MUSIC REVIVAL ONLINE

Music Revival Online presents Christopher Duigan at Home on the following dates:

Wednesday, December 2 #71

Piano Hour

This Wednesday the session is once again to a wide range of music from around the world and from multiple genres.

 

Saturday, December 5 #72

In Concert  Dumky Trio

This month, Music Revival introduces the Sofia Trio, Christopher Duigan with Ralitza Cherneva and Ralitza Todorova. Both members of the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra, the two-star Bulgarian instrumentalists are well-known to local audiences through their numerous appearances in lead roles with Baroque 2000, KZNPO, Gypsy Strings and Encore String Quartet. They play the dazzling ‘Dumky’ Trio by Antonin Dvorak, one of the most imaginative, heartfelt and passionate gems of the repertoire.

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LUPA TRIO

(Ralitza Macheva; Aristide du Plessis & Annamaria D’Andrea)

The Lupa Trio, which comprises three accomplished string players: Aristide du Plessis; Ralitza Macheva and Annamaria D’Andrea, will give a concert on December 6, 2020, at St Thomas Church in Musgrave.

All musicians are with the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra, as well as having distinguished careers as ensemble and solo musicians.

Aristide du Plessis (cello); Ralitza Macheva (violin) and Annamaria D’Andrea (viola) perform a technically-challenging programme of seldom-played music: two of Beethoven String Trio Op 9: in D major & G major. Beethoven composed his three string trios in 1797/98 in Vienna. In this programme, Lupa Trio will play the first two of the three String Trios: in G major and in D major.

Aristide du Plessis has established a reputation as one of South Africa’s leading cellists, making regular appearances on national television and radio, both as a soloist and chamber musician. Bulgarian-born Ralitza Macheva is Co-Principal Second Violin with the KZNPO and plays with Baroque 2000 Chamber Orchestra; she is also Concertmaster and Music Director of Gypsy Strings Chamber Group. Viola player Annamaria D’Andrea from Roma, Italy, has been with the KZNPO since 2006. She also plays with the Gypsy Strings.

This concert forms part of the popular chamber series on Sunday mornings at St Thomas Church. Tickets can be booked by contacting / WhatsApp’ing Aristide on 076 159 5771 or email aduplessis1989@gmail.com

Tickets R100 (R80 pensioners and students) must be pre booked before the day.

The Lupa Trio’s concert takes place on December 6 at 11h00 at St Thomas Church, Musgrave Road, Durban.

Covid protocols will be observed.

STORIES 2020

(Leah Mari, Roland Perold & Amanda Kunene. Pic by Jacobus van Heerden)

As the end of a very peculiar year approaches, many of us have endured a rollercoaster of hardships and challenges and have material for phenomenal tales. One such creative musical response to lockdown, Stories 2020, will be performed at the Seabrookes Theatre at Durban High School on December 13.

Stories 2020 features Roland Perold, Amanda Kunene, Samantha Landers, Blessing Xaba, Anthony Downing and Leah Mari on vocals, with fellow tunesmith Jaco Griessel on keys. This musical collection of stories is in the form of 12 songs from 7 South African rising composers who have created new material for this collaborative project. Durban is going to be host to the very first showcase of this original material. Perold, Downing, Griessel and Mari were joined by Marcel Meyer, Wessel Odendaal and Luca Hart in composing for this showcase.

“There’s nothing quite like sitting in an auditorium as the lights dim and you await the opening lines, or overture, of a live performance. The conductor takes his place at the podium, the actors enter, the technicians have their fingers hovering over cue buttons and, soon, a collective experience is realised as the audience becomes engrossed by the action,” muses Perold.

“Pre-CoViD19 we had the pleasure of large-scale, well-resourced musicals that came our way by means of Broadway and The West End after years of research and development. At its core, though, is still the old age tradition of storytelling.

“Our Stories series creates a platform for local writers to showcase works at the beginning of the writing process; before helicopters (Miss Saigon) or chandeliers (Phantom) blew budgets out the water. We invite the audience to come along for the ride and witness exciting new material by the country’s leading musical theatre creatives.” states Perold.

“Stories 2020 is a collective of dramaturgs, composers and lyricists who started a song writing circle during South Africa’s COVID hard lockdown. On a regular basis the group met over Zoom presenting new songs, works in development, considered aspects of the craft and challenges relating to new writing; all with the goal of hosting a song writing showcase in December of 2020.

“We invite all those who crave theatre to come and enjoy this very first offering. You may be witness to the birth of South Africa’s next big spectacular musical, or an intimate chamber work that pulls dearly on the collective heart strings.”

The event will be hosted at Seabrookes Theatre on Sunday December 13, at 11h30. A group of six singers will present the material with live piano accompaniment in a one act, 70 minute format. For more information visit http://rolandperold.com/stories-2020/

Tickets R50 booked through Sophie Thompson of Publicity Matters on WhatsApp: 083 609 8729.

All COVID protocols will be observed

GOLD DIGGER SERIES FOR M-NET

(Right: Julia Ormond & Ben Barnes)

The intriguing season premiere of the British mini-series Gold Digger starts on M-Net (Channel 101) on December 2 at 22h25.

When Julia (60) is stood up on her birthday by all her children, she randomly encounters Benjamin (33) at the British Museum, and they begin a romance.

