SUMMER WINDS: KZN YOUTH WIND BAND

The KZN Youth Wind Band will present two performances at the lush Durban Botanical Gardens tomorrow (October 31, 2021).

Performing for the first time in many months due to COVID-19 restrictions, this outstanding youth ensemble will play a challenging programme of light classics, popular pieces, and African works in a laid-back and informal setting. The programme is titled Summer Winds.

The KZN Youth Wind Band is one of the top Wind Orchestras in South Africa having performed extensively both locally and international, including on live Chinese television, and at the world-famous Carnegie Hall in New York City.

Audience members are encouraged to bring along a picnic and enjoy the wonderful surroundings and fantastic music by the likes of Holst, Williams, Whitacre, ABBA, The Beatles and Leroy Anderson to name a few.

These incredibly talented young musicians won’t disappoint.

Performances at 11h00 and 13h00. “Doors” open at 10h30 and 12h30 respectively. No beach umbrellas or alcoholic beverages permitted.

Tickets R110 (R90 pensioner & student) at Quicket.co.za

Guests are encouraged to bring picnic blankets and camping chairs. COVID Protocols will be followed.

For more information email info@kznywb.co.za or see the KZNYWB Social Media pages and website: www.kznywb.org.za

 

BAROQUE 2000 MEETS ENSEMBLE CAPRICE

(Left: Matthias Maute - Founder, Director, recorder and traverso player of Ensemble Caprice)

Baroque 2000 meets Ensemble Caprice (Canada) for Salsa Baroque, featuring music of Latin America and Spain of the 17th and 18th Centuries.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, the musical dialogue between the Old and the New Worlds produced extraordinary results. This fascinating blend of European polyphony and Latin American traditional music created a new and unique style. The ensemble features Matthias Maute (recorder & traverso); David Jacques (guitar) and Ziya Tabassian (percussion).

Gems from this spectacular musical era will be performed on instruments that were common at the time: flutes and recorders, baroque guitar, cello and various percussion instruments.

Salsa Baroque will take place on November 7, 2021, at 11h30 at the Church of the Mariannhill Monastery.

Tickets R170 at the door. Ample, safe and free parking available. The Monastery Tea Garden will be open for refreshments and light meal

Covid-19 sanitary regulations will apply. Contact: Michel 082 303 5241 or email: sursouth@iafrica.com

The Mariannhill Monastery is situated in Monastery Road, Pinetown / Mariannhill, Durban.

KZNPO CONCERT: OCTOBER 28 2021: REVIEW

 All three of the works had a feel of ‘triumph’ about them – but the most important triumph of the night was that of the musicians who are still here to delight us with their talents. (Review by Raymond Perrier)

Lovers Reunited

Music, they say, is for lovers. And Thursday night’s concert by the KZNPO at the Durban Playhouse was a celebration of love reunited. It was the first public concert by Durban’s world-class orchestra for 18 months: the joy on the faces of the musicians as they gathered on the Opera stage was evident.

It was thus the first time that we as an audience were reunited in a year and a half with an orchestra which is so dear to our hearts. Our love for them as an ensemble, and for the individual faces that we recognised, was like the excitement of reconnecting with an old amour. Who is that behind the mask? Petya? Boris? Myfanwy? Tshepo?

And if that was not enough, we were all being reunited with the sort of music that this orchestra does so well – big, chewy 19th century Romantic scores. Beethoven (1770-1827) and Mendelssohn (1809-1847). Ludwig and Felix.  Full throttle.

It would be tempting to focus on some practical questions. Why has it taken until Stage 1 for the orchestra to be playing again when unsubsidised arts organisations have worked hard to offer live performances for some time now? And why, when 50% capacity is allowed, was the vast 1,200 seater Playhouse Opera auditorium limited to only 250 places? Why were there so many faces missing from the orchestra? Were these excellent musicians so disillusioned by Durban or by their treatment during the pandemic that they have moved on, thus denying us the chance to enjoy their talents? And why was the orchestra only about two-thirds of its pre-COVID strength (fewer than 50 musicians on stage)?

But as I pondered those questions, I shut my eyes and let the music enfold me. And I was soon prepared to admit that the rich, dark chocolate sound of the KZNPO in full voice was still there and still as exciting as ever. While some credit goes to Justus Franz, the international conductor flown in for the occasion, the main credit must go to the musicians. The stalwarts who have survived, and have been able to stay committed to Durban, supplemented by some new faces who we hope will soon be as familiar to us as the ones who have left. All three of the works had a feel of ‘triumph’ about them – but the most important triumph of the night was that of the musicians who are still here to delight us with their talents.

The opening work was Beethoven’s ‘Coriolan’ overture (Op. 62 in C minor - 1807). I confess to being a little anxious when it began. It should start with strong, bold chords. Was the orchestra a bit hesitant? Did it take them a while to get in their stride? Were the strings as lush as we remember them (after all they were fewer in number)?  Who was really in control of the pace?

I have one stylistic criticism – towards the end there are several sudden, marked pauses in the music: it felt as if they were treated by the conductor as mostly a chance to catch a breath. I see them more as significant ‘silent chords’ that are there to create a series of suspension bridges from one note to another. But the overall performance was certainly competent and acted as an appropriate entrée for the main dishes to follow.

The fish course was Mendelssohn’s violin concerto, superbly executed by the Korean-born Ye-Eun Choi (Op. 64 in E minor – 1839/44). There was no doubt here who was in command of the pace – it was her – and she led the orchestra and the conductor on a roller-coaster of emotions. In the 1st movement she was wrestling with her instrument: the two locked in an intense combat to gain control of the melody brought to a head in the frenzied cadenza; in the 2nd they were engaged in a deeply sensuous seduction as they jointly produced the familiar motif (so familiar that Andrew Lloyd Webber was ‘inspired’ by it); by the 3rd the violinist and violin were engaged in a playful dance, chasing each other round the other instruments in a game of hide and seek.

Watching her face as she performed, we could see the intensity of her passion and concentration but also the sheer pleasure she gained from delivering such a sublime non-stop performance with so many, many notes! The grace of her performance was further enhanced by the fact that, when she finished, before bowing for the audience’s well-deserved adulation, Ms Choi first turned and thanked the orchestra. A worthy gesture. Whether it was the sustained bassoon notes that linked the 1st and 2nd movements, the give-and-take of the fast-paced sections, or the restrained echo behind the love song, she was acknowledging their craftsmanship.

