THE HAPPY CLAPPER FOR VNAF

(Left: Aaron McIlroy. Photo by Val Adamson)

A rabbi, a surfer and a Durban businessman walk into a theatre! That’s no joke but the start of one of South Africa’s funniest one-man shows: The Happy Clapper performed by multi-award winning comedian Aaron McIlroy which can be seen on the Virtual National Arts Festival.

Join Aaron McIlroy on a hilarious bible study as he tries to explain the unexplainable. Discover the meaning of life, love and why Abraham hates camping. Scream with laughter as Rabbi Lipschitz and father of seven demonstrates why God is the Ultimate Life Coach.

Fall about laughing as surfer Gary Van Vuuren tries to explain why the Trinity is more than just a girl’s name. And discover with reformed International Businessman VJ Moodley why Christians are so happy they just have to clap! Co-written and directed by Patrick Kenny, this show is fun for the whole family.

Presented by MacBob Productions, The Happy Clapper has a suggested age recommendation of 10 years plus. The not-to-be-missed show’s duration is one hour and 25 minutes.

Tickets are R50.  For more information, and to book, click here: https://nationalartsfestival.co.za/show/the-happy-clapper/

DESERT FLOWERS AT VNAF

(Katherine Anderson, Kevin Ellis, Senta Duffield, Linda Vargas, Sifiso Khumalo, Jabu Siphika & Mthoko Mkhwanazi. Photo by Val Adamson)

Linda Vargas Flamenco Dance Company on the vFringe of the National Arts Festival will be available until July 31, 2020, on www.nationalartsfestival.co.za

The Linda Vargas Flamenco Dance company has a special treat in store for lovers of dance and music around the world.

“We are very excited to join the vFringe programme of the National Arts Festival by presenting a never-before-seen recording of our 2018 performance Desert Flowers. Along with being able to watch a world-class performance, we also offer the added incentive that by purchasing a ticket you will also help raise funds for our home province of KZN Dance Teachers who have (and will continue to have) their income affected by COVID-19,” says Wesley Maherry who is a member of the dance company.

Desert Flowers, choreographed by Linda Vargas, is a reworking of the much-acclaimed 2004 production of the same name for Vida Flamenco the 35 year anniversary celebrations of the Linda Vargas Flamenco Dance Company at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre in July 2018. Featuring special guests: Flatfoot Dance Company, Senta Duffield, Katherine Anderson and Kevin Ellis, it brings together a diverse range of dancers and musicians in a work that particularly locates Flamenco dancing and rhythm within the South African context. With a compelling score arranged and composed by Demi Fernandez, it also features musicians Neil Gonsalves, Martin Sigamoney and Bryan Stone.

Maherry continues: “We had been thinking of a way during this global pandemic to help out our friends and colleagues who have had their income affected, and the vFringe of the National Arts Festival is a perfect platform to allow you to watch a recording of a production that we are very proud of and speaks to our current times and at the same contribute to a very worthy cause. Tickets cost only R25 and all proceeds will be distributed to teachers in need in the province.”

You can access Desert Flowers on the National Arts Festival’s vFringe (as well as the full curated programme) through their website https://www.nationalartsfestival.co.za – vFringe content will be available for the whole month of July. Users will need to register their details and then be able to purchase a ticket through their secure online platform.

Desert Flowers acknowledges the sponsorship of the Spanish Embassy of South Africa & The KwaZulu-Natal Performing Arts Trust in supporting the production of Vida Flamenco of which Desert Flowers was a part.

FAMILY THERAPY AT VNAF

(Right: Aaron McIlroy & Lisa Bobbert)

Join Aaron McIlroy and Lisa Bobbert on this year’s digital National Arts Festival Fringe for Family Therapy, a virtual roller-coaster of hilarity! South Africa’s best-loved madcap couple are set to infuse some much-needed high-octane merriment into your day, as they navigate the rocky shoals of life on the home front!

With Aaron and Lisa at the top of their game, they take you with them on a wild and wonderful dive into the world of the family, and investigate what makes them tick or explode.

These comedic legends boldly go where billions have been before, and hilariously investigate the do’s and don’ts of living together in this strange arrangement we call family.

Mayhem prevails in this hugely entertaining musical comedy romp, as we renew ties with MacBob’s’ classic gallery of loopy principals, notably Bobbert’s overly assertive Charmaine, and her sorely put-upon hubby, Bruce, along with several unforgettable new-comers to the comedy scene who will have you falling out of your seat.

Directed and choreographed by theatre ace Daisy Spencer, and hailed as ‘their best show ever’ (Barry Meehan, artSMart), Family Therapy guarantees to have you and your loved ones singing along and screaming with laughter, not yelling at each other.

With a suggested age recommendation of 10 years plus, the not-to-be-missed show’s duration is one hour. Tickets are R50 booked on https://nationalartsfestival.co.za/show/family-therapy/

THE SONG OF NAMES FOR DSTV BOX OFFICE

(Right: Tim Roth & Clive Owen)

The Song of Names: Videovision Entertainment’s evocative new film about the extraordinary bond of friendship and music set against the backdrop of the Second World War, will be released exclusively on the Box Office platform of DSTV from Friday July 3, 2020.

Durban’s Anant Singh, who was Executive Producer on the film, is excited to introduce this astonishing story which can be enjoyed in the comfort and safety of one’s own home. As a response to Covid-19 restrictions and precautions, Videovision Entertainment will release The Song of Names exclusively on the Box Office platform of DSTV, launching on July 3, 2020.

Music brought them together; time would tear them apart; a mysterious disappearance, and an obsessive search. Martin Simmonds has been haunted throughout his life by the mysterious disappearance of his ‘brother’ and extraordinary best friend, Polish Jewish virtuoso violinist, Dovidl Rapaport, who vanished shortly before the 1951 London debut concert that would have launched his brilliant career. Thirty-five years later, Martin (Tim Roth) discovers that Dovidl (Clive Owen) may still be alive, and sets out on an obsessive intercontinental search to find him and learn why he left.

The film is directed by Academy Award® nominee, Francois Girard and stars Clive Owen and Tim Roth in the two brothers, with Catherine McCormack and Eddie Izzard. At the heart of the film is music with the score composed by Grammy and Academy Award® winner, Howard Shore and solo violin performed by Ray Chen.

To watch the trailer, visit:

https://vimeo.com/videovisionent/review/395410343/a5f533bf22

NEW INTERNATIONAL SERIES ON DSTV CATCH UP!

