DIFF AWARD WINNERS

The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Centre for Creative Arts (CCA), hosted the Durban International Festival (DIFF) from September 10 to 20, 2020. This year, for its 41st edition, the festival presented a programme of close to 60 feature films, documentaries and short films alongside exciting industry programme: isiPhethu.

After a drive-in screening of the closing film Dust, a thriller by Pieter du Plessis, the award winners were announced on September 19 during a pre-recorded ceremony.

In the shorts category, the jury emphasised how impressed they were with the overall quality of all 23 shorts. Yet, it was unanimously decided that the winner of Best Short Film was Exam directed by Sonia K. Hadad. “From the first frame, the film gets to the point.” mentioned one of the jury members. For both Best African Short and Best South African Short Film, all votes of the jury went to the animation Ruby and Roach by Erentia Bedeker. The jury commended the short film for the innocence of the film that takes away any preconceived ideas.

In the documentary category, the jury mentioned being very impressed with the selection. They commended the variety of the topics and felt that the majority of the documentaries was very strong. Without much debate, Best Documentary was awarded to the Kenyan documentary Softie by the Kenyan Sam Soko. “It is increasingly important that we not only share our stories but protect the artists that do so,” shared Soko. Influence, directed by Diana Neille and Richard Poplak, scooped the award for Best South African Documentary. The jury commended Influence for bringing a journalistic knife edge to film.

The jury had to debate longer about the awards handed out to the feature films of the festival. Opening film This is Not a Burial, It’s a Resurrection by Lemohang Jerimiah Mosese was awarded for Artistic Bravery and Best Direction. The jury felt this film was a work of art. The late Mary Twala, referred to as the matriarch of the industry, was rewarded this year’s Best Actress Award.

Film Stam (The Tree), directed by Louw Venter won the Best South African Film Award. One of the jury members noted: “The Tree is succeeding in taking an entire South African population and condensing it in 1 film in a very successful way”.

Best Cinematography Award went to Take Me Somewhere Nice by Ena Sendijarevic. Farewell Amor scooped two awards for Best Screenplay and Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwire was awarded for Best Actor, the first award that he has ever received as an actor. In his speech, he mentioned the profound impact that the late, great Joseph Shabalala had on his career.

The Awards for Best Editing and Best Film were awarded to Force of Habit a film from Finland, directed by seven directors and edited by nine editors. The directors are Kirsikka Saari, Elli Toivoniemi, Anna Paavilainen, Alli Haapasalo, Reetta Aalto, Jenni Toivoniemi and Miia Tervo.

The Amnesty International Human Rights Award was given to FADMA: Even Ants Have Wings by Jawad Rhalib. Navlia RawHeath from Amnesty International Durban shared that the film was chosen because of its fascinating depiction of the passive resistance and gentle yet firm action towards changing deep-seated prejudices about stereotypical roles of the sexes.

The features jury consisted of Angus Gibson and Layla Swaart from South Africa. Mykel Parish Ajaere from Nigeria, Or Lee-Tal from Israel and Abbessi Akhamie from the USA. The short film jury consisted of Bongi Ndaba, Edmund Mhlongo, Teboho Pietersen, Jayan Moodley from South Africa and Munyaradzi Chidzonga from Zimbabwe.

The documentary jury consisted of Lesedi Moche, Monica Rorvik, Theresa Hill and Enver Samuel from South Africa and Dr Cynthia Fuchs from the USA.

LA LUCIA ANTIQUE AND COLLECTABLE FAIR

The La Lucia Antique and Collectable Fair will be back in full swing on Sunday October 4, 2020.

All the traders will be displaying their treasures and the Fair takes place on the lower ground floor at La Lucia Mall and runs from 09h00 to 15h30. Entry is free.

 

EVITA’S NEW LOOK

(Evita Bezuidenhout. Pics by Hentie van der Merwe - hentie@darlingsweet.co.za)

Evita Bezuidenhout (aka Pieter-Dirk Uys) celebrates her 85th birthday with a new look.

"Six months of lockdown meant I couldn’t get to the hairdresser for my weekly repairs,” she says. I was horrified at first to notice a silver lining to the dark brown. By Level 2, I had taken my scissors and snipped away gently into a practical style. Clicks then sent me a wonderful gift of shampoo. Now it's short, soft and manageable. How many women were in the same situation? No wonder the pandemic becomes a damn panic, forcing us to adapt and not dye!

"Turning 85 demands a new energy from me. Once the world squirms out of its straitjacket of isolation and fear, the so-called ‘new normal’ might be too much like the Depression of the 1930s which led to the rise of Fascism. The economic outlook is bleak. Political vision is lacking. A confused collective ANC leadership is unable to lead. The invisible Covid-19 virus has made the virus of corruption, empowerment and capture even more visible. Meanwhile, there is nothing we can do to change the reality of Covid-19. So stick to the rules of survival.

"Focus on your family, friends, neighbours and community. The many examples of good neighbourliness and support during the past six months have inspired me. President Ramaphosa has said members of the ANC known to be corrupt must leave their positions. It is time to find the honest comrades. Life will go on with or without Covid. Let us make community the jewel in the crown of democracy. Let the buck not stop with government; it will be captured. The buck now stops with us. The future now starts with us. The tender for orange jumpsuits is open for business.

Watch this space (with your mask on!) - @TannieEvita

SMALL PLEASURES: REVIEW

Chambers depicts beautifully the society of the post-war years with its shibboleths, a world more easily shocked and more gullible than ours, but in its own way more resilient and kinder. (Margaret von Klemperer, courtesy of the Witness)

If someone merely gave a précis of the plot of Small Pleasures, it might sound unutterably bleak, but in the skilled and compassionate hands of Clare Chambers, it is pure delight. There is glorious dry humour, a clever plot and pitch-perfect period detail.

