PLAYHOUSE COMPANY AUDITIONS FOR KZN ARTISTS

Deadline for Submissions: 15h30 on February 18, 2022

The Playhouse Company is holding auditions for its Sundowner Concerts and Test Driving the Arts programmes for the 2022-23 financial year.

The Sundowner after-work Concert programme has become a signature event for a diverse group of artists and audiences. The Playhouse Company’s Test Driving the Arts provides upcoming artists an opportunity to showcase their talent.

 

Test Driving the Arts

Auditions: February 22 & 23. 2022

 

Sundowner Concerts

Auditions: February 24, 2022

 

Registration application forms are available from the Playhouse’s website and social media pages.

The website is at https://playhousecompany.com or visit the Facebook page.

Application forms can also be collected from The Playhouse Company’s Administration Building on 29 Acutt Street.

Completed application forms as well as the group’s profile and high-res pictures are to be submitted to: artscoordinator2@playhousecompany.com or dropped off at The Playhouse Company’s Administration Building.

Submissions close at 15h30 on February 18 2022. Once you have submitted your application you need to book an audition slot by calling 031 369 9457 before February 18, 2022, strictly between 09h00 & 12h00 or 14h00 & 15h30.

The Playhouse Company encourages people with disabilities and from other diverse backgrounds to apply. They do not discriminate based on disability.

Regrettably no walk-ins will be accommodated.

OUR FAVOURITE THINGS

Katherine McClelland and Erin Fourie, in association with Just Theatre productions, present a collection of their favourite songs in a production called Our Favourite Things which will take place on February 19 and 20, 2022, at La Petite Café Indoor Playhouse, La Petite France Café in Howick.

McClelland has been taking the Midlands by storm in recent years both as a performer and as the director of the Music Voyage outreach project. She’s currently in The Heart of Saturday Night, a musical journey documenting the life of musician Tom Waits and has swept away audiences with her rich and sensual vocals.

Fourie has been on the Midlands music scene for almost two decades and while some may know her more for her solo work, others may recognise her from shows, including a recent run of Feelin’ Good in Howick.

Under the expert eye of Peter Mitchell’s direction, Our Favourite Things takes a stroll down memory lane, showcasing numbers by artists from The Everly brothers and The Marvellettes to Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel and, of course, Julie Andrews. With McClelland on piano and Fourie on guitar in addition to the pair’s fantastic vocals, this repast is chock-full of treats with a little something for everyone to enjoy.

Join music-lovers at the La Petite France Café Indoor Playhouse at Karkloof Road Farm 9 in Howick.

Shows on February 19 at 19h00 and February 20, 2022, at 14h00.

Bring your own picnic meal, BYOB. The coffee shop will be open serving drinks and coffee and cheese boards for two are available by pre-order on 063 150 6099.

Tickets R100. Booking is essential by emailing justtheatrepmb@gmail.com

TOSCA AT RHUMBELOW

Rhumbelow Theatre will screen Tosca filmed from The Royal Opera’s Dec 2021 Season in London.

The screenings take place on February 9, 2022, starting at 18h00. Running time: 3 hours and 25 minutes (including two intervals). (Venue opens 60 minutes before show for snacks/drinks)

Into the romantic world of an idealistic painter Cavaradossi and his sensuous lover Tosca, comes the malevolence of Baron Scarpia, Chief of Police, with fatal results. Elena Stikina, Bryan Hymel and Alexey Markov bring to life one of the best loved operas in The Royal Opera repertory: Puccini’s Tosca. From the demonic chords with which it famously begins to the violent twist of the opera’s shock ending, the tension never lets up for a moment. Love and evil come – thrillingly – face to face in Jonathan Kent’s intense production.

The Cast :

Elena Stikina (Floria Tosca), Bryan Hymel (Mario Cavaradossi), Alexey Markov (Baron Scarpia), Hubert Francis (Spoletta), Yuriy Yurchuk (Cesare Angelotti), Jeremy White (Sacristan) and Jihoon Kim (Sciarrone). They will be accompanied by The Royal Opera Chorus and the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House.