An M-Net first: Watch the first episode of upcoming new international series on DStv Catch Up!

Hollywood series fanatics who have taken note of shows that are currently the talk of the town, particularly the HBO series Perry Mason and I Know This Much Is True, are in for a special treat. For the first time, M-Net is giving DStv Premium customers the opportunity to enjoy the first episodes of must-watch series before they launch on channel 101 on DStv. 

The “sneak peek” first episode of Perry Mason, tracing the work of the famous fictional detective, has already been added to the DStv Catch Up offering and will be available until Monday, July 6, before the series starts on M-Net on Tuesday, July 28 at 22h00.

Episode one of the heart-rending HBO drama I Know This Much Is True, starring three-times Academy Award nominee Mark Ruffalo, will also be on DStv Catch Up. The special preview starts on Monday, June 29 and ends when it starts on Thursday, July 2 at 22h00.

“M-Net continues to bring viewers the best of the best international series, says Jan du Plessis, Director: M-Net Channels. “We trust that our viewers will enjoy these stunning, high-quality productions – and the innovative move that will earn them bragging rights of seeing it first. At their leisure, at a time that suits them”.

According to Deadline magazine, Perry Mason drew the largest multi-platform opening viewership for HBO in almost two years when it hit US screens on June 21.

Directed by two-time Emmy winner Tim Van Patten, the eight-part series explores the origin story of the popular character from Erle Stanley Gardner's 1933 novel The Case of the Velvet Claws. The story is set in Los Angeles in 1932, just as the city booms after the Great Depression.

In the titular role, viewers will find Matthew Rhys, whose acting in The Americans earned him two Golden Globe nominations and an Emmy award.

Joining Rhys in this compelling HBO miniseries are Tatiana Maslany from Orphan Black, Juliet Rylance from The Knick, and veteran actor John Lithgow.

The six-part series I Know This Much is True is also based on a novel, Wally Lamb’s bestseller. In this complex, compelling drama about mental illness, family and secrets, Mark Ruffalo gives a breath-taking dual performance. 

Through flashbacks and the present time, the plot focuses on the relationship between Dominick Birdsey and his mentally ill twin brother, Thomas. As he grapples with personal issues, Dominick gives all he can to set his asylum-locked brother free.

Other core actors include American comedian Rosie O'Donnell who plays Thomas' caregiver, award-winning American actress, Melissa Leo, as the twin's mother, and British actress Imogen Poots as Dominick's girlfriend.

More exciting news is that NBCUniversal's crime sensation, The Sinner, will also be available on DStv Catch Up prior to its launch on M-Net. Now in its third season, episode one of this anthology series reaches Catch-Up on Monday July 13 before it starts on M-Net on Wednesday, July 22 at 22h00.

For more information on these new exciting series, visit mnet.tv

To join the conversation, follow M-Net on Twitter @MNet (#MNet101 #PerryMason #I Know This Much Is True #TheSinner) or on the official M-Net Facebook page.

THE BAOBAB PROJECT

While cities around the world are wrestling with sustainable living in the urban environment, The Baobab of Durban has launched to promote education, skills development and innovation in sustainable and responsible practices. The goal is to positively impact the environment and people in Durban through economic participation, empowerment and practical outreach programmes.

The project commenced in March 2020 and focuses on equipment and training programmes including the “Plasticpreneur recycling studio”, the “innovative waste design” programme and “my ‘lil pumpkin” education programme for children, as well as “zero-waste living” community building programme.

Construction works are taking place to create a venue in Durban, in a second phase anticipated for December 2020 that will include a modern cafe and event space introducing aspects of urban farming, community participation and hands-on workshops. The Baobab of Durban will be open to all citizens, with key programmes focused on unemployed youth, school children in underserved communities, eco-conscious consumers and small businesses. 

The space will be a hotspot for networking around the green economy, bringing together citizens, young and old, NGO’s, startups, SMME’s, local government, and large companies all interested in working towards a more sustainable future.

Join the Baobab community for the digital launch and live stream event on June 27 between 09h00 and 12 noon. The event will include online eco-living DIY activities, such as growing your own food, turning your kitchen scraps into organic compost, worm farming, living soil, aquaponics, tips for doing resource efficiency at home, mindfulness, whole foods & plant-based food, artisanal sourdough bread, homemade yogurt, coconut culture, making beer at home, as well as inspiring testimonies of local NGOs and international leaders in sustainable living.

The project is broadcasting live every week on Fridays between 14h00 and 15h00 connecting, educating and entertaining people through its social media channels:

The project website is available at www.upcyclethefuture.com

https://www.instagram.com/baobabdurban/

www.facebook.com/baobabdurban

www.youtube.com/themakerspaceCOZA/

The Baobab of Durban has been co-created by The Maker Space Foundation NPC and Veolia – through its subsidiary Veolia Water Solutions & Technologies South Africa (Pty) Ltd and Dolphin Coast Landfill Management (Pty) Ltd – and with the support of the Veolia Foundation. It is inspired by similar projects with L’Oasis in Niamey and La Recyclerie in Paris. Veolia has been instrumental in supporting local change makers and co-founding these community projects.

Over the next three years the programme hopes to:

-Launch 3 more Plasticpreneur recycling studios,

-Empower 30 entrepreneurs,

-Train 300 women and unemployed youth as recycling technologists,

-Transform 3,000kg of waste into useful products,

-Reach 30,000 visitors and participants in outreach programs,

-Reach 300,000 people through online training programs and social media.

For more information contact Sophie Hayes: sophie@themakerspace.co.za or 072 156 8394.

PHANSI WEBINAR SERIES WITH PAUL MIKULA

Phansi Museum has launched a new online effort - Phansi Museum Webinar Lectures with Paul Mikula. There are four online lectures to join and enjoy:

Nguni History

Friday, June 26, 11h30

We discuss the origins of our Nguni Brothers and Sisters who are part of the greater Bantu family, who make up the overwhelming majority of the South African population.

Art

Friday, July 3, 11h30

We will be guided by the art, although the word and term is not known in Traditional Africa.

 Stories

Tuesday, July 7, 11h30

Jump into stories and storytelling as Paul Mikula delves deeper into what this aspect of culture means, and how oral history is exciting and should be celebrated.

Culture

Thursday, July 9, 11h30

We will show how culture is always on the lookout for new forms of expression and never stands still as it deals with ever-changing circumstances and situations.

These are family-friendly, so gather all round your computer screens for a 30-minute presentation, followed by a 10-minute Q&A to answer your burning questions!

