 031 328 8000 or visit www.ushakamarineworld.co.za
DEATH OF MARTIN BURNETT
(Pic by Karen Bradtke of artSPACEdurban)Well-known Durban artist and lecturer, Martin Burnett, died after suffering a heart attack on December 20.
His career goes back many years in all aspects of the visual arts in Durban. He had recently been lecturing at Nanda Soobben’s Centre for Fine Art Animation and Design. Nanda Soobben pays this tribute on his Facebook page: “Farewell Martin .. My fineart lecturer at CFAD passed away yesterday ... Eccentric and A Brilliant Painter .. We will miss you, Martin!”
Martin’s funeral service will be held at 10h00 on December 27 at Our Lady of Fatima, Durban North. This will be followed by tea in the church hall.
Tribute to follow.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
M-NET STARS
M-Net Stars on DStv Channel 105 have some good movies lined up.
December Thursday 22 at 19h30: Sweet Liberty (1986) directed by Alan Alda who stars in the movie alongside Michael Caine. A history professor's life and peaceful college town are turned upside down when a film company arrives to make a movie out of his best-selling book on the American Revolution.
December 29 at 19h30:Grey Owl (1999) directed by Richard Attenborough and starring Pierce Brosnan and Stewart Bick. In the 1930s, young Englishman Archibald Belaney immigrates to Canada, and decides to live as a Native American named Grey Owl. While travelling as a trapper he meets Pony, a young Mohawk woman who is immediately enamoured with Grey Owl.
December 25 at 19:30: Brewsters Millions (1985) directed by Walter Hill and starring Richard Pryor and John Candy. A minor-league baseball player has thirty days to spend $30 million dollars in order to receive an inheritance of $300 million.
December Thursday 22 at 19h30: Sweet Liberty (1986) directed by Alan Alda who stars in the movie alongside Michael Caine. A history professor's life and peaceful college town are turned upside down when a film company arrives to make a movie out of his best-selling book on the American Revolution.
December 29 at 19h30:Grey Owl (1999) directed by Richard Attenborough and starring Pierce Brosnan and Stewart Bick. In the 1930s, young Englishman Archibald Belaney immigrates to Canada, and decides to live as a Native American named Grey Owl. While travelling as a trapper he meets Pony, a young Mohawk woman who is immediately enamoured with Grey Owl.
December 25 at 19:30: Brewsters Millions (1985) directed by Walter Hill and starring Richard Pryor and John Candy. A minor-league baseball player has thirty days to spend $30 million dollars in order to receive an inheritance of $300 million.
FREE MEN
Inspired by true stories, Free Men (Les Hommes Libres) revolves around a conspiracy against humanity, wartime life, and fighting the system, and showcases a serious and realistic approach by writer and director Ismael Ferroukhi.
Free Men follows the travails of a young Algerian immigrant, Younes (Tahar Rahim), who lives in Paris and makes a living peddling goods to the black market during the Nazi occupation. When he’s arrested and threatened with torture or worse, Younes accepts to spy on the elite community hidden within the pristine walls of the Mosque of Paris, whose rector, Ben Ghabrit (Michael Lonsdale), is suspected of providing Jews and resistant fighters with false identification papers.
At the mosque, Younes meets the Arab-Andalusian singer Salim Halali (Mahmud Shalaby). Touched by his voice and personality, Younes becomes friend with him. He soon discovers that Salim is Jewish, and despite the risks, decides to put an end to his cooperation with the police. Faced with the brutality that surrounds him, Younes, the immigrant worker without any political education, is transformed gradually into a freedom activist.
Free Men is Ismael Ferroukhi’s second feature and is not to be missed. He captures the brutal suffering of Jewish fugitives and the bravery behind the Muslims agents who fought for the French Resistance, who used the Mosque of Paris as the base for operations that included rescuing Jewish fugitives and assassinating Vichy informants.
Free Men has just been released exclusively and can be seen in KZN at Cinema Nouveau Gateway. It is 99 minutes long.
Call Ticketline 082 16789 (Standard call rates apply, free minutes do not apply) or book in cinema at the self-service terminals (SSTs) or Box Offices. Special rates apply for Discovery Vitality, Edgars and Jet Club Members.
www.sterkinekor.com| Mobi-site: www. sterkinekor.mobi |Ticketline: 082 16789 | Facebook: Ster-Kinekor Theatres | Twitter: @SKTheatres
Free Men follows the travails of a young Algerian immigrant, Younes (Tahar Rahim), who lives in Paris and makes a living peddling goods to the black market during the Nazi occupation. When he’s arrested and threatened with torture or worse, Younes accepts to spy on the elite community hidden within the pristine walls of the Mosque of Paris, whose rector, Ben Ghabrit (Michael Lonsdale), is suspected of providing Jews and resistant fighters with false identification papers.
At the mosque, Younes meets the Arab-Andalusian singer Salim Halali (Mahmud Shalaby). Touched by his voice and personality, Younes becomes friend with him. He soon discovers that Salim is Jewish, and despite the risks, decides to put an end to his cooperation with the police. Faced with the brutality that surrounds him, Younes, the immigrant worker without any political education, is transformed gradually into a freedom activist.
Free Men is Ismael Ferroukhi’s second feature and is not to be missed. He captures the brutal suffering of Jewish fugitives and the bravery behind the Muslims agents who fought for the French Resistance, who used the Mosque of Paris as the base for operations that included rescuing Jewish fugitives and assassinating Vichy informants.
Free Men has just been released exclusively and can be seen in KZN at Cinema Nouveau Gateway. It is 99 minutes long.
Call Ticketline 082 16789 (Standard call rates apply, free minutes do not apply) or book in cinema at the self-service terminals (SSTs) or Box Offices. Special rates apply for Discovery Vitality, Edgars and Jet Club Members.
www.sterkinekor.com| Mobi-site: www. sterkinekor.mobi |Ticketline: 082 16789 | Facebook: Ster-Kinekor Theatres | Twitter: @SKTheatres
MNET ACTION HIGHLIGHTS
MNet Action is an adrenaline-driven channel on DStv, featuring action-packed movies and series.
December 22 at 20:30: Tracers 6 (2006) directed by Jim Wynorski and starring Zette Sullivan and Jennifer Capo. Jack Deth is back travelling back in time and into the body of his own daughter, Josephine, on a mission to save her life and save the world from the most lethal Trancers yet.
December 24 at 20h30: Vanilla Sky (2001) directed by Cameron Crowe and starring Tom Cruise and Penélope Cruz. Charismatic David leads a charmed life, but one night David makes a small mistake that causes him to lose Sofia, the girl of his dreams. In his search for her, David is thrust unexpectedly into a rollercoaster ride of romance, sex, lies and suspicion that results in his ex-girlfriend's suicide and a car accident that leaves David hideously disfigured.
December 25 at 20h30: The Hot Spot (1990) directed by Dennis Hopper and starring Don Johnson and Jennifer Connelly. A lowlife drifter who sells used cars in a Texas burg robs the local bank and gets involved with two women: one bad, one innocent.