Credits:

Music: Giacomo Puccini

Libretto; Giuseppe Giacosa and Luigi Illica

Director: Jonathan Kent

Designer: Paul Brown

Lighting designer Mark Henderson

Language: Sung in Italian with English subtitles

Tickets R100. Booking is essential on email: roland@stansell.co.za or Computicket

Food available at the venue. There is a full bar (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises). Limited secure parking available

All seating will be at separate tables and the Rhumbelow will obviously be seating co-habiting couples and/or family members. Covid limit – max 50 %

For more information contact Roland Stansell on 082 499 8636.

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

DEATH OF TERENCE PILLAY

(Above: Terence Pillay)

Popular Durban-based print, radio and television journalist Terence Pillay passed away on January 27, 2022, after a long battle with renal failure.

Nisholl Thulukanan, Terence’s sister-in-law, paid tribute at the funeral:

"Terence was born on the 5th July 1970. He was the second son of Pastor Daisy and the late Pastor Sonny Thulukanan.

Terence was a devoted son, brother, brother-in-law and uncle. He was a someone to everyone. Once he completed his Matric he studied at the University of Westville. He obtained his Bachelor of Education degree and pursued his LLB thereafter.

In his early years, he taught at various institutions including his own speech and drama company where he mentored aspiring young students. He thereafter diverted his focus to journalism which became his passion from then until now.

Terence was and still is a very influential and popular name in KZN for his incredible work as an investigative journalist. His work also took him to the far reaches of the globe to bring back compelling stories for both print and television.

In the process, he interviewed some of the biggest names like Claire Danes, Enrique Iglesias, Hillary Swank, John Cleese, Mandy Patinkin, Rupert Friend, Westlife, Rachel Allen, Terence Howard, Taraji P Henson, Howie Mandell, Joe Cocker and Eddie Grant.

He also hosted a cooking show called Food for Living on Glow TV and was a correspondent for Global Health TV and Turkish Radio and TV.

Terence described himself as a fiercely patriotic Durban native and while his work takes him around the world, his roots are planted firmly in Durban, South Africa.

In an illustrious career spanning 24 years in print, radio and television personality, Terence Pillay had seen it all and done it all.

Moving from a presenter in front of the camera in shows like KZN 2Nite, Good Morning South Africa, Impressions, Free Spirit, Your Good Health and Front Row, Terence was a portrayal of talent and professionalism. He won colossal awards for his work in print and television journalism. He was also a finalist in the Discovery Health Journalism Awards. Terence was a devoted Christian and loved the Lord Jesus. He spent his former years at Faith Revival Church in Phoenix and later moved to CCF International Church in Wyebank and once again was a faithful member for 20 odd years.

During his years in the respective churches, he served faithfully in the music ministry. He loved singing and worshipping the Lord.

Terence is survived by his mother, brothers Trevor and Theo, sister-in-law Nisholl, nieces Erin and Tylea- and a host of family and friends.”

Comment from artSMart Editor, Caroline Smart: Terence Pillay was the MC of the former Durban Theatre Awards. He was a delight to work with and always completely prepared for the event. He will be sorely missed.

 

MATERIAL IS METAPHOR

(Above: Rohini Amratlal, Sieve 2021, galvanized rod, ochre, turmeric)

Tatham Art Gallery in Pietermaritzburg will host the exhibition Material is Metaphor in the Schreiner Gallery, hosting exhibiting artists: Rohini Amratlal, Bhekazi Ernest Ngcobo, Jess Bothma and Nindya Bucktowar

This exhibition, curated by Jessica Bothma and Jenny Stretton, focuses on how artists consider their materials - the 'stuff' they craft and experiment with to give a voice to a personal vision. Visual metaphors are 'primary' images that the viewer understands as ideas, ideas which form connections to 'secondary' images that, depending on syntax, intensity, and frequency, act in concert to become a narrative.

In this exhibition, the artists invite the viewer to experience material in novel ways by selecting, working, and presenting material in a particular context. Materiality, history, societal structures, identity and more, all intersect to create an artwork, but it is materiality that we will focus on in this exhibition; the "what" so much more than the "how" or the "when".

Jessica Bothma and Bhekazi Ernest Ngcobo, will conduct a three-day workshop on February 23, 24 and 25, 2022 where they will unpack the concept of using materials as metaphor.