Julia may have finally found the happiness she's always deserved, but Benjamin, as suspected by her family, might be attracted more to her money than Julia herself.

Directed by Vanessa Caswill, Gold Digger stars Julia Ormond; Ben Barnes; Sebastian Armesto; Jemima Rooper and Alex Jennings.

KNIVES OUT FOR M-NET

M-Net (channel 101) will screen the mystery thriller Knives Out on December 6 at 20h05.

This book-inspired murder mystery boasts an all-star cast led by Daniel Craig. When a famous crime writer is found dead, a seasoned detective is enlisted to solve the mystery.

The circumstances surrounding the death of crime novelist Harlan Thrombey are mysterious, but there's one thing that renowned Detective Benoit Blanc knows for sure -- everyone in the wildly dysfunctional Thrombey family is a suspect. 

Now, Blanc must sift through a web of lies and red herrings to uncover the truth.

PIANO @ THE STUDIO

(Right: Barbie Meyer)

Enjoy an evening of song, laughter and food with Barbie Meyer and Jonathan Brauteseth at The Studio in Ramsgate on December 10, 2020, at 18h00 for 18h30.

Tickets R250pp includes show and supper. BYO drinks. Booking is essential through Judy on 061 408 6783

The Studio is situated at 202 Marine Drive in Ramsgate (500m from La Capannina Restaurant)

DURBAN RISING STARS

The South African Society of Music Teachers in collaboration with Friends of Music will present the annual Durban Rising Stars concert on December 6, 2020, at 15h00.

(Right: Aron Ramiah)

The concert features “the cream of the crop”, ten of KZN’s up-and-coming young performers who come together in an exciting celebration of music.

The students will perform on a variety of instruments such as piano, trombone, recorder and clarinet including voice. 

They will present works from baroque to contemporary.

(Left: Alida Esterhuizen)

The young performers include Aron Ramiah (piano); Daniel Sardinha (voice); Savannah Scoular (recorder); Niwedita Bhatta (piano); Lydia Weber (clarinet); Lance Leslie Smith (trombone); Nathan Govender (jazz piano); Bradley Bester (voice); Alida Esterhuizen (piano) and Lasandra Majola (voice).

The programme will feature music from Scarlatti, Beethoven, Castello, Vivaldi, Haydn, Albeniz, Debussy, Aznavour & Kretzmer, Bernstein & Sondheim, Dolly Parton, Foster & Thompson and others.

(Right: Daniel Sardinha)

The concert takes place on December 6, 2020, at 15h00 at the Durban Jewish Centre, 44 KE Masinga (Old Fort) Road in Durban.

Tickets R70 (R20 students R20). Pre-booking is necessary in order to control numbers for Covid19 rules. 

Contact friendsofmusic@webmail.co.za or phone Keith on 071 505 1021 or Bernice on 083 253 7935. Payment can be made at the door.

All Covid protocols will be observed.

ONCE UPON A TUNE

(Steven Stead)

KickstArt and the Rhumbelow Theatre in Durban will present the first one-man show featuring well-known multi-award-winning Once Upon A Tune actor and director, Steven Stead, which will run from December 11 to 13 and on December 15 and 16, 2020.

Accompanied on the piano by ace musical director and long-time collaborator, Evan Roberts, Stead will be singing a series of songs that tell stories and are inherently theatrical. They range from witty and wicked comedy songs by Noël Coward, to powerful folk songs by Jacques Brel, to thought-provoking songs from musical theatre composers like Stephen Sondheim, and Kander and Ebb. He will also be singing material from shows that he has appeared in, or been associated with, that also take the form of story-telling songs.

“I have wanted to do an old-fashioned, intimate one-man cabaret for some time now,” says Stead, “But I have always been too busy directing big musicals and pantomimes to focus on anything so complex and fragile. Now that our theatre world has been tragically plunged into a coma thanks to Covid-19, I can ironically realise a dream of mine.

“Acting is story-telling. Making theatre is story-telling. And since the Greek bards sang of the gods and heroes of legend, and the Medieval minstrels sang of the romances and wars of knights and ladies, people have thrilled to stories told by a singer-actor through music,” says Stead.

“I vividly remember going to The Cellar as a youngster, and experiencing the magic of real cabaret, as opposed to music revue, with artists like Danielle Pascale, Judy Page and Sam Marais, and I want to explore this very powerful, very rewarding style of theatre myself. I feel that I am the right age to do this now, and with the brilliant Evan Roberts at my side, I feel brave enough to share my life-experience with an audience.”

Once Upon A Tune runs from December 11 to 13, 2020, with Friday and Saturday shows at 19h30 and Sunday at 14h00. Two further performances will take place on December 15 at 19h30 and December 16 at 18h00. (Venue opens 90 minutes before show for snacks/drinks)

Tickets R160 (R140 pensioners and students with a valid student card). Loyalty Card Holders (R130) ALL SHOWS. Bring food picnic baskets or buy from Kevin.

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

There is limited secure parking and a bar is available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises). Booking is essential through Computicket or email: roland@stansell.co.za

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

Rhumbelow Theatre is situated at 42 Cunningham Road, off Bartle Road, in Umbilo, Durban.