I hope it is not inappropriate to comment favourably on her choice of dress – a slim, shimmering silver one-piece. It further enhanced the image of her rising as a cloud above the black sea of the musicians. The black dress code of a Symphonic orchestra is there to make sure that we are never distracted by the outfits of any one member; it is a uniform so they look uniform. But that goes for styles as well as colour: so flounce in some of the women’s dresses does not enhance the performance nor do a few shoes looking dangerously like trainers. And there is no excuse ever for a conductor, no matter how renowned, to wear a dark blue tail coat.

For the meat course, we were back to Beethoven, and there is nothing beefier than his 5th Symphony (Op. 67 in C minor – 1804-08). It starts with four of the most famous notes in the Classical repertoire – the dot-dot-dot-dash that became Samuel Morse’s code for the letter V. And this time there was no hesitation from the orchestra. The train pulled out decisively from the station clear about its destination. The (train) conductor kept it on the rails and at the right pace throughout, never letting this huge locomotive run away from him but never under-leveraging its power and drive. I especially enjoyed the stately march of the 2nd movement; and relished the big-bottomed sound of the fanfares in the 4th when bass trombone and contra-bassoon give the work the pomp and power that it needs as it hurtles towards a triumphant conclusion.

A few broader comments. I was struck by an interesting coincidence of ages. All three pieces were written by the composers when they were in their 30s (respectively, aged 37, 30 and 34) and the soloist is herself 32. We claim that now is an era dominated by the youth but clearly so was early 19th century Germany. But I could not help wondering what music written by 30-sometings today will still be played in 220 years’ time…. 

I was also struck by the mix of the audience. It seemed to be much younger on average, and less relentlessly white, than KZNPO audiences of the past. There were clearly groups of young professionals who were enjoying the sound and sight of a full concert orchestra no less than the oldies. Let us hope that that continues. I suspect that this was also because some of the older loyalists are not yet keen to venture into the city centre after dark – post-COVID and post-riots. Given that, let us hope that the management quickly reinstate the open dress rehearsal on the morning of the concert to make this wonderful music accessible to more people.

The audience that were there were clearly the most committed and the ones most eager to re-engage with the KZNPO. That meant that for the most part the audience were no less disciplined in their behaviour than the musicians, and rightly so. If anything, they were too disciplined – twice I felt that there was an urge for a standing ovation and yet perhaps we worried that such exuberance was not COVID-compliant! It was, however inexcusable that six members of the audience were allowed to walk in after the beginning of the Symphony, in full view of most of the auditorium, to take up their very prominent seats, even if (especially if) they are well connected.

At the beginning of the concert, a Board member, Dr Dirk Pretorius, stood up to welcome the audience back after such a long absence. He spoke, rightly, of the importance of the creative industries to the South African economy, something that politicians including the hapless Minister, have failed to honour other than with lip service. He made the point that the strength of the KZNPO is in the musicians themselves. Again, let us hope that this is not just lip service. The regular musicians have had to survive (and will have to continue to survive for some months yet) on two-thirds of the pre-COVID salaries (which were hardly elevated to begin with). Of course, budgets have been cut. But let us hope that the Board has the fairness and courage to ensure that the money that is available is used on the people who create the music and not on indulgences, expenses, flights and administration. If it is only the musicians who have to make financial sacrifices for the KZNPO, there may soon be no orchestra to be the pride of Durban.

The final concert of the Special Spring Symphony Concerts season will take place next Thursday, November 4, 2021, at 19h30 in the Playhouse Opera. Tickets booked through Quicket. – Raymond Perrier

 

To link direct to the KZN Philharmonic’s website click on the orchestra’s banner advert on the top right of the page or visit kznphil.org.za

SYLVIA: REVIEW 2021

(Above: Liesl Coppin, Bryan Hiles & Cara Roberts)

(Sylvia is well worth seeing. In some ways the formulae is typical of a rom/com, but this time the love interest is an adorable dog. Go figure. (Review by Keith Millar)

The enchanting romantic comedy Sylvia was originally staged by Kickstart Production Company at the Seabrooke’s Theatre on the campus of Durban High School in October last year.

Now, according to their publicity, it has been brought back “by popular demand”. There is no surprise in that because the production was a delightful and heart-warming experience.

And this time around it remains exactly the same – delightful and heart-warming. And who does not need a bit of extra delight and warming of the heart in their lives these days?

The play tells the story of Greg. A middle-aged man who is decidedly experiencing a mid-life crisis. He is unhappy at work; his children have flown the nest and he is struggling to find a purpose in life.

Then he comes across a stray dog in the local park who, according to the name tag around her neck, is named Sylvia. He falls instantly in love with the endearing pooch and decides to take her home and adopt her.

Greg’s wife, Kate, is not exactly enamoured with this idea and the arrival of Sylvia in their lives soon causes all sorts of marital strife.

The small cast is excellent. Bryan Hiles as Greg and Liesl Coppin as his wife Kate show all their experience and skill in their convincing performances as the middle-aged couple.

(Greg King & Bryan Hiles)

Three character roles are all played with aplomb and humour by Greg King. He is Tom, a macho dog lover who meets Greg (Hiles) in the park, Phyllis, an old family friend (he is particularly funny in this role – almost a panto dame), and Leslie the cross-dressing Marriage Counsellor who ends up needing counselling her/himself.

But the absolute star of the show is Cara Roberts as Sylvia the talking dog. The character she creates is captivating. Cute, cuddly, lovable and at times just a little naughty. Roberts displays a huge amount of energy in her very physical performance. This young lady has oodles of talent.

Sylvia is written by AR Gurney. The inventive and elegant set is the creation of the multi-talented Greg King. Along with Peter Court, he directed the production while lighting is by Michael Broderick. Costumes are also by Peter Court.

Sylvia is well worth seeing. In some ways the formulae is typical of a rom/com, but this time the love interest is an adorable dog. Go figure.

Sylvia runs until November 14 with performances Thursdays and Fridays at 19h00; Saturdays 14h30 and 19h00 and Sundays at 14h30.

Tickets R175 throughout – Computicket. Seating unreserved – seats allocated at the door in line with COVID protocols

Booking for Sylvia is through Computicket on 0861 915 8000 or online at www.computicket.com

Please arrive timeously as all COVID protocols need to be observed.

Seabrooke’s Theatre is at Durban High School in St Thomas Road. Safe parking on the school grounds. – Keith Millar

 

BUZZART21 - CARE

KZNSA is excited to announce the theme of this year's BUZZART21 as CARE. As the world seeks to heal from the trauma of Covid-19, it has never been more important that we care for ourselves, each other, our communities and our planet.