Please note: once you have purchased your online tickets via Quicket, you will automatically receive a login ID and a password to enter the zoom lecture. Please ensure you have downloaded the latest version of zoom (https://zoom.us). During the last 10 minutes of the lecture, feel free to switch your microphone on to ask questions.

To book visit:

https://www.quicket.co.za/events/107267-phansi-museum-webinar-with-paul-mikula-talk-one-nguni-history#/

 

ISMAIL MAHOMED FOR CENTRE FOR CREATIVE ARTS

(Dr Ismail Mahomed)

Renowned Cultural Administrator Appointed Centre for Creative Arts Director. (Article courtesy of UKZNDABAonline – June 25, 2020)

Accomplished playwright and cultural administrator Dr Ismail Mahomed is the new Director of UKZN’s Centre for Creative Arts (CCA) in the College of Humanities.

With more than 30 years of experience in the performing arts sector, Mahomed says he is thrilled to join UKZN and looks forward to working with University management and the team at the CCA to strengthen the four festivals (*) and to re-envision the role that both the festivals and the Centre play in strengthening a cultural economy in KwaZulu-Natal.

Mahomed intends focusing on strengthening the CCA’s network, building capacity and opportunities within the Centre and to present forums through which the CCA plays a facilitating and leadership role in how culture can advance social development and inspire new artistic practices.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted severely on the artistic practice and livelihoods of artists across the globe,’ said Mahomed. ‘Some of the immediate concerns we will need to focus on are how the connections between artists, audiences, cultural spaces and funders need to be re-imagined. During this challenging time when the physical assembly of audiences and artists is restricted, the festivals need to focus on alternative ways of curating ideas and creativity. The festivals will also have to note the social disparities in our society where access to data can either limit or inhibit the access to online arts experiences. We will need to re-imagine beyond just working in online spaces."

During his tenure as CEO of the Market Theatre Foundation, he used his strategic vision and well-grounded management skills to grow the Theatre’s box office, its attraction as a venue to hire and broadened its sponsorship base. He also introduced a series of international collaborations, residencies and exchanges.

Mahomed has taught master classes in arts leadership and management at the Tshwane University of Technology and Rhodes University, and participated in seminars and delivered lectures on theatre leadership at the University of Johannesburg, the University of Cape Town and the University of Witwatersrand as well participating in arts symposiums both nationally and internationally. He is also a recipient of the Arts and Culture Trust’s Arts Administrator of the Year Award.

As an accomplished playwright, his work has been staged in South Africa, Chile, Denmark, Germany and in the United States.

Indiana University Press in Drama published his play, Purdah, for the New South Africa, an anthology of plays edited by David Graver, while another of his productions: Cheaper than Roses, was published by Routledge Publishers in Black South African Women, an anthology of plays edited by Kathy Perkins.

Mahomed - a finalist in both the Amstel Playwright of the Year Competition and the PANSA Playwrights Competition - holds an award for theatrical excellence presented to him by the South African Institute for Theatre Technology. In 2006, the Arts and Culture Trust honoured him with the Arts Administrator of the Year Award, while his theatre-in-education project Newsblitz! was a winner of the Caxton Media in Education award.

A regular contributor to various publications during his tenure as Artistic Director for the National Arts Festival, he wrote a weekly column in The Herald newspaper and served as a regular adjudicator for various forums, including the annual Business and Arts South Africa Awards, the Naledi Theatre Awards and the FEDA Festival.

The Makhanda Chapter of Rotary International presented him with the Paul Harris Fellowship Award for the impressive way he has contributed to the growth and internationalisation of the National Arts Festival, which awarded him the Standard Bank Standing Ovation Award in recognition of his visionary contribution to the artistic growth of the event.

Mahomed, who holds the Chevalier le Ordre des Lettres et Arts Award (Knight of the Order of Arts & Literature Award) from the French government, received an honorary doctorate from the Tshwane University of Technology.

Words: Melissa Mungroo

*(The four festivals hosted by the Centre for the Creative Arts are Time of the Writer; The Durban International Film Festival; JOMBA! Contemporary Dance Experience, and Poetry Africa.)

ISITIMELA SENDABA AT THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL

Join Isitimela Sendaba (The Story Train) at the virtual National Arts Festival, a collaboration between ASSITEJ SA and Play Africa.

11 days, 11 vibrant storytellers bring you a daily dose of African stories to engage and delight! Come and journey with us on the Story Train!

Since March 2020, Play Africa and ASSITEJ South Africa have collaborated on an exciting new virtual storytelling platform for children. The platform provides the professional development of emerging artists, while empowering them to give back to the children in the community through oral storytelling. This collaboration is now a popular feature on Facebook Live every Tuesday afternoon, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and regulations of lockdown. Together Play Africa and ASSITEJ SA are creating employment for artists while using technology to showcase locally relevant cultural content for children and families of South Africa. This programme helps children develop imagination and literacy skills while staying safe at home.

Now, for the first-ever virtual National Arts Festival, (vNAF) ASSITEJ SA and Play Africa are further promoting online storytelling to engage curious young minds with imaginative worlds. In this newly designed production, isitimela Sendaba (“The Story Train”), 11 storytellers from across Africa will come together to share their best stories with young audiences. Hosted by professional storytellers, Thembile Tshuma and Tsholofelo Shouyane, these stories will amuse and delight 5-10 year olds.

Thobekile Mbanda’s story Latozi and her Uhadi is a tribute to one of the featured artists on the vNAF, the extraordinary Madosini, whose virtual musical virtuosity and storytelling skills are legendary. Other South African storytellers on the programme include Sizwe Vilakazi, Baeletsi Tsatsi, Mfundo Hashe, Busisiwe Radebe and Thando Mkhoyi. From across Africa, storytellers will include John Namai (Kenya), Gertrude Vimbayi Munhamo (Zimbabwe) Veronique Mensah (Namibia) and Oluwaseun ‘Aunty Shine-Shine’ Odukoya (Nigeria).

The stories will be performed live via Zoom with a new storyteller delivering a story each day of the vNAF. Those wishing to view the stories will need to register for each event by visiting the v NAF website or clicking this link: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUucequrTgpH9ykJ--bjlou5GrijyyKC7CT

Play Africa is a children’s museum equipping children and families for the future through play, creativity and connection. As an independent South African cultural institution, Play Africa creates child-centred spaces that spark creativity and learning through hands-on, experiential activities. Based at the iconic Constitution Hill in Johannesburg, it serves children from birth to age 10, their families and schools, igniting curiosity through ground-breaking programmes in Early Childhood Development (ECD) and foundation phase education. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it has expanded its reach through virtual programmes that stimulate imagination, empathy and human connection. More info: www.playafrica.org.za.

