DISCOVER LOCAL TALENTS IN CONCERT AT KZNSA

(Right: Abahambayo)

 Start the year by discovering local talents in concert at KZNSA Gallery in Durban.

 iSupport Creative Business, in collaboration with KZNSA gallery and supported by Concerts SA presents African folk group Abahambayo, master guitarist Dane Francis, and vocalist Umaah in concert.

 The concert will take place at KZNSA Gallery in Glenwood, Durban on January 8, doors open at 18h00 and tickets are available on Webtickets for R60.

 Abahambayo are a musical group that aims at preserving African folk music by fusing modern jazz and pop technique to appeal to almost everyone who comes across the music and those wanting to learn about the past and current history of the Zulu folk.

 (Left: Dane Francis)

 Guitarist Dane Francis has over the years become a well-established and recognised local and international artist. He is a passionate, talented and skilled musician whose love and passion for music allows him to play and teach all instruments.

 Durban-born Umaah is a singer- and songwriter who has made a permanent mark upon the South African music scene. 

Her music is influenced by emotive electronic music rooted in hip hop and neo-soul brazed with African-Caribbean music.

 (Right: Umaah)

 This concert is made possible by The SAMRO Foundation/Concerts SA. Concerts SA is a joint South African/Norwegian live music development project housed under the auspices of SAMRO and managed by IKS Cultural Consulting. Concerts SA receives financial, administrative and technical support from the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, SAMRO and the SAMRO Foundation. 

Working with musicians, promoters, venue owners and audiences, and providing support to the sector through research and skills development for music professionals, the project aims to build a vibrant and viable live music circuit in southern Africa. It also aims to develop an interest in and appreciation of live music by showcasing music performances and conducting workshops at schools.

 For more information, visit http://concertssa.co.za, follow @ConcertsSA on Twitter at http://twitter.com/ConcertsSA or like on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ConcertsSA.

 The KZNSA Gallery is situated at 166 Bulwer Road, Glenwood, Durban.

ONE MAN SHOWS: THE BLACK AND WHITE YEARS

(Above: Pieter-Dirk Uys)

Pieter-Dirk Uys’s latest book – One Man Shows: the black and white years – published by Missing Ink, is presented here free for all who wish to download and read it.

Download the text of OneManShows:the black and white years here http://pdu.co.za/OneManShows.html.

Uys, who has made all of his dramatic play scripts available online, spent the 2020 pandemic lockdowns sorting out the satirical revues that have been part of his life since 1981. One Man Shows: the black and white years includes his first seven one-man shows. It takes the reader through the revues that dodged censorship and the authorities, and shows how he used humour and irony to highlight the hypocrisy and corruption that were part of South Africa’s daily life under apartheid.

* His first one-man show, Adapt or Dye, opened on April Fool's Day in 1981 and introduced Evita Bezuidenhout to the nation and then the world, touring internationally throughout the 1980s.

* Total Onslaught 1984, subtitled Yes-No-Orwell-Fine, reflected the Nationalists’s new constitutional plans for the future.

* Beyond the Rubicon played on PW Botha's notorious speech at the 1985 National Party Conference, where his announcement of crossing the Rubicon caused the rand to become a cent overnight.

* Rearranging the Deckchairs on the SA Bothatanic depicted South Africa as a luxury liner with familiar white people in first class and everyone else in steerage.

* Cry FreeMandela the movie, inspired by Richard Attenborough's film Cry Freedom, showed a local version of the dramatic story of an escape from the security police with the news of brutality and murder most foul.

* A Kiss on your koeksister took the shape of a 1990 National Party bazaar that bizarrely showed the state of a confused white nation after the release of Nelson Mandela and the unbanning of the ANC.

* The 1994 election inspired One Man One Volt, which was performed over the tense and exciting days of capturing a rainbow nation while turning black and white into colour.

In addition to the text of each show, Uys also takes the reader through the backstory of each production, the ups and downs of the politics of the day and the media reactions, and includes archival photos of the characters and the famous faces of the Volk.

Uys might have been alone on stage, but his chorus line of characters in One Man Shows: the black and white years filled each performance. While the politics of the black and white years are anchored in 1981 to 1994, the realities of political tensions, legalised racism, corruption, state capture and rumbles of revolution make what this one man shows through this book very topical at this time of pandemic regulations, misinformation and political confusions.

Applications for performance rights, both professional and amateur, should be addressed to:

PD Uys Productions

productions@evita.co.za

 

M-NET MOVIES MEN OF ACTION POP-UP CHANNEL

(Left: “Snakes on a Plane” stars Samuel L Jackson)

Action’s biggest stars ready to keep you on the edge of the seat on new M-Net Movies Men of Action pop-up channel

What do Denzel Washington, Vin Diesel, Samuel L Jackson and Idris Elba have in common? Aside from being some of the biggest names in Hollywood, they are the leading men who will be on the explosive new M-Net Movies Men of Action pop-up channel in the new year.

On DStv Channel 111 from January 21 to February 6, 2022, Men of Action will feature blockbusters and classics starring big names with even bigger guns. The high-octane flicks include the gritty 21 Bridges, starring the late Chadwick Boseman; the hilarious The Hitman’s Bodyguard starring Ryan Reynolds and the ridiculously fun Snakes on a Plane starring Samuel L Jackson; Inside Man starring Denzel Washington; and A Man Apart starring Vin Diesel.