The novel is set in 1950s England, a time when any pleasures for the suburban middle classes were inevitably small – the first cigarette of the day, a bar of chocolate, the unexpected treat of a day out or a new acquaintance. Jean Swinney is a reporter on a local newspaper and as the only woman on the staff looks after the household hints and so-called women’s interest stories, small and parochial ones. Then one day something with a bit more meat on it lands on her desk: a local woman is claiming that her ten-year-old daughter was the product of a virgin birth. No man was involved. If the story pans out, it will be the making of Jean, and the paper.

There was no DNA testing then, and the idea of parthenogenesis was causing interest in scientific circles. So Jean sets off to meet the Tilburys. Like anyone who has ever worked in a newsroom, for Jean a story like that sets the cynicism antennae quivering. But she finds herself liking Gretchen, her daughter Margaret and her initially unprepossessing husband Howard. And the story seems curiously believable. Gretchen was in a convent sanatorium dormitory with rheumatoid arthritis when the conception must have occurred.

Jean’s life becomes deeply involved with the Tilbury family, relishing the contact and the investigation. It is a relief from her humdrum life which involves her dull and largely unappreciated work and looking after her querulous and increasingly frail mother. Chambers depicts beautifully the society of the post-war years with its shibboleths, a world more easily shocked and more gullible than ours, but in its own way more resilient and kinder.

The tension is maintained throughout, though the questions that are asked are small ones in the wider scheme of life. Even the minor characters are rounded and believable and the sympathy we feel, particularly for Jean and Howard, is genuine. Small Pleasures is the sort of book that will stick in the memory for a long time after the final, tragic, page is turned.

Small Pleasures by Clare Chambers is published by Weidenfeld & Nicolson. ISBN-13: 9781474613910 - Margaret von Klemperer

MAIS QUE NADA! AT ST CLEMENTS

Well-known director Pieter Scholtz, St Clements’ Mondays at Six programme organiser, invites you to share an evening of rousing Portuguese Latino old-school music with Durban’s “fabulous kick-arse” group: Mais Que Nada!

Featuring John Skuy, Tony Fisher and other members of this first-rate show-band, popular on the Durban music scene for the past ten years, the show takes place on October 5, 2020, at 18h00.

Expect a lot “more than nothing” (to translate their name from Portuguese). As this is a pass-the-hat gig for the band with no couvert, please be sure and put R50 or more into the donations box when it is passed around.

Wear a mask. Outdoor seating - bring a blanket and dress warmly. Maximum four guests per table.

Table bookings essential through St Clements on 031 202 2511. (Seating limited. No walk-ins.)

Bookings limited to diners only in support of St Clements restaurant and staff. To help with safe distancing, patrons are requested to arrive before 18h00 to open tab and place orders. If you wish to dine after the presentation, place your order before 18h00.

St Clements is situated at 191 Musgrave Road. Mondays @ Six programmes run between 18h00 and 19h00.

Follow Mais Que Nada! on Facebook.

LIVE JAZZ MEDITATION AT ST CLEMENTS

Well-known musician and commercial strategist Naresh Veeran will be performing in a "pay what you can" Live Jazz Meditation Duet on Saturday (October 3, 2020) at St Clements on Musgrave.

Swing by for some enjoyable old school jazz. The music starts at 15h00.

Booking is essential through St Clements on 031 202 2511. St Clements is situated at 191 Musgrave Road.

ST CLEMENTS SHORT STORY CONTEST

 Deadline: October 14, 2020

 Calling all St Clements scribes and would-be scribes in and around Durban and across the world. The no-boundaries St Clements “Mondays at Six” event is open to all.

 -New Short Story Contest

-       -Theme: The Bells of St Clements and The Belles of St Clements.

-       -Story length: 500 words.

The contest closes Wednesday October 14, 2020 at midnight South African time.

Email your entry/entries on or before this date to Wanda Hennig at wandahennig@gmail.com

The subject line must indicate “St Clements Short Story Contest” and Your Name.

Hennig will reply, to acknowledge your email has been received. She won’t read or check the entries. Any without names or that don’t follow the guidelines will – unfortunately - be deleted.

Your story can be a Word doc or a cut-and-paste. Either way, write the story title and your name (yes, again) in the body of the email. In this way she can easily keep tabs on entries received. You may enter more than one story. Each story must come in a separate email and follow the same guidelines.

Winner/s will be announced at the November 2, 2020, “Monday at Six at St Clements” soiree. Most likely the winning story will be read. Details to be decided.

The Judge will be writer and author, Graham Linscott. You can subscribe to Graham’s writings on "Linscott at Large of Patreon".

For more information contact Wanda Hennig on 072-664-3170 or email wandahennig@gmail.com

 

RODHAM: REVIEW

This book is a powerfully written story that combines fact and fiction in a finely woven, intricately entwined tale of what actually happened and “what ifs”. (Review by Fiona de Goede)

What if Hillary had said no the third time Bill proposed? How would things have turned out for them, for America, for the world? This is the question the author asks – and answers - in the novel Rodham written by Curtis Sittenfeld.

Hillary Diane Rodham is a highly intelligent and ambitious woman who knows, from a young age, that she wants to make a difference and wants to make her mark on the world. At the beginning of the novel, beautifully illustrated and with fascinating detail, the reader gets to know the young Hillary and realizes that she is ahead of her time. At Wellesley, at her graduation, she makes her first groundbreaking speech that is so powerful that it attracts national media attention, including that of Life magazine.

She attends Yale Law School where, in 1969 as a first year, only about 10% of the students are female. It is during her second year at Yale that she first sees Bill Clinton and is immediately drawn to his physical presence and she compares his stature and appearance to that of a lion.

The first half of the book deals with Hillary’s relationships with her family, school friends and students and, of course, her growing feelings towards Bill. As their feelings for one another develop into a more serious relationship, she follows him to Arkansas. Bill Clinton, from a very early stage, has his political career very clearly mapped out. Hillary supports him in these endeavours and assists him in his campaigns to earn votes. She pursues her own career during this time of being his girlfriend but she definitely takes a step back in her own ambitions to help him fulfil his dream of one day, becoming president.