The exhibition opens on February 6, 2022, at 11h00 and closes on March 20, 2022, at 14h00. Entrance is free.

Tatham Art Gallery is situated in Chief Albert Luthuli Street opposite the Pietermaritzburg City Hall.

Enquiries and bookings contact 033 392 2811 or email: reena.bhoodram@msunduzi.gov.za

 

DSTV HIGHLIGHTS FOR JAN 28 - FEB 3

(Above: Olivia Coleman & Sir Anthony Hopkins in “The Father”)

Janu-WORRY is finally over and it’s time to celebrate with the best TV entertainment your eyeballs can watch, only on DStv!

British crime drama The Responder with actor Martin Freeman takes a serious look at how a first responder deals with the horrors he sees daily while also trying to keep his personal life healthy.

Season 4 of the popular reality show Dloz’lami returns to Moja Love (DStv channel 157) with new participants who need spiritual guidance as they face their battles, and brand-new local series Teenage Pregnancy follows four South African teenagers as they go through life’s challenges and navigate their changing bodies while preparing for what motherhood will mean for their future.

Keeping it local, Showmax shows off with season 2 of its original series The Real Housewives of Durban and we meet three new wives joining the gang. And book your seat for some epic movies with The Father, Ruthless Renegade and We Broke Up.

(Right: Martin Freeman stars in “The Responder”)

The Responder

February 3, 22h30

Season 1 / Episode 1

Watch from / M-Net (DStv channel 101)

A captivating British crime drama starring Martin Freeman (Bilbo Baggins in the fantasy film trilogy The Hobbit, currently on Showmax). An embattled first responder tackles a series of night shifts in Liverpool while trying to keep his head above water personally and professionally.

 

The Real Housewives Of Durban

January 28

Season 2 / Episode 1 / Showmax

KZN’s sensational queens of the social scene return. Sorisha Naidoo, Nonkanyiso Conco, Annie Ludick and Nonku Williams are back with three new friends: Singer Londie London, Thobile Mseleku (yes, from polygamy reality series Uthando Nes’thembu) and artist Jojo Robinson.

 

If you’re a Premium customer, add Showmax to your subscription at no additional cost. Customers on other packages can enjoy it at a 50% discount if they add it to their bill.

 

The Father

January 30 - Movie / M-Net (DStv channel 101) at 21h05

Sir Anthony Hopkins won a Best Actor Oscar for his role in this poignant drama. An old man refuses all assistance from his daughter, begins to doubt his loved ones and his own mind. Also starring Olivia Coleman, Imogen Poots and Rufus Sewell.

Rescued Chimpanzees of The Congo With Jane Goodall

January 31 at 19h00

Season 1 / Episode 1 / BBC Earth (DStv channel 184)

This series, including footage filmed over the past 30 years, traces Jane Goodall’s efforts to create the largest chimpanzee sanctuary in Africa. Follow the staff’s stories as they rehabilitate several orphaned chimpanzees until they’re ready to be released into a wild environment.

 

The Oval

February 2 at 21h30

Season 3 / Episode 1 / BET (DStv channel 129)

Drama. Tyler Perry’s scandalous series on life inside the White House with philandering US President Hunter Franklin, ambitious First Lady Victoria, and the secret-keeping White House staff. This season, while Victoria and Hunter dodge an assassination attempt, their son, Jason, seems inspired by the event. And, a new First Family moves into the White House.

 

We Broke Up

February 3 at 21h30

Movie / TNT (DStv channel 137)

Brand-new TNT original movie about a long-time couple, Lori (Aya Cash) and Doug (William Jackson Harper), who end their relationship just days before Lori’s little sister Bea’s wedding. Rather than ruining everyone's fun, the couple decide to pretend that they're still together until the weekend is over.

SONGS OF LOVE IN HILTON

La Popote Café in Hilton will be hosting a supper theatre production on February 11 titled Songs of Love, featuring vocalists from the Hilton College Music Department.

Light picnic style supper provided. Bring your own alcohol (all soft drinks, mixers and mineral waters to be purchased on site.

Tickets R275 payable in advance. Book through 084 584 6930.