(Right: Denzel Washington stars in “Inside Man”)

Other channel highlights include:

American Gangster: One of Denzel Washington’s most celebrated roles, the film tells the story of the rise and fall of drug lord Frank Lucas.

Pacific Rim: Starring Idris Elba, this sci-fi action film directed by Guillermo del Toro is set in the future, when the earth is at war with sea monsters.

Rush Hour: The Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan comedy is a modern buddy cop classic, and it’s about a Hong Kong police officer who teams up with an LA cop to solve a kidnapping case.

 Central Intelligence: Action-hero Dwayne Johnson and funnyman Kevin Hart team up for a laugh-a-minute comedy. A mild-mannered accountant is sucked into the spy game by an old high school pal.

(Left: Vin Diesel stars in “The Last Witch Hunter”)

The Last Witch Hunter: Vin Diesel delves into the fantasy subgenre in this flick where he plays a witch hunter going after an enemy he thought he had long destroyed.

The channel will be available to DStv Compact, Compact Plus and Premium customers, with the films also available on DStv Catch Up.

Whether old school action or sprinkled with a little bit of horror, the heroes and antiheroes on M-Net Movies Men of Action will inject an adrenaline rush into our 2022 viewing.

BAROQUE 2000: CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION: REVIEW

(Left: Hlengiwe Mkhwanazi)

The music was like a basket packed full of festive treats. As each was unwrapped, there was another musical delight to waiting follow. (Review by Keith Millar)

Durban’s Baroque 2000 ensemble brought down the curtain on its 2021 Concert Series at the Church of the Monastery at Mariannhill, last Sunday, with a spectacular Christmas Celebration concert.

The music was like a basket packed full of festive treats. As each was unwrapped, there was another musical delight to waiting follow.

The soloist for the concert was the stunning soprano Hlengiwe Mkhwanazi. A native of KwaZulu-Natal she is now living in Cape Town. She obtained her post graduate diploma in music performance from the University of Cape Town and is an alumni of the prestigious Ryan Opera Centre at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

Mkhwanazi is a mufti award-winning artist and has performed extensively in Chicago and in Southern Africa. She is blessed with a strong, pure, and effortless voice.

She performed a number of beautiful arias with elegance and grace. These included I Know My Redeemer LIveth and Rejoice Greatly from George Frederic Handel’s Messiah. Let the Bright Seraphim from Handel’s Opera Samson, which had Michel Schneuwly join the ensemble to play the striking trumpet part. Mkhwanazi also performed Domine Deus from Antonio Vivaldi’s Gloria and Si Dolce é’l tormento by Claudio Monteverdi.

Two very special treats served up by the Ensemble were the sublime Canon by Johann Pachelbel and Air from 3^rd Suite in D Major by JS Bach (Air On a G String).

These two items are arguably amongst the best known and loved pieces of baroque music today and are used extensively for weddings and other events.

If you are emotionally moved by music then there is little doubt that these two pieces will do the trick and that tears will be shed at their sublime beauty.

The concert was rounded out by the Ensemble performing the Overture from Handel’s Messiah, Pastorale from the Christmas Concerto by Francesco Manfredini, and Concerto grosso for the Night of Christmas by Arcangelo Corelli.

Another visitor from Cape Town joining the Baroque 2000 Ensemble for this concert was Harpsichord maestro Eric Dippenaar. It was possibly his influence that led to the orchestra putting in what was, in my humble opinion, its performance of the 2021 Concert Series at this concert. As an encore, the ensemble played an arrangement of We Wish You a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

An appropriate ending to a year of excellent music.

It is planned for the next Concert Series to begin in March 2022. For more information and any queries, contact Michel Schneuwly at 082 303 5241 or on sursouth@iafrica.com.

Baroque 2000 is sponsored by Die Rupert Musiekstigting.

SMOKE AND MIRRORS

(Right: Brendon Peel)

Fresh from the big stages of Britain's Got Talent and starring in the Travel Channel's new TV series, the Master of Magic and Mentalism, Brendon Peel is back to astound audiences in his new LIVE show! This will take place on December 28, 2021, at 19h30 at Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom. 

This is a unique magic show that includes demonstrations of mind-reading, traditional magic tricks, mind-blowing illusions, and a whole lot of laughs.

For centuries, mentalists and magicians have entertained and bewildered people from all around the world - and 2021 is no different! People who perform the art of magic make you question if what you are witnessing is real or a clever illusion. Is it possible for someone to truly be able to read your thoughts or predict the future?

Witness the potential possibilities in Brendon Peel's brand new show. Smoke and Mirrors is filled with mind-reading, psychological illusions, classic mentalism and impossible predictions of the future. Join in on the fu and get ready for jaw-dropping psychological illusions, never before seen feats, and mind-blowing magic.

Brendon Peel's work has been witnessed by millions of people around the world and his performances have been highlighted as world-class by such publications as the LAD Bible, The New York Post, The Express UK, Fox News, and many more! Enjoy this show like no other, and you can decide for yourself if it is real or if it's all smoke and mirrors

Booking is through Computicket on tickets.computicket.com/event/smoke_and_mirrors_with_brendon_peel/7177257

THE NIGHT WATCHMAN: REVIEW

“The Night Watchman” is a hugely impressive novel. – (Review by Margaret von Klemperer, courtesy of The Witness)

Published last year, Louise Erdrich’s The Night Watchman is based on real events which involved the author’s family – specifically her grandfather. Here he is fictionalised as Thomas Wazhashk, night watchman in a factory and a member of the Chippewa Council in the Turtle Mountain Reservation in North Dakota. The year is 1953, and the government of the United States is proposing to “terminate” the rights of native Americans to what little land they still possess on the reservations, pretending that they are doing them a favour, incorporating them into mainstream America.