December 26 at 20h30: Birdy (1984) directed by Alan Parker and starring Matthew Modine and Nicolas Cage. A soldier returns from Vietnam to find his boyhood friend, also a fellow soldier, in a military hospital, having suffered a mental breakdown in which he has become detached from reality and imagines that he is a bird.
December 27 at 20h30: Across The Line (2010) directed by R Ellis Frazier and starring Aidan Quinn and Mario Van Peebles. When a Los Angeles fugitive-financier is discovered hiding out in Tijuana, he and his $2billion stash quickly become prey to three merciless factions: a Mexican drug lord, a Russian mobster, and the FBI.
December 28 at 20h30: Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986) directed by Leonard Nimoy who also stars with William Shatner. It's the 23rd century, and a mysterious alien power is threatening Earth by evaporating the oceans and destroying the atmosphere. In a frantic attempt to save mankind, Kirk and his crew must travel back in time to save the Earth and its people from total destruction.
December 29 at 20h30: Final Stab (2001) directed by David DeCoteau and starring Jamie Gannon and Melissa Renee Martin. As a secluded estate, a group of college friends are getting together for a weekend of fun, and games. Killer, victim or innocent bystander, they all have their part to play. But when the blood turns out to be real and people start disappearing, everyone quickly realises that they only way out of this killer game is to be the last one alive.
December 31 at 20h30: Saving Private Ryan (1998) directed by Steven Spielberg starring Tom Hanks and Matt Damon. James Ryan, has just lost three brothers in combat. Government policy dictates that he should return home lest his family be deprived of all its male offspring. A team of soldiers, led by Captain John Miller and fresh from the beaches of Normandy, is assembled to find and save Private Ryan.
December 22 at 20:30: Tracers 6 (2006) directed by Jim Wynorski and starring Zette Sullivan and Jennifer Capo. Jack Deth is back travelling back in time and into the body of his own daughter, Josephine, on a mission to save her life and save the world from the most lethal Trancers yet.
December 24 at 20h30: Vanilla Sky (2001) directed by Cameron Crowe and starring Tom Cruise and Penélope Cruz. Charismatic David leads a charmed life, but one night David makes a small mistake that causes him to lose Sofia, the girl of his dreams. In his search for her, David is thrust unexpectedly into a rollercoaster ride of romance, sex, lies and suspicion that results in his ex-girlfriend's suicide and a car accident that leaves David hideously disfigured.
December 25 at 20h30: The Hot Spot (1990) directed by Dennis Hopper and starring Don Johnson and Jennifer Connelly. A lowlife drifter who sells used cars in a Texas burg robs the local bank and gets involved with two women: one bad, one innocent.
December 26 at 20h30: Birdy (1984) directed by Alan Parker and starring Matthew Modine and Nicolas Cage. A soldier returns from Vietnam to find his boyhood friend, also a fellow soldier, in a military hospital, having suffered a mental breakdown in which he has become detached from reality and imagines that he is a bird.
December 27 at 20h30: Across The Line (2010) directed by R Ellis Frazier and starring Aidan Quinn and Mario Van Peebles. When a Los Angeles fugitive-financier is discovered hiding out in Tijuana, he and his $2billion stash quickly become prey to three merciless factions: a Mexican drug lord, a Russian mobster, and the FBI.
December 28 at 20h30: Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986) directed by Leonard Nimoy who also stars with William Shatner. It's the 23rd century, and a mysterious alien power is threatening Earth by evaporating the oceans and destroying the atmosphere. In a frantic attempt to save mankind, Kirk and his crew must travel back in time to save the Earth and its people from total destruction.
December 29 at 20h30: Final Stab (2001) directed by David DeCoteau and starring Jamie Gannon and Melissa Renee Martin. As a secluded estate, a group of college friends are getting together for a weekend of fun, and games. Killer, victim or innocent bystander, they all have their part to play. But when the blood turns out to be real and people start disappearing, everyone quickly realises that they only way out of this killer game is to be the last one alive.
December 31 at 20h30: Saving Private Ryan (1998) directed by Steven Spielberg starring Tom Hanks and Matt Damon. James Ryan, has just lost three brothers in combat. Government policy dictates that he should return home lest his family be deprived of all its male offspring. A team of soldiers, led by Captain John Miller and fresh from the beaches of Normandy, is assembled to find and save Private Ryan.
KURT DARREN & BOBBY VAN JAARSVELD
uShaka Marine World will welcome Kurt Darren and Bobby van Jaarsveld - two home grown Super Stars - to Wet ‘n Wild on December 28, 2011 as part of the uShaka Summer Nights Festival.
Kurt Darren is best known for songs such as MeisieMeisie, LekkerLekker, Kaptein and Staan Op. He has accepted many musical awards with the latest being for The Best SokkieDans Album during the South African Music Awards in 2011 for his album Die BesteMedisyne.
Joining him on this especially “lekker” evening is Booby van Jaarsveld. For this performer, music is a family affair. Elder sister Karlien is the founder and lead singer of the group Revolusie. He started singing at the age of 14 and released his first solo CD during his matric year. He began touring a year later, taking to the road with Dozi.
In 2006, Theuns Jordaan heard the young artist performing and offered him a recording contract. In the same year, van Jaarsveld won the Huisgenoot Tempo Award for the best newcomer of the year and in 2007, 2008 and 2009 he was invited to be part of the magazine’s prestigious Skouspel concerts at Sun City.
A number of waterslides will be operational during the evening where the more adventurous can experience the magic water wonderland of uShaka Marine World at night. Food and beverage outlets are open, where guests can purchase meals and refreshments.
The show starts at 18h30 on December 28 at the Wet ‘n Wild at uShaka Marine World. Tickets R120 booked at Computicket. More information from Wayne Scott at uShaka on 031 328 8000.
Kurt Darren is best known for songs such as MeisieMeisie, LekkerLekker, Kaptein and Staan Op. He has accepted many musical awards with the latest being for The Best SokkieDans Album during the South African Music Awards in 2011 for his album Die BesteMedisyne.
Joining him on this especially “lekker” evening is Booby van Jaarsveld. For this performer, music is a family affair. Elder sister Karlien is the founder and lead singer of the group Revolusie. He started singing at the age of 14 and released his first solo CD during his matric year. He began touring a year later, taking to the road with Dozi.
In 2006, Theuns Jordaan heard the young artist performing and offered him a recording contract. In the same year, van Jaarsveld won the Huisgenoot Tempo Award for the best newcomer of the year and in 2007, 2008 and 2009 he was invited to be part of the magazine’s prestigious Skouspel concerts at Sun City.
A number of waterslides will be operational during the evening where the more adventurous can experience the magic water wonderland of uShaka Marine World at night. Food and beverage outlets are open, where guests can purchase meals and refreshments.
The show starts at 18h30 on December 28 at the Wet ‘n Wild at uShaka Marine World. Tickets R120 booked at Computicket. More information from Wayne Scott at uShaka on 031 328 8000.