The organisers explain the theme:

“The KZNSA invites proposals for the widest interpretation of this theme as we enter a season of gifting, generosity and support of local livelihoods. Think self-care, organic and biodegradable products, earth friendly cosmetics, small batch confectionary and sustainable design practices. It has been a time of great uncertainty for local design and craft practitioners and the festive season is a chance to recover and rebuild. We encourage submissions that reflect a global shift toward ethical consumption and meaningful gifting as acts of caring. The simplest gift is enhanced by the consciousness and care with which an item/object is designed, manufactured, packaged and finally wrapped for gifting.

“We will also curate a pre-loved collection, with attention to a circular economy aimed at eliminating waste. Donations or consignments of unwanted quality goods, previously loved art and craft, freshly laundered clothing and homeware (in working condition) are welcome.”

Email ashaw@kznsagallery.co.za for an appointment to bring in consignment stock for review; please also note that unsuitable donations will be passed on to HOLAH.

KZNSA welcomes product that is locally-produced, handmade, artisanal, one of a kind, designed with care and attention to detail. Details for delivery and drop off of stock as well as the BUZZART21 opening date will be announced shortly.

To become a KZNSA shop supplier or artist during BUZZART21, email craft@kznsagallery.co.za / ashaw@kznsagallery.co.za

DIFF INVITES FILMMAKERS FOR 2022 EDITION

Deadline for submissions: February 28, 2021

Durban International Film Festival invites filmmakers to submit for 2022 edition.

Presented by the Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa’s longest-running film festival, the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF), invites filmmakers to submit their feature films, documentaries, and shorts for the 43rd edition taking place from July 21 to 30, 2022.

The deadline for submissions is February 28, 2021. For eligibility, submission fees, and to submit, visit the DIFF profile on FilmFreeway: www.filmfreeway.com/durbanfilmfest

The date of October 27 for DIFF’s opening for submissions is no coincidence, as it coincides with UNESCO’s World Day for Audiovisual Heritage that aims to acknowledge the importance of audiovisual documents. Just like UNESCO’s aim, DIFF’s vision is to underline the increasingly vital role that audiovisual content plays in our lives, as it gives us the ability to understand the world and engage with each other.

The official opening for submissions calls on global filmmakers to speak to the myriad of ways we have all restructured our reality. This year’s curatorial theme is Adaptation. DIFF is challenging filmmakers during these times of unprecedented transformation to rise and introduce audiences to fresh perspectives of diversity and inclusion. The festival is looking for films that reach back while looking forward, focusing on strengthening the tapestry of indigenous and authentic African stories with a global view to sustainability and inclusion. These could be films that speak to migration, climate adjustment, social isolation, hybrid integration and films that explore other ways in which humanity is expanding.

“The 4th Industrial Revolution engulfs us, forcing adjustment, offering opportunity and benefit. We would like to see how filmmakers moderate these structures, processes, and practices to enhance humanity without compromising it. DIFF would like to see how we can augment and expand on potential growth without cancelling reverence for nature and sustainable practices that will ensure our survival,” says festival manager, Valma Pfaff.

DIFF2022 continues to cement its position as an incubator for African talent, maintaining its equilibrium in the global film festival sector with a particular focus on celebrating South African films and diasporic productions speaking to the experiences of Africans worldwide. DIFF2022 will be presented as a virtual festival, with a small selection of films to be screened live subject to prevailing Covid-19 related restrictions.

 

Background

DIFF contributes to expanding filmmaker networks, attracts local and international media, creates public awareness of South African and African cinema, and promotes and celebrates African cinema that highlights the possibilities of local film production and stimulates the growth of the film industry. DIFF proactively encourages the development of the African film industry and provides a strategic exhibition platform for local products alongside international films within a professionally implemented and reputable cultural experience.

DIFF has two principal strands: Isiphethu, consisting of a seminar and workshop component to stimulate industry development and a community outreach programme to engage underserviced audiences and the celebration of cinema through the exhibition of films. Isiphethu is due to release a separate call out for the inaugural International Student Film Festival.

Valma Pfaff is the new manager of the 43rd Annual Durban International Film Festival. She completed her BA in DESIGN at Ryerson University in Toronto but quickly became captivated by film production. She honed her skills as an art director in Montreal through the Directors Guild in Toronto and Cape Town, where she currently lives. Pfaff supports authentic indigenous voices and equitable representation and sees her role as DIFF Manager as an advocate of diversity in the film and Media Sector in South Africa and beyond. As geography gives way to the Digital and Hybrid space, she welcomes engagement with international partners who share DIFF's mandate. She divides her time between Durban and Cape Town, enjoying yoga, the mountain, and her great love for jazz.

For more information visit www.filmfreeway.com/durbanfilmfest

A TONY COX GUITAR WORKSHOP

(Right: Tony Cox)

Harmony and How To Get It Onto Your Guitar is a series of 2 x 3hr online workshops presented by acclaimed guitarist Tony Cox, now living in the UK. The workshops are designed for those who have a restless need to understand theory and harmony and how it applies to the guitar

Tony Cox explains: “Many students that come to me for lessons are already seasoned guitar players and many have found that along the journey of their guitar-playing life, they have not spent any time learning the notes on the neck or to make a study of how the harmony they are playing, actually works. For some, this is just fine, for others there is always a niggling frustration, a hidden world of understanding music, yet to be explored and something that they are keen to get a handle on.

“If you are of the latter persuasion, come along to my online series of 2 x 3hr workshops I am hosting this November. I will be taking a dive into harmony and how to see it happening on your guitar. Music harmony is such a complex subject that one could spend years studying its many facets. There are ways though, to make simple sense out of that complexity and that is the gateway that my workshops will deliver to you. And you do not need to be able to read music in order to have a good understanding of harmony.

“At the end of the workshops you will receive video and pdf files covering all the work in detail. Online tickets are limited to just 8, this allows me some 1-on-1 per person within the group. More than that just becomes impossible,: adds Cox.

 

Sign Up

HARMONY AND HOW TO GET IT ONTO YOUR GUITAR

A Tony Cox Guitar Workshop

WHEN: Sat/Sun November 13 and 14, 2021

TIME: 14h00 UK – 16h00 SA – 09h00 US

COST: £105 (R2100)

BOOKING: tonycoxguitarlessons@gmail.com

 

Due to the attendance limitations the 8 tickets will go very fast. It is advisable to book soon.