The novel’s main strand is what Thomas describes as “the struggle to remain a problem. To not be solved”. But it is also the portrait of a living community, full of diverse characters and faced with issues both personal and communal.

One of the most appealing characters is Thomas’s niece, Pixie – or Patrice as she likes to be called. She works in the Turtle Mountain Jewel Bearing Plant, drilling slivers of gems to earn at least some money for her family. Her sister Vera has left the reservation for what she hopes will be a more glamorous life in the city, but she has disappeared, and Patrice’s efforts to find her are doomed to horror.

Erdrich introduces plenty of humour in the day to day activities of the community. A pair of Mormon missionaries, determined to convert the “Indians” (a term now frowned on but used by the people themselves) and turn them paler, come to the area and the mutual incomprehension and the idiocy of the would-be converters offers plenty of light relief. As do many of the activities of the participants.

As Erdrich builds her picture, and takes Thomas and others to Washington to plead their case, the reader is drawn into the myriad lives of the people, their beliefs, their hopes and their fears. The chapters are short, the writing is lyrical and the novel is intensely readable, but repays close attention. You come to care intensely about the characters, and the author’s afterword, which tells of the outcome of the actual fight for the rights of the Chippewa people, makes for a very satisfying end. The Night Watchman is a hugely impressive novel. - Margaret von Klemperer

The Night Watchman is published by Corsair - ISBN 10: 147215536X

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS: REVIEW

 (Above: The cast of "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs")

“Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” offers everything one expects from a Pantomime and more. (Keith Millar)

If you could capture all the fun, magic, joy, colour, sparkle, laughter, and enjoyment of Christmas in one big parcel – then that would be the traditional Christmas Pantomime.

And those wonderful purveyors of theatre dreams in Durban, Steven Stead and Greg King along with their team from Kickstart, and in conjunction with The Playhouse Company, are back this year with their fabulous pantomime Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

This is the first time in a decade that Snow White has been presented as the Christmas pantomime. This brand new version is written and directed by Stead; with delightful sets, puppets, and costumes by King; musical direction by Jason Bird; lighting by Tina le Roux and choreography by Simone Mann . Now how’s that for a Dream Team?

Making the magic happen on stage are Georgina Mabbett-Kelly as Snow White, Sihle Manonyane as Prince Valiant and the fabulous Blessing Xaba (remember him as Fatty from the Spud movies) as the hysterically wicked dame, Queen Malicia.

They are joined by a delightful over-the-top crew of nutty panto characters played by Mthokozisi Zulu, Belinda Henwood, and Bryan Hiles – outdoing Johnny Depp with his eccentric performance as Zanzibar Jack. Dancers Kirsty Ndawo and Simone Mann complete the cast.

There is plenty of music during the show with tunes from popular musicals as well as poplar hits – all well-performed by the talented cast.But perhaps the most important component for a Panto is the audience participation. And there is oodles of that. Everyone in the audience. Real children and the rest of us (and make no mistake – we all revert) have an absolute ball joining in, hissing booing, and shouting directions and advice to the cast.

Complete chaos at times, but marvellous fun.

I had the honour of attending the production with two grandsons. A six-year-old attending his first Panto and a nine-year-old veteran who knows exactly how to get involved. They are still talking about their experiences days later and rating the show ten out of ten..

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs offers everything one expects from a Pantomime and more. There are performances at the Playhouse until December 30. However, with the restrictions imposed on audience sizes by the pandemic, they are going to sell out soon. So check with Quicket as soon as possible. – Keith Millar

 

GROWING OLD DISGRACEFULLY

Join international cabaret artist, Tonya Koenderman in her hilarious comedy cabaret, Growing Old Disgracefully - a light-hearted, frank look at the funny side of ageing. The show runs at Rhumbelow Theatre Durban from December 22 to 24, 2021.

Do you put your car keys in the fridge? Do you walk into a room and forget why you went there in the first place? Are your arms starting to resemble bat wings? You are not alone! Come enjoy a glass of wine or six with this pint-sized dynamo and enjoy a show filled with laughter and just a few tears.

All your favourite songs will be featured, with a wicked twist. The evergreen but, perhaps, dated These Are A Few Of My Favourite Things has been rebooted to embrace more age-appropriate themes. All about That Base is now an ode to make-up and other anti-aging tools, while the classic Memories, from the musical Cats, is now about……can’t remember. All in all, you can look forward to a side-splitting night of entertainment and fun filled frivolity. Sorry, in advance, for the new laugh lines.

Tonya has been hailed by critics as "one of the hottest properties on the cabaret circuit".

Tonya Koenderman started her career fresh out of drama school with Kevin Feather's cabaret, The Dooh Wah Girls in 1990, which toured the country for Other cabarets under her belt are Dooh Wah Girls, We 3, Juke is King, Jive to the Juke, and Wurlitzer, All of Woman and Shake Your Bootie, all of which have performed to packed houses throughout South Africa.