ALL TICKETS MUST BE PRE-BOOKED

NO WALK-INS ALLOWED

 

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING COVID-19 PROTOCOLS FOR PATRONS

1.         HEALTH AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS FOR PATRONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1.9.      Patrons above the age of 60 or a person with co-morbidities will be discouraged from attending performances. (GOVT GUIDELINES – please be guided by your own health status)

FORTUNATE SON: REVIEW

(Rob Warren, Gareth Gale & Garth Warren. Pic by Val Bottomley)

For fans of Creedence Clearwater Revival, this is a must-see! (Review by Caroline Smart)

Rhumbelow Theatre in Durban is presenting the Black Lapels in Fortunate Son, a tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival, from November 27 to 29, 2020. The Black Lapels consists of Rob Warren, Garth Warren and Gareth Gale.

Rob Warren explains that he was at a fleamarket once and bought the CCR album Pendulum which he hadn’t known about. He thought they had only done three previous hit songs. But he didn’t have a record player so had to go out and buy one. Having heard the disc, he realised how much more great music CCR had created. So he immediately told his partners that they had to do a CCR show. Fortunate Son is the result.

Rob Warren just gets better and better each time I see him. His complete mastery of his guitar, his light banter and good stage presence endears him to the audience.

His easy and casual nature and sensitivity to moods in the gentler songs compared to the passionate energy required by some of the numbers, especially his solo numbers, is most impressive.

The trio works together well with great ease and synergy.

Rob’s brother, Garth Warren, is a solid companion on the bass guitar although he tends to appear enigmatic and wrapped in his music. On drums, Gareth Gale is a delight – offering boundless energy and a rapport with the other two.

At interval, one of my companions announced with delight “You couldn’t get anything nicer!” – and that was only half-way through. By the end of the show he was beaming with enjoyment, claiming it “fun, excellent and world class entertainment”.

Did the rest of the audience enjoy it? Absolutely no question about it. With no printed programme available, they had no idea what was coming. However, it invariably only took two or three opening chords for them to recognise the number immediately and respond with cheering enthusiasm.

Top numbers were undoubtedly The Midnight Special, and Travelling Band as well as Suzi Q, Proud Mary, Cotton Fields and Bad Moon Rising.

Good sound and attractive lighting added to the enjoyment.

For fans of Creedence Clearwater Revival, this is a must-see!

Fortunate Son has only one more available performance at Rhumbelow Durban in Umbilo – tomorrow (November 29, 2020) at 14h00.

Tickets R160 (R140 pensioners and students with a valid student card). Loyalty Card Holders (R130) ALL SHOWS. Bring food picnic baskets or buy from Kevin.

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

50 % MAX CAPACITY PER SHOW.  ALL TICKETS MUST BE PRE-BOOKED.

NO WALK-INS ALLOWED

Bar available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises) and there is limited secure parking available. Booking is essential on email: roland@stansell.co.za or visit http://events.durbantheatre.com/

Rhumbelow Theatre is situated at 42 Cunningham Road off Bartle Road, Durban. – Caroline Smart

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING COVID-19 PROTOCOLS FOR PATRONS

1.      HEALTH AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS FOR PATRONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1.9.   Patrons above the age of 60 or a person with co-morbidities will be discouraged from attending performances.  - DISCOURAGED ONLY IN TERMS OF GOVT GUIDELINES

STORIES 2020

(Leah Mari, Roland Perold & Amanda Kunene. Pic by Jacobus van Heerden)

As the end of a very peculiar year approaches, many have endured a rollercoaster of hardships and challenges and have material for phenomenal tales. One such creative musical response to lockdown, Stories 2020, will be performed at the Seabrookes Theatre at Durban High School on Sunday December 13, 2020.

Stories 2020 features Roland Perold, Amanda Kunene, Samantha Landers, Blessing Xaba, Anthony Downing and Leah Mari on vocals, with fellow tunesmith Jaco Griessel on keys. This musical collection of stories is in the form of 12 songs from seven South African rising composers who have created new material for this collaborative project.

Durban is going to be host to the very first showcase of this original material. Perold, Downing, Griessel and Mari were joined by Marcel Meyer, Wessel Odendaal and Luca Hart in composing for this showcase.

“There’s nothing quite like sitting in an auditorium as the lights dim and you await the opening lines, or overture, of a live performance. The conductor takes his place at the podium, the actors enter, the technicians have their fingers hovering over cue buttons and, soon, a collective experience is realised as the audience becomes engrossed by the action,” muses Perold.

“Pre-CoViD19 we had the pleasure of large-scale, well-resourced musicals that came our way by means of Broadway and The West End after years of research and development. At its core, though, is still the old age tradition of storytelling.

“Our Stories series creates a platform for local writers to showcase works at the beginning of the writing process; before helicopters (Miss Saigon) or chandeliers (Phantom) blew budgets out the water. We invite the audience to come along for the ride and witness exciting new material by the country’s leading musical theatre creatives.” states Perold.

“Stories 2020 is a collective of dramaturgs, composers and lyricists who started a songwriting circle during South Africa’s COVID hard lockdown. On a regular basis, the group met over Zoom presenting new songs, works in development, considered aspects of the craft and challenges relating to new writing; all with the goal of hosting a songwriting showcase in December of 2020.