RODELINDA
The fifth season of the Met Opera released exclusively at Cinema Nouveau and select Ster-Kinekor Theatres in November, with each production receiving rave reviews, and the next awe-inspiring opera audiences can look forward to is Rodelinda, composed by George Frideric Handel.
Renée Fleming returns to The Met: Live in HD in one of her greatest roles, the title character in Handel’s Rodelinda. In this Baroque showpiece, Fleming plays a queen who must fight treacherous enemies to keep her son safe and the memory of her exiled husband alive.
Handel’s score gives her the opportunity to sing some of the most beautiful and challenging arias in her extensive repertoire. The all-star supporting cast includes two of the world’s most prominent countertenors, Andreas Scholl and Iestyn Davies, as the exiled king Bertarido and his friend Unulfo; versatile mezzo-soprano Stephanie Blythe as the noblewoman Eduige; Joseph Kaiser as the usurper Grimoaldo; and Shenyang as Grimoaldo’s corrupt advisor, Garibaldo. Baroque specialist Harry Bicket, who led the 2004 Met premiere of Stephen Wadsworth’s fast-paced, fluid production, conducts. Deborah Voigt hosts the transmission.
“Our fifth season of opera has been widely successful and the last three productions have come out as part of the Top 10 Cinema Nouveau titles during their release weekend. These attendances are testament to the appeal of opera to our local audiences, and we are looking forward to releasing Rodelinda in December, and are confident it will be greatly received,” says Raksha Singh of Ster-Kinekor Theatres.
The running time of Rodelinda is approximately 4 hours and 15minutes, including two intermissions.
The opera productions can be seen at Cinema Nouveau at Gateway and Ster-Kinekor at Shelly Beach.
www.sterkinekor.com| Mobi-site: www. sterkinekor.mobi |Ticketline: 082 16789 | Facebook: Ster-Kinekor Theatres | Twitter: @SKTheatres
Renée Fleming returns to The Met: Live in HD in one of her greatest roles, the title character in Handel’s Rodelinda. In this Baroque showpiece, Fleming plays a queen who must fight treacherous enemies to keep her son safe and the memory of her exiled husband alive.
Handel’s score gives her the opportunity to sing some of the most beautiful and challenging arias in her extensive repertoire. The all-star supporting cast includes two of the world’s most prominent countertenors, Andreas Scholl and Iestyn Davies, as the exiled king Bertarido and his friend Unulfo; versatile mezzo-soprano Stephanie Blythe as the noblewoman Eduige; Joseph Kaiser as the usurper Grimoaldo; and Shenyang as Grimoaldo’s corrupt advisor, Garibaldo. Baroque specialist Harry Bicket, who led the 2004 Met premiere of Stephen Wadsworth’s fast-paced, fluid production, conducts. Deborah Voigt hosts the transmission.
“Our fifth season of opera has been widely successful and the last three productions have come out as part of the Top 10 Cinema Nouveau titles during their release weekend. These attendances are testament to the appeal of opera to our local audiences, and we are looking forward to releasing Rodelinda in December, and are confident it will be greatly received,” says Raksha Singh of Ster-Kinekor Theatres.
The running time of Rodelinda is approximately 4 hours and 15minutes, including two intermissions.
The opera productions can be seen at Cinema Nouveau at Gateway and Ster-Kinekor at Shelly Beach.
www.sterkinekor.com| Mobi-site: www. sterkinekor.mobi |Ticketline: 082 16789 | Facebook: Ster-Kinekor Theatres | Twitter: @SKTheatres
DEATH OF ERNESTO BREVIARIO
Opera specialist Juan Burgers pays tribute to one of Durban’s major musical figures who died earlier this week.
Ernesto Breviario was born in Bergamo in Italy, the only son of the world-renowned Italian dramatic tenor, Giovanni Breviario. Giovanni was the first tenor to record the first full-length version, along with the famed Gina Cigna, of Bellini's Norma, and Mascagni's Cavalleria Rusticana. He sang in most major operatic centres in South America and throughout Europe, such was his fame.
Giovanni Breviario retired to South Africa after the Second World War. Ernesto Breviario, also a tenor, was trained by his father, and being an able pianist, assisted his father in providing piano accompaniment at singing lessons.
After the death of his father Giovanni in 1982, Ernesto continued his father's work as a major force in singing coaching in Durban. In the apartheid years, Ernesto selflessly taught black singers in abundance, mostly free of charge. Raphael Vilakazi, Bongani Tembe and Linda Bukhosini were among his early protégés.
As a performer, Ernesto regularly sang with the Durban Symphony Orchestra as tenor soloist before the disbanding of that prestigious organisation in 1976. He also sang minor roles for Napac Opera in the 1970's and 80's - and graced the Ad Hoc Chorus with his presence in huge productions, especially Wagner's Lohengrin.
Ernesto Breviario will be remembered fondly for the invaluable service he rendered to the music lovers of Durban, not least as the creative force he engendered as the buyer for Recorded Music Specialists shop in central Durban during the 60's through to his retirement in the 90's.
He is survived by his wife Joan. – Juan Burgers
Ernesto Breviario was born in Bergamo in Italy, the only son of the world-renowned Italian dramatic tenor, Giovanni Breviario. Giovanni was the first tenor to record the first full-length version, along with the famed Gina Cigna, of Bellini's Norma, and Mascagni's Cavalleria Rusticana. He sang in most major operatic centres in South America and throughout Europe, such was his fame.
Giovanni Breviario retired to South Africa after the Second World War. Ernesto Breviario, also a tenor, was trained by his father, and being an able pianist, assisted his father in providing piano accompaniment at singing lessons.
After the death of his father Giovanni in 1982, Ernesto continued his father's work as a major force in singing coaching in Durban. In the apartheid years, Ernesto selflessly taught black singers in abundance, mostly free of charge. Raphael Vilakazi, Bongani Tembe and Linda Bukhosini were among his early protégés.
As a performer, Ernesto regularly sang with the Durban Symphony Orchestra as tenor soloist before the disbanding of that prestigious organisation in 1976. He also sang minor roles for Napac Opera in the 1970's and 80's - and graced the Ad Hoc Chorus with his presence in huge productions, especially Wagner's Lohengrin.
Ernesto Breviario will be remembered fondly for the invaluable service he rendered to the music lovers of Durban, not least as the creative force he engendered as the buyer for Recorded Music Specialists shop in central Durban during the 60's through to his retirement in the 90's.
He is survived by his wife Joan. – Juan Burgers
ANIMAL TAILS
Shona Johnson sparkles brightest in charming tales with African themes. (Review by Clinton Marius)
Running at the Catalina Theatre is Animal Tails, a holiday show for young children. A collaboration between Durban playwright, Sandy Bigara and her grandmother, author Joan Bottriell, the show features five short stories by the author that have been adapted for stage.
They are simple, yet charming tales with African themes, including: The Giraffe That Was Born With a Short Neck; The Warthog That Dreamed of Being a Beauty Queen; The Frog That Lost Her Croak; The Puppy That Didn’t Know How To Be a Proper Watchdog, and Charlie the Cheating Cheetah.