Her solo cabarets include the hits, Tonya unwrapped, Makin' Whoopee, Liza with a T, Age of Aquarius, A Night In Paris, When Jazz Was King and Born To Diva.

Koenderman performed in the look-alike, sound-alike show, Stars in your Eyes, impersonating her favourite artist, Liza Minnelli, which ran for two seasons at the Carousel .

She has worked extensively for Sun International in numerous extravaganza throughout South Africa.

She had the great honour of being the only local artist to star in the Sun City sensation, Beyond Belief, which ran for 16 months at the Sun City Extravaganza In which again she impersonated the legendary Liza Minnelli.

In 2007, she co-directed and starred in Convent Girls with fellow performer and friend, Lisa Bobbert, which was nominated for three Durban Mercury awards:  Best Production, Best Direction, and Best lead Actress (for which both Lisa and Tonya were nominated).

Most recently, Koenderman has been very much in the corporate function scene, performing for the likes of Investec, Standard Bank, Nedbank, Appletizer, Gillette, S.A. Breweries, Avis, Adcock Ingram, World Travel, VWV, Absa, Discovery, Virgin Active, to name but a few.

Apart from dazzling Saudi Arabian “royalty”, she has performed in countries such as Australia, Italy, Mauritius, Seychelles, and Morocco.

Growing Old Disgracefully runs at Rhumbelow Theatre Durban from December 22 to 24, 2021. Performances start at 19h00. (Venue opens 90 minutes before show for snacks/drinks)

Tickets R180 (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.

RHUMBELOW CLASSICS CINEMA: A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Coming up in the Rhumbelow Classics Cinema will be A Christmas Carol from Walt Disney Pictures.

Public Screening licensed through MPLC (Motion Picture Licensing Company).

Screenings take place at Rhumbelow Theatre in Durban from December 20 to 24, 2021, with performances daily at 11h00. Running Time: 96 minutes. (Venue opens 60 minutes before show for snacks/drinks)

From Walt Disney Pictures comes the retelling of Charles Dicken's beloved tale - Disney's A Christmas Carol, the high-flying, heart-warming adventure for the whole family, staring Jim Carrey. When three ghosts take penny-pinching Scrooge on an eye-opening journey, he discovers the true meaning of Christmas.

An animated retelling of Charles Dickens' classic novel about a Victorian-era miser taken on a journey of self-redemption, courtesy of several mysterious Christmas apparitions.

Director - Robert Zemeckis. Writers include Charles Dickens (based on the classic story) and Robert Zemeckis (written for the screen)

The movie stars Jim Carrey, Gary Oldman and Colin Firth.

R100.00 a ticket. Bring food picnic baskets or buy at the venue. A bar will be 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. Covid limit – max 50 %

Limited secure parking available.

No walk-ins allowed. All tickets must be pre-booked.

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

For more information visit http://events.durbantheatre.com/

 

ADVENT MUSIC FOR TRUMPET & ORGAN

An evening of advent music performed on trumpet by Jonas Brolin and organ by Margrit Deppe will take place at St Thomas Anglican Church in Musgrave on December 20, 2021, at 17h30.

Tickets R120 / www.webtickets.co.za.

For more information contact 082 886 2470

 

JESU: MUSICAL CHRISTMAS NATIVITY

Jesu: Musical Christmas Nativity, created by Menzi Mkhwane will take place from December 22 to 24, 2021, at the BAT Centre.

Jesu is a nativity musical production that tells the bible story of the birth of Jesus Christ. Starting off with the bible scripture “…for unto us a child is born…” from the book of Isaiah. The evening is a scripture-filled event with moments of worship songs and story moments straight out of the bible.

“It is a story of hope and courage that is set to bring back the faith of many believers during this trying time when the Corona virus has led us closer to our faith and away from our knowledge,” explains Mkhwane.

Mkhwane is a Naledi award-winning published playwright who has been performing on stage for 10 years. He also performs the characters in the bible story and presents the story mostly in narrative form.

The show has performances at 14h00 every day at the BAT Centre in the Small Crafts Harbour in Durban.

Tickets R100 (R180 per couple) booked through 079 554 4941.

NEIL GONSALVES TRIO AT KZNSA

(Above: Talent Mbatha; Neil Gonsalves & Riley Giandhari)

Watch the Neil Gonsalves Trio LIVE at KZNSA on December 21 at 18h30. The concert will feature material from the much-anticipated new album, Blessings and Blues, as well as jazz re-imaginings of Christmas carols to bring some much-needed cheer to this time of year.

The Neil Gonsalves Trio features Neil Gonsalves on keyboards, Talent Mbatha on bass and Riley Giandhari on drums.

Tickets R120 at the door or booked through Quicket at https://www.quicket.co.za/events/162011-neil-gonsalves-trio-blessings-and-blues#/

The Arts Café bar and a special dinner menu will be available from 17h30 until 20h00 and BUZZART21 will be open for Christmas shopping.

KZNSA observes all protocols for Covid-19 under Level 1, including social distancing and screening. Please wear a face mask.

The KZNSA Gallery is situated at 166 Bulwer Road, Glenwood, in Durban. More information on 031 277 1705 or cell 082 220 0368 or visit www.kznsagallery.co.za

STARMAN AT NORTHLANDS BOWLING CLUB

Starman: A Tribute to the music of David Bowie presented by Ross Tapson & Friends will take place tomorrow (Thursday, December 16, 2021) at the Northlands Bowling Club.