An incident that is brought to Hillary’s attention and which Bill denies, is the catalyst that causes her to leave Bill. At the age of twenty-three she walks away from the man that she truly loved and it’s the hardest thing she has ever had to do.

The second half of the book deals with Hillary Rodham without Bill. It focuses on her career and her political life. This is where the reader needs to be able to come to grips with what is fiction and what is historical fact. At times it felt quite surreal and it was rather challenging getting one’s head around the real and the unreal life of Hillary Rodham.

Once one comes to grips with this, it becomes more fascinating to imagine what could have perhaps happened if Hillary had indeed said no to Bill Clinton. There are parts of the book that deal extensively with politics, fundraising and campaigning and this allows the reader a glimpse into the workings behind the scenes of electioneering and campaigning. Of course, no presidential campaign is ever fought, or won, without playing dirty and without accusations being flung in all directions. Hillary Rodham has her fair share of this and how she deals with it is intriguing.

This book is a powerfully written story that combines fact and fiction in a finely woven, intricately entwined tale of what actually happened and what ifs.

Curtis Sittenfeld is a wonderful author and I have always been a fan of her work. Several of her other books, American Wife, Sisterland, The Man of my Dreams, to mention a few, I thoroughly enjoyed but Rodham, in my opinion is probably her most ambitious novel to date. Having said that though, I suspect readers will either love it or hate it. I doubt whether there will be an in-between emotion when it comes to this book!

Rodham is published by Penguin Random House - ISBN 978-0-8575-2613-7 - Fiona de Goede

 

‘DUST’ FLIES INTO DSTV BOXOFFICE

Following the phenomenal reaction to writer/director Pieter du Plessis’s debut feature film, DUST at its World Premiere as the closing film of the Durban International Film Festival on September 19, 2020, it was announced by Sanjeev Singh, Videovision Entertainment’s Director of Distribution and Acquisition that the film will be released on DSTV BoxOffice on October 9, 2020.

DUST follows Rachel (Shana Mans) and her traumatised family who find asylum at a remote farmstead in a barren landscape.  She believes that they have found a place to rest before moving on again, until the matriarch of the farm asks her to marry one of her sons. This sets off a cascade of clashing allegiances and ideologies that become more and more constricting to the young woman, her disabled father and adopted little brother. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, DUST is a slow burning tension thriller.

DUST, which features female lead characters, delves into issues that impact on feminism in the modern world. The film looks at the different roles women play in society as they alternately fight against, and participate in, the systems that oppress them. DUST also explores toxic masculinity, in the form of the overtly abusive kind, and also the more benign forms that it sometimes takes in our society.

Pieter du Plessis said, “The release of DUST on DSTV BoxOffice gives us an opportunity to share the film with a wider audience.  For me, making a thriller like DUST is about taking the right tone, and how I could move audiences towards the emotions I wanted them to experience. I hope that audiences are immersed in this experience and feel that they are part of the narrative.”

Sanjeev Singh commented, “We are pleased to have concluded arrangements to make DUST available on DSTV BoxOffice platform from October 9, 2020. DUST is a cinematic achievement for Pieter who crafted an engaging thriller that audiences will be able to experience in the comfort of their homes.”

DUST is an Anant Singh presentation of a Local Motion Pictures & Videovision Entertainment Production in partnership with the Department of Trade & Industry & Rigel Films. The film stars Shana Mans, Michelle Bradshaw, Kaz Mcfadden, Gustav Gerdener, Danielle Goodall, Deon Coetzee, Justin Strydom, Christian Gous and David Butler. It is Executive Produced by Sudhir Pragjee, Sanjeev Singh & Robert Naidoo; Produced by Anant Singh & Greig Buckle and Written & Directed by Pieter du Plessis.

NALEDI THEATRE AWARDS NEW ONLINE CATEGORY

Following the successful online live streaming of the 16th Annual Naledi Theatre Awards, the Naledi task team and judges are assessing the theatre scene for 2021.

“As restrictions on live theatre continue to constrict productions, we have decided to introduce a new category, that of ONLINE Productions,” said CEO and Artistic Director Dawn Lindberg. “All the same criteria will apply as for live productions, in that the online shows need to be fully professional other than those falling into the tertiary/incubator category, but there will be no minimum number of performances required.

“All Naledi judges will need to be given free access to watch the online productions and we are currently drawing up a special panel of judges for this purpose. The date for the 2021 Naledi Awards is currently set for Monday June 28, 2021, at the Joburg Theatre.”

Included so far are the live productions staged during 2020 up to lockdown and immediately commencing now for online and live theatre until June 1, 2021.

The judges will only watch online shows to which they have been specifically invited, and so all producers need to formally invite Naledi judges through the chairman of the judging panels, Renos Spanoudes, on rnspanoudes@gmail.com

FOLDS AND FAULT EXHIBITION: VIRTUAL PREVIEW

(Invitation features a work by Selloane Moeti, Umfazi Wethu, 2019, Red clay and oil paint on canvas)

Art curator, Carol Brown who is the founder of the art consultancy Curate.A.Space and a former director of the Durban Art Gallery – welcomes art lovers with a new project:

“As we all know, the Visual Arts sector has really suffered from isolation but I am glad to say we are back on track.  Things have changed for galleries and exhibitions but we, at Curate.A.Space, have faced the challenge and spent some time during lockdown in upskilling our Internet skills. One of the outcomes of this is that we are now showing an Instagram preview of the exhibition Folds and Faults, Brown explains.

“This exhibition had been planned for July 2020 in the Johannes Stegmann Gallery at the University of the Free State. This was obviously a no- go and we are happy to report that the gallery have committed to showing it in their space next year in July 2021 where they celebrate their annual Arts Festival with great events.

“And just as a bonus we are now offering an Instagram preview of the exhibition. Do follow it and see some exciting new works from African women artists working around the theme of women's lives,” she adds.