Sandy Bigara compères the show as Dandelion the Lioness, in turn explaining the stories to the youngsters while playing guitar and singing songs. The little ones are encouraged to join her in dance-and-sing-alongs, which they do with great delight.
Assisting Bigara are Shona Johnson, Musawenkosi Ntuli and Sarah Hawthorne, who take turns narrating, and acting out the various animal roles. All three have their moments to shine, but it is Johnson, particularly as Warthog, who sparkles brightest.
Each animal is depicted through sound and body language, and through use of colourful masks and bibs, cleverly created by Bigara.
Aimed at youngsters age 3 to 8, Animal Tails runs at the Catalina Theatre daily (except Mondays) until December 22, with an optional boat ride. Tickets R45 (R60 with a boat ride). Book at 031 305 6889 or www.strictlytickets.com - Clinton Marius
Running at the Catalina Theatre is Animal Tails, a holiday show for young children. A collaboration between Durban playwright, Sandy Bigara and her grandmother, author Joan Bottriell, the show features five short stories by the author that have been adapted for stage.
They are simple, yet charming tales with African themes, including: The Giraffe That Was Born With a Short Neck; The Warthog That Dreamed of Being a Beauty Queen; The Frog That Lost Her Croak; The Puppy That Didn’t Know How To Be a Proper Watchdog, and Charlie the Cheating Cheetah.
Sandy Bigara compères the show as Dandelion the Lioness, in turn explaining the stories to the youngsters while playing guitar and singing songs. The little ones are encouraged to join her in dance-and-sing-alongs, which they do with great delight.
Assisting Bigara are Shona Johnson, Musawenkosi Ntuli and Sarah Hawthorne, who take turns narrating, and acting out the various animal roles. All three have their moments to shine, but it is Johnson, particularly as Warthog, who sparkles brightest.
Each animal is depicted through sound and body language, and through use of colourful masks and bibs, cleverly created by Bigara.
Aimed at youngsters age 3 to 8, Animal Tails runs at the Catalina Theatre daily (except Mondays) until December 22, with an optional boat ride. Tickets R45 (R60 with a boat ride). Book at 031 305 6889 or www.strictlytickets.com - Clinton Marius
Monday, December 19, 2011
SATYAGRAHA
The fifth season of the Met opera released exclusively at Cinema Nouveau and select Ster-Kinekor Theatres in November with Satyagraha being the next renowned opera production that audiences can look forward to. This opera is particularly close to South African hearts as much of the storyline refers to the legendary Ghandi and his incredible work to uplift and free the local community in Tolstoy Farm in the early 1900s.
Satyagraha was captured in HD while live on stage at the Met in New York, giving viewers the opportunity to experience opera at its best, and all in the comfort of their local Ster-Kinekor or Cinema Nouveau Theatre.
“Our fifth season of opera has been widely successful and the last three productions have come out as part of the Top 10 Cinema Nouveau titles during their release weekend. These attendances are testament to the appeal of opera to our local audiences, and we are looking forward to releasing Satyagraha in December, and are confident it will be greatly received,” says Raksha Singh of Ster-Kinekor Theatres.
Satyagraha features minimal subtitles. Composer Philip Glass used as his text the ancient Sanskrit scripture the Bhagavad Gita, which does not relate to the actual action taking place on stage. Glass did not wish the text to be understood -- just to be heard -- and to allow the actions on stage to speak for themselves.
Satyagraha running time is approximately five hours, including two intermissions.
www.sterkinekor.com| Mobi-site: www. sterkinekor.mobi |Ticketline: 082 16789 | Facebook: Ster-Kinekor Theatres | Twitter: @SKTheatres
M-NET TAG AWARDS
The winners of the very first M-Net TAG Awards were announced at a gala ceremony held at the Theatre on the Track in Kyalami on November 30.
The M-Net TAG Awards – short for M-Net Television Awards for Good – evolved from the well-known and successful Vuka! awards. Like its predecessor, it celebrated creatives who raised the bar in creating thought-provoking and quirky public-service announcements (PSAs).
The new awards form part of a series of M-Net Cares initiatives, which set out to make a difference in South African communities and to give talented young people in the film, television and advertising industry the opportunity to improve their skills.
According to Koo Govender, M-Net’s Director of Corporate Marketing and Communications, the name-change signals M-Net’s commitment to develop and mentor future industry stars. “The M-Net TAG Awards have been designed to do good in many ways. By creating PSAs for worthy charities, young creatives experience the real-life challenges of the industry. At the same time, M-Net TAG still offers the professionals who enter, as well as many charities that are featured in the PSAs, valuable exposure on television.”
The sentiment of the M-Net TAG Awards is reflected in the exciting TAG 10 category, which provides a platform for young “wannabees” to break into the industry. TAG 10 matched teams of young and up-and-coming copywriters, art directors, producers and directors to highly-skilled professionals who were willing to share their expertise through the different phases of creating powerful and effective television ads.
Govender says the quality and quantity of entries received this year was exceptionally high. “We received 104 entries from newcomers and 26 from professionals. The concepts – and especially the animation – were also fresh, creative and punchy. There is no doubt that the cream of the crop of PSAs will move our viewers and create more awareness for the chosen charities.”
The entries were judged on the three broad categories: Newcomer, Professional and TAG 10.
Among the winners in the M-Net TAG Award for Best Overall Newcomer was the Durban University of Technology which received the Rising Star Award for Cellphones Abuse
In addition to the awards, M-Net also announced that eight 2nd and 3rd year students who are interested in studying animation, advertising, film and television, will receive M-Net TAG bursaries for 2012. All their tuition fees will be paid and the names of the eight recipients will be announced in January next year.
M-Net’s CSI Manger, Palesa Xorile says the bursary scheme is supporting transformation and development within the media industry. “The bursaries are awarded based on academic excellence and financial need.”
All the winning PSAs will be screened on M-Net and its channels across Africa as well as at Cinemark Cinemas.
The M-Net TAG Awards – short for M-Net Television Awards for Good – evolved from the well-known and successful Vuka! awards. Like its predecessor, it celebrated creatives who raised the bar in creating thought-provoking and quirky public-service announcements (PSAs).
The new awards form part of a series of M-Net Cares initiatives, which set out to make a difference in South African communities and to give talented young people in the film, television and advertising industry the opportunity to improve their skills.
According to Koo Govender, M-Net’s Director of Corporate Marketing and Communications, the name-change signals M-Net’s commitment to develop and mentor future industry stars. “The M-Net TAG Awards have been designed to do good in many ways. By creating PSAs for worthy charities, young creatives experience the real-life challenges of the industry. At the same time, M-Net TAG still offers the professionals who enter, as well as many charities that are featured in the PSAs, valuable exposure on television.”
The sentiment of the M-Net TAG Awards is reflected in the exciting TAG 10 category, which provides a platform for young “wannabees” to break into the industry. TAG 10 matched teams of young and up-and-coming copywriters, art directors, producers and directors to highly-skilled professionals who were willing to share their expertise through the different phases of creating powerful and effective television ads.