Presented in association with The Rhumbelow Theatre, the show starts at 19h00. (Venue opens 90 minutes before show for snacks/drinks)

David Bowie is both a star and an icon and it has been said that he will be remembered like Beethoven in 100 years’ time. The vast body of work he has produced has helped influence popular culture, especially in the UK during the 1970’s Glam Rock Era. Bowie was well-known for constantly re-inventing himself as well as his love of performance art and theatre, and many see him as a trailblazer of musical trends and pop fashion.  2021 marks the 5th year since the artist’s death in 2016.

Join Ross Tapson, Grant Halliday and Neil Ford, who have wanted to pay tribute to this leading figure in the music industry for some time. This team was recently seen in the popular tributes to Pink Floyd as well as Sting and The Police, and are pleased to welcome David Langley on keyboards.

Once again, they are joined by Durban icon Marion Loudon, who lends her stellar vocal and presence to this eclectic and colourful repertoire.

Expect to hear all Bowie’s well-known hits including Under Pressure, Life on Mars, Ziggy Stardust, All the Young Dudes, Space Oddity and Let’s Dance.

Tickets R180 (R130 Northlands Bowling Club members) All seating will be at separate tables and the venue will obviously be seating co-habiting couples and/or family members together.

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

All tickets must be pre-booked. No walk-ins allowed. Strict Covid protocols will be observed

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/

Northlands Bowling Club is situated at 50 Margaret Maytom Avenue, Durban North.

ONE FINE DAY: REVIEW

“One Fine Day” is a good read, especially if you are familiar with the geographical layout of Cape Town and the Western and Eastern Capes. (Review by Barry Meehan)

One Fine Day is the fourth thriller by award-winning journalist and entrepreneur, Irna Van Zyl, her previous titles being the critically-acclaimed Dead In the Water, Death Cup and Blood Stone. One Fine Day is apparently her first foray into the psychological thriller genre.

If you are an Irna Van Zyl fan and intend reading her latest offering, be sure to keep your wits about you, as the story jumps from the present to five years ago, to 21 years ago. 

Each chapter heading for the flashbacks is clearly labelled with the time period and who the chapter subject is, so be aware, as there are several viewpoints concerning the events leading up to the sudden disappearance of Louw Roodt, sparking much consternation for her partner/lover Kristien Liebenberg and friends – the pot-smoking, cat-loving Zanie Arendse and Niklaas, the one everyone turns to in times of crisis.

As the story twists and turns, we find out more and more about the out-of-the-blue event that initiates the narrative – the hijacking and vicious assault of Louw’s mother one otherwise fine day. Louw has never forgotten the incident and even 25 years later, is still bearing the psychological scars, desperate to discover the real story behind the horrifying incident. Does it have anything to do with her long-dead father, his second family, and a set of twins, or is it simply a street person who saw an opportunity and took it?

Kristien cannot believe that her lover could have had anything to do with a crime she would appear to be fleeing from – the murder of a motivational speaker she had a problem with in the past. But what other reason could there be for her disappearance? Kristien has to confront her worst fears – has Louw been in an accident? Has she tired of Kristien and started having an affair with someone else, male or female? Has she been the victim of a hijacking or an assault, like her mother?

One Fine Day is a good read, especially if you are familiar with the geographical layout of Cape Town and the Western and Eastern Capes.

One Fine Day is published by Penguin. ISBN   978-1-48590-444-1 – Barry Meehan

CLIFF RICHARD: EXTRA SCREENING ADDED

Appearing on the Rhumbelow Classics Cinema series, Cliff Richard – The Great 80 Tour, was so hugely popular that a further screening will take place on December 18, 2021. The film starts at 18h00. (Venue opens 60 minutes before show for snacks/drinks)

Running time 135 minutes

In 2018, Sir Cliff Richard was joined by 100,000 fans in cinemas worldwide to celebrate 60 years in the music industry.

This November, he invites fans to be part of the most fabulous big screen party of the year! The Great 80 Tour recorded LIVE at the Royal Albert Hall.

Featuring a selection of his greatest hits, this will be Cliff Richard's most exciting tour yet. His incredible energy and passion on stage will sweep you off your feet and be sure to have you swaying in the aisles.  

Tickets R100. 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.

All tickets must be pre-booked. No walk-ins allowed.

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.

RHUMBELOW CLASSICS CINEMA: AN AMERICAN IN PARIS

The Rhumbelow Classics Cinema Series will present the musical An American in Paris from the London Palladium on December 14 and 15, 2021, at the Durban venue.

An American in Paris is a breathtakingly beautiful Tony® Award-winning Broadway musical, inspired by the Oscar® winning MGM film. It tells the impassioned story of discovering love in the ‘City of Light’. Featuring the gorgeous music and lyrics of George and Ira Gershwin (including the classic hits ‘S Wonderful and I Got Rhythm), stunning designs, and show-stopping choreography. With a record-setting 28 five-star reviews from critics, An American in Paris is coming from London’s West End to The Rhumbelow Classics Cinema.

Jerry Mulligan is an American GI striving to make it as a painter in a city suddenly bursting with hope and possibility. Following a chance encounter with a beautiful young dancer named Lise, the streets of Paris become the backdrop to a sensuous, modern romance of art, friendship and love in the aftermath of war.