La Popote Café is situated at 1 Knoll Drive, Mount Michael (just off Dennis Shepstone Drive) in Hilton.

THE WHISTLING: REVIEW

I found the story to be a compelling and gripping read. Good signs in a book as far as I am concerned. A debut novel that is well worth reading. A job well done, Rebecca. (Review by Christine E Hann)

The Whistling by Rebecca Netley published by Penguin is her debut novel.

Netley lives in the UK with her husband and children. She grew up in a house filled with books and music, which helped feed her passion for writing.

The Whistling is set in the remote Scottish island of Skelthsea in 1860, an appropriate setting for a ghost story, filled with strange and eerie events. Horror / ghost stories are not usually my thing, but the book is well-written and cleverly leads you into a story that the reader can believe is real. Yes, it was scary, and gripping at the same time. I read to the end, late at night to find out who / what was behind the sinister goings on.

The story begins with the arrival of a new Nanny, Elspeth Swansome, who is to look after Mary, a child who has been struck dumb by the loss of her twin brother, the previous nanny having left under strange and sudden circumstances.

The family lives in what was a grand old home, slowly going to ruin through lack of care and resources. The house is filled with secrets and shadows, shut-off rooms and weird night-time patrols serve to unnerve Elspeth as she tries to settle into her new position and get to know Mary better. There are strange whistling noises at night, and objects that appear. What do they mean? Mary’s aunt, her guardian, is also difficult to read, as is the help.

To make things more ominous, the island is cut off in winter from the mainland. There is nowhere to go when danger lurks. Elspeth tries to understand her charge better and determine what made her lose her voice. Is her deceased twin brother haunting them? Just how did he die? What happened to the nanny? Are there indeed powers beyond this realm at play?

The island setting is scary and filled with places that are both dangerous and haunting. Old traditions and fears abound that may just make things worse. Can Elspeth protect Mary, and survive the island?

I found the story to be a compelling and gripping read. Good signs in a book as far as I am concerned.  A debut novel that is well worth reading. A job well done, Rebecca.

The Whistling by Rebecca Netley is published by Penguin Random House UK – 2021. ISBN: 978-0-241-53400-7 - Christine E Hann

SINGING HIPPIE: GARY MCKENZIE

Gary McKenzie, actor, director, writer, award winning theatre producer and former owner of one of the most successful supper theatres in South Africa will give a couple of performances at OnStage@Altitude.

Founder and member of The Gee Jays musical comedy trio for 35 years. Now a hippie!

After all that achievement and hard work, Gary has now decided to follow his passion. Being a hippie, singing 60’s and 70’s music and just loving the sheer enjoyment of making people happy.

Come join OnStage@Altitude for an informal evening of remembering the times when music was music. Sing along.

Dress up to your favourite era - 60's - 70's or 80's. Just let your soul free. ‘Cos we’ve all had a pretty torrid time lately. It’s our turn now...!

Singing Hippie runs on February 2 and 3 at 19h30 (doors open at 16h30).

Tickets R100 – patrons are welcome to bring eats and snacks. A cash bar will be available. Book online at Quicket or watsapp Thomie on 064 476 9533.

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

KZNSA GALLERY CONCERT

(Left: Rowan Stuart)

iSupport Creative Business, supported by Concerts SA, presents a concert that showcases the diversity of Durban, featuring singer-songwriter Rowan Stuart, indigenous musician Zawadi Yamungu, and soul- and jazz vocalist Neo Dube.

The concert will take place at KZNSA Gallery on Friday, February 4, 2022. doors open at 6 pm and tickets are available on Webtickets for R60.

At the age of 11, Rowan Stuart discovered the guitar, and with it, the ultimate key to unlocking the worlds that had existed in his mind. He took to the instrument naturally, becoming a sought-after session guitarist from a young age. But he had always felt the need to tell his own stories, and so in 2008, he took a leap of faith and stepped into the spotlight as a singer-songwriter, releasing his debut album A Thousand Brand New Places.

Now with five more solo albums, multiple South African tours and national radio success - most notably with singles Survivors, Silver Balloon and The Kingdom Of Leaves - under his belt, Stuart continues his quest to bridge the gap between reality and fantasy with his signature style of Story-Driven Dream Folk Pop.

