South Africa and India will soon have a
unique new film and television award that will laud creative excellence in both
countries.
The SAIFTA (South Africa India Film and
Television Awards) will be launched in Durban on March 22 at ICC Durban, with
the backing of The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development and
Tourism.
The first SAIFTA ceremony will take place
at the Durban ICC during Heritage Month, September 2013. A gala black-tie
launch at the same venue, will unveil the concepts of SAIFTA on March 22. Renowned
film dance choreographer, Geeta Kapoor, is currently auditioning hundreds of
dancers for the gala.
The launch audience of 800 people will
include film and television celebrities, judges from India, as well as
representation from the South African panel. A fusion of Indian and South
African performers, choreographed by Kapoor, will give the audience a taste of
what the Awards evening will hold. SAIFTA will highlight the wealth of talent
in each country as some of the biggest names in Bollywood and television from India
and South Africa, take to the stage together for the first time.
SAIFTA Director, Kedhar Gawde of
Mumbai-based Celebrity Locker Entertainment, has directed and choreographed
shows for some of the biggest brands in fashion and luxury. He was the first
Indian show director to direct in New York Fashion Week 2013 for South African
designer, David Tlale, a few weeks ago. Gawde’s shows are global in every sense
with a unique Indian touch – his signature style. His expertise will bring a
touch of über luxury and grandiose to both the launch and the July SAIFTA
event.
“SAIFTA brings good news to the local film
and television industry, providing an exciting new cross-cultural exchange
between the two countries in entertainment, talent, technical expertise and
film locations,” he explained.
The SAIFTA Awards promise to offer the
biggest live show that Durban has ever seen. The week-long run up to the event
involves Durban and the many locales around the city, with active participation
from Indian celebrities. The Awards aim to promote Durban and South Africa as
ideal film locations to some of India’s biggest film producers and directors.
“We
aim for SAIFTA to be recognised globally. This is a harmonious meeting of
minds, creative talent, vision and innovation,” adds Gawde, “where the
spotlight is on the best of showbiz, glamour and talent that both countries
have to offer.”
SAIFTA will boost tourism, skills
enhancement and social cohesion. There
will be employment opportunities in local transportation, security, performing
arts, equipment, technicians and logistical support.
For more information follow SAIFTA on
Twitter.
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