Govender says the quality and quantity of entries received this year was exceptionally high. “We received 104 entries from newcomers and 26 from professionals. The concepts – and especially the animation – were also fresh, creative and punchy. There is no doubt that the cream of the crop of PSAs will move our viewers and create more awareness for the chosen charities.”
The entries were judged on the three broad categories: Newcomer, Professional and TAG 10.
Among the winners in the M-Net TAG Award for Best Overall Newcomer was the Durban University of Technology which received the Rising Star Award for Cellphones Abuse
In addition to the awards, M-Net also announced that eight 2nd and 3rd year students who are interested in studying animation, advertising, film and television, will receive M-Net TAG bursaries for 2012. All their tuition fees will be paid and the names of the eight recipients will be announced in January next year.
M-Net’s CSI Manger, Palesa Xorile says the bursary scheme is supporting transformation and development within the media industry. “The bursaries are awarded based on academic excellence and financial need.”
All the winning PSAs will be screened on M-Net and its channels across Africa as well as at Cinemark Cinemas.
EARLY BIRD SPLASHY
Early Bird tickets for Splashy Fen 2012 are now on sale at Computicket for just R375, which includes camping for the entire festival from April 5 to 9. This is the same price as last year and the offer is limited to 1,000 tickets only, so don’t miss out!
Computicket has numerous outlets around the country, including the Money Market counters at all Shoprite, Checkers and Checkers Hyper stores. Tickets can also be bought online or via the Call Centre at 083 915 8000.
The Early Bird promotion also applies to tickets for children aged 4 to 11, which will cost R100. Children under four get in free.
Gates open for the Splashy Fen 2012 Festival at 07h00 on April 5. Tickets include camping until April 9. No under 18s without parental supervision. For more info: www.splashyfen.co.za or Facebook Page
Computicket has numerous outlets around the country, including the Money Market counters at all Shoprite, Checkers and Checkers Hyper stores. Tickets can also be bought online or via the Call Centre at 083 915 8000.
The Early Bird promotion also applies to tickets for children aged 4 to 11, which will cost R100. Children under four get in free.
Gates open for the Splashy Fen 2012 Festival at 07h00 on April 5. Tickets include camping until April 9. No under 18s without parental supervision. For more info: www.splashyfen.co.za or Facebook Page
DEATH OF RODNEY ASHE
Composer, musician and arranger Tim Pullen sends the sad news that his long-time friend and music associate Rodney Ashe, passed away on December 16.
“This was quite a shock to everyone,” says Tim. “He had had a stroke 15 months ago, and had progressed by sheer determination and will-power, to be able to do away with the wheelchair and go on errands armed with a walking stick. Rodney was doing so well that he had planned a dinner at his house this evening for close friends. He had a thriving music teaching school, and will be missed by his students.”
“This was quite a shock to everyone,” says Tim. “He had had a stroke 15 months ago, and had progressed by sheer determination and will-power, to be able to do away with the wheelchair and go on errands armed with a walking stick. Rodney was doing so well that he had planned a dinner at his house this evening for close friends. He had a thriving music teaching school, and will be missed by his students.”
KZNPO 2012 SUMMER SEASON
The KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra is proud to announce details of its forthcoming World Symphony Series Summer Season which will take place in the Durban City Hall every Thursday evening from February 16 until March 22, 2012.
Following the richly rewarding tradition of the Orchestra’s mainstream concert programming, the upcoming season’s guest roster will feature several distinguished frontline artists from the international concert circuit along with a number of leading South African musicians.
Launching the season on February 16, the brilliant Estonian-American maestro Kristjan Järvi, a member of the distinguished conducting dynasty, makes his KZN Philharmonic debut with a programme entitled The French Connection. This offers concertgoers the enjoyment of hearing Ravel’s colourful Alborada del gracioso as the evening’s perky musical curtain raiser, and concludes with Hector Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique, one of the 19th century’s great orchestral showpieces. The ground-breaking work will follow a performance of Lalo’s exotically scored Symphonie espagnole for violin and orchestra, spotlighting the widely acclaimed young virtuoso, Mirijam Contzen.
Kristjan Järvi returns to the podium on February 23 for Soulful Synthesis, an imaginatively conceived musical excursion in which pre-eminent soprano Linda Bukhosini will perform Alban Berg’s Seven Early Songs, following an orchestral Suite of music by JS Bach arranged by Gustav Mahler. Beethoven’s exuberant Symphony No. 8 will round off the evening’s musical fare.
The third concert of the season on March 1 offers an evening of music making loosely styled as Pianistic Poetry, the prize-winning soloist Alexander Lubyantsev, performs Chopin’s much-loved Piano Concerto No. 1. His account of this show-stopping warhorse will be followed after interval by Schumann’s powerful Symphony No. 2. This concert sees Yasuo Shinozaki’s welcome return to the KZN Philharmonic podium.
Winding Paths on March 8 sees the popular Japanese conductor taking his second bow of the season, with Beethoven’s Leonore Overture No. 3 preluding a performance of Richard Strauss’s Oboe Concerto by the orchestra’s principal oboist, Alison Lowell. Mendelssohn’s Scottish Symphony rounds off this engaging programme.
Noted South African pianist, Malcolm Nay, makes his second appearance with the Orchestra for a performance of Mendelssohn’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in the penultimate concert of the season, on March 15. He will perform under the baton of the young American conductor, Daniel Boico, whose short-notice debut here during the Spring of 2011 was accorded wide acclaim.
The evening’s fascinating programme, entitled Classical Spirit, opens with a performance of Mozart’s turbulent Symphony No. 25, one of the great Austrian composer’s most dramatic early works, used to great effect in the film Amadeus, and closes with a rendering of the teen-aged Franz Schubert’s Symphony No. 5.
Written in 1816, Schubert’s supremely beautiful early work, while fully imbued with his own unique creative life-force, movingly suggests the composer’s sense of homage to the profound influence of Mozart and Haydn a generation earlier.
Symphonic Dances on March 22 will celebrate a rigorous resurgence of Russian repertoire to bring the curtain down on a memorable season of music making. Daniel Boico will conduct performances of Rimsky-Korsakov’s Capriccio espagnol, Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 3, and Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances. This final concert of the season will re-introduce the KZN Philharmonic’s audience to the rising young international virtuoso pianist, Pallavi Mahidhara, who comes to Durban fresh from performances at the 2011 Marlboro Music Festival.
Subscriptions to the 2012 Summer Symphony Season are now open and bookings can be made directly with the KZN Philharmonic booking office on 031 369 9404 / 9438 or e-mail bookings@kznpo.co.za
Subscriptions and ticket prices will increase by an inflation-linked 5% on January 1, 2012. As a special concession and benefit to subscribers the orchestra will process all subscription bookings made on or before December 31 2011 at 2011 prices.
Concertgoers are therefore encouraged to book a subscription for the 2012 Summer Season or, indeed, the entire 2012 World Symphony Series (Summer, Winter and Spring seasons) and take advantage of this special price offer.