 

ASSITEJ EXPLORES MAJOR OPPORTUNITY

ASSITEJ SA are excited to announce that they are exploring a potential major opportunity for their members, which would result in funding for an extended period for part-time workers within organisations across the country.

Assitej is looking to build a consortium of arts organisations/NGOs/companies, working for and with children and young people in all provinces, and to bid for funding which is soon to be announced.

In order to be prepared for what will be a small window for a big opportunity, Assitej invites members and prospective members to a virtual meeting to discuss the opportunity and to explore whether or not it is realistic.

This will take place on Zoom on October 28, 2021, at 15h00.

RSVP to receive zoom link HERE: https://forms.gle/WByPCSFKQiwcyK6v6

DURBAN CITY ORCHESTRA CONCERT

The Durban City Orchestra’s next Classical Concert will take place on November 7, 2021. This will be the DCO’s first concert under the baton of their new conductor, Charl van der Merwe.

The programme includes Beethoven’s Egmont Overture, Op. 84; Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto K622 featuring Wesley Lewis on the clarinet, and Haydn’s Symphony No 104.

Tickets R120 (R100 pensioners/students) are available by contacting Tatum on 083 708 5294!

The concert will take place at 15h00 on November 7 at St Thomas Church in Musgrave.

NIBS AND GUY AT ESHOWE

(Above: Guy Buttery & Nibs van der Spuy)

Having shared the stage together for more than two decades now, Nibs van der Spuy and Guy Buttery capture the spirit of South Africa, with its vast melting pot of influences and musical landscapes. At the end of last year, Nibs and Guy released their follow up SAMA Nominated record Live in Lisbon captured on their most recent tour of Europe. Due to COVID-19, the duo have not yet had the opportunity to tour the album.

That all changed this month with nine concerts scheduled between the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal with their final concert set inside the beautiful Dlinza Forest in Eshowe.

These two virtuosos collaborated on a series of shows in the early and mid-2000’s before their respective solo careers took off with whirlwind individual touring schedules across the globe. Their performing paths crossed at a festival in Toulouse, France, and this inspired a new combination of performances and sowed the seeds for recording their début album together. In The Shade of the Wild Fig showcases their mutual interest and deep love for World Music and different folk styles featuring numerous instruments such as the cuatro, mbira, tanpura, sitar and various acoustic guitars.

Nibs and Guy have toured many major festivals and venues throughout Europe and the UK in promotion of their SAMA nominated album, In the Shade of the Wild Fig. The duo has also won the very prestigious Standard Bank Ovation Award at The National Arts Festival. These accolades led to further sold-out performances at numerous festivals and concert halls in both South Africa and in Europe receiving rave reviews for both their live show and their recorded work. Van der Spuy and Buttery were then invited to perform with the 52 piece KZN Philharmonic Orchestra, dubbed “Africa’s greatest orchestra” and were later voted “Top Live Show of the Year” by The Cape Times.

Buttery has been featured in the world’s biggest selling guitar magazine Guitar Player which saw him performing at leading guitar festivals throughout Europe, India, Brazil, Australia and the USA. He has also received numerous major national awards including the esteemed SAMA (South African Music Award) for Best Instrumental Album of the Year and was awarded the Standard Bank Young Artist of the year. In the same vein, Van der Spuy is a highly-acclaimed guitarist, singer and songwriter, being featured in leading publications from France’s Liberation to the UK Guardian. He is constantly touring with his biggest support base being in France.

Their follow up album Live in Lisbon was recorded next to the Tagus river in Belém on the outskirts of Lisbon. It was their first performance as a duo in Portugal. Speaking about the evening, van der Spuy commented: “It had been a good while since we had played live together, but all the essential ingredients were still very much present. Neither of us were aware that everything was perfectly in place and that we were being recorded. From this intimate setting in Portugal, with a bunch of beautiful people who came from all corners to be a part of this wonderful evening, we are incredibly happy to share this recorded moment with the rest of the world."

The final performance of their tour of KZN and Western Cape will take place at 14h00 (doors open 13h00) on October 31, 2021, at the Dlinza Forest - In Conjunction with Ezemvelo (Bishops Seat), in Eshowe, Zululand

Tickets R150 booked through Quicket at https://qkt.io/dlinza

For more information contact – 071 765 9658 or email: petticoatscapegoat@gmail.com

CABARET AND BEYOND WINNERS

(Left: Leah Mari)

Young talents selected to take their musicals to the professional stage

The Centre for Creative Arts, at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, in collaboration with the Mandela Bay Theatre Complex, are proud to announce the winners of the inaugural Cabaret And Beyond festival. 

Multi-instrumentalist, composer and arranger Ntlantla Swana from Gqeberha and singer, pianist and musical theatre performer Leah Mari from Durban are the selected talents that will get mentorship to take their musicals to the professional stage.

Twenty-one composers have finished a fourth-month new musical theatre writing initiative culminating in a live showcase staged at the Seabrooke’s Theatre in Durban. Patrons scrambled for tickets, with the second week run of the show being completely sold out after adding a performance date.

“What a pleasure to see this new writing project come to fruition with such overwhelming success. New musical theatre is a 'hard sell’ for local audiences who are unfamiliar with this aspect of the genre, but they fell hook, line and sinker.” says Roland Perold, curator and project manager of the Cabaret and Beyond Festival.

(Right: Ntlantla Swana)

A panel of distinguished jury members assembled in Durban to select the winning composers of this showcase came to a unanimous decision. The adjudicating panel, consisting of artistic director Xabiso Zweni from Gqeberha, international Opera singer Nozuko Teto from Durban, theatre director Lesedi Job from Johannesburg, Fleur de Cap recipient for new writing development Paul Griffiths from Cape Town and musical director and event specialist Evan Roberts from Durban was led in discussion by Perold after attending Showcase Gala Event on October 16, 2021.

The winning composers will each receive financial assistance and dramaturgical support to finish their one-act musicals. These will then receive a professional staging with a Durban-based cast and creative team who start rehearsal in February 2022. The productions will premiere at the Mandela Bay Theatre Complex in March and then return to Durban for a short season. A national tour is also being considered.

Leah Mari is a student at LAMTA in Cape Town. The Durban-born singer, pianist and musical theatre performer is also an emerging composer who recorded her first EP in 2016. Mari performed regularly in Durban’s annual Young Performers musicals as a former member of the KZN Youth Choir and DALRO ACT Scholarship recipient. Recently she played “Little Red” on the infamous Durban Adult Pantomime and appeared in the Barnyard’s Oh It’s Christmas show. Mari composed and performed for the inaugural music theatre song cycle Stories 2020.