“We invite all those who crave theatre to come and enjoy this very first offering. You may be witness to the birth of South Africa’s next big spectacular musical, or an intimate chamber work that pulls dearly on the collective heart strings,” adds Perold.

The event will be hosted at the Seabrookes Theatre at Durban High School on December 13, 2020, at 11h30. A group of six singers will present the material with live piano accompaniment in a one act, 70 minute format. For more info visit http://rolandperold.com/stories-2020/

Tickets R50 booked through Sophie Thompson of Publicity Matters, on WhatsApp: 083 609 8729.

All COVID protocols will be observed

IT GROWS MUSICAL REVUE

(Right: Simthandile Mtolo)

It Grows, The Musical is a solo music revue and multi-media art exhibition experience that looks at the complexity of life and love, from an honest and intrinsically personal perspective of a black woman working in the arts - created and performed by Durban performer and visual artist, Simthandile Mtolo which comes to Seabrooke’s Theatre on DHS campus between December 3 and 5.

In It Grows, The Musical, Mtolo is releasing music that has been simmering for a very long time. Music that she wrote over the years, inspired by experience and emotions, which she has held onto waiting for the right time to perform. A time of introspection and creativity over lockdown has prompted her to take to the stage with it now.

“The songs are divided into segments that touch on values and morals, responsibilities and love, and are interconnected together with subtle comedy and interactive links,” she explains. Mtolo will be singing live – her music and lyrics are original.

Mtolo is a seasoned songstress and multi-disciplined arts practitioner who has been a full-time creative specialist for 15 years. “I have remained loyal to an authentic creative delivery and the importance of its relationship to an audience and I have spent lockdown nurturing my craft and adding to my body of work,” explains Mtolo.

(Work by Simthandile Mtolo)

In this production, she will also be exhibiting a range of pieces she has been working on, inspired by introspective growth and the ability to acquire absolute satisfaction from reaching within. Her pieces use wool and printed fabrics, and mostly admire the authentic features of African women. Mtolo will also have her handmade bead collection on display.

Through her business, Ebonygypsy, she has produced several conceptual events such as The Township Jazz Society which is an innermost jazz affair that features between 8 to 10 local jazz bands from around Durban and has showcased in venues such as The Protea Edward Hotel and Artizen Lounge.

Another is her annual all-female production titled, A Woman, A Hat, A Bag, And Her Belly. This show debuted at the Catalina Theatre in 2011 and featured Durban’s greatest hidden gems in various performance styles, as well as some expecting mothers through an adorable movement piece and fashion show.

It Grows, The Musical runs at Seabrooke’s Theatre, DHS, from December 3 to 5 at 19h00. Anticipate a feast for your eyes while you enjoy a drink, compliments of KWV. Tickets R150 available at Web Tickets at https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1504114489

Follow her on Instagram @SimthandileMtolo, @TownshipJazz Twitter @_Simthandile_ And on Facebook @SimthandileMtolo @TownshipJazzSociety @Ebonygypsy.

DURBAN NOBEL PRIZE-WINNER, ARRON KLUG, REMEMBERED

(DHS Old Boys, Sir Aaron Klug: Crystallographer who won a Nobel prize for 3D imaging of viruses. Photo Credit: Anne-Katrin Purkiss)

One of Durban High School’s most distinguished alumni was biophysicist, Sir Aaron Klug OM FRS FMedSci HonFRMS - a Lithuanian-born, South African-educated, British #biophysicist, and winner of the 1982 #Nobel Prize in #Chemistry

Friday, 20 November, marked the second anniversary of his passing (1926 – 2018) - he died when he was 92! This year, in a world ravaged by a virus, it is appropriate that we acknowledge one of our school’s forefathers who dedicated his career to the study of macromolecules such as #viruses which helped inform our global research of viruses, even today.

In his obituary honouring Klug, his close friend and author of Aaron Klug: A Long Way from Durban, Kenneth Holmes wrote: “His invention of electron tomography, in which a 3D image of a virus is obtained from many electron micrographs, won him the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1982. He discovered proteins called zinc fingers that recognize #DNA sequences and initiate the transcription of RNA — work that became the basis of gene therapy.”

A child prodigy, Klug was reading the newspaper aged three-and-a-half. At 15, he won a scholarship to study medicine at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. Klug switched after a year to natural science and graduated with first-class honours in physics, chemistry and mathematics.

He had a prolific, brilliant, and much awarded career in research and discovery. Arguably he is the only South African matriculant to be awarded the Nobel Prize for Chemistry. DHS is proud to be associated with him.

Not only did Sir Aaron Klug personify the DHS spirit of educational curiosity, intrepid tenacity and constant collaboration, but his approach to life and the sciences also underpins the three pillars of the new educational institution being birthed by DHS: Swales Online Academy.

As part of the multi-nodal education campus that DHS has become, Swales is named after another respected alumnus, Major Edwin (Ted) Swales VC - a South African pilot and World War II hero. To encourage learners in the ways of academic alumni such as Sir Aaron Klug, the motto of the academy is Explore, Think, Engage.

“As a mathematician his love of numbers and patterns may have aroused a degree of amusement to him observing that the second anniversary of his passing would bear the date of 20.11.2020 – there is poetry in numbers!” muses Winston Owen, Director of Swales Online Academy and Old Boy of DHS.