Further information on the KZN Philharmonic and its activities is available at www.kznpo.co.za or browse from a smart phone http://kznpo.liveapp.mobi For enquiries call 031 369 9438 or e-mail kznpo@kznpo.co.za
Following the richly rewarding tradition of the Orchestra’s mainstream concert programming, the upcoming season’s guest roster will feature several distinguished frontline artists from the international concert circuit along with a number of leading South African musicians.
Launching the season on February 16, the brilliant Estonian-American maestro Kristjan Järvi, a member of the distinguished conducting dynasty, makes his KZN Philharmonic debut with a programme entitled The French Connection. This offers concertgoers the enjoyment of hearing Ravel’s colourful Alborada del gracioso as the evening’s perky musical curtain raiser, and concludes with Hector Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique, one of the 19th century’s great orchestral showpieces. The ground-breaking work will follow a performance of Lalo’s exotically scored Symphonie espagnole for violin and orchestra, spotlighting the widely acclaimed young virtuoso, Mirijam Contzen.
Kristjan Järvi returns to the podium on February 23 for Soulful Synthesis, an imaginatively conceived musical excursion in which pre-eminent soprano Linda Bukhosini will perform Alban Berg’s Seven Early Songs, following an orchestral Suite of music by JS Bach arranged by Gustav Mahler. Beethoven’s exuberant Symphony No. 8 will round off the evening’s musical fare.
The third concert of the season on March 1 offers an evening of music making loosely styled as Pianistic Poetry, the prize-winning soloist Alexander Lubyantsev, performs Chopin’s much-loved Piano Concerto No. 1. His account of this show-stopping warhorse will be followed after interval by Schumann’s powerful Symphony No. 2. This concert sees Yasuo Shinozaki’s welcome return to the KZN Philharmonic podium.
Winding Paths on March 8 sees the popular Japanese conductor taking his second bow of the season, with Beethoven’s Leonore Overture No. 3 preluding a performance of Richard Strauss’s Oboe Concerto by the orchestra’s principal oboist, Alison Lowell. Mendelssohn’s Scottish Symphony rounds off this engaging programme.
Noted South African pianist, Malcolm Nay, makes his second appearance with the Orchestra for a performance of Mendelssohn’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in the penultimate concert of the season, on March 15. He will perform under the baton of the young American conductor, Daniel Boico, whose short-notice debut here during the Spring of 2011 was accorded wide acclaim.
The evening’s fascinating programme, entitled Classical Spirit, opens with a performance of Mozart’s turbulent Symphony No. 25, one of the great Austrian composer’s most dramatic early works, used to great effect in the film Amadeus, and closes with a rendering of the teen-aged Franz Schubert’s Symphony No. 5.
Written in 1816, Schubert’s supremely beautiful early work, while fully imbued with his own unique creative life-force, movingly suggests the composer’s sense of homage to the profound influence of Mozart and Haydn a generation earlier.
Symphonic Dances on March 22 will celebrate a rigorous resurgence of Russian repertoire to bring the curtain down on a memorable season of music making. Daniel Boico will conduct performances of Rimsky-Korsakov’s Capriccio espagnol, Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 3, and Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances. This final concert of the season will re-introduce the KZN Philharmonic’s audience to the rising young international virtuoso pianist, Pallavi Mahidhara, who comes to Durban fresh from performances at the 2011 Marlboro Music Festival.
Subscriptions to the 2012 Summer Symphony Season are now open and bookings can be made directly with the KZN Philharmonic booking office on 031 369 9404 / 9438 or e-mail bookings@kznpo.co.za
Subscriptions and ticket prices will increase by an inflation-linked 5% on January 1, 2012. As a special concession and benefit to subscribers the orchestra will process all subscription bookings made on or before December 31 2011 at 2011 prices.
Concertgoers are therefore encouraged to book a subscription for the 2012 Summer Season or, indeed, the entire 2012 World Symphony Series (Summer, Winter and Spring seasons) and take advantage of this special price offer.
Further information on the KZN Philharmonic and its activities is available at www.kznpo.co.za or browse from a smart phone http://kznpo.liveapp.mobi For enquiries call 031 369 9438 or e-mail kznpo@kznpo.co.za
DON 2
Shah Rukh Khan and Farhan Ahktar are back with Don 2, one of the most eagerly-anticipated movies of the year, opening at selected Ster-Kinekor Theatres on December 23, 2011.
Having conquered the Asian underworld, Don (Khan) now has his sights set on European domination, but in his way are the bosses of the existing European underworld and the law enforcement agencies. The action shifts from Kuala Lumpur to Berlin as Don must avoid assassination or arrest, whichever comes first, in order for his plan to succeed.
Don 2 features a stellar support cast including of Priyanka Chopra and Lara Dutta and a superb soundtrack.
Don’t miss out on any of these exciting, action-packed and fun-filled Bollywood titles, at selected Ster-Kinekor Theatres nationwide!
Facebook: Ster-Kinekor Theatres | Twitter: @SKTheatres| Mobi-site: www.sterkinekor.mobi|Ticketline: 082 16789
Having conquered the Asian underworld, Don (Khan) now has his sights set on European domination, but in his way are the bosses of the existing European underworld and the law enforcement agencies. The action shifts from Kuala Lumpur to Berlin as Don must avoid assassination or arrest, whichever comes first, in order for his plan to succeed.
Don 2 features a stellar support cast including of Priyanka Chopra and Lara Dutta and a superb soundtrack.
Don’t miss out on any of these exciting, action-packed and fun-filled Bollywood titles, at selected Ster-Kinekor Theatres nationwide!
Facebook: Ster-Kinekor Theatres | Twitter: @SKTheatres| Mobi-site: www.sterkinekor.mobi|Ticketline: 082 16789
Sunday, December 18, 2011
STEPPING INTO REALITY
(Director and choreographer Vusi Makhanya)An uplifting couple of hours in KwaMashu indicate that dance is in good shape in KZN. (Review by Caroline Smart)
On Friday afternoon, I spent an uplifting couple of hours at Ekhaya Multi Art Centre in KwaMashu at Stepping into Reality, the title of the 2011 annual end of year concert of the KwaMashu School of Dance Theatre (KMSDT) and Dusi Dance Company.
If the standard of talent I saw during that afternoon is anything to go by, then dance is in good shape in KZN for years to come. Under the strong leadership of choreographer and director Vusi Makanya, Stepping into Reality explored unique African contemporary dance. All dancers from the smallest (aged 12) to the eldest (aged 28) were well-rehearsed and gave consistent performances. Movements were challenging and energetic and there was a high degree of focus throughout.
The first part of the programme was performed by the younger group. These included senior and junior members of KMSDT with KwaMashu; KwaSuka Saturday Dancers with Talking walk version 2); and Durban Charmers who presented local street dance fusing contemporary with Charmer Boy.
Guest artists included the Siyakhula Project Flatfoot Dance Development Project from KwaMashu directed by Jabu Siphika and The Young Ones from Newlands Art Organization directed by Sifiso Kitsona Khumalo. Live Music was a solo piece performed by Gabriel MThokozisi Masango of Young Star Production.