Ntlantla Swana is a multi-instrumentalist, composer and arranger. She started music in primary school and had passed her ABRSM Grade 8 practical exams for recorded and saxophone as a matriculant. In 2013, she represented South Africa in the International Teen Talent Competition in the USA in the keyboard section and took the runner up position. She has completed her Bachelor of Music degree at the Nelson Mandela University, where she took Composition as one of her majors (distinction).

“We congratulate Ntlantla Swana and Leah Mari as the winners identified to receive grants for further development. As partners with the Nelson Mandela Bay Theatre complex, we believe that we have an ideal product that will grow the capacity of new composers and attract audiences to return to live theatre after 18 months of a national lockdown. We are also confident that the curation and artistic direction led by Roland Perold is vital for the future growth of South African musical theatre,” says Ismail Mahomed. Director of the Centre for Creative Arts.

EUROPEAN FILM FESTIVAL WRAPS UP

The European Film Festival has just successfully completed 10 days of online screenings and topical discussions, as well as community events and schools programmes. (October 14-24, 2021).

The principal purpose of the festival is to showcase new thought-provoking films from Europe, many of which may not be seen on SA cinema circuit or the respective streaming platforms. The increased participation of countries from Eastern Europe and Scandinavia added diversity to this year’s offerings, with stories providing glimpses into the experiences of citizens in their respective social worlds and cultures.

Public response has been excellent with 9,456 streams recorded - pretty good for a line-up of only 18 films! Attendance is well over 10,000 when the special event screenings, community and schools screenings are included.

Discussion programme still available online

While the films are now closed, recordings of the festival’s Live Zoom discussion programme and Q&As with the filmmakers remain available on www.eurofilmfest.co.za as an opportunity to engage more deeply with some of the topics raised in the films showing in the festival.

With 13 of the 18 festival films having women directors, the series kickstarted with Breaking Glass Ceilings for Women in Film, a crucial and necessary focus on how far we have come, and not come, in honouring, empowering women filmmakers. This features veteran Polish director Agnieszka Holland and the highly-experienced Dutch writer/ director Antoinette Beumer in conversation with SWIFT chairperson Zanele Mthembu, and Bongiwe Selane whose new sequel Happiness Forever launches on Netflix in November. This conversation provided insightful perspectives on the situation in the local and international film industries where clearly much still needs to be accomplished.

If you watched Mr Bachmann and His Class, you would have witnessed Mr Bachmann’s unconventional but absolutely inspiring approach to teaching. The enigmatic educationist participates in a delightful session In Conversation with Mr Bachmann, with inputs from former MEC for Education Mary Metcalfe and Andisiwe Hlungwane of Teachers CAN, with moderation by DUT academic Dr Rene Smith. Make sure you stay to the end, as any good student should….

Aligning perfectly with this year’s festival theme of Healing Journeys the session The Bright Side – Surviving the Journey delves into the sensitive territory of cancer, but is equally applicable to other journeys of acceptance, healing and recovery. A powerful and heartfelt discussion between three- time cancer survivor Anthea Lewis and film director Ruth Meehan, carefully moderated by Rosie Motene, takes us deep into the experiences, and offers pragmatic approaches to coming to terms with major life-challenges.

In A Film about Life, Death and Money, Daily Maverick Citizen editor and health activist Mark Heywood together with Jan Verheyen and Lien Willaert, directors of the film Save Sandra, puts the thorny issue of access to medicine under the spotlight. As Heywood points out, the title could well be A Film about Life, Death, LOVE and Money, as love for their daughter is the driving force behind the family’s painful battle with pharmaceutical companies.

After dealing with these weighty subjects, a fitting closure to the discussion programme comes in the form of Humour, Healing and Messaging where popular South African comedian Riaad Moosa engages Michael Kreihsl, Uje Brandelius and Michela Andreozzi about their films and their approach to humour. This lively discussion makes a compelling case that Laughter can indeed be the best medicine, and that humour is definitely part of the healing journey, for individuals, and for society.

Film lovers are encouraged to sign up on the website for notifications about next year’s festival. Visit www.eurofilmfest.co.za

Special thanks to the Funders and Partners whose support made the European Film Festival of 2021 possible: The Delegation of the European Union to South Africa and 17 European embassies and cultural agencies in South Africa:  the Embassies of Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, and the British Council, Camoes Institute of Portugal, Diplomatic Representation of Flanders, French Institute in South Africa, Goethe-Institut, and Italian Cultural Institut. The festival was organised in cooperation with Cineuropa and coordinated by Creative WorkZone.

RHUMBELOW CLASSICS CINEMA: 42ND STREET

The next movie in the Rhumbelow Classics Cinema series will be 42nd Street – The Musical which will be screened in the Durban venue on October 26 and 27 at 18h30 before moving to Tina’s Hotel in Kloof for two showings on October 30 and 31 at 14h00.

The film will return to Rhumbelow Theatre Durban on November 3 at 18h30.

Each venue opens 60 minutes before show for snacks/drinks. Running Time: 154 minutes (including one 20-minute interval)

42nd Street, the legendary Broadway musical theatre classic, is a ‘glorious’ (★★★★★ Express) and ‘utterly moreish extravaganza of glitz’ (★★★★★ Times).

Telling the story of Peggy Sawyer, a talented young performer with stars in her eyes who gets her big break on Broadway, this is the largest-ever staging of the Tony® Award-winning musical and it was filmed live at the magnificent Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, in the heart of London’s West End. Fresh off the bus from small-town America Peggy is just another face in the chorus line on Broadway’s newest show. But when the leading lady gets injured, Peggy might just have the shot at stardom she’s always dreamed of…

Directed by the show author, Mark Bramble, this ‘achingly beautiful revival of an American classic’ (★★★★★ Telegraph) stars national treasure Bonnie Langford as Dorothy Brock, Tom Lister as Julian Marsh, Clare Halse as Peggy Sawyer and Philip Bertioli as Billy Lawlor, performing with a dazzling tap-dancing and show-stopping ensemble cast. Featuring iconic songs 42nd Street, We’re In The Money, Lullaby Of Broadway, Shuffle Off To Buffalo, Dames and I Only Have Eyes For You, this is pure musical magic on the big screen – entertainment doesn’t get bigger than this!

Production is directed by Mark Bramble with music and lyrics by Harry Warren and Al Dubin. Set design is by Douglas W Schmidt, costume design by Roger Kirk, lighting design by Peter Mumford and sound design by Gareth Owen.