Experience this “truly ravishing” (The Guardian) production in the comfort of your local cinema.

Directed and choreographed by Christopher Wheeldon, the film is directed for the screen by Ross Macgibbon and is taken from the book by Craig Lucas Inspired by the motion picture.

Screenings take place on December 14 and 15 at 14h00 and 18h30. (Venue opens 60 minutes before show for snacks/drinks). Running Time:  155 minutes (including one 15-minute interval). 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.

Tickets R100. All tickets must be pre-booked. No walk-ins allowed.

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.

2021 DURBAN FASHION FAIR

(Reflections - Lordes by Leona Pillay, Duke-Clothe Your Soul; Sistas Felas, Vyagor Louvre are just some of the local designer brands showcasing their creations on the #DFF2021 catwalk! Photo: SDR)

#DFF2021 reflects on 10 years of growing the local fashion industry.

Designers will be putting their best fashion foot forward when their creations grace the runway at the 2021 Durban Fashion Fair (DFF) at the Durban Exhibition Centre (Hall 2) from December 15 to 17.

There will be 12 shows held over the three days, which will not only add colour and glamour to Durban but also mark an important milestone for the City’s signature annual fashion extravaganza.

The theme of the DFF is Reflections. This is fitting as the DFF will celebrate its 10th anniversary of changing the local fashion industry.

EThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda said this is an important milestone and presented an opportunity to reflect on the achievements made over the past decade. “Not only are we able to look back on the many achievements made over the past decade, but we can also celebrate the platforms that we have created for emerging designers,” he said.

Over the past decade, the DFF has grown and exciting new features have been added. From starting as a one-night event with a few fashion shows, the DFF has grown into a multi-faceted event over several days where fashion is celebrated. Emerging designers have the opportunity for their designs to be showcased alongside established names in industry.

The City’s DFF Mentorship Programme has been the backbone of the event and has enabled newcomers not only to hone their skills but evolve into confident professionals.

Well-known designers and fashion industry heavyweights have mentored and skilled new talent.

These mentees have gone on to win accolades at major fashion events and showcase their designs across the country. Mxolisi Luke Mkhize from House of Saint Luke has gone from his first showing as a DFF mentee to showcasing his designs in Africa while his compatriot Eli Ball from Made in Africa has wowed fashionistas on runways in Paris.

Makhosazane Ntshangase from Sistas Felas is one of many Durban designers who have dressed big names in the entertainment industry including former Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi, media personality Somizi Mhlongo, Ayanda Ncwane and Nonkanyiso Chonco.

This year, four DFF mentees became the first-ever South African designers to team up with Mr Price Sport to design Team SA’s opening ceremony outfits for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

The designers are Nompumelelo Mjadu, Sipho Lushaba, Mbali Zulu, and Sandile Sikhakhane.

In addition, many of the new faces who began their modelling careers at the DFF have gone on to appear on magazine covers, in adverts for leading fashion brands, on billboards as well as featuring in television commercials.

“The DFF has and will continue to provide an important platform for talent and skills development. It has already played an important role in building the Durban fashion industry which has helped us to grow the economy and create jobs,” said Mayor Kaunda.

You can support Durban’s designers and help grow the local fashion industry by attending the event. To view the DFF fashion show schedule, click on https://bit.ly/3lO4Ukw

Tickets R100 per show at all Boxer and Pick ‘n Pay stores as well as from www.webtickets.co.za. There are also day passes for just R250 or an all-inclusive three-day pass for R500. The Fair is open from 18h00 to 21h00.

Alternatively, follow on this link to purchase your ticket: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1509820428

For more information on the DFF, email: nondumiso.mthembu@durban.gov.za or call 079 626 9856 during office hours.

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR HUMAN: REVIEW

(Above: Kaylee McIlroy & Mpilo Straw Nzimande. Pic by Val Adamson)

“How To Train Your Human” is a fun and very professional production. A far cry from the tatty efforts that are sometimes presented in the guise of children’s theatre. (Review by Keith Millar)

In light of the well-documented problems faced by the performing arts sector over the past few years, the opening of a new theatre is truly a momentous occasion.

So, Keith and Christine Standeaven should be highly commended for taking a leap of faith and building a new performance venue at their popular Saturday morning Shongweni Market.

The couple have always been committed to providing wholesome family fun at their market and this theatre is an extension of that vision. They hope that families will fall in love with the notion of live theatre again.

The brand spanking new venue was opened last Saturday with a performance of Michael Taylor-Broderick's delightful new children’s theatre production How to Train your Human, which was much enjoyed by the kids (dragons) present and their parents.

The only downside was the extreme heat in the venue. With temperatures outside of over 30 degrees and bright sunshine, the rustic theatre with its tin roof acted a bit like a oven. Actors and audience alike were pouring perspiration. The addition of a few overhead fans may well help to get the air moving and cool down the theatre a bit.

How To Train Your Human is a fun and very professional production. A far cry from the tatty efforts that are sometimes presented in the guise of children’s theatre.

It is presented as a Dragons-in-Training seminar hosted by The Dragon Preservation Society. This seminar focuses on teaching all attending Dragons the skills needed to successfully train their humans. Conducted by two highly-respected Dragons and played with a great sense of fun and energy by physical theatre performers: the gangly string bean, Mpilo Straw Nzimande, and Kaylee McIlroy.