Those interested in more information about artists, prices, etc should contact Curate.A.Space at curateaspace.com

PAIN & GLORY FOR M-NET

(Right: Antonio Banderas)

M-Net (channel 101) will screen the movie Pain & Glory tomorrow (September 27, 2020) at 22h45.

Oscar-winner Pedro Almodóvar directs Antonio Banderas in this moving film. A director, suffering from a chronic illness, reflects on his life choices.

The film narrates a series of reunions of Salvador Mallo (Antonio Banderas), a film director in his decline. Some of these reunions play out in real time, others are recalled through flashbacks: his childhood in the 1960s, when he moved with his family to the primitive village of Paterna, his schooling, his first adult love in Madrid in the 1980s, the pain of the breakup of this relationship, writing as a therapy to forget, the discovery of cinema, facing the impossibility of continuing filming, etc.

Pain and Glory stars Asier Etxeandia, Antonio Banderas, Penélope Cruz, Julieta Serrano and Leonardo Sbaraglia.

 

THE RHYTHM SECTION FOR M-NET

(Right: Blake Lively stars as Stephanie Patrick)

M-Net will screen the action drama, The Rhythm Section, on Channel 101 tomorrow, September 27, 2020, at 20h30.

Stephanie Patrick veers down a path of self-destruction after a tragic plane crash kills her family. When she discovers it wasn't an accident, she turns to a former CIA operative who can help her find the culprits. But her quest to uncover the truth soon turns into a full-blown quest for revenge as Patrick decides to punish those responsible.

Blake Lively plays a woman on a mission in this gritty revenge movie which also stars Jude Law, Sterling K Brown and Raza Jaffrey.

FASHION HANDBOOK SA FIRST ONLINE DESIGNER DIRECTORY

An exciting new platform connecting South African fashion and design entrepreneurs with consumers was launched on September 2, 2020. Fashion Handbook SA has produced the first online Designer Directory featuring the best contemporary South African fashion brands with the aim of helping to boost the local fashion market.

The platform is a single point of discovery for a diverse set of local fashion brands and businesses providing consumers with easy, convenient, and direct access to the industry’s most noteworthy designers and fashion brands. “For consumers who enjoy staying ahead of the style-curve, and aspire to support local fashion, then our platform - via the directory - offers an extensive resource to discover a wide array of high quality, stylishly created products,’’ says owner and publisher, Leanne Tlhagoane.

The idea is to create an ongoing, relevant directory of contemporary fashion brands in line with Fashion Handbook SA’s broader purpose, which is to amplify fashion voices, talent, and people in Southern Africa. “We believe that supporting local fashion creatives is fundamental to the fashion Eco-system and, by cultivating a strong fashion community that is invested in and committed to local talent, everyone can flourish,’’ explains Tlhagoane.

Fashion Handbook SA continues to spotlight fashion brands and talent across social media. Their Instagram account (which now boasts a community of more than 5,000 followers) highlights contemporary brands like Thebe Magugu, Rich Mnisi, Amanda Laird Cherry, Mantsho by Palesa Mokubung as well as new and exciting emerging designer brands.

The directory will champion all independently-owned South African fashion brands which are focused and invested in building their brands, their businesses and their consumer base. Design entrepreneurs are encouraged to sign up to be listed on the directory which aims to be the most comprehensive listing of all South African fashion brands and businesses.

The ongoing threat of Covid-19 and the subsequent economic aftermath brings with it serious challenges for the creative sector. The organisation hopes this new platform and initiative will help to create greater visibility, better interactivity, bigger audiences and more value to South Africa’s talented fashion creatives. And, further aid development of a greater pipeline within which the industry as a whole can flourish.

For more information, visit:

https://fashionhandbook.co.za/

https://www.thebemagugu.com/

https://www.richmnisi.com/

https://mantsho.com/

http://www.amandalairdcherry.com/

THE SOLIDARITY RELIEF CONCERT

(Pic courtesy of Andre Kriel’s Facebook page)

The Solidarity Express will present The Solidarity Relief Concert supported by the National Arts Council.

“Music speaks what cannot be expressed, soothes the mind and gives it rest; heals the heart and makes it whole, flows from heaven to the soul.” – Author Unknown

The world has changed, it cannot be denied. We have been propelled into a technical world way faster than we ever imagined. Through history, music has played an integral part of the unification of souls all over the world. People are desperate for healing and an effective way to share the music that lifts our spirits and gives us hope. This concert aims to deliver this message of hope, unity and a feel-good healing factor to the world at large during these tough times. The songs talk of solidarity, human rights, harmony and tolerance amongst peoples and nations.

The concert introduces The Solidarity Express to a global audience in order to raise funds for South African grassroots artists left vulnerable by Covid-19. Funding is collated by Business and Arts South Africa (BASA) into their Solidarity Relief Fund.

Music is a constant emotively evolving art that feeds the mind, heart and soul. It continues to play a key role in driving change and creating social cohesion and harmony. Music allows cross cultural collaboration and provides a voice for the powerless. The intention is to convey positive energy to a world in desperate need of healing and aims to spread a feel-good solidarity factor.

With the core group based in South Africa, this high energy, star-studded, multi-genre and multi-cultural musical offering focuses on sending a positive message of reconciliation and goodwill with like-minded artists and nations around the world.

(Dan Chiorboli)

The group includes Dan Chiorboli from The Liberation Project on percussion, Andre Kriel from The Black Cat Bones on guitar / vocals, Mpho Koopedi from The Muffinz on keyboards / vocals, Black Moses Ngwenya from the legendary Soul Brothers on Hammond organ, acclaimed Nigerian afrobeat star Femi Koya on saxophone / vocals, jazz and gospel solo artist Tebogo “AusTebza” Sedumedi on bass / vocals, in demand session drummer Peter Djamba originally from the DRC, young violin prodigy Neo Motsatse, Ann Masina from the Soweto Gospel Choir on vocals, young Malawian songstress Tamani Mbeya on vocals, Justin Sasman from Bombshelter Beast on trombone, tuba and accordion, South African local legend Cindy Alter from Clout on vocals and Jack Lerole Jnr on the penny whistle. Renowned poet Flo Mokale and Sean Brokensha “The Music Guru” will act as MC’s.