Tickets R100. Bring food picnic baskets or buy at the venue. A bar is available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises). Limited secure parking available

All seating will be at separate tables and the venues will obviously be seating co-habiting couples and/or family members. Covid limit – max 50. No walk-ins allowed. All tickets must be pre-booked.

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

For more information contact Roland Stansell on 082 499 8636

Rhumbelow Theatre is situated at Cunningham Road in Umbilo and Tina’s Hotel is at 14 Beryldene Road in Kloof.

WINDERMERE ANTIQUE FAIR

The next Windermere Antique Fair takes place on the lower level of Windermere Centre in Windermere Road on November 6, 2021, from 08h30 until 14h00.

Around 20 dealers will be selling a wide selection of antiques, vintage and collectibles. Goods on sale will include: porcelain, glass, crystal, jewellery, silver, records, books, paintings, linen, old toys etc. Interesting treasures of yesteryear at prices to suit all pockets.

For more information, contact Helen Clementz on 084 241 0241.

 

KZNPO SUNDAY SINFONIA

South Africa is officially in level 1! With Summer on its way, the KZN Philharmonic can't think of a better way to celebrate than with a lively Sinfonia concert which takes place this afternoon (October 24, 2021) at 14h00.

Join the KZN Philharmonic as they whisk you away into the Norwegian countryside with music from Grieg’s Holberg Suite and lead you on a voyage through London’s scenery with Haydn’s Symphony No. 92, the “Oxford”. This concert will be conducted by Lykele Temmingh, stalwart of the local classical music scene,

Ticket prices to suit your budget:

Pre-sales through Quicket: R120 (R80 pensioners and 12-18s)

Door: R150 (R100 pensioners and 12-18s)

Children under 12 enjoy free entry, so bring the kiddies for a lovely family day out

The concert takes place at St Elizabeth’s Anglican Church in Westville, at 14h00.

 

Symphony Season

The orchestra will present their next Symphony season in the forthcoming weeks with concerts on October 28 and November 4 at 19h30 in the Playhouse Opera. Tickets can be purchased online through Quicket or through the KZNPO offices - contact 031 369 9437/8 or email: marketing@kznphil.org.za

For more information click on the KZNPO advert to the top right of this page or visit www.kznphil.org.za

 

DSTV WEEKLY HIGHLIGHTS

Saving our planet is more than just recycling your rubbish, and in the special programme The Earthshot Prize: Repairing Our Planet, Prince William, Sir David Attenborough and other members of the The Earthshot Prize Council come together to discuss major challenges facing Earth and how we can solve them. It’s brilliant educational family viewing.

TV and radio host Rian van Heerden makes his debut as host of the game show Wie Word ’n Miljoenêr? on kykNET (DStv channel 144) and adventures and danger are on the radar in British period drama The North Water on M-Net (DStv channel 101).

New kids’ show Drama Club will keep the little ones thoroughly entertained. The made-for-TV-movie Ke Kopa Le Divorceng on Mzansi Magic (DStv channel 161) will give viewers a new perspective on a marriage and the pressures it can endure.

The Earthshot Prize: Repairing Our Planet

Season 1 / Episodes 1-5 / Watch on October 24 / Discovery Channel (DStv channel 121) / 16h25.

Over the course of five episodes (airing back-to-back) Prince William, Sir David Attenborough, and members of The Earthshot Prize Council – including Japanese engineer and ex ISS-astronaut Naoko Yamazaki – highlight solutions that prize finalists have devised to solve five major challenges facing the planet.

 

Who Wants To Be A Millionaire

Season 1 / Episode 1 / Watch from Wednesday, October 27 / kykNET (DStv channel 144) / 20h00

The biggest quiz show in the world, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, returns to South African television – but this time in Afrikaans! Contestants must answer general knowledge questions correctly to win R1 million in cash. The show is presented by popular radio and TV presenter Rian van Heerden, who will keep the contestants on their toes!

 

The North Water

Season 1 / Episode 1 / Watch from October 28 / M-Net (DStv channel 101) / 22h30

In the mid-1800s, Patrick Sumner (Jack O’Connell) joins The Volunteer as a ship’s surgeon for an Arctic whaling trip where he enters a battle of wits with the ship’s psychopathic harpooner, Drax (Colin Farrell). Filmed in the Arctic Circle – the furthest north a scripted production has ever filmed.

 

Songbird

October 24, 2021

Movie / M-Net (DStv channel 101) / 20h05

In this dystopian sci-fi thriller, bike courier Nico Price (Riverdale’s KJ Apa) – who’s immune to the mutated COVID-23 virus – races to save his young love, Sara Garcia (Sofia Carson), after the “sanitation department” arrives to take her to a concentration camp because she’s tested positive for COVID-23. Produced by Michael Bay.

 

Minki

October 25, 2021

Season 10 / Episode 1 / VIA (DStv channel 147) / 20h00

Model and TV personality Minki van der Westhuizen is back with a new season of her talk show, and this time she chats to Pierre Greeff, lead singer of Afrikaans pop group Die Heuwels Fantasties, and surprises him with a special message from a fellow singer – one Pierre idolises.

 

License To Kill

October 25, 2021

Season 1 / Episode 1 / CBS Justice (DStv channel 170) / 20h00

Plastic surgeon Dr Terry Dubrow from the series Botched presents shocking true-crime cases of doctors, nurses and medical professionals who abused, confused, and killed their patients. As well as investigating the psychology of medical people who kill, this series explores the practical difficulties of catching someone who has the knowledge needed to cover their tracks.

 

Drama Club

October 25 2021

Season 1 / Episode 1 / Nickelodeon (DStv channel 305) / 18h50

Live action tween mockumentary. A group of friends from the Tookus Middle School Drama Club get a new student director called Mack (Telci Huynh). Mack is excited to take on the school’s new musical, Minnesota, but as soon as they start rehearsals, their choreographer suffers a painful injury and they realise they will need some help.

 

Op Seer Se Spoor

October 26, 2021

Season 3 / Episode 1 / kykNET & kie (DStv channel 145) / 20h00

Kuier magazine’s features editor, Ernusta Maralack – who has seen a lot in her career as a journalist – revisits the scenes of the most brutal murders in the Western Cape and talks to the families who were left behind. In S3, the parole system is in the spotlight, along with a body dump area in Mitchells Plain, and farm murders.