ASSITEJ South Africa is a not-for-profit association of theatre artists, companies and institutions across the country who focus on theatre for children and young people. The organisation creates access to quality, performing arts programmes that are specially designed for children and young people, contributing to a more empathic, engaged and creative society. We build the sector of theatre for young audiences in South Africa through supporting and developing the artists, empowering education through the performing arts, creating strategies for access to the arts, and advocating for the role of the arts as an essential right of every child and young person

Stories from the Play Africa and ASSITEJ SA collaboration which have previously been aired live are available here: https://playafrica.org.za/kids/

For more information visit www.assitej.org.za

 

MOTHERS' GRIMM PREMIERES AT VNAF 2020

Mothers' Grimm presented by Jade Bowers Design & Management in partnership with UJ Arts & Culture has been re-envisioned for the Curated Programme on the Virtual National Arts Festival 2020.

This enchanting new children’s tale comes from the acclaimed theatre team; director Jade Bowers and writer Ameera Patel. With the vNAF2020 establishing its platform as 11 days of curated online creativity that spans the South African and international arts scene, Mothers’ Grimm has moved from the stage to the screen. Bowers teams up with a stellar cast of Carla Classen, Cheraè Halley and Tshego Khutsoane with the musical genius Yogin Sullaphen and the videography of Jessica Denyschen to create this exciting theatrical series, which will broadcast during the festival.

Mothers’ Grimm is a coming of age play for children and pre-teens which tells the story of Goldi, an 11 year-old going through life changes. With the imminent arrival of a new sibling, Goldi begins to feel out of place and disregarded. Goldi uses her vivid imagination and the power of storytelling to process the changes she is going through.

Mothers’ Grimm weaves together well-known fairytales with pop-culture social media to create a modern-day family sitcom through the eyes of Goldi. The six-episode theatrical series commissioned for vNAF2020 is aimed at children between the ages of 8 and 12. However, this fantastic tale is suitable for all. Mothers’ Grimm Online serves as prequel to the live theatre experience, which young and old can enjoy at UJ’s Conwan Theatre in 2021.

Taking inspiration from a multitude of different fairy tales from around the world such as Russia’s Baba Yaga, 1001 Tales / Arabian Nights, and of course the beloved tales from the Brothers’ Grimm. Mothers’ Grimm explores a rich world of storytelling and creativity. What sets Mothers’ Grimm apart from these classic tales, however, is that it doesn’t aim to reveal a big life lesson at the end of the story, telling everyone how to live their lives. Instead, the play is about representation and talking about family situations that aren’t always ideal.

Carla Classen – known for her work in the Afrikaans films Stroomop and Brett Michael Innes’s Fiela se Kind, as well as her numerous theatre roles – plays the lead in Mothers’ Grimm as Goldi, a down in the dumps child who has a wild imagination. Joining her as the storyteller Sherezaad and the maternal Malefi – Goldi’s mothers – are seasoned theatre performers Cheraé Halley from Scorched and Tshego Khutsoane from No Easter Sunday for Queers.

Book your day pass on https://nationalartsfestival.co.za/buy-landing-page/

For more information visit https://arts.uj.ac.za/show/MOTHERSGRIMM/

(To link direct to the National Arts Festival site click on the large banner that runs across the top of this blog or visit https://www.nationalartsfestival.co.za or visit Facebook: www.facebook.com/nationalartsfestival; Twitter: @artsfestival or Instagram: nationalartsfestival)

PONTE MAPUTO DURBAN FOR NAF

(Matchume Zango & Sibusiso Mash Mashiloane)

Matchume Zango and Sibusiso Mash Mashiloane exploring new musical horizons during lockdown

In Ponte Maputo Durban, pianist Sibusiso Mash Mashiloane from Durban and multi-instrumentalist Matchume Zango from Maputo have reinterpreted each other’s works. The documentary concert will be screening at the Virtual National Arts Festival from June 25 to July 5, 2020.

The music journeys through an improvised language of a lifetime learned sonic therapy, which takes the listener along every note towards a form of healing. South Africa and Mozambique are sovereign neighbours who historically share an umbilical cord, which breathes from the beat of the same rhythmic pulse. This music pulls worlds once parted by colonial separations together when these maestros construct Ponte Maputo Durban sonically. This project is a significant musical and cultural experience in the form of a collaboration. The potential for any listener to reap the benefits of connecting to something so boundless as musicianship, is almost like removing physical borders in the global map of sound.

“It is needed for creatives in these two cities to get to know each other and create interaction between them as it will expand market access for creatives and at the same time enrich and diversify the cultural offer in both cities. Despite both artists being in their respective countries, this lockdown does not mean they can not collaborate,” says Marlyn Ntsele from iSupport Creative Business.

“This project for me is about exchanging ideas, improvising, exploring new musical horizons and creating musical vibrations in the virtual world with Mash,” says Matchume.

“It is always a great experience for me to exchange ideas with other musicians. Even more so when it is someone from another African country, working with Matchume has taught about new musical influences, and at the same time, I learned more about my own musical identity,” says Mashiloane

Born and raised in Maputo, Mozambique, master timbila player and percussionist Cândido Salomão Zango, also known as ‘Matchume’, is well-known in the southern African region for his many collaborations with international musicians and his spectacular timbila and dance shows. Matchume has dedicated himself to Mozambican traditional music and dance since the age of six. His parents and grandparents are originally from Zavala, Inhambane Province (Mozambique, which is the centre of Timbila, a marimba-style instrument which is revered to as part of Mozambique’s national patrimony). Inspired by this long and passionate tradition of music, Matchume began to play, study music and produce traditional instruments. Matchume earned his Bachelor in Music Performance at University of Cape Town (UCT) where he was also employed as a lecturer and is currently enrolled in his Master degree. In Maputo, he is owner of the Nzango Artist Residency and founding member of the band Timbila Muzimba and the Warethwa Cultural Association.