Swales is receiving applications for the 2021 academic year for boys and girls from Grade 4 to Grade 9.

ELANA BREGIN WRITING WORKSHOP

(Right: Elana Bregin)

Well-known KZN writer Elana Bregin will host a writing workshop in January.

Come and find your inspiration on a three-day guided Writing Retreat at the beautiful peaceful Buddhist Retreat Centre in Ixopo.

“Whether to begin a new story, untangle an existing one, or simply renew the inspirational fire, the retreat will offer you the time, space and creative kickstart you need to get your writing underway,” says Bregin. She promises stimulating company, scenic walks, fireside talks and expert writing support.

The workshop takes place from January 4 to 7, 2021, at the Buddhist Retreat Centre, Ixopo, KZN.

Cost: R1,600 for writing workshop plus three nights BRC accommodation starting at R850 per night, meals included.

To book contact: elana.bregin@gmail.com or 071 493 0791.

 

 

MUSGRAVE MEANDER

Article written by Christine Sole, courtesy of the Berea Mail

(Above: Theresa Reinecke, Durban Central Tourism Committee Member), Sanabelle Ebrahim (DCT Committee Member, Route Development) and Mikhail Peppas (DCT Deputy Chairman) wander through the sculpture garden on the way to Jack's Grill Co at Florida Fields. Photo Christine Prescott Sole)

Showcasing what the Berea has to offer in the way of cuisine and green space destinations, the Musgrave Meander Hoppa Bus excursion was piloted in time for whatever the “new normal” will deliver with the 2020 festive season.

Imagine hopping on a designer bus which meanders past Berea restaurants and coffee shops, taking in the views of the city, stopping at two of Durban’s green attractions, the Durban Botanic Gardens and Mitchell Park.

Pop off to dine here, enjoy coffee or cocktails there, rounded off by a dessert menu elsewhere and all not having to worry about parking or being over the limit along the way.

(Left: A friendly smile behind the mask. Head waiter, Ntando Myeza greets guests at Times Square which lies tucked down a lane off Florida Road where a brightly coloured mural beckons their patrons. Photo Christine Prescott Sole)

Well, this is about to become a reality with the innovative ‘The Musgrave Meander’, thanks to the vision of Mikhail Peppas and Sanabelle Ebrahim from KulturKonneKt and Durban Central Tourism (DCT).

Tourism activations arranged by the DCT have led to the organisation gaining prominence with efforts to reinvigorate the arena, alongside Durban Tourism.

Showcasing what the Berea has to offer in the way of cuisine and green space destinations, the Musgrave Meander Hoppa Bus excursion was piloted in time for whatever the ‘new normal’ will deliver with the 2020 festive season.

(Right: The new addition to the 'front of house' of St Clements Restaurant, Musgrave Road - a fine fresh fruit, vegetable and herb stall, run by Indran Nair, and it's all organic! Photo Christine Prescott Sole)

“The Hoppa Bus will travel a never-ending loop along Musgrave, Florida and Lilian Ngoyi (formerly Windermere) Roads stopping at a selection of eateries and outdoor spaces along the way,” said Peppas, originator of the project. “It’s most unusual for there to be an easy, continuous, city route that takes in such a wide range of sights and restaurants without ever doubling back!”

A media contingent experienced a taste of what is to come this month, courtesy of DCT, during a pilot run that took them out and about the eateries of the Berea from the starting point at the scenic Cube View Site in Innes Road, Morningside..

Covid-19 has taken its toll on dining spots and boutique coffee shops on the Berea sadly, which is evident with some having closed their doors for good.

But, the spirit of proprietors is stern and determined to rise with vibey new comers like Next Chapter which has emerged from the former Europa, in Florida Road.

Still going strong are stalwarts of the restaurant and eateries trade.

(Left: "Morphus" by South African artist, Lionel Smit, graces the Florida Fields square. Depicting twin heads, one looking forward and ones backwards "evokes questions of time and the balancing point at which our country finds itself" says Smit. Photo Christine Prescott Sole)

The route passes a fascinating collection of churches on one corner in Musgrave Road, all within the call of a soon-to-be-finished mosque and later passes the St Mary’s Anglican Church in Greyville with its bell tower where the chimes are rung out by hand, on Sundays.

Traverse the Berea, along Stephen Dlamini (formerly Essenwood) Road, under the shady, magnificent Forest Mahoganys that line the street, then, it’s down the ever-bustling Florida Road, Durban with its clusters of beautifully restored stately Victorian homes that house business and restaurants and stops at Florida Fields where an array of coffee shops, bars and eateries look out onto a pleasant green space filled with trees and tables.

(Right: Zanele Mbandlwa & Jean Francois Alleaume, managers of the quaint Antique Café, Windermere, that really lives up to its name - old era service, atmosphere and fare. Photo Christine Prescott Sole)

Just off Lilian Ngoyi Road, the bus stops at the lovely old building that houses the aptly named Antique Café, a haven of history and tranquility with their garden setting in a courtyard. And these are but a sample of the many places to be explored and enjoyed along the way.

“The Musgrave Meander is already being established as a route with available maps while brochures and apps are in development. Participating restaurants are eager to welcome guests,” said Ebrahim, who heads up route development at DCT.