 

Wheeler Dealers

October 26, 2021

Season 17 / Episode 1 / Discovery Channel (DStv channel 121) / 20h00

Mechanic Marc "Elvis" Priestley and car dealer Mike Brewer search for, restore and flip iconic cars. This season, they’re back in the UK, looking for a 1965 Mk 1 Austin Mini 850, a TVR Griffith 430, a Fiat Coupe 20 valve Turbo nicknamed the “baby Ferrari”, and a 1963 Bedford CA Dormobile.

 

The Beasts Of Halloween

October 27, 2021

Special / Curiosity Channel (DStv channel 185) / 20h00

Superstition and tradition all over the world have singled out certain animals like black cats, wolves, bats, toads and spiders to symbolise the scary and supernatural during Halloween. Now find out where these associations come from in this 2020 spooky season documentary. Part of Curiosity’s Wildlife Wednesdays.

 

NCIS

October 28, 2021

Season 18 / Episode 1 & 2 / M-Net (DStv channel 101) / 19h30 & 20h30

Special Agent Gibbs (Mark Harmon) and his team of naval investigators are back for a new season that kicks off with a bang as the team investigate the whereabouts of a missing body, and Gibbs helps his friend and former FBI agent Fornell to track down the leader of a drug ring that supplied drugs to Fornell’s daughter.

 

In Pursuit With John Walsh

October 28, 2021

Season 3 / Episode 1 / ID (DStv channel 171) / 21h00

John Walsh and his team are on a mission to find missing people, whether they’re lost kids or fugitives from justice. This season he hunts down two men suspected of killing their girlfriends – Brian Ontiveros and Carlos Torres – along with child predator and sex offender Bill Brockbrader.

 

MARRIAGE FOR DUMMIES

(Above: Aaron Mcilroy & Lisa Bobbert)

Durban’s favourite comedy duo, husband and wife team, Aaron McIlroy and Lisa Bobbert, star in Marriage for Dummies – a hilarious survival guide for anyone brave enough to take on life’s ultimate challenge. The show will run from October 29 to 31, 2021, at Rhumbelow Theatre in Durban.

“We all know that marriage is more than a relationship – it’s a WILD adventure,” say our comedic experts. “Navigating the ups and downs of married life takes planning, elbow grease and HELP!”

Before you decide to throw in the towel, take some advice as Aaron and Lisa share the secrets of marital bliss and help you come to gripe ... er … grips with your partner’s annoying habits “because when it comes to marriage, most of us are dumbies!”.

Structured around the basic format of a Marriage Seminar, Aaron and Lisa lead the audience through the many trials and tribulations that affect all marriages. In the guise of whacky characters, they identify most of the “problems” marriages face. Aptly styled the Six Steps of Separation, the key points identified include among others: Constant Fighting and Complaining; Household Chores and DIY; and The Outlaws (ie not getting along with your partner’s family). All the serious challenges are dealt with in a funny and light-hearted way. How the ‘problems’ are overcome is summarised into four basic albeit humorous ideas:

-Lower Your Expectations - This is a funny look at attitude, expectations, blame and taking responsibility.

-Investments and Returns - basically, what you put into a marriage you get out. Discovering your partners love language and the importance of affirming each other.

-Team Work - Which basically boils down to communication. You don’t have to think the same, as long as you think together.

-Love is a verb! - Love is a do-ing word - it is a decision and not just a feeling.

Marriage For Dummies is a show for everyone, married or single. Most of the ideas and theories have been inspired by marriage experts such as Mark Gungor (Laugh Your Way To A Better Marriage) and Andy Stanley (Staying In Love). “We believe that ‘comedy’ provides a unique frame work, acknowledging the complexities of marriage without getting into the blame game, thus, allowing our audience to internalise the lessons without feeling condemned” says McIlroy.

Cue Online’s reviewer, appraising the show during its debut run at the 2017 National Arts Festival in Grahamstown, wrote: “This dynamic duo never disappoints. If you are in need of a good laugh and a relaxed evening out, this is the show to watch. A quirky mixture of comedy, dance, and music with interesting insight in how to make a marriage last. It will keep you well entertained.”

Shows take place on Friday (October 29) at 18h30 as well as Saturday and Sunday (October 30 and 31) at 14h00 and 18h30. (Venue opens 90 minutes before show for snacks/drinks)

Tickets minimum R200 (no discounts for this show). Bring food picnic baskets or buy at the venue. A full bar is available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises).

All seating will be at separate tables and the venue will obviously be seating co-habiting couples and/or family members together.

Limited secure parking available.

With the current Covid levels, the venues will be limiting capacity to 50% maximum capacity per show.

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

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

Strict Covid protocols will be observed. Rhumbelow Theatre is situated at 42 Cunningham Road off Bartle Road in Umbilo, Durban.

 

 

STRICTLY NO 1’s: REVIEW

While some may feel that it is a bit early to start celebrating the festive season, I have little doubt that this show will change your mind and get you into the party spirit and set the mood for a cheerful season ahead. (Review by Keith Millar)

Barnyard Theatre at the Suncoast Casino is doing what it does best. Throwing a fabulous, high-octane, crackerjack of a party.

Strictly No 1’s is billed as the Barnyard’s festive season offering – it runs until December 31, 2021. While some may feel that it is a bit early to start celebrating the festive season, I have little doubt that this show will change your mind and get you into the party spirit and set the mood for a cheerful season ahead. And we all deserve a little joy in our lives, don’t we?

It may seem risky to present a programme based on No 1’s as there is such an enormous amount of music to choose from. But the compilers of this show have got it right and have come up with an enjoyable mix of party songs and favourite hits. It certainly had the Covid capacity audience on the night we went on their feet bopping and singing along.

Add to this the usual Barnyard kaleidoscopic lighting display, the backdrop of graphic images, the stylish costumes, the high energy chorography and the excellent sound mix, and you have a winner. The Barnyard back to its best.

Of course, the most important element in any show is the entertainers. In this case, an excellent team of eight who perform with style and vigour.

The four piece band, all accomplished musicians, have been together for a few Barnyard productions now and they have developed into a tight, cohesive entity.

They are led by Musical Director Callie Thomson on keyboards and backing vocals with Jason Kylen on guitar and vocals, Dylan van der Linde on drums and Bongani Sokhela on bass.

The cast includes the charming and urbane Themba January (who also has the role of MC for this show); the ever-popular Kyle Mathews, in a welcome return to the Barnyard Suncoast stage; the pocket dynamo Savanah de Beer, and the elegant powerhouse diva Kerry Cherry.