In his own words: "My job is to find the glint of magic in the mundane, and to carefully chisel away until something rare and majestic reveals itself. This is my sanctuary, and it is here for anyone who needs a refuge from the chaos of modern life and who could do with a little more meaningful escapism in their own life."

In 2020 Stuart released his 6th studio album A Map Of Forever, and 2021 marked the release of his first instrumental EP, entitled Instrumagicka, along with his first short film, based on the music of the EP.

(Right: Zawadi Yamungu)

Zawadi Yamungu is a South African indigenous musician born in Mandeni, north of KwaZulu-Natal. This international artist started singing in church and then later studied acting, dancing & music, which has contributed to enhancing her career as an artist.

Umakhweyane, Ugubhu string bow, Penny Whistle are musical instruments that she passionately plays, complimented by her strong vocal. Having been mentored by the renowned Mbuso Khoza, Zawadi has also worked with Dr Gcina Mhlophe, Madala Kunene, Themba Mkhize, Nduduzo Makhathini and other legends.

(Left: Neo Dube)

Neo Dube is a soul and jazz vocalist born and bred in Umlazi Township, Durban. Her passion for music stems from a young age, and while growing up, she was singing at church. During this time, she realised that her voice was remarkable and her talent should not go to waste. When she got to high school, she started attending music lessons, where she found a new love for Jazz Music.

She's been a part of many projects, including the Simon Sabela Mabhunu Awards, and she also composed and performed a song for the Kids With Cancer Campaign. Another highlight was her performance at the Birchwood Comes Alive Jazz evening, alongside Mafikizolo. In 2019, she participated in Idols Season 15.

Her most outstanding achievement is the release of her album, released on June 30 of 2017, and she is currently working on composting and recording new music. Dube is a student at AFDA, where she is doing her BA in Motion Picture Medium.

The concert will take place at KZNSA Gallery on Friday, February 4, 2022. doors open at 18h00 and tickets are available on Webtickets for R60.

This concert is made possible by The SAMRO Foundation/Concerts SA. For more information, visit website 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, in Durban. More information on 031 277 1705 or cell 082 220 0368 or visit www.kznsagallery.co.za

 

CHRISTOPHER DUIGAN PLAYS CHOPIN LIVE

(Left: Christopher Duigan)

Normally heard on his virtual concert programmes from his Music Revival organisation, Steinway Pianist Christopher Duigan will enchant a live audience tomorrow (January 30) at the Tatham Art Gallery in Pietermaritzburg.

This ‘live’ concert, the first for 2022, sees Duigan play an all-time favourite selection of music by Frederic Chopin. A selection of dazzling waltzes and dreamy nocturnes is complemented by the four scherzos (or scherzi). Composed at various points in Chopin’s life, between 1833 and 1843, they represent some of the composer's boldest compositional ideas.

The scherzi, designed as concert pieces of immense drama and brilliance, have formed a major part of the concert piano repertoire due to their compact design, impactful ideas and imaginative exploitation of pianistic brilliance.

The concert takes place at 11h00 tomorrow (Sunday January 30). Tickets R100. A limited number of complimentary tickets for students and young pianists are available. Places are limited. COVID-19 Protocols apply.

Booking - booking@musicrevival.co.za only or sms 0834174473 (unfortunately no WhatsApp option available at the moment)

The Tatham Art Gallery is situated opposite the Town Hall in Chief Albert Luthuli Street, Pietermaritzburg. It is open from Tuesdays to Sundays from 10h00 to 17h00. Café Tatham is open on Saturdays. Safe parking with a car guard available. More information on 033 392 2801 or visit https://www.tatham.org.za/

 

DUMZA MASWANA’S ALBUM LAUNCH AT BAT CENTRE

(Above: Dumza Maswana)

Dumza Maswana just finished recording his much anticipated third studio album titled Celebrating African Song, which was produced by award-winning and globally-celebrated South African jazz pianist, Andile Yenana. The first single from the album Vumani is now out and available exclusively on Bandcamp. The album will be launched at Bat Centre, on January 30, 2022.