“The next phase anticipates a feasibility study and if it proves viable, to be followed by the introduction of a preliminary designer, electric-powered Hoppa Bus that will have all the correct Covid-19 protocols in place,” added Peppas.

Contact KulturKonneKt on 076 891 1152 or email: greenheartcity@gmail.com

SCREENING OF MR SOUTH AFRICA 2020

Club Altitude will be gathering together for the online live big screening of Mr South Africa 2020 - with the kind permission of the organisers.

Altitude will be rolling out the red carpet on November 28, 2020, and patrons will be the celebrities to witness the finals of this prestigious event.

“Dress Up!!,” says Thomie Holtzhausen who runs the stage presentations at Altitude. “But we are always different and decadent - so book your table now. FREE ENTRY - but ONLY pre-bookings as we have limited space.  Each table may enter the race to predict the winner.  Fun prices and damn lucky surprises.”

Arrival 18h00 to 18h30.

Seating: 18h30 to 18h45

Live Screening: 19h00

Book your seat to avoid disappointment: watsapp 064 476 9533.

DURBAN INTERNATIONAL BLUES FESTIVAL

Kingston Live has been part of the Durban International Blues Festival team from the birth of the event and are proud providers of the backline for this year's festival which will take place at Rhumbelow Durban.

Sponsored by The Department of Arts & Culture KZN, The Blues Festival runs from December 4 to 5, 2020, and will feature two bands each night interspersed with AV sent from international artists who could not join the event this year.

Friday December 4, 2020. Show starts 19h15

-Singing The Blues

-Sea Level featuring Lance Goldman

-The Rorke Kemp Band

 

SATURDAY December 5, 2020. Show starts 19h15

-The Blues, Coming Of Age – 16 Years

-Bobby & The Dynamites

-The Smoke Train Blues Movement

 

Sunday December 6, 2020. Show starts 13h45

-The Blues Summit

-Barry Thomson & The Reals

-Blues Summit – backed by The Reals

(Venue opens 90 minutes before show for snacks/drinks)

“2020 has certainly been a challenge for most of us, no less the entertainment and eventing industry. Covid 19 shook us from every angle and the struggle to “keep things afloat” is no stranger!” says Tanya van Agthoven, spokesperson for the Festival.

“The Durban International Blues Festival 2020 team certainly have had to deal with these industry issues - but the warriors that they are, along with their ever loyal (main) sponsors, The Department of Arts and Culture believe: NEVER SAY DIE!

“New strategies, new plans and a new way of doing things have been the inspiration behind this year’s event which will take place December 4 to 6 and there is no better place to hold the event - with all Covid rules in governance -  than at Roland Stansell’s Rhumbelow Theatre in Umbilo (Durban KZN),” van Agthoven adds.

Programme Director, Will Wallace, has been able to stretch the budget allocated from the Department of Arts and Culture and the line-up includes local bands Rorke Kemp, Sea Level (featuring Lance Goldberg), Bobby and the Dynamites, and Smoke Train. The Reals are the backing band for The Blues Summit on the Sunday and who could go wrong with them in the mix?

The performances are live – but with a twist! Local artists will perform live but since international Blues friends couldn’t come to Durban in person due to Covid restrictions, they have willingly agreed to participate in a video production to be screened at the show. The line-up is formidable with some of the past performers supporting the event wholeheartedly: Liz Mandeville (USA), Toronzo Cannon (USA), Fiona Boyes (Aus), Pat Savage (Canada), Charlie Love (USA), Donna Herula (USA), and Yamil Jacobo (Argentina).

“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 Roland Stansell who runs the Rhumbelow Theatres.

Tickets R160 (R140 pensioners and students with a valid student card). Loyalty Card Holders (R130) ALL SHOWS. Bring food picnic baskets or buy from Kevin.

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

50 % MAX PER SHOW

Limited secure parking available. Bar available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises)

Booking is essential on email: roland@stansell.co.za or http://events.durbantheatre.com/

There will be a Merch Table so bring a few extra shekels for this, too. Concorde Printers have a few Blues T-shirts and artists will have CD’s at the table.

Visit Friends of The Durban International Blues Festival and Durban International Blues Festival on Facebook for early information or go to www.durbanbluesfestival.co.za.

For more information, contact 082 499 8636.

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING COVID-19 PROTOCOLS FOR PATRONS

1.      HEALTH AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS FOR PATRONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1.9.   Patrons above the age of 60 or a person with co-morbidities will be discouraged from attending performances.  - DISCOURAGED ONLY IN TERMS OF GOVT GUIDELINES

THE UNDOING DSTV SERIES

(Nicole Kidman & Hugh Grant)

Based on the novel by Jean Hanff Korelitz, The Undoing is filled with twists and turns – as well as a star-filled line-up! From the brilliant mind of David E. Kelly (Big Little Lies) comes a new series starring the incomparable Nicole Kidman and heart-warming Hugh Grant. 

It’s a tale of luxurious lives and dark secrets. The picket fences are torn apart when a crime destroys everything the residents have worked hard to achieve.

Grace, a therapist who is looking forward to publishing her first novel, comes across some startling revelations and must act fast to protect her and her son.