After interval, the Dusi Dance Company presented Imagination Thought, a thought-provoking piece that dealt with initiation and spirituality.
Stepping into Reality was a fund-raising production for KMSDT to sustain it to operate in 2012. This is a valuable project and well worth supporting. More information from Vusi Makanya on 082 622 4005 or email: vusi.kmsdt@gmail.com - Caroline Smart
MIDNIGHT IN PARIS
Renowned entertainment blogger and film critic, Ailsa Windsor, will host a pre-release screening of the film, Midnight in Paris today (December 18) at Cinema Nouveau in Gateway.
As the owner of the popular website, goingplacessa.com, Ailsa has been in the media for over 20 years, having been a journalist and writer for most of that time and recently also being the editor of two popular books. In the 90’s, this original Jo’burger relocated to sunny Durban to open her hugely successful website while also writing for the Zululand Observer. In June of this year, over 1 million followers visited her site to read about the latest movies, theatre or music productions, proving Ailsa has carved an identity as one of KZN’s most loved arts writers and film critics.
This December, Ailsa will for the first time be hosting the special preview of romantic comedy-fantasy, Midnight In Paris, written and directed by Woody Allen, and sees a number of celebrity appearances including Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams and Kathy Bates.
Gil (Owen Wilson) and Inez (Rachel McAdams) travel to Paris as a tag-along vacation on her parents' business trip. Gil is a successful Hollywood writer but is struggling on his first novel. He falls in love with the city and thinks they should move there after they get married, but Inez does not share his romantic notions of the city or the idea that the 1920s was the ‘golden age’.
When Inez goes off dancing with her friends, Gil takes a walk at midnight and discovers what could be the ultimate source of inspiration for writing. Gil's daily walks at midnight in Paris could take him closer to the heart of the city but further from the woman he's about to marry.
This romantic comedy will be released on December 30.
This event is now open for bookings at Cavendish Square, and will start at 17h00 with the film itself commencing at 17h30. Guests will be treated to refreshments before the screening, plus there will be great giveaways. Standard ticket rates apply. Book tickets via sterkinekor.com, sterkinekor.mobi, or via the Self Service Terminals.
www.sterkinekor.com| Mobi-site: www. sterkinekor.mobi |Ticketline: 082 16789 | Facebook: Ster-Kinekor Theatres | Follow us on Twitter: @SKTheatres
As the owner of the popular website, goingplacessa.com, Ailsa has been in the media for over 20 years, having been a journalist and writer for most of that time and recently also being the editor of two popular books. In the 90’s, this original Jo’burger relocated to sunny Durban to open her hugely successful website while also writing for the Zululand Observer. In June of this year, over 1 million followers visited her site to read about the latest movies, theatre or music productions, proving Ailsa has carved an identity as one of KZN’s most loved arts writers and film critics.
This December, Ailsa will for the first time be hosting the special preview of romantic comedy-fantasy, Midnight In Paris, written and directed by Woody Allen, and sees a number of celebrity appearances including Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams and Kathy Bates.
Gil (Owen Wilson) and Inez (Rachel McAdams) travel to Paris as a tag-along vacation on her parents' business trip. Gil is a successful Hollywood writer but is struggling on his first novel. He falls in love with the city and thinks they should move there after they get married, but Inez does not share his romantic notions of the city or the idea that the 1920s was the ‘golden age’.
When Inez goes off dancing with her friends, Gil takes a walk at midnight and discovers what could be the ultimate source of inspiration for writing. Gil's daily walks at midnight in Paris could take him closer to the heart of the city but further from the woman he's about to marry.
This romantic comedy will be released on December 30.
This event is now open for bookings at Cavendish Square, and will start at 17h00 with the film itself commencing at 17h30. Guests will be treated to refreshments before the screening, plus there will be great giveaways. Standard ticket rates apply. Book tickets via sterkinekor.com, sterkinekor.mobi, or via the Self Service Terminals.
www.sterkinekor.com| Mobi-site: www. sterkinekor.mobi |Ticketline: 082 16789 | Facebook: Ster-Kinekor Theatres | Follow us on Twitter: @SKTheatres
Saturday, December 17, 2011
DIFF CALL FOR ENTRIES
The 33rd edition of the Durban International Film Festival will take place from July 19 to 29, 2012.
Supported by the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund (principal funder), the National Film and Video Foundation, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development and Tourism and other valued funders and partners, the festival will present over 200 screenings of films from around the world, with a special focus on films from South African and Africa.
Screenings will take place throughout Durban including township areas where cinemas are non-existent. The festival will also offer an extensive seminar and workshop programme featuring local and international filmmakers. 2012 will also see the return of Talent Campus Durban and the Durban FilmMart.
The festival calls for entries from around the world. Feature films, short films and documentaries are all welcome. The festival does have a competition component.
The deadline for entries is March 16, 2012, for short films and documentaries; April 6, 2012, for feature films. Early submissions are encouraged.
All submissions can be done via the Festival's Eventival online system. To submit, film-makers can create an account on http://vp.eventival.eu/cca/diff2012.
For more information visit: www.cca.ukzn.ac.za or email diff@ukzn.ac.za
Supported by the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund (principal funder), the National Film and Video Foundation, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development and Tourism and other valued funders and partners, the festival will present over 200 screenings of films from around the world, with a special focus on films from South African and Africa.
Screenings will take place throughout Durban including township areas where cinemas are non-existent. The festival will also offer an extensive seminar and workshop programme featuring local and international filmmakers. 2012 will also see the return of Talent Campus Durban and the Durban FilmMart.
The festival calls for entries from around the world. Feature films, short films and documentaries are all welcome. The festival does have a competition component.
The deadline for entries is March 16, 2012, for short films and documentaries; April 6, 2012, for feature films. Early submissions are encouraged.
All submissions can be done via the Festival's Eventival online system. To submit, film-makers can create an account on http://vp.eventival.eu/cca/diff2012.
For more information visit: www.cca.ukzn.ac.za or email diff@ukzn.ac.za
THE A.R.T SHOW
The A.R.T. Show cabinet: various collectives and individual artists were commissioned to make works for this trunk, designed and made by Xavier Clarisse (pictured), a designer from Durban. The trunk was inspired by 16th century cabinets of curiosities which were the first way in which science and art was displayed and formed the beginning of today’s museums. Report by Estelle Sinkins (courtesy of The Witness)
The number of people infected with and dying from HIV/Aids may be falling world-wide — including in South Africa, whose population of 5,6 million HIV-infected people is, according the UNAids, the biggest in the world — but concerns remain about access to treatment.
And for Carol Brown, former director of the Durban Art Gallery and co-curator of the exhibition, The A.R.T. Show, with Professor David Gere from Make Art/Stop Aids in the United States, it’s the reason they wanted to engage southern African artists in a conversation about life-saving HIV treatment.
Speaking to The Witness ahead of the opening of the exhibition at the Tatham Art Gallery in Pietermaritzburg on World Aids Day, Brown said: “We posed the question: how do artists view this new era when the spectre of death still looms, but when people with access to treatment can live with HIV indefinitely? And where Aids treatment is not universally available, how do artists grapple with the fact that one’s future is determined by socioeconomic status and the presence of shrinking government treatment programmes?”