This album has always been Dumza Maswana’s dream, to combine his roots, the music he grew up listening to unconsciously, the music his grandmother taught him and the music he loves so much, Jazz, and the personnel chosen for this project executed the vision perfectly. Andile Yenana on piano, Ayanda Sikade on drums, Jimmy Mgwandi on double bass, Sisonke Xonti on tenor saxophone and the co-producer Lwanda Gogwana on trumpet, Lwanda also arranged horn section.

“This team consists of people who kind of have had an impact on my musical path so far, or who were sort of influenced by the same roots as me.” This album was recorded when the pandemic lockdown eased up and there were times where adjustments had to be made. “I kind of took some time to release this album, because I really wanted to make sure that it’s fully who I am as an artist,” says Maswana. “It’s exactly what I wanted to send out into the world and not just do a record, but do the record that I’ve always been dreaming about.

Known for the singular depth of his soothing baritone voice, Maswana fuses tradition, spiritually, soul and jazz to create sonic experiences that uplift, inspire and heal. He writes and sings from a place of knowing, reflecting his experiences and paying homage to his culture and home. In addition to being a musician, he is passionate about mentoring young artists, giving them the information and tools needed to succeed in the industry.

“I tell Eastern Cape stories first, especially from the villages. I think their stories, way of living, their music, language, and beliefs are often overlooked - our stories deserve to be heard.” - Dumza Maswana

Born in the vibrant small town of Ngqushwa, in the Eastern Cape, Maswana was drawn to music at an early age. His grandmother was his very first teacher, introducing him to the art of singing and storytelling. His passion for music impelled him to form Healing Voices, an all-male gospel group he started at 17 years old, before moving to Johannesburg, to further his musical interests.

He has shared the stage with some of South Africa’s most illustrious musicians, including Thandiswa Mazwai, Simphiwe Dana, Ringo Madlingozi, Tshepo Tshola, Sphokazi, the Jaziel Brothers, Mafikizolo, and the legendary Victor Ntoni. He has also opened up for international musicians Kenny Lattimore and Chanté Moore. He has been featured in the works of award-winning DJ Mobi Dixon and DJ Palture. Dumza has also worked with Black Motion.

The Dumza Maswana launch will take place on January 30, 2022, at 14h00. Doors open at 13h30. Capacity: 50

The Batcentre is situated at 45 Maritime place, Small Craft Harbour in Durban.

For more information, phone Thulile Zama on 072 788 5426, visit http://concertssa.co.za, follow @ConcertsSA on Twitter at http://twitter.com/ConcertsSA or Like on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ConcertsSA

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.

SARAH RICHARDS SCULPTURE RAISES FUNDS FOR SPCA

(Left: Sarah Richards and the sculpture of Humphrey)

KZN-based sculptor Sarah Richards’ latest newsletter gives the fascinating story about Humphrey, the local SPCA fundraising dog called 'Humphrey', in Umhlanga Rocks,

Together, his owner Alwyn Immerman and Humphrey have been raising money for the Durban and Coast SPCA. They have raised over 1 million Rand and want to raise more.

“One of my highlights of 2021 was meeting and then sculpting Humphrey. Alwyn said he found a furry ball at the back of the cage when at the SPCA looking for a new companion. Humphrey is adorable, friendly and a great artists' model.

“The sculpture is now on the Umhlanga Beachfront outside the Cabana Beach Resort on the main promenade for everyone to see and pat. You can also donate to the SPCA to help Humphrey continue his good work.”

For more information visit https://www.sarahrichards.co.za/

If you wish to donate, EFT Durban and Coast SPCA.

First National Bank

Account # 6208 7236 925

Branch 220226.

(Use your name as well as 'Humphrey' on the deposit details.)

 

VALENTINE’S MUSIC - PICNIC IN THE GARDEN

(Right: Naresh Veeran)

Musician Naresh Veeran is hosting Valentine’s Music: Picnic in the Garden, a relaxing Sunday afternoon’s concert in his garden on February 13, 2022, at 17h00 as the sun sets.

Bring a picnic and blanket and something cold to sip on, to enjoy the smoothest sax and some fabulous flute in the heart of Morningside.

Tickets R100 – book early – space is limited - 082 376 0799.

Covid protocols apply / car guards on duty.