International Special Guests include ace UK producer and guitarist Phil Manzanera from Roxy Music and Pink Floyd fame, Cuban young guns Michel Herrera on saxophone and Fernando Galindo on vocals from the Madre Tierra Salsa Group in Havana and the “Jimi Hendrix of the kora” N’Faly Kouyate from Guinea in West Africa. This stellar international line-up is completed by two Italian superstars - Cisco Bellotti from the Modena City Ramblers and multi award-winning rock icon and rapper Jovanotti.

Add caption

(Qadasi & Maqhinga)

Local guests include Kobus de Kock Jnr from The Black Cat Bones in a unique Afrikaans / Spanish collaboration with the Cubans and SAMA Award Winners Qadasi & Maqhinga performing a specially-written anti-rhino poaching song in a Zulu maskanda style with adventurer Kingsley Holgate from Project Rhino.

The concert will be broadcast on PlatformZA at 18h00 (SA time) tomorrow, September 27, 2020, and will also include messages from supporters and documentary footage from stakeholders close to the project.

The concert is produced by Dan Chiorboli and Andre Kriel in association with Blond Productions.

The entire concert is available to view for the next 6 months on PlatformZA, South Africa’s brand new Digital pay-per-view channel.

For more information visit www.platformza.tv or www.solidarityexpress.co.za

WOODSTOCK: REVIEW

(Jason Andrew, Barry Thomson, Marion Loudon, Mali Sewell & Dawn Selby. Pic by Bev Millar)

I have in the past suggested that “Woodstock” is the best of their many productions. And nothing I heard on this occasion dissuades me from that sentiment. (Review by Keith Millar)

The re-opening of Durban’s Rhumbelow Theatre after the lockdown has been a godsend for those of us who love live theatre.

But now the theatre is offering the ultimate therapy for the trials and tribulations we have had to endure over the past six months. Woodstock is back!

The show features Durban’s wonderful tribute band, The Reals, and celebrates one of the most seminal events in music history the legendry Woodstock festival.

This year marks the 51st anniversary of the festival which took place from August 15 to 18, 1969, on Max Yasgur's 600-acre dairy farm in the New York town of Bethel. Thirty thousand were expected to attend but in the end over 400,000 young people arrived to enjoy over 32 acts in an atmosphere of peace, love, and harmony.

The Reals do an excellent of re-creating that atmosphere with the added ingredients of energy, excitement, and dynamism. They all put their hearts and souls into what is spectacular performance.

The band is made up of the incomparable Barry Thomson (guitar / vocals), Musical Director Dawn Selby (keyboards / vocals), Mali Sewell (drums / vocals) and Jason Andrew (bass guitar / vocals). For this production, they are joined by the vivacious and super-talented Marion Loudon (vocals / percussion).

There are many highlights in this show but perhaps none more than the band's superb rendition of Santana’s Soul Sacrifice where each member is given the opportunity to show off their brilliance on their instruments. A memorable moment.

Right up there is Marion Loudon’s stirring delivery of Janis Joplin’s Me and Bobby McGee, while her versions of The Band’s I Shall Be Released, Melanie’s Lay Down (Candles In The Rain), Scott Mackenzie’s San Francisco and The Who’s See Me are also excellent.

Dawn Selby also delivered a Janis Joplin song. Her powerful rendition of Piece Of My Heart is splendid. She is, of course, part of nearly every song as a back-up singer.

Jason Andrew contributes with Country Joe’s I-Feel-Like-I'm-Fixin'-to-Die, Arlo Guthrie’s Coming Into Los Angeles and The Band’s The Weight.

Mali Sewell sings Joe Cocker’s version of The Letter, and Joni Mitchel’s 1970 tribute to the festival Woodstock.

Guitar supremo, and frontman of The Reals, Barry Thomson, performs Richie Haven’s Freedom, Tim Hardin’s If I Were a Carpenter, CCR’s Fortunate Son, Canned Heat’s On The Road Again, See Me and My Generation (part of a medley of The Who’s songs), and Joe Cocker’s covers of Feelin’ Alright and With a Little Help From My Friends.

But it was his performance of Jimi Hendrix’s Voodoo Child and Star Spangled Banner which brought the house down. No matter how often you hear Thomson play this music, you cannot help but be moved.

The Real’s have performed Woodstock on many occasions, but the show remains fresh and invigorating. I have in the past suggested that it is the best of their many productions. And nothing I heard on this occasion dissuades me from that sentiment.

The show runs from September 25 to 27 and again from October 2 to 4. Performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 18h30 and on Sundays at 14h00. (Venue opens 60 minutes before show for snacks/drinks)

“Whilst we are not changing our 2020 pricing, we would ask that if you are able to please assist us and the performers by donating a higher ticket price,” says Rhumbelow Theatre’s director, Roland Stansell.

Tickets R160 (R140 pensioners and students with a valid student card apply for the first weekend only. Loyalty Card Holders R130.

ALL TICKETS MUST BE PRE-BOOKED

NO WALK-INS ALLOWED

75 PEOPLE MAX PER SHOW (50% capacity)

Rhumbelow Theatre is situated at 42 Cunningham Road off Bartle Road, Durban. Limited secure parking is available and there is a cash bar (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises). Bring food picnic baskets or buy from Kevin.

Booking is essential on email: roland@stansell.co.za

For more information contact 082 499 8636 or visit http://events.durbantheatre.com/ - Keith Millar

ALL SEATING WILL BE AT SEPARATE TABLES AND WE WILL OBVIOUSLY BE SEATING CO-HABITING COUPLES AND/OR FAMILY MEMBERS.