(Right: Mpilo Straw Nzimande & Kyran Taylor. Pic by Val Adamson)

They “kidnap” young Kyran Taylor from the audience and proceed to remove his heart (there is a hilarious shadow theatre sequence where a variety of power tools are used to achieve this), all in an effort to discover the location of all human emotions and to reveal the five love languages people should use in life.

Michael Taylor -Broderick and his Theatresmiths company are award-winning purveyor of theatre magic – and he does not disappoint on this occasion. The set is a madcap science lab and is filled with no end of gizmos, pipes, lights, and billowing smoke. His sound and lighting are also top class.

He enjoyed the help of market regular, Uptown Funky Junk’s Brandon Bunyan and his Black Coffee Productions in putting together the excellent technical elements of this production.

How To Train Your Human is an enjoyable feel-good piece of theatre. The only thing I would change is to try and get the audience more involved. I am not sure to what level Covid and social distancing effects this, but I feel volunteers could be called on to help mix potions, for example. I know my grandsons were itching to get involved.

And talking of grandsons (9 and 6 years old) – they rated the experience 9.5 out of 10 and found it very enjoyable and want to go again!

Shongweni Market welcomes visitors every Saturday until Christmas from 06h30 until 13h00 – with special market days on Thursday 16, Friday 17 and Sunday 19 December from 08h00 until 14h00. Browse, and buy authentic, original and unusual Christmas gifts while supporting small businesses, and enjoying a leisurely holiday brunch under the trees, with breathtaking views.  The market is home to an amazing assortment of kids’ activities, food and beverage options, handmade crafts, early morning yoga sessions, live music, plenty of outdoor seating, and safe parking.

How to Train your Human is suitable for the whole family. It will be staged at 10h00 and noon on December 11; 16; 17; 18; 19, and January 8, 2022, with the option to extend further into January.

Tickets are R70 throughout available through Quicket in advance or at the door. The show runs at approximately 45 minutes, no interval.

Dragons, of all ages, are especially welcome! In fact, the best-dressed dragon will win a prize!

Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market is situated at Lot 457, Mr551, Shongweni, in the Valley of 1000 Hills. Contact info@shongwenimarket.co.za, phone 031 777 4686 or visit www.shongwenimarket.co.za – Keith Millar

PETER PAN PANTOMIME FOR GROWN-UPS: REVIEW

(Above: Darren King & Wonder Ndlovu)

(Pics by Werner Nienaber)

This show had me in stitches from the pre-show announcements to the deliberately-forced standing ovation at the end. The hour-long show seems to pass in minutes and certainly left me delighted to return to watching live theatre, it certainly quenched my thirst for theatre. (Review by Verne Rowin Munsamy)

Naughty Neverland!

It has been a while since I watched live theatre in Durban, so few shows are up and running in these Covid times. So, when I was asked to review this show, I was only too elated to return to a venue to watch a live show.

This year marks the silver jubilee of the Adult Pantomime, now called The Pantomime for Grown-ups, in Durban. Running since 1996, the Pantomime has traversed many locations in the city and now finds itself nestled at Onstage@Altitude since 2016.

I have been an avid supporter since watching Jack and His Big Stalk in the early 2000s. Each year, the show takes a fond fable and turns it into a slapstick, innuendo-infused laugh a minute. This year, we take a reminiscent walk down our childhood memory lane with their twisted tale of Peter Pan, like you have never heard the story recited before.

The intimate venue was put to great use to house a versatile set, designed by Thomie Holtzhausen. I felt the script left me wanting a little more but so is to be expected when the rest of the show was slick and sordidly sophisticated.

(Right: Thomie Holtzhausen & Darren King)

Darren King plays the deliciously devious villainous Hooker, costumed to match the name, and is charismatic in the juicy role. Thomie Holtzhausen is run ragged playing numerous roles but is ever entertaining as each. These two well-known performers offer plenty of physical humour and King shows off his refined voice.

Not to be outshone, three novice faces wow with their splendid singing abilities as they traipse through myriad movie and theatre songs. The ensemble must be applauded for their prolific performances, although I would have liked a bit more dancing, which the quaint space does not allow for. That said, I was most taken away by the singing stylings of Sphindile Khuzwayo, the charming swiftness and wit of Chaunees Bokaba and Wonder Ndlovu's confidence as the leading Peter Pan.

This show had me in stitches from the pre-show announcements to the deliberately-forced standing ovation at the end. The hour-long show seems to pass in minutes and certainly left me delighted to return to watching live theatre, it certainly quenched my thirst for theatre. All Covid protocols are observed so take your dinner and go along to support this show which runs until December 30, 2021, at 19h30 (doors open at 18h30).

The production is restricted to over-18s and runs for an hour, without an interval. Patrons are welcome to bring picnic basket/snacks. Cash bar available.

Tickets: R150 (group booking discounts available). Book online via Quicket or send a watsapp to Thomie Holtzhausen at 064 476 9533.

On Stage at Altitude is situated at 25 Silver Avenue, Morningside, Durban. Car guards are on duty. - Verne Rowin Munsamy

 

THE CHAIN: THE FLEETWOOD MAC STORY: REVIEW

This was the third time I have seen this show. And it was as fresh and vibrant and as exciting as it was the first time. The Reals were on top of their game and they certainly honoured the fabulous music of one of the best rock outfits of all time. (Review by Keith Millar)

It is party time - as Durban’s great tribute band, the Reals, are back. They are kicking off the festive season celebrations at the Rhumbelow Theatre with the revival of one of their most popular tribute shows, The Chain: The Fleetwood Mac Story.