The Undoing can be seen on Mondays from November 30, 2020, on M-Net (DStv Channel 101) at 21h30.

FORTUNATE SON - A TRIBUTE TO CCR

(Garth Warren, Rob Warren & Gareth Gale)

Let the Black Lapels (Rob Warren, Garth Warren, Gareth Gale) transport you back to the late 60’s and early 70’s by performing their sell-out and incomparable musical tribute to the Creedence Clearwater Revival Band. Fortunate Son will be presented by Rhumbelow Theatre in Durban from November 27 to 29, 2020.

The CCR show allows the Black Lapels to crank up the amps and head full-tilt into this not-to-be missed performance! The set list includes all favourite hits including Fortunate Son, Looking out my Back Door, Down on the Corner, Up around the Bend, Born on the Bayou, Green River and many more. Highlights of the show include intimate renditions of CCR classics like Lodi performed solo by Lapels front man Rob Warren. The Lapels rhythm section featuring Garth Warren (bass) and Gareth Gale (drums) keep the set moving! All of this adds up to a must see Black Lapels performance.

Shows take place on November 27 and 28 at 19h30 and on November 29 at 14h00. Tickets R160 (R140 pensioners and students with a valid student card). Loyalty Card Holders (R130) ALL SHOWS. Bring food picnic baskets or buy from Kevin.

“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 Roland Stansell who runs the Rhumbelow Theatre.

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

50 % MAX CAPACITY PER SHOW.  ALL TICKETS MUST BE PRE-BOOKED.

NO WALK-INS ALLOWED

 Bar available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises) and there is limited secure parking. Booking is essential on email: roland@stansell.co.za or visit http://events.durbantheatre.com/

 

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING COVID-19 PROTOCOLS FOR PATRONS

1.      HEALTH AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS FOR PATRONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1.9.   Patrons above the age of 60 or a person with co-morbidities will be discouraged from attending performances.  - DISCOURAGED ONLY IN TERMS OF GOVT GUIDELINES

 

DURBAN VINTAGE & SIDE HUSTLE MARKETS

For their next market on November 28, organisers Gabi and Belinda are looking to combine Side Hustle and Vintage markets into one bumper morning to make it bigger and better and more interesting to those who visit …. and to expand the market onto the pavement and literally take it to the streets.

The Vintage Market vendor mix includes carefully-curated vintage goods, retro household collectables, pre-loved and vintage clothing, décor items, costume jewellery and loads of fashion…. and coffee and cake!

The Side Hustle Market is a monthly farmers / producers’ market offering a wide range of local products aimed to highlight and create opportunity for small Durban business to be able to sell their products. “We will be growing it to be your one stop for fresh produce, homemade goods and bakes along with amazing selection of crafter and makers all housed in an incredible Dolos venue located in the point waterfront precinct.” say the organisers.

Vintage Station is also open on Sunday. The Street Lit vendors will be there selling quality second-hand books

Anyone interested in becoming a vendor or requiring more information, email dolosonpoint@gmail.com

The markets run from 10h00 to 14h00. The venue is 5 Southampton Street in Durban’s Point area, with Vintage Station (in the adjoining 70 Mahatma Gandhi Road) as the epicentre spilling out into the enclosed courtyard and Dolos, the multifunctional event space next door. There is free safe parking at uShaka (better than street parking due to the roadworks in the area).

Covid protocols will be observed.

DEATH OF SATISH DHUPELIA

(Satish Dhupelia)

Durban community activist and great grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, Satish Dhupelia, died in Durban on Sunday November 22– three days after his 66^th birthday.

An immensely popular personality and keen animal lover, the tributes pouring into Facebook alone are an indication of how much Dhupelia was respected and loved.

The following report by Se-Anne Rall (courtesy of IOL) states:

The family said Dhupelia suffered from pulmonary fibrosis for many years. Three weeks ago he contracted pneumonia.

"While in hospital, he picked up a superbug which led to a second admission. During this second visit, he picked up Covid-19. He was being treated for Covid-19 and died of a massive heart attack on November 22," a family spokesperson said.

He is survived by his two sisters, Uma Dhupelia-Mesthrie and Kirti Menon; his children Misha, Shashika and Kabir; his brother in-laws, Rajend Mesthrie and Sunil Menon; and his nieces, Sunita and Sapna.

Dhupelia worked as a teacher and was an avid photographer and videographer.

During the transition to democracy, he produced many newsclips for international companies. He was a well sought-after wedding photographer, always experimenting with new technology.

He was a volunteer of several groups. He was a trustee of Phoenix Settlement, the farm started by his great-grandfather Mahatma Gandhi. He also served on the management committee of the Gandhi Development Trust which was started by his aunt, Ela Gandhi. He took the lead in running the Gandhi Outreach Programme by supplying hampers to many informal settlements and the poor.

Dhupelia believed in getting to know those whom he helped. He was also a member of the Sydenham/Sherwood Community Police Forum, a member of the Durban Amphitheatre Market Committee, and a board member of the Clare Estate Crematorium and the 1860 Heritage Centre.

He was particularly keen that the 1860 Heritage Centre transform itself from an ethnic museum to one that spoke about and to all South Africans. As a board member, he often took groups of children on a tour of the museum. He also chaired numerous conversations at the centre.