In a show of over 25 songs there are obviously a few highlights. These are a few of mine.

What better way to start the party than with a medley of Cliff and Elvis? Themba January and Kyle Mathews get together for Forty Days, Blue Suede Shoes, Living Doll, Teddy Bear and Do You Want To Dance?

Also in the first half, Savanah de Beer is a sensual, albeit rather young Cher for Believe and also shines for Belinda Carlisle’s Heaven is a Place On Earth. Kyle Mathews injects some humour with Rock Me Amadeus by Falco and channels his inner rocker with Bill Hailey’s Rock around The Clock.

Guitarist Jason Kylen is particularly good with La Bamba. I not sure why they don’t use him for a few more songs, because he is good.

I also enjoyed the mash-ups where Kyle and Themba sang Eye Of The Tiger and Another Brick In The Wall, and the one with Themba and Kerry Cherry singing Diana Ross’s I’m Coming Out and Luther Vandross and Mariah Carey’s Endless Love.

The second half produced even more energy than the first, if that was possible. Absolute highlight in the second half for me (and possibly the whole show) was the rocking medley of some memorable guitar riffs from Smoke On The Water, Paranoid, Allright Now, Whole Lot of Love, Sunshine Of Your Love and Thunder Struck. Excellent from Jason Kylen. Dylan van der Linde’s drum solo during this segment was not half bad, either.

Other enjoyable moments in the second half included a South African segment of The Crossing, Vulizela, Dance Sum More, Kaptein and Jerusalema.

As is usual at the Barnyard, the cast brought the house down with their ensemble singing to end the show with Journey’s Don’t Stop Believing, Chubby Checker’s Lets Twist Again, and LMFAO’s Party Rockers.

So, if you are in the mood for some festive entertainment, put on your dancing shoes and head for the Barnyard Theatre at the Suncoast Casino. I don’t think you will be disappointed.

Shows usually run from Thursdays to Sundays. There are always special offers available so go to the Barnyard website or phone 031 9400500 to check on show times and ticket prices and to make bookings. – Keith Millar

GRAHAM NORTON SHOW: OCTOBER 26, 2021

(Left: Graham Norton)

The Graham Norton Show continues on October 26, 2021, at 20h00 on BBC Brit (DStv Channel 120).

In the upcoming episode, Graham Norton welcomes comedy legend Sir Billy Connolly, Doctor Who’s Jodie Whittaker, British Olympic champion diver Tom Daley, acting great Dame Eileen Atkins, comedian and writer Sir Lenny Henry, and the mighty Coldplay.

Viewers can look forward to Coldplay perform My Universe live in the studio. Billy Connolly talks about living with Parkinson’s, Jodie Whittaker says she doesn’t know who the new Doctor is, Eileen Atkins says she’s too posh, Tom Daley says he’s not ready to retire, Lenny Henry says he wishes he’d had superpowers, and Chris Martin says he loves BTS with a great passion.

And finally, Graham pulls the lever on more foolhardy audience members brave enough to sit in The Big Red Chair.

Coming up: (November 2) Graham’s guests include Eddie Redmayne, Jessie Buckley, Stephen Merchant, Motsi Mabuse, Elton John and Charlie Puth.

 

DIRTY ROTTEN

Dirty Rotten – a two man comedy special – makes a welcome return to OnStage@Altitude, back by popular demand. The show features Kamz Govender and Mmangaliso Mhlongo.

Kamz Govender, a small town kid from Phoenix, has taken the Durban comedy scene by storm in the last few years. His unique style of using Puns to share his life experiences is one not to be missed. He will be sharing his tales of how growing up in a typical Indian household is shaping his current life and relationship.

Mmangaliso Mhlongo – also known as the tornado-on-stage – has been on comedy stages all over South Africa over the past five-years. He won the Cosmediology Best Newcomer Award, has staged several one-man comedy shows and has shared the stage with the likes of Robbie Collins, Jem Atkins, Calvin Goldstone and Siya Saya. Mhlongo has also been in two feature films.

There will be one performance at OnStage@Altitude on October 28, 2021, from 19h00.

Age restriction - No under 18s.

Refund policy - No refunds

Tickets from R50 booked through Quicket. Bring along a picnic basket/snacks/pizza and enjoy refreshments from the cash bar.

 OnStage@Altitude is situated at 25 Silver Avenue in Greyville, Durban. Bookings or enquiries on 064 476 9533.

CAB FESTIVAL CELEBRATES JOYFUL RETURN TO SHOWBIZ

(Lyle Buxton, Tshepo Ncokoane, Amanda Kunene & Sam Landers. Pic by Val Adamson)

Durban audiences filled up Seabrooke’s Theatre at Durban High School this past weekend to witness an exciting evening of original theatrical songs. Featuring 20 new songs, from 21 local theatre composers, the “Cabaret and Beyond” Festival Showcase is the culmination of a three-month writing collective facilitated by Roland Perold, at the behest of the Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

The second weekend of the showcase will run from October 22 to 24 at Seabrooke’s Theatre and is sold out. An extra performance is made available for sale on Saturday October 23 at 15h00 for which tickets are still available.

“What an absolute pleasure to have been received with such enthusiasm by the public. Original work is a hard sell in this genre but thanks to the strength of writing and phenomenal performances word is spreading like wildfire and we are about to run out of available seats! A great problem to have.” says Perold.

A talented cast of four comprising Amanda Kunene, Sam Landers, Tshepo Ncokoane and Lyle Buxton were guided through the new material by musical director and show pianist Wessel Odendaal, while the design was in the talented hands of Karabo Legoabe Mtshali, recently recognised in the “Mail & Guardian 200 Young South Africans 2021” to watch out for.

Composers for this project hail from across South Africa with participants from Durban, Johannesburg, Cape Town and Gqeberha where a partnership with the Mandela Bay Theatre Complex sees two full length one-act musicals being premiered in that city in March, 2022. Next week two composers (or writing teams) whose work show promise for future development will be announced and they will receive grants to develop their ideas into a project that will be realised in conjunction with the CCA.

CAB Festival is an initiative that seeks to showcase excellence in new music theatre writing and provide a first outlet for these works. As the composers nurture their material the audience is encouraged to engage, reflect, laugh, cry and become part of the burgeoning landscape for development of the genre locally.

More information about the composers can be found at: https://www.cabfestival.com/the-creatives/

All COVID 19 protocols will be observed. Tickets R100 with a two-for-one concession available to students. Bookings can be made at:

https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1508544749