Eighteen months later, the results of this conversation can be seen in a series of massive installations, ceramics, photographs and other works.
One of the most complex pieces on show is a travelling trunk, constructed by Xavier Clarisse, a designer from Durban, which, when opened, reveals a cabinet of curiosities. These range from Rosemary Marriot’s small figures made from skin, which are suspended in test tubes, to hands holding sacred relics made by Ardmore Ceramic Art in Caversham.
Clarisse said the work had been extremely complex to make, but had also allowed him to combine his two passions — art and design: “It’s meant to be playful and interactive. I wanted the piece to be a bit of a game, a bit of a mystery,” he said, adding that like most people he loved the gadgets in the James Bond films and is fascinated by the objects of the Victorian age.
Another key piece has been made by Gordon Froud, a lecturer at the University of Johannesburg. Titled Jacob XX (V2) 2011, the sculpture explores issues of genetics, infection, reproduction and excess. Speaking about the work he says: “It is a conglomeration of spermbabies in a mix with genetic markers of noughts and crosses. The noughts are made from moulds of egg holders, picking up on the notion of reproduction. The crosses can be read as an x representing the x chromosome, but also as a plus sign to the potential HIV-positive status in a foetus. There is also a touch of social commentary in the titling which refers to our president’s penchant for reproduction. The idea for this piece was conceived in the week that it was announced that President [Jacob] Zuma had fathered his 20th child.”
Other pieces include Through Positive Eyes, an interactive, walk-in photographic installation by South African photographer¬ Gideon Mendel, and a unique lightbox with sculptures made by Daniel Goldstein.
Mendel, who lives and works in London, gave cameras and photographic training to 17 HIV-positive people in Johannesburg, providing an opportunity for them to share their lives and stories. The altar-shaped lightbox made by Goldstein, an artist who has been living with HIV/Aids for almost 30 years, encloses three sculptures — Medicine Mother which was made with South African medication bottles and beaded elements created by HIV- positive South Africans, Medicine Man which is made of the artist’s own medication bottles, as well as those of his friends and dead partners and Invisible Man which is made entirely of syringes, each tipped with a red crystal bead.
These works will sit alongside that of South African artists William Kentridge, Andrew Verster, Lunga Kama and Kim Berman, and Sara Anjargolian, an Armenian artist based in the United States.
The A.R.T. Show also features work by artistic collectives, including the Siyazama Project, the Woza Moya Project in Hillcrest and the Keiskamma Project, which has created a work inspired by Pablo Picasso’s Guernica. This new South African work features hundreds of small beaded dolls, representing Aids orphans, and offers a critical assessment of the access to treatment in rural regions of South Africa.
Brown said the title of the exhibition was a deliberate play on words: “A.R.T in the health context refers to antiretroviral therapy, whereas in the cultural context it refers to creativity. The exhibition aims to address the issues facing people in the post-treatment access phase and engages with problems such as orphans, unequal access to treatment for rich and poor, living with memories of those already lost to the pandemic. It also engages with the relationship between science and art and makes comments around circumcision, knowledge communication channels and the fear of contamination.”
The A.R.T. Show is the third instalment in a series of exhibitions which began with Make Art/Stop Aids, a show which chronicled the key role of the arts in the first two decades of the Aids epidemic. It opened at the University of California – Los Angeles (UCLA) Fowler Museum on February 23, 2008.
Parts of this exhibition and other works then toured South Africa under a new title, Not Alone, which demonstrated that African artists have a great deal to say about the experience of Aids in their region. The exhibition was staged at the Durban Art Gallery, Museum Africa in Johannesburg and Iziko-Goodhope Castle in Cape Town.
The A.R.T Show runs at the Tatham Art Gallery in Pietermaritzburg until the end of January. It will then move to the KZNSA Gallery in Durban in February, before heading to Museum Africa in Johannesburg, the University of Cape Town Michaelis Art Gallery and then other countries. – Estelle Sinkins
Friday, December 16, 2011
ANGLO-AFRICAN CONNECTION
Report by Estelle Sinkins. (Courtesy of The Witness)When Scottsville artists, Hussein Salim and Chris Morewood, first mooted the idea of working on a collaborative project, little did they think it would lead them to staging a joint exhibition – The Anglo-African Connection – at the Tatham Art Gallery in Pietermaritzburg.
The two men, who live in Pepworth Road, have created a series of unique decorated wooden lathe-turned objects, which can be viewed alongside Salim’s striking paintings and mixed media work and Morewood’s wood-turned pieces in the Schreiner Gallery.
Morewood, who is originally from England, said they began working together after he asked Salim, who is originally from the Sudan, if he had ever done any 3D work.
“We knew each other as neighbours and I admired what Hussein was doing,” Morewood explained. “He is intensely productive and passionate about his work. I asked Hussein if he had ever done any work in the round, in 3D. He said that while he had always wanted to work on a round canvas, he hadn’t yet done so. I suggested he decorate one of my bowls, African Sun, and he did.
“Terri Broll then asked us to exhibit our work at her exhibition in Hilton. Hussein’s canvases sold well, but none of our bowls did. Terri said it was probably because people weren’t used to the concept – but a few weeks later they were all sold to people who came to my house to buy them.”
Having seen a small selection of this collaborative work, I’m not surprised.
Salim has used acrylics and fine liner pens to decorate the pieces made by Morewood and admits he’s fascinated by the way the colours change and the designs are influenced by the wooden surface. “It has been a challenge, a beautiful challenge. I am used to working in two dimension and thought why not test myself? Sketching and preparation has opened up new ideas for me and I’ve been fascinated by the way the wood absorbs the colour and changes it. I am sure that when I’m finished this project that I’ll return to my canvases with new ideas.”
Morewood said that once Hussein had applied the detail to the wood, it was covered in three layers of matt lacquer. “We want these pieces to be tough because they are going to be handled,” he added.
It’s not the first time that either artist has featured in exhibitions at the Tatham. Two of Morewood’s works were selected for the 2010 Jabulisa exhibition, and Salim took part in the Contemporary Reflections: New Art To Old exhibition in 2009 and has regularly donated works to the annual Fotag Fabulous Picture Show.
Speaking about his work for Jabulisa, Morewood said: “I have been experimenting with traditional wood turning techniques to create bowls which no longer had a real function but were instead wholly decorative. I made nine bowls, using a jigsaw pattern. They were wafer thin and very shallow, and not much good as bowls, but they looked beautiful.”
As the Tatham is keen for the two men to do Artists in Residence programmes during the exhibition’s run, both Morewood and Salim intend working in the gallery – Salim will be painting and Morewood turning wooden objects with a small lathe.
The Anglo-African Connection runs at the Tatham Art Gallery until January 29. The gallery is situated in Chief Albert Luthuli (Commercial) Road, Pietermaritzburg, and is open from 10h00 to 17h00 from Tuesdays to Sundays. Inquiries 033 392 2801. – Estelle Sinkins
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