His family said while others talked and wrote about Gandhi’s teachings, Dhupelia lived his great-grandfather’s message.”

Owner and editor of artSMart, Caroline Smart, remembers him fondly. “We went back many years since the time when I was one of the presenters for the television arts magazine programmes. His genial nature, sense of fun and sympathy for those in need was unwavering. Rest in peace, Satish – I will certainly miss you.”

Dhupelia's funeral will take place on Monday November 23, 2020, at 17h30 and will be attended by close family. The funeral will also be streamed on the Gandhi Development Trust Facebook page.

The family has suggested that those who want to pay their respects to donate a sum of money, instead of sending flowers, to any charitable organisation for the poor, the homeless and any animal welfare society.

ANGELO GOBBATO VIRTUAL BOOK REVIEW

Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) CEO, Marcus Desando facilitates a virtual book review of ACT Lifetime Achievement Award Winner for 2020, Professor Angelo Gobbato, on Wednesday, November 25, 2020.

The DaVinci Institute offers an invitation to The Da Vinci Institute’s first book review. “We seek to encourage the Da Vinci community, to be curious, by delving into literature, probing and seeking relevant truths in the works of Professor Angelo Gobbato, a visionary, who was instrumental in spearheading the Cape Town Opera, helped discover some of the most remarkable operatic talent in the genre and was key in the transformation of South African opera to encompass all South Africans,” explain the organisers.

(Prof Angelo Gobbato)

Professor Angelo Gobbato – former Artistic Director and CEO of Cape Town Opera, as well as Emeritus Professor at the University of Cape Town Opera School – is an internationally acclaimed stage Director of opera, and “Father of Opera in South Africa”. Prof Gobbato is also widely acknowledged as having helped opera to flourish in South Africa by his prolific creative abilities and unrestrained efforts as an agile leader and visionary in opera; a meaningful contribution that has garnered international interest and recognition. He is the author of the book Passion for Opera, which was first published by Staging Post in 2018.

Da Vinci Alumnus Marcus Desando will be the facilitator of this online book review, interviewing Prof Gobbato on his remarkable memoir titled Passion for Opera, an insightful work detailing the history of this live art form; detailed in it are the intricacies of running an arts institution while persuading potential sponsors to assist in keeping the operatic culture in South Africa alive. Something that Prof Gobbato as a managerial leader of a non-profit organisation was often challenged by.

(Marcus Desando)

Marcus Desando’s passion for the arts originated as a singer, which subsequently led him to attaining and proving his remarkability through leadership roles such as stage directing, and a guest lecturer at the University of Cape Town, University of Stellenbosch, Tshwane University of Technology and University of KwaZulu-Natal (OSCA). Marcus has also served as a panelist at the Voices of South Africa International Opera Singing Competition in 2015, International Hans Gabor Belvedere Singing Competition (hosted for the first time outside Europe in South Africa, Cape Town) in 2016, as well as the SAMRO Overseas Scholarships Competition for Singers in 2019.

The DaVinci Institute looks forward to those interested to join them to hear Prof Gobbato himself discussing his leadership journey, and a chance to gain some perspective on arts leadership from an agile, aligned and engaged leader of the industry.

The review will be presented online on Wednesday November 25, 2020, from 15h30 to 16h30. 

To register click here:  https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_eWdrNs0tSHOeTj9_INEO_Q

When you register, you will receive an email with the event details to join online.

KZN YOUTH ORCHESTRA SPRING SERENADE

(Members of the KZN Youth Orchestra)

The KZN Youth Orchestra has formed a chamber ensemble of 14 of their core players who will present a delightful concert of #Baroque, #Classical, #Rock and #Contemporary music entitled Spring Serenade, on Sunday November 29 at St Thomas Church, Musgrave starting at 11h00.

Included in the eclectic programme will be Bach’s Birthday Cantata, Brahms’ Hungarian Dance no 5, music from Mamma Mia and some pieces made famous by the South African Soweto String Quartet.

The KZN Youth Orchestra is an ensemble of young musicians between the ages of 12 and 23 from around KZN province who participate in a classical orchestral environment and so demonstrate their aspirations for musical excellence.

The young musicians are all learners who take #music as an additional subject at school or who take private external tuition. They come from varied backgrounds and music traditions. The orchestra’s criteria are that they audition every year, have a minimum Grade 3 classical music certification for potential inclusion in the Shadow Orchestra; a minimum of Grade 5 is required for the Main Orchestra. Scholars must be between the ages of 12 and 22 years old and can commit to all practices, rehearsals and concerts for their year of enrolment.

Their tutors are trained musicians in their own rights, who nurture the orchestra with passion and pride to bring out the best in each member. This enables the young people to contribute to the orchestral unity and perform their concerts with flair and accomplishment.

To find out more about them visit kznyo.co.za or their Facebook page.

This concert forms part of the popular chamber series that has been happening on Sunday mornings at the ever supportive St Thomas Church on Musgrave Road. The concert, entitled Spring Serenade can be booked by contacting / WhatsApp’ing Cathy Peacock on 082 349 8362.

Tickets R100 (R80 pensioners and students) must be pre booked before the day.

The Denis Hurley Centre StreetLit Durban vendors will be selling second hand books before the concert.

Covid protocols will be observed.