 

Sibusiso Mash Mashiloane is known to be both a virtuoso player and conductor with his live performances being the drawing card that have garnered him audiences across the world. He is an integral performer of African Jazz music and has built an enthusiastic fan-base while touring South Africa, USA, Mozambique and Tanzania. He released four albums since 2016 that were all nominated and winners of a variety of awards, such as the Mzantsi Jazz Awards, AFRIMA Award and nominations for the SAMA Awards and the Urban Music Awards. His academic credentials speak volume on the kind of discipline and passion he has for music. He has a Masters in Jazz Performance, graduated Cum Laude from the University of KwaZulu Natal and is a University lecturer. He is currently working on his PhD [studying the concept of home through SA jazz lens].

PRODUCTION CREDITS

Musician and Composer: Sibusiso Mash Mashiloane

Musician and Composer: Matchume Zango

Photography: Simanga Zondo

Editing Director: Mandisa Buthelezi

Editor: Mduduzi Nxele

Executive Producer: Marlyn Ntsele

  

Screening: From June 25 to July 5. Tickets: daily passes are R80, which gives you access to any shows of your choice.

www.nationalartsfestival.co.za/show/ponte-maputo-durban

 

PACKED DSTV LINE-UP JUNE 26 TO JULY 2

Mark Ruffalo’s brand new mini-series leads a packed DStv line up this week

In the week of 26 June to 2 July, DStv will premiere a number of brand new series, movies, reality shows and documentaries. Some highlights include Mark Ruffalo’s portrayal of identical twins in I Know This Much Is True on M-Net and the History Channel’s full afternoon and evening of documentaries exploring events in history relevant to the global #blacklivesmatter movement.

Here are five of DStv’s top offerings this week:

I Know This Much Is True

Wednesday, July 2 on M-Net (DStv 101) at 22h00

I Know This Much Is True sees Mark Ruffalo – most famous as The Hulk in The Avengers – in the role of identical twin brothers. One brother, Thomas Birdsey, suffers from paranoid schizophrenia and spends his time in and out of treatment facilities. In an attempt to have him released from an asylum, his twin, Dominic Birdsey, reviews their family history and recounts their rocky relationship.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sx1lEqBMLwo

  

Gemini Man

Sunday, June 28 on M-Net (DStv 101) at 20h05

Will Smith fans can gear up to see two sides of this versatile actor in Gemini Man. The Fresh Prince plays retiring hitman Henry Brogan, who comes face-to-face with a killer able to predict his every move – his younger, stronger clone (also played by Will).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sx1lEqBMLwo

  

McDonald & Dodds

Monday, June 29 on BBC Brit (DStv 120) at 20h00

Brand new to international series comes this British show, McDonald & Dodds. Moving to a new town is never easy and going from the bustle of London to a sleepy town like Bath is a big adjustment for Detective McDonald. Her toughest challenge is working with her new partner, Detective Dodds – her complete opposite in every way. She’s fast-paced and high energy. He’s quiet and accident-prone. Dodd finds his himself rejuvenated working with McDonald, while teaching her to value a slower investigative stance. Together, they must learn to adjust their thinking in order to solve various crimes in the small county.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibm8PdyqNes

 

Black History Matters

Sunday, June 28 on History Channel (DStv 186) from 14h15 to 23h00

As the Black Lives Matters movement continues to gather massive momentum globally, The History Channel (DStv 186) is screening a series of documentaries under the banner Black History Matter.

 

The compelling line-up includes:

 -Rise Up: The Movement that Changed America - a one-hour documentary exploring the key battles in the Civil Rights Movement that transformed American society.

 -The Mystery of the 364th - an investigation into whether rebellious members of the 364th Infantry Regiment were killed by their fellow soldiers in WWII with their deaths covered up by the army.

 -The Time is Now: Race and Resolution - this important conversation features influential social justice voices discussing the ways systemic racism, implicit bias and economic inequality are afflicting our nation, and pathways forward to help achieve lasting change.

 

Burden

Friday, June 26 on BoxOffice

Inspired by true events, Burden is the heart-rending story of two men who must find a way to resolve generational hate and pave a new path together despite their differences. A South Carolina town is caught in a renewed racial clash when a museum dedicated to the Ku Klux Klan opens. Reverend David Kennedy (Forrest Whitaker) is the head of a Baptist church who wants to keep long-simmering racial tensions from boiling over. Mike Burden (Garret Hedlund) is an orphan raised within the KKK who decides to risk his life and break away from everything he has known. But when Reverend Kennedy decides to offer him protection, there are objections from both sides.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gTDXiVbwqxw

  

MOVIES

The Naked Wanderer

An over-the-top Australian rom-com. A man who was dumped by his girlfriend goes on a naked walk across the country for charity to win her back. But when he meets mesmerising backpacker Valerie, he finds himself questioning his motives.

Sunday, June 28 on M-Net Movies (DStv 104) at 20h15

  

Fighting with my family

The heart-warming true story of WWE Superstar Paige. Growing up in a wrestling-obsessed family, she wanted nothing more than to be part of WWE. One day, she steps into the ring and realises this may be a way to help her family out of financial ruin. When she gets a shot to make that happen, it's tougher than she ever expected.

Thursday, July 2 on Showmax

Genre: action

  

INTERNATIONAL SERIES

I know this much is true (Season 1) – see above

 

Dollface (Season 1)

Kat Dennings (2 Broke Girls) drives this quirky, fun-filled comedy. After being dumped by her long-time boyfriend, a woman tries to reconnect with the friends she neglected during the relationship.

Friday, June 26 on M-Net (DStv 101) at 22:00

  

McDonald & Dodds – see above

 

Riviera (Season 2)

Georgina Clios is back, but this time she has a secret. She sets her sights on getting away with murder, but a sinister message reveals that someone knows what she’s up to. She meets with the Eltham family – who are vastly powerful with just as many secrets.

Sunday, June 28 on BBC First (DStv 119) at 20h00

  

LOCAL

Love by Chance (Friday local feature)

Worlds collide in this film about love and the film industry. Two South African actors, both in Hollywood to pursue their dreams, meet by chance. They begin to fall for each other, but between the daily struggle of auditioning, dealing with rejection, making connections, and financial difficulty, will their love survive?

Friday, June 26 on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) at 22h00

  

Tats Nkonzo: Privileged (Saturday Stand-up Comedy)

Now you can watch the hilarious confession of how one comedian went from thinking he was an angel to realising he was the complete opposite. This is a show every South African needs to watch. It’s laced with all the uncomfortable and awkward interactions that come with engaging across social, racial and cultural lines.

Saturday, June 27 on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) at 21h30

  

Amagugu

After Bongiwe's grandmother dies, she inherits the family house. Through a series of elaborate and hilarious plots, her disgruntled mother, aunt and uncle scheme to take the house from her.