 

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING COVID-19 HEALTH AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS FOR PATRONS

1. Patrons need to wear a face and nose covering at all times in the venue except when eating or drinking.

2. All patrons will have their temperatures taken on arrival at the venue.

3. All patrons will be required to complete documents relating to Travel and Covid-19 contacts.

4. All patrons will be required to complete an indemnity form.

5. All patrons will be required to complete an attendance register with all appropriate information including confirmation of co-habiting when couples attend.

6. All patrons will be hand sanitized on arrival and at interval.

7. All patrons will be requested to bring hand sanitizer with them to the venue.

8. Any patron who does not meet the required Health & Safety protocols and temperature check will be refused entry.

9. Patrons above the age of 60 or a person with co-morbidities will be discouraged from attending performances. (Note: Discouraged as per Government Guidelines  – please be guided by your own health status)

AFDA SHORT FILMS AT BOTHO

 

As part of the Botho festival this year at the Wushwini Pan African Centre taking place from September 24 to 27, 2020, a selection of short films will be shown on Sunday, September 27, 2020.

Three films from AFDA Durban are among the selection of this Live & Virtual Heritage International Festival. 

They are Tied Knots, Luella and Disconnected.

AFDA Head of School, Sir Roel Twijnstra, will conduct a workshop about storytelling and screen acting. 

Titled Telling Stories through Film, the workshop will focus on the emotional relevance screen actors should have that relate them to a South African audience.

 

The workshop will take place at 12 noon on September 27. 

Tickets available at Webtickets.

For more information, contact Amanda Ngcobo on 061 236 7230 or visit the wushwini website on www.wushwinipanafrican.org

BOTHO FESTIVAL: SEPTEMBER 24-27, 2020

The 7th Annual Botho Live and Virtual Heritage International Arts Festival takes place from September 24 to 27, 2020.

Wushwini Pan African Centre stages its ground-breaking festival this month on Virtual Platform and Live.

Wushwini Pan African Centre, spearheaded by its founder, Jerry Pooe, will host a four-day arts festival titled Botho Live and Virtual Heritage International Arts Festival ‘umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu’. This exciting cultural initiative runs from September 24 to 27 at Wushwini Pan African Centre, overlooking the scenic Inanda Dam in KwaNgcolosi, Kwa-Zulu Natal.

Says Festival Director, Jerry Pooe: “We warmly welcome all our Botho Live and Virtual Heritage International Arts Festival artists and audiences. This seventh annual festival is happening during difficult times of COVID 19 when the whole world is fighting the virus that is ravishing our people .As artists we will never give up in feeding the souls of our nations hence we continue with our annual festival, together we can beat the virus, while celebrating our freedom as South Africans. It is therefore important that we celebrate who we are. Without our heritage, our culture, our roots, our history, we are a lost nation. ‘Botho’ is a Sotho word meaning ‘ubuntu’. Non practice of ubuntu, which is what defines us as Africans, leaves us soulless humans. It is thus we stage the festival by beating the drums to revive ubuntu bethu, togetherness, loving each other, protecting one another and taking care of one another.

“This year we have a strong line up with national and international acclaimed artists,” Pooe adds.

(Left: Madala Kunene. Pic by Val Adamson)

 -Madala Kunene, Mfiliseni Magubane, Matshitshi Ngema and Mancushe to be showcased virtual on their Mokete Wadikatara concert on September 26 at 12pm

 -Afro Soul performing Live at Wushwini Pan African Centre on September 25 at 19h00

 -Bongani Mavuso Live and poets from South Africa and the continent, Dance Fusion celebrating different cultures Indian, Portuguese and Zulu dance on September 27 at 14h00

 -Ngcolosi Home Boys as well as short films by AFDA.

The festival is also hosting a Tourism Seminar titled Opportunities in Rural, Township and Cultural Tourism. 

Pooe continues: “The programme is diverse and rich. Live and Virtual Heritage International Arts Festival features a vibrant programme of acts by a strong line-up of groups and companies from KwaZulu-Natal, Botswana, Republic of Congo, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Nigeria, Gauteng and Free State, showcasing quality dance, music, theatre, storytelling, exhibitions , film, seminars, workshops, fashion, crafts, wine tasting and poetry. We are sincerely grateful to Ethekwini Municipality, Durban Tourism and KZN Department of Arts and Culture for supporting the festival, not forgetting all the participants and partners who believe in the vision of this festival, and all Wushwini and Eager Artists staff for the hard work in ensuring the success of this festival. We invite you to participate and to enjoy the rare experience in our Kingdom.”

The tickets for both live and virtual shows can be found at Webticket and Virtual shows tickets can be found on www.satod.co.za

For more information, contact Amanda Ngcobo on 061 236 7230 or visit the wushwini website on www.wushwinipanafrican.org

LOUW VENTER’S ‘STAM’ (THE TREE) WINS BEST SA FILM AT DIFF

Stam (The Tree), the new film written and directed by Louw Venter and produced by the team behind the multi-award winners Inxeba (The Wound, 2017) and This is not a Burial, It’s a Resurrection, 2020, has scooped the award for Best South African Film at the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF). This is the third time that the award has been taken home by work produced by Urucu with a first-time director at the helm.

The film had its world premiere in competition at this year’s DIFF, and won over the jurors with its authentic glimpse into the lives of people living on the fringes of society.

“As an outsider, I felt Stam shows the South African social texture in a very special and intriguing way, depicting the various strata of the population living side by side, making it seem like it could not be otherwise,” said juror Or Lee Tal from Israel.

“Stam is a testament to the evolution of the South African film narrative, with brutal honesty, lack of pretension and a determined yearning for truth,” said Layla Swart, a local producer and juror. “It comes out of nowhere to completely win you over with its sincerity and sheer heart.”

“We are so excited to have won this prestigious award,” says director Louw Venter. “This year’s programme was vibrant and diverse and it is a true honour for Stam to have been recognised in this way. It is particularly significant that an Afrikaans language film can compete in a festival that is truly representative and independent. We are deeply honoured to be included in the global cinematic conversation. We are grateful to the organiser, the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Centre for Creative Arts, and to all the organisations and partners who worked so hard to put DIFF together in these strange and difficult times.”