This was the third time I have seen this show. And it was as fresh and vibrant and as exciting as it was the first time. The Reals were on top of their game and they certainly honoured the fabulous music of one of the best rock outfits of all time.

The Fleetwood Mac story spans a period of about 50 years. They originally formed as a British Blues group in 1969 and evolved into a great British/American Rock band as additional members joined them.

Although their story is not dissimilar to many of the rock groups of the era, it is possibly a little more excessive. The band was a revolving door as far as members were concerned and there was extreme drug abuse, along with many tangled relationships. Fortunes were made and lost and made again.

But through it all, they were fabulously successful. Just have a look at this portion of their CV. They have sold more than 120 million records worldwide. They have been honoured with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They have also received the Brit Award for their Outstanding Contribution to Music.

Possibly their best remembered members are Mick Fleetwood (drums), Lindsay Buckingham (guitar), John McVie (bass), Christine McVie (Keyboards) and their iconic lead singer Stevie Nicks. Between them they created some epic music – including the likes of Need Your Love So Bad, Albatross, Go Your Own Way, Dreams, Heroes Are Hard To Find, Rhiannon, Little Lies, Don’t Stop, The Chain, Gypsy, Say That You Love Me, Tusk, Seven Wonders, Landslide and Songbird.

The Reals, as mentioned before, were on top of their game. They perform the music with skill and passion, perfectly recreating the sound, feel and drama of Fleetwood Mac.

Their line-up includes Barry Thompson on vocals and lead guitar - and acting as MC. Dawn Selby on keyboards, Trevor Donjeany on bass, and Mali Sewell on drums (Andy Tyrell will take over the drums for the Tina’s Hotel run) Joining them on this occasion is additional guitarist and vocalist Colin Peddie. He originally conceived this show – and is also responsible for the effective lighting design. Also joining them is the versatile Durban singer Marion Loudon. She is pure energy and charisma. If ever you wanted the quintessential rock chick – she is it.

It is difficult to pick highlights in a show so packed with great music but for me the acoustic number Landslide, with Barry Thompson and Marion Loudon as Lindsay Buckingham and Stevie Nicks, Dawn Selby’s solo rendition of Songbird and the passion and energy of The Chain were the standouts.

The Chain: The Fleetwood Mac Story is well thought-out and structured. The band, with the help of audio-visual material and the occasional input from Thompson take the audience on a journey through the evolving Fleetwood Mac story. But, of course, it is the music that is King, and it rules with aplomb.

Obviously, this show is a must for the many fans of this group. But beyond that it is an excellent music production which would go a long way to lifting the blues and getting everyone into a festive spirit.

Catch this show at the Rhumbelow Theatre in Cunningham Road in Umbilo today or tomorrow and then next week-end from December 17 to 19. After that, they move to the Rhumbelow at Tina’s Hotel in Kloof where The Reals will perform the show from December 21 to 24 and from December 28 to 31.

Tickets R180 (no discounts for this show). Bring food picnic baskets or buy at the venue. A full bar available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises)

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

 Limited secure parking available.

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

With the current Covid levels the venues will be limiting capacity to 50 % max

For more information, contact 0824998636 or visit http://events.durbantheatre.com/ - Keith Millar

SANTA ABOARD UMGENI STEAM RAILWAY

(Right: Wesley, the steam engine)

Santa and his Elves will be on board Umgeni Steam Railway from December 16 to 19, 2021.

Feeling festive? Why not join us for our well-known Carols by Candlelight trips where we sing Carols under the starlit sky at Inchanga - these trips depart at 17h00 on December 16, 17 and 18.

Coming to KZN this festive season and looking for something to do? Why not take a trip behind an 83-year-old Steam Locomotive, Wesley? The journey departs from Kloof Railway Station as it traverses on the Old Main Line, meandering along the Valley of 1000 Hills, through one of the oldest operating tunnels in South Africa to Inchanga.

At Inchanga, which used to be the halfway point between Durban and Pietermaritzburg on the Old Main Line, there is plenty to see and do for the whole family. Your ticket enables you to discover Railway artefacts in the Museum which is situated in the Old Station Master's House, look for Thomas & Friends in the Modeller's Shed & other "mini" trains as well as do some Christmas shopping at the Inchanga Station Craft Market & grab something to eat, with foods to suit most tastes & home-grown coffee on sale.

Trains depart from Kloof Railway Station on:

December 16, 2021 - 08h30, 12h30 & 17h00

December 17, 2021 - 08h30, 12h30 & 17h00

December 18, 2021 - 08h30, 12h30 & 17h00

December 19, 2021 - 08h30 & 12h30

 

Seats are limited and booking out fast, book and pay within 48 hours to ensure your seats!

Ticket prices for the return trip: Adults R290 (R200 pensioners (+60) & children (2-12).) Family Package (2 Adults & 2 Children): R880

Booking is essential: http://umgenisteamrailway.com/

The Umgeni Steam Railway is a proud member of, and supported by, 1000 Hills Community Tourism Organisation. To find out about these and other things to do in the area – visit 1000 Hills Community Tourism Organisation website at https://www.1000hillstourism.co.za/