MY BEST TIME EVER: PAUL MIKULA

(Left: Paul Mikula)

The 2022 Mondays at Six at St Clements programme will kick off with favourite Mondays at Six storyteller, Paul Mikula.

You may know Spike Milligan’s Adolf Hitler: My Part in His Downfall.

Now we have Paul Mikula’s My Best Time Ever: Defending the Reich… His experiences as a child in the Second World War.

The programme, which takes place on February 7, 2022, could share screeds on Mikula’s attributes, achievements, creativity and idiosyncratic humour. Suffice to say: “architect best known for many inventive buildings that reflect his wide social and cultural interests”.

He also draws, paints, writes, and is a long-time curator and collector of artifacts. He was the founder and is now the managing trustee of the Phansi uBuntuArtMuseum, a Durban gem and one of South Africa’s more unique and special places to visit, enjoy, learn, play, celebrate art, culture and life.

If you don’t know the Phansi uBuntuArt Museum or even if you do, click through to this YouTube video to see the collection and hear Paul talk about it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xb6vHmCLPfE

“We collect for beauty. For intention and meaning. And for the craft, materials, tools and circumstances that shape the final product.” Check out the Phansi Museum website

Another story, this one published in the Daily Maverick. Durban’s Phansi Museum, a powerful repository of local wisdom. https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/opinionista/2019-08-27-durbans-phansi-museum-a-powerful-repository-of-local-wisdom/

When the donations box is passed around, a minimum of R50 per person is suggested.

Wear a mask. Covid protocols observed.

Outdoors (dress accordingly) and spaced seating. (If it rains the audience moves inside. Windows open, and please observe Covid protocols.)

Bookings limited to diners in support of St Clements restaurant and staff. (They stay open specially for the project.) Table bookings essential: RSVP ST Clements 031 202 2511. Orders taken at the tables. Be there in time to order before the performance.

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

For more information contact Wanda Hennig on 072 664 3170.

DSTV HIGHLIGHTS FOR JANUARY 21 – 27, 2022

(Scene from “The Intern” starring Robert de Niro)

Let’s get down to business, TV business.

It’s going to be a week for the books with the launch of the latest season of Big Brother Mzansi. Seven years have flown by, but the time has finally arrived to meet a new group of Housemates who’re daring to compete and live 24/7 under one roof under the watchful eye of Big Brother!

 Tell Me Your Secrets is a hair-raising psychological thriller on Universal TV (DStv channel 117) in which a young woman goes into witness protection to get away from her serial killer ex-boyfriend, and don’t miss out on some South African flavour in a new season of Live at The Apollo.

The little ones are also in for a treat with the animation movie Swan Princess: A Royal Myztery, as well as the brand-new kids’ series Coach Me If You Can.

It’s a TV world full of possibilities on DStv. Here are some of the highlights:

 

Live at The Apollo

from Friday, January 21 at 20h35

Season 16 / Episode 1 / / BBC Brit (DStv channel 120)

Keep an eye out for South African comedian Loyiso Gola in one of this season’s episodes, on the UK’s biggest stand-up comedy stage. Find out what he thinks of urban foxes, among other things. Sophie Duker and Chris McCausland also treat the crowd to their freshest sets.

 

 Big Brother Mzansi

from Sunday, January 23 at 18h00

Season 6 / Episode 1 / / Mzansi Magic (DStv channel 161) /

Big Brother Mzansi is back to keep you company for the first quarter of 2022. South Africans move into the new Big Brother House together as housemates. They’ll live, love and squabble together under Big Brother’s watchful eye with host Lawrence Maleka, while taking on challenges in exchange for privileges and supplies. Look out for the Big Brother episodes every Sunday on Mzansi Magic, from the Launch, to the Eviction Episodes and the Finale. Highlights episodes air on Saturdays at 21h30, and you can watch the daily show Tuesdays to Fridays at 21h30.

 

(Right: Lily Rabe stars in “Tell Me Your Secrets”)

Tell Me Your Secrets

from Monday, January 24 at 20h00

Season 1 / Episode 1 / / Universal TV (DStv channel 117) /

Emma Hall (Lily Rabe), a serial killer’s ex-girlfriend, goes into the witness protection programme in this thriller series. But Mary Barlow (Amy Brenneman), the mother of one of the killer’s supposed victims, is convinced that her daughter is still alive and that Emma knows where she’s been hidden.