Monday, June 29 on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) at 18h00

 

Kwarantyn

Kwarantyn is kykNET’s new reality show that features two local families quarantined in two separate houses for 60 days. Both families have the end-goal in sight of winning over viewers (and a series of challenges) in a bid to walk away with the grand prize of R250,000 in cash.

Wednesday, July 1 on kykNET (DStv 144) at 20h00

 

Met ¢n Huppel in die Stap

Met ¢n Huppel in die Stap is kykNET's series for people over the age of 60. In this show, presenters Riaan Cruywagen, Simon Bruinders and Lieb Bester look at life during retirement and the interesting and practical ways older adults can enrich their lives. In this season, the team find out from people living in retirement villages how COVID-19 has affected their lives, how to easily set up your own vegetable garden and more.

Wednesday, July 1 on kykNET (DStv 144) at 17h30

 

Back of the Moon

It's July 28, 1958, and tomorrow the police will be forcing residents of Gerty Street out of their homes and moving them to a desolate township far away from the city. Badman, leader of the most powerful gang in Sophiatown – the Vipers – is preparing to die fighting for his home. But will his plans change when fate brings him close to the woman he has loved from afar, singer Eve Msomi?

Thursday, July 2 on Showmax

 

Fynskrif

It's Christmas time – possibly the last Christmas that the Van Wyk family will spend with René. Corné and Christelle's dads get into a fight during Christmas lunch and Dolf learns something about fatherhood from Gertrude's dad.

Tuesday, June 30 on kykNET (DStv 144) at 20h00

 

Housekeepers (Season 1)

In a world behind high walls and luxury, the wealthy may believe they are powerful in the comfort of their mansions, but it is the housekeepers who see all and know all. A scandalous Zwide wedding ends in bloodshed and turns the life of a young woman upside down.

Tuesday, June 30 on Mzansi Wethu (DStv 163) at 20h00

 

 

FACTUAL

Murder Comes Home Season 1

This ominous new series unravels powerful mysteries in a very bizarre way. It pairs actual CSI crime scene videos alongside the home videos of the same victim to piece together an undiscovered story. This week we meet Sue Weaver – a woman who dreamed of her own little quiet piece of paradise, but her dreams go up in smoke when a sinister guest comes knocking on 27 August 2001.

Wednesday, July 1 on Investigation Discovery (DStv 171) at 21h50

 

Natalie Wood

While there are still many unanswered questions about the iconic Hollywood actress's death, this documentary focuses on the short life she lived. It includes unseen home movies, photographs, letters and interviews with her friends and family.

Monday, June 29 on Showmax

 

 

VNAF LATEST NEWS

Where artistic adventure and curiosity collide.

The National Arts Festival team reports on the current progress for its virtual festival running from June 25 to July 5, 2020:

“We’re seeing the Festival come together. Work that started as ideas, turned into discussions and are now full pieces, are being uploaded to the Festival website for audiences to experience in just a few days’ time. Our team is nothing short of phenomenal, to bring to life something which was, just a few chaotic weeks ago, only a vision. We now have an online festival that reflects the experiences of artists from diverse backgrounds and disciplines. I am anxious to share it with audiences and see this next chapter begin,” says National Arts Festival Artistic Director, Rucera Seethal.

Browse the programme and buy a Festival pass on www.nationalartsfestival.co.za

The programme will take place entirely on the Festival website and comprises a daily Curated Programme of shows, workshops and events; and a special Virtual Fringe section with a wide range of performances to choose from.

Audiences can now buy passes to unlock the shows on the Curated Programme from R80 per day. A full 11-day pass costs just R600.This includes the Standard Bank Jazz Festival, but excludes all vFringe events.

Virtual Fringe events will be individually ticketed, with 90% of show proceeds going to the artists themselves.

All events on the Creativate Digital Arts Festival are entirely free.

The Standard Bank Jazz Festival remains an integral part of the Festival experience, with Jazz Passes available for R500.

 Still wondering how it's all going to work? Head on over to our new website, where you will find a comprehensive how to guide.

https://nationalartsfestival.co.za/how-to-buy-tickets-passes/?utm_source=National+Arts+Festival&utm_campaign=7ab53cab2f-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_3_5_2018_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_d2398227f0-7ab53cab2f-259175121

 

 INTRODUCTING vNAF STUDIO

Join your online host to a virtual experience

Your vNAF Studio host Nontobeko Sibisi takes a sneak peek behind the scenes with interviews with theatre makers and the key people behind the programme in this build-up episode to the first-ever Virtual National Arts Festival, which runs from June 25 to July 5, 2020.

 

 CREATIVATE

Breaking down the barriers to making art

This year, the Creativate Digital Arts Festival, presented by Standard Bank, forms a captivating thread through the Virtual National Arts Festival programme with a collection of online interactive digital art workshops, new-media exhibitions and innovative performances pushing the boundaries of what we understand about 'art'. With 42 pieces including 16 workshops and 15 world premieres on the programme, Creativate is about interaction, collaboration and breaking down barriers.

The 2020 programme features five key themes: Reflections on Humanity; Politics of Data and Surveillance; Reshape-Rewrite-Remix; Strange New World: non spaces, imagined spaces; and Workshops, which look at writing with data, encrypting poetry, making deep fakes, dancing with technology, green-screened performance spaces, CGI animation, drawing robots and chatting chat-bots.

 (To link direct to the National Arts Festival site click on the large banner that runs across the top of this blog or visit https://www.nationalartsfestival.co.za or visit Facebook: www.facebook.com/nationalartsfestival; Twitter: @artsfestival or Instagram: nationalartsfestival)

STREET LIT BOOKSELLERS BACK IN BUSINESS

(Pat Khumalo)

The Denis Hurley Centre’s Street Lit booksellers are back in business!  During the long lockdown they have had a chance to tidy up the store room - where Pat Khumalo is seen above. So they can now offer a stock of excellent books at good prices.

They continue to sell on-line thanks to Anivesh Singh.

If you are in Durban, you can buy books from them on most days at the following locations:

- KZNSA Gallery

- Berea Centre

- Westville Mall

- Pick'n'Pay Hyper-on-Sea

- corner of Cathedral Road

Contact Illa Thompson if you have ideas of other venues where our homeless entrepreneurs can sell or if you have quality books to donate.  (Please DON'T take them to the vendors). Also the DHC is looking for volunteer drivers (with a car) available 08h00 to 10h00 or 16h00 to 18h00.