The film tells an unpredictable story that avoids political correctness as it explores the inner world of a group of people who want nothing more than to belong. Stam is a choral narrative which follows the interlinked lives of five vastly different characters over the course of a few hours in inner-city Cape Town. The theme of human connection lies at the heart of the film. It’s an exploration of the ties that bind us and that exist independent of familiarity, economics, gender, race or social standing. Cape Town, too, with its particular brand of tribalism, decay, magic, gentrification, globalisation and regeneration, plays a central role in the film.

Stam features a strong ensemble cast, led by Inge Beckmann (8, The Dark Tower, Troy: Fall of a City, Escape Room), Gideon Lombard (Suidooster, Lien se Lankstaanskoene, Black Sails, Twee Grade van Moord), Tarryn Wyngaard (Tess, Noem My Skollie, Arendsvlei), Niza Jay (Inxeba, Valedictory), with supporting performances by Armand Aucamp (Sterlopers, Ballade vir ‘n Enekling, Wat kook by Andre Aucamp), Nicola Hanekom (Sinbad, Song vir Katryn, Isidingo, Charlie Jade, Fishy Feshuns, Shado's and Heartlines), Jill Levenberg (Noem my Skollie, Suidooster, Rugby Motors, Final Verdict Stokvel, A Place Called Home), and Oscar Peterson (Vloeksteen, Die Byl, Traffic!, Suidooster, Die Boland Moorde, Swartwater, Sara se Geheim and Parlement Parlement).

“In terms of character, plot and storytelling, Stam is an excellent film and a deserving winner,” says Helen Kuun, MD of Indigenous Film Distribution, and distributor of Stam.

Stam will also be available on KKNK’s (Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees) digital screening platform from September 21 to October 1. Thereafter, the film will follow a new model of theatrical release on BoxOffice from October 2.

“It’s exciting to be trying something totally new by partnering with BoxOffice for Stam’s commercial South African début,” says producer Elias Ribeiro of production company Urucu. “We are thrilled by how well the film has been received, particularly by the Afrikaans community, since this is our first work in Afrikaans. We look forward to the film being widely available to audiences in the safety and comfort of their homes. Another key benefit of this partnership is that the film will also be available in countries across Africa.”

Stam was produced with the support of M-Net, kykNet, the Department of Trade and Industry of South Africa (DTI), the Netherlands Film Fund, the Netherlands Film Production Incentive and the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF).

Indigenous Film Distribution: www.indigenousfilm.co.za

MRS AMERICA FOR M-NET

(Cate Blanchett)

Women’s rights are at the Centre stage in M-Net's Mrs America!

Prepare for heated debates between two competing women’s organizations when Mrs America, the new critically acclaimed FX limited series, debuts on M-Net 101 on Monday, September 28, at 21h30. Driven by a formidable female ensemble, this is a must-watch 10 Emmy nominee limited series.

Centred on a crucial moment in US history, this nine-part thriller, is the latest creation by Dahvi Waller, the talented producer and director who is well-known for her inputs to the award-winning series Mad Men and Desperate Housewives. In this bold series, she focuses on the rivalry between the feminist movement and the conservative movement in the United States.

In the series, the two-time Academy Award and the Golden Globe Award recipient, Cate Blanchett, is mesmerizing as the pretty contentious conservative Phyllis Schafly, the leader of the ERA rebellion. Emmy and Golden Globe Award winner Sarah Paulson (Glass), who plays Alice Macray, Phyllis' best friend, joins her efforts to block ERA ratification. Elizabeth Banks (30 Rock and Modern Family) shines as another prominent activist at the time, Jill Ruckelshaus - a former White House special assistant.

It is 1972, and a group of second-wave feminists is fighting for equal rights for women through the Equal Rights Amendment. But shockingly, conservative author Phyllis Schlafly launches a STOP ERA campaign, waging a war of words with the feminist group. As a housewife and mother of six children, she claims that the ERA will stand in the way of women's roles as wives and mothers, thereby diminishing the traditional family structures that existed at the time.

Fighting in opposition to Blanchett are several massive stars.

As the iconic feminist and activist Gloria Steinem, who is one of the co-founders of the National Organization for Women and the National Women's Political Caucus, is Emmy Award nominated Australian actress, Rose Byrne (Damages).

Rallying beside her is Emmy and Golden Globe Award winner Uzo Aduba (Orange is the New Black), who beautifully captures the fire that ignited in the magnificent Shirley Chisolm, who became the first black woman ever elected to the US Congress.

Other big stars that viewers can look forward to seeing include Margo Martindale (Sneaky Pete), Melanie Lynskey (Two and a Half Men), Jeanne Tripplehorn (Grey Gardens), Tracey Ullman (The Tracey Ullman Show), as well as John Slattery (Mad Men) and James Marsden (Westworld).

Mrs America debuts on M-Net 101 on Monday, September 28, at 21h30.

For more information visit mnet.tv. To join the conversation, follow M-Net on Twitter @MNet (#MNet101 #Mrs America #DStvPremium ) or on the official M-Net Facebook page.

CLUB ALTITUDE CELEBRATES 5TH ANNIVERSARY

The popular Club Altitude entertainment venue in Silver Road, Durban, will celebrate its 5^th anniversary on Saturday, September 26, 2020.

On offer will be live entertainment, dress-up and best dressed prizes. There will also be flea market stalls, a food court, a coffee shop, cocktails, give-aways, massages, and mystery prizes.

Free entry all day from 11h00 to 21h45.

Numbers are limited – book your place on Watsapp 064 476 9533.

OnStage@Altitude is situated at 25 Silver Avenue in Greyville, Durban.

MR JOHNSON WORLD PREMIERE

(Paul Slabolepszy & Jana Cilliers)

Director and award-winning cinematographer, William Collinson (Double Echo, Last Broken Darkness), offers a new take on ageism in his latest film, Mr Johnson. The film will have its world premiere at this year’s Garden Route International Film Festival (September 21– October 11 2020).