The Denis Hurley Centre Facebook page provides a regular update of venues.

 

VIU ADDS FOUR NEW SABC HIT SHOWS

Viu further expands its unique value proposition as the home of Mzansi’s latest and biggest soapies. The popular streaming service adds four new SABC hit shows

Viu, a leading pan-regional OTT video streaming service from PCCW Media Group with more than 41 million* monthly active users (MAU), has announced the addition of four top South African local shows. Three of South Africa’s top soapies, Generations: The Legacy, Muvhango, and Sewende Laan, and the 2019 smash-hit comedy Makoti, are now all available daily on Viu immediately after their transmission on linear television.

These shows join the already popular SABC shows on Viu, including Uzalo, Skeem Saam, Yizo Yizo, Gaz’Lam, My Perfect Family, Emoyeni and others.

Ryan Solovei, Country Manager, Viu South Africa, said: “We’re excited to offer even more of Mzansi’s leading soapies and comedies to our growing audience of Viu’ers. On the back of the success of SABC content on the platform, we are very pleased to expand the relationship, offering their compelling storytelling for local audiences that is very much in alignment with our vision.”

SABC Group Executive: Television, Merlin Naicker, said: “This agreement demonstrates the SABC’s commitment to continuously pursue innovative ways to cater to the needs of its audiences, particularly in an increasingly competitive digital era for broadcasters. The deal is one of the initiatives that the public broadcaster is implementing, with the aim of providing wider reach of its programmes, making it possible for our audiences to access their favourite programmes through a Video On Demand platform, anytime, anywhere.”

Set in the heart of adland and media powerhouses, Generations: The Legacy takes viewers into the lives of those who’ve taken over the reins of the Moroka name and build on its success, whatever it takes. The soapie explores the ambitions of those living in the City of Gold; their drive to create their own legacies; and delves into the subjectivity of characters and their aspirations with relatable storylines and plot twists. Maintaining its position as one of the most watched daily soapies in South Africa, Generations: The Legacy’s cast includes Manaka Ranaka, Vuyo Dabula, Vusi Kunene, Zoe Mthinyane, Letoya Makhene, Ronnie Nyakale, Pearl Monama, Abigail Kubeka, and Monnye Kunupi in a new role as Mme Ntswaki.

Since its arrival on screens in 1997, Muvhango has shared the journey, growth, and sometimes untimely endings of the show’s favourite characters. With strong family-oriented storylines that unpack the conflict between the traditional and modern ways faced by many South Africans, Muvhango is significant and relevant to viewers with drama that shocks, inspires, and gets the viewers debating the choices made by their favourite characters. The cast includes Dingaan Khumalo, Gabriel Temudzani, Maumela Mahuwa, Mcdonald Ndou, Elsie Rasalanavho, Regina Ramabulana, David Sebe, Nthabiseng Tau, Connie Sibiya, and Nat Ramabulana.

Sewende Laan, famous for its memorable intro by the Soweto String Quartet, brings one of the country’s favourite communities onto screen with stories that share the importance of growth, hope, second chances, unity, and compassion in the changing face of a new South Africa. The soapie introduced South African viewers to a modern, diverse group of people and their ups and downs in life, love, work, family, and business. The cast is as diverse as the country’s melting pot of cultures and Sewende Laan successfully weaves various languages together to create entertaining themes and subplots, and some comic relief from favourite characters. The soapie’s cast include Carina Nel, Francois Lensley, Mimi Mahlasela, Keabetswe Motsilanyane, Danielle Retief, Jacques Blignaut, Hildegardt Whites, and Nicholas Nkuna.

Makoti stars the late Andile Gumbi, Thuli Phongolo, and veteran actors Tina Jaxa, Mike Mvelase. Included in the cast are also Ayanda Makayi, S’phesihle Vazi, and Millicent Makhado. The show interrogates modern relationships, the juggling act to balance traditional roles against changing social dynamics within these relationships, and the key elements that can make or break them.

These shows will be available on Viu daily, immediately after transmission on SABC to give Viu’ers the option to catch-up on the episodes whenever is convenient.

Sewende Laan S21 will be available on Viu at 18h30

Generations: The Legacy S29 will be available on Viu at 20h30

Makoti S1 will be available on Viu at 21h00

Muvhango S21 will be available on Viu at 21h30

Viu is available for free download on App Store, Google Play, and select smart TV’s; as well as on the web at www.viu.com.

For more information and the latest updates on shows and Viu, follow on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or log on to www.viu.com

EXCEPTIONAL LINOCUT FROM JOHN ROOME

(Linocut by John Roome)

Following the successful sale of artworks by Samora Chapman and Nikhil Tricam, the Denis Hurley Centre in Durban is honoured that renowned Durban artist John Roome has also offered to help them raise funds. The image above is a close up of a beautiful linocut image of Paddy Kearney Way. Roome drew this while at the DHC a few months ago as part of the D’Urban Sketchers group.

The image is A3 size on Fabriano Rosapina 220gsm fine art paper. Eight limited-edition signed numbered prints are available for sale.

Each print sells unframed at the exceptional price of R2,500 (of which 60% comes directly to the DHC). Pick up in Durban; delivery around the world can be arranged.

For more information and to order, email: John.roome1@gmail.com

ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE ON-LINE CONCERT TOMORROW (JUNE 21)

The Alliance Française de Durban will feature an on-line concert tomorrow (June 21, 2020) as a fundraiser for the Denis Hurley Centre.

The line-up of performers covers different aspects of South African and wider African music: Nipho Hurd, Jonty Hartwig, Rene Tshiakanyi, Johnny Bands, Groovy Mave, Thulile Zama and Titi Luzipo.

Tickets are only R50 (<$3) and available from Webtickets - you can buy them wherever you are in the world. Order now and the link will be sent after 17h00 tomorrow (June 21) so you can listen any time after that to suit your schedule.

The Alliance is also 'open for business' for on-line courses in French and for take-away food from the excellent cafe (ideal if you live in the Morningside area).

 For more information about these activities, see Facebook or send an email to news@denishurleycentre.org or visit www.denishurleycentre.org

GUY BUTTERY ANNOUNCES SURPRISE EP RELEASE

(Guy Buttery)

Held back from release for two years due to technical snags in both the production and the manufacturing, Guy Buttery has finally released his first EP. The recording is centred on a one-off collaboration with The Bandura Express Marimba Ensemble and features exclusive remixes as well as a rare live recording.