When David Johnson awakes from a 47-year coma at the age of 73, he has a hard time dealing with his aged body and the fact that he has missed out on more than half his life.  As he slowly steps into this strange new world, his youthful exuberance is undimmed and, with a little prodding, he tackles life and love with the energy and passion of a man half his age. However, like many other people of his age, he also wrestles with issues of loneliness and alienation.

“The film has some interesting twists and despite the fact that it is a drama, the main character is very quirky and this adds a lot of comedy to the story. Also, although in many ways, loneliness is a theme, Mr Johnson finds company in unique and strange places”, says Collinson. “There are few films that deal with ageism and, though shown only in subtle ways, Mr Johnson highlights how old people often become invisible in society.”

Collinson has earned his place as one of South Africa’s most sought-after young cinematographers and has lensed some of the most critically acclaimed films of the past few years. His work on the soapie, Skeem Saam and the feature films Die Ballade van Robbie de Wee and Skemerson were all nominated for Best Cinematography at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs).  He received Best Cinematography Award nominations at the Kyknet Silwerskerm Film Festival for lensing the Afrikaans feature films, Seun and Dis Koue Kos, Skat.

In 2017, Collinson received Best Cinematography for a Feature Film at the South African Society of Cinematographers (SASC) Visible Spectrum Awards, for Last Broken Darkness. He is also the recipient of a Cannes Lion for his Wimpy Braille Burger video.

(Jailoshini Naidoo)

The film stars Paul Slabolepszy (Apprenticeship of a Mahatma, Saturday Night at the Palace) and Jana Cilliers (Die Boekklub, Die Leeftyd van Orgidee), with Frank Rautenbach (The Bang Bang Club), Sisanda Henna (Griekwastad), Graham Hopkins (Eye in the Sky), Jailoshini Naidoo (Keeping Up with the Kandasamys), Carla Classen (Stroomop), Drikus Volschenk (Dis Ek, Anna), Antony Coleman (Blood Diamond), Heike Brunner (Knysna), Clayton Boyd (The Entity), Marinus Gubitz (Onortodoks), and Mila Guy (Wonderlus).

Mr Johnson was shot on location in Johannesburg and was produced by Azania Productions, the team behind the box office hit Broken Promises Forever and the recent sleeper hit Blessers.

The film was made with support of the Department of Trade and Industry, National Film and Video Foundation and Indigenous Film Distribution.

Mr Johnson is slated for release in 2021.

View Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBJvsROujAo

Azania Productions: https://www.facebook.com/Azania-Productions-1200317136771806/

 

KIND OF FAMOUS FUNDRAISER

(Jem Atkins)

Deadline: Competition closes October 7, 2020.

Local Durban comedians host Online Prize Giveaway to raise funds for their own TV Comedy Series!

R16,000 worth of sponsored prizes to be won! Including a R8,000 luxury beach holiday!

Local Durban comedy duo – Jem Atkins and Mo Vawda – have been busy since lockdown:

-They both star in a full-length comedy movie called Fish’s Tale, filmed in Durban and coming out at cinemas in October.

-They’ve co-written another comedy movie (for filming early next year)

-They’ve just been cast in another full-length movie due for filming in Durban in November.

 … and they’ve written their own comedy series for TV!

And now, they need your help to get the series filmed and on TV! So they're raising the funds needed to film the Pilot Episode which the guys will then use in their pitch to various TV networks to sell the first season (10 episodes).

(Mo Vawda)

By buying a R50 ticket from Quicket you’re automatically entered into the competition to win one of 17 incredible prizes (valued at over R16,000!!) including the Grand Prize: An R8,000 Luxury Beach Holiday at HighRocks Luxury Beach House (uMkomaas) for up to 10 people!

Their fictional TV series (working title: Kind of Famous) is a proudly Durban production and will feature Durban actors, Durban locations and a Durban production house. It’s the first of its kind!

Support Jem and Mo by buying a ticket for only R50 from QUICKET and be part of something really special - a Proudly Durban TV comedy series!

Quicket event:

https://www.quicket.co.za/events/113912-kind-of-famous-tv-series-prize-giveaway-event/

You can then join the guys for the LIVE prize giveaway event on: October 9 - Facebook LIVE STREAMING Event on their Digiboyz page at 20h00.

They will be discussing the upcoming TV show, audition dates, and answering your questions while also awarding the prizes to randomly selected ticket holders!!

By buying a ticket you’re automatically entered into the competition.

The more tickets you buy, the better your chances of winning one of the following 17 prizes:

 -R8,000 Weekend Stay for up to 10 people at Highrocks Beachhouse (uMkomaas)

-3-Course Meal For 4 at Mozambik Ballito (valued at over R750!)

-Mozambik Ballito Restaurant Hamper (Chicken and bottled sauces) valued at over R400!

-2 X R400 vouchers from Sin on Skin Tattoo and Piercing  (Glenwood)

-R500 Meal Voucher for 2 at Vapor Café (Morningside)

-R730 Goodie Hamper from Petal Dew Natural Beauty & Wellness

-R500 voucher from Alifas Spices – the Spice Specialists!

-2 X R500 Beauty Bliss Beauty/Skin Care/Spa Vouchers

-R500 Hamper from The Meat Moghul

-Pizza for 2 every Thursday for a month from A Pizza My Heart (valued at over R900)

-Rotti’s for 2 every Tuesday for a month from Judi’s Rotties (valued at R800)

-Free Coffee for a month from Coffee Tree (valued at R900)

-3 X Haircut and Beard Shave from Hair Dot Com (valued at R400)

T’s & C’s apply!

Competition is open to all, except for affiliates and sponsors. Winners will be randomly selected from pool of ticket-holders. Prize draw will take place at the LIVE online event on October 9 from 20h00.

Prizes are not redeemable for cash.

Competition closes October 7, 2020.

Holiday at Highrocks Luxury Beach House is for weekend of November 27 to 29 only

Proudly brought to you by Digiboyz.