Bandura, the 11 piece horn section and marimba band, and Buttery were put together for a weekend of festival dates in the North West Province of South Africa and 10 minutes into the first rehearsal, were booking time in a studio to document the project.

When asked about the collaboration, Buttery said: "We hit it off immediately. I brought in my acoustic guitar with every intention of playing it but spotted a cheap Fender rip-off in the corner and ended up playing electric on the whole session. I know. I don't play electric guitar. Weird. But it worked. I think. The sessions were super festive with the 11 of us just going flat out all day with horns a-blazing and a full side of marimba fury. Think Paul Simon's Graceland but with less rounded edges."

Buttery then extended the invitation to a select few to do some remixes based on the sessions including the likes of UK based James Yorkston (Fourtet, Jon Hopkins), fellow Durbanite MISSU as well as Cape Town's very own Afro-electro artist, John Wizards. A rare and forgotten live recording from their very first concert together concludes the release. This music is now on sale at a COVID-19 "pay what you want" price alongside limited hand-numbered linocuts of the album artwork crafted by well-known South African artist Dylan McGarry.

Visit https://guybuttery.bandcamp.com/album/guy-buttery-the-bandura-express-marimba-ensemble

NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD 2020 CALL FOR ENTRIES

Deadline: July 31, 2020

The National Eisteddfod of South Africa™ - a non-profit organisation and the largest eisteddfod platform in the country - is calling for entries for its 2020 season.

While many eisteddfod events and other festivals planned for 2020 have been cancelled as a result of the Covid-19 challenge, the National Eisteddfod Academy (NEA) is happy to announce that its 2020 National Eisteddfod activities for 2020 will go ahead as planned.

Provisions have been put in place for whatever eventualities may arise from the prevailing lockdown level, and the NEA has introduced a new option for young performers. In addition to video-recorded entries the NEA will also now be utilising technology to provide a virtual platform for participation.

This new virtual performance mode will retain some of the excitement present in live performances:

 - it will be adjudicated in real time on an online platform

 - participants will be able to watch the performances of other participants

 - adjudicators will provide feedback at the end of each session

The minimum requirements for a virtual performance include access to a smart phone, a stable internet connection, and data.

The NEA has always, in its promotion of the arts-in-education, emphasised the importance of eisteddfod activities for personal development and growth of all learners and now, considering the current trying circumstances, the therapeutic value of arts activities and the influence of the ‘Magic of the Arts’ on young performers, cannot and should not, be ignored.

It was said by Albert Einstein that "it is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge".

With the current situation this may prove to be particularly difficult for teachers to apply as schools are faced with the challenge of completing the required curriculum. To reduce that ‘difficulty’ some schools may well decide to cancel all activities that fall outside the core of their curricular requirements, including participation in eisteddfods. For young, talented performers these activities are an essential and meaningful part of their schooling and preparation for a future career path - the cancellation of performance opportunities is as devastating for learners with a passion for the arts, as the cancellation of sporting events is for young athletes.

Dr Francois van den Berg, CEO of the NEA, put out an impassioned plea to schools not to cut out the arts because of the need to complete the curriculum. Quoting Einstein who said “Schooling should provide the means for a child to embrace his natural interests, and pursue his chosen passions”, Dr van den Berg said: “It really must be kept in mind that for many learners, in many schools throughout the country, the arts are their chosen passion”.

Recognising the fact that many teachers were actively "awakening joy in creative expression" in the past by assisting/training learners in their preparation for participation in the eisteddfod, and that this may not be possible for some now, the NEA has implemented a new online platform where interested learners can make contact with members of the NEA Adjudicator’s Forum for the purpose of virtual online training in the arts. Dr van den Berg stressed that “the purpose of this online platform is certainly not to infringe on what teachers and studios do, but rather it is to provide for those learners who have no alternative solution.”

The closing date for online entries has been extended to July 31, 2020 (with the possibility of a further extension if needed).

 Participants have a choice of three options of participation:

 - Live* performance - a live performance at a selected venue, in line with the requirements of the lockdown level at that time (include maintaining social distancing by limiting the number of participants in any given session and following the required sanitising protocol) *in the event of a worst-case scenario where no live performances will be allowed, all participants that selected the “live” performance option will be virtually adjudicated

 - Virtual performance - the new virtual performance mode will maintain some of the excitement present in live performances - real time adjudication on an online platform with feedback - watch the performances of other participants - The minimum requirements: access to a smart phone, a stable internet connection and data

 - Video recorded performance - the ideal alternative for participants in remote areas and other areas where a stable internet connection is not available

Actual activity dates will only be determined once more information regarding the school terms is available; the prevailing lockdown level will also be a determining factor. 

Selections of poetry in African languages, Afrikaans and English from previous NEA syllabi have been published on the Online Entry website; these poems can be used by learners who would like to prepare themselves for participation in the National Eisteddfod of South Africa© 2020. The material is copyright protected and may only be used by registered educators and participants for this purpose.

Full details regarding video and virtual entries will be provided on the webpage soon. Registered institutions and participants can access the 2020 NEA Prospectus online https://www.eisteddfod.co.za

Schools that wish to support children who cannot afford to participate in the national Eisteddfod can do so by adding an additional amount of R20/R50 or R100 to each entry that they submit. This support will have far-reaching impact on those learners who will then be able to share in the Magic of the Arts.

“Taking part in eisteddfods benefits all participants - it fulfils a basic human need for respect and recognition and provides the aspiring performers with the opportunity to perform on stage, to receive feedback from expert adjudicators and most of all, it gives anyone in the country an opportunity to experience the magic of the arts,” says Dr van den Berg.

For enquiries contact the NEA Office (during office hours) at 011 886 6005 / fax: 011 787 3534 / e-mail: info@eisteddfod.co.za or visit the web www.eisteddfod.co.za

 Follow the NEA on:

Twitter- @eisteddfodSA

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nearsa

The National Eisteddfod Academy (NEA) is a non-profit company that creates opportunities for youth development in the arts. The activities of the NEA provide various opportunities where young performers can develop and showcase their talents across the full spectrum of artistic and cultural diversity. Since the founding of the organisation in 1997 the annual NEA Eisteddfod activities have involved more than 536,000 participants in various rural and urban regions. Since the National Eisteddfod Academy launched the NEA Young Performers Award competition in 2004 close to 20,000 entries have been received for this competition that provides a next level of participation for young performers. The NEA also manages the National Eisteddfod of South Africa®, the largest eisteddfod platform in the country.