 

 The Intern

January 23 at 18h00

Movie / M-Net Movies 1 (DStv channel 104) at

This delightful film starring Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway shows that you’re never too old to learn new tricks. A man who’s tired of retirement becomes an intern for a fashion website.

 

 Unknown Waters with Jeremy Wade

January 26 at 21h00

Season 1 / Episode 1 / National Geographic (DStv channel 181)

Zoologist and passionate angler Jeremy Wade explores Earth’s most remarkable and least understood rivers, lakes and seas. Along the way, he searches for the bull shark at the mouth of the Amazon River, the Atlantis salmon in Iceland, and the Nile Perch in Kenya.

 

NOSIHE & KHOKHO MADLALA

(Left: Nosihe Madlala)

Vocalists Nosihe and Khokho Madlala share the stage in KwaZulu-Natal.

iSupport Creative Business, supported by Concerts SA presents two concerts by two vocalists Nosihe and Khokho Madlala, each bringing a unique and original sound to the stage.

The first concert will take place at Luthuli Museum in Groutville on January 28, doors open at 18h00 and tickets are available on Webtickets for R40.

The second concert will take place at KZNSA Gallery on January 29, doors open at 18h00 and tickets are available on Webtickets for R60.

Nosihe is a small-town girl on a global mission. Born in the small town of Pietermaritzburg, she is currently based at the heart of the Zulu kingdom in Durban. At a young age, she already discovered that she loved singing. She was that girl wanting to take the lead when singing at family functions and always got that radiancy because of her passion for song. Having been trained in Classical Music & Contemporary Jazz – musically, she has built her sound to be a combination of modern-day haunting melodies of underground soul and the enigmatic energy of Afro-Pop, Jazz music and traditional Zulu melodies. Aesthetically, her artistry is inspired by bold dispositions in imaging and avant-garde expressions of art, styling and fashion.

“I have stories to tell and you will clearly hear this in my self-written compositions, in which I aim to tell not only my own stories but also those of others. I use music as the powerful medium to articulate emotions and tell stories of sadness, love, betrayal, heartache and happiness and I am planning to translate that to the stage during these performances,” says Nosihe.

(Right: Khokho Madlala)

Samkelisiwe “Khokho” Madlala, the hidden face behind the lone and powerful voice on Mzansi Magic’s drama series, Diep City, is a South African songwriter, recording artist and soundtrack composer. Khokho hails from Port Shepstone, 140km south of Durban. She fell in love when it literally gave her a voice since her husky voice and asthma prevented her from good speech. Through several choirs, her career lifted off in 2004 when she started taking on professional performances. Starting her career off at a young age afforded her the opportunity to be mentored and develop herself as a lead singer, performing alongside giants.

These concerts are 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.

Events:

January 28 at 18h00: Nosihe & Khokho Madlala -Luthuli Museum, Groutville. Tickets R40 through Webtickets

January 29 at 18h00: Nosihe & Khokho Madlala - KZNSA Gallery. Tickets R60 through Webtickets

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

 

POST BOX BLUES BAND

(Above: Post Box Blues Band)

Arguably the KZN Midlands’ best-loved music venue, Music in The Hills (MiTH) is an opportunity for beginners, professionals, and passionate music fans to share the joy of music at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm in Hilton.

The next musical evening will take place on January 26, 2022. It will feature the Post Box Blues Band, Gerry Van Rensburg and Grace Botha.

Post Box Blues Band

(at 21h00)

The Post Box Blues band began as a jam—an unrehearsed collaboration of musicians with a love for blues music—and eventually got refined, structured, and streamlined into Kyle Baker on guitar and vocal, Daniel Rossouw on bass, and Chris Melling on drums. There is a rawness and vulnerability in a trio, with no wall of sounds to hide behind, just guitar, bass, and drums to carry the message. The Post Box Blues band like it this way, and try to keep it raw, real, and loud, the way blues should be played! These three musicians have been playing together in different projects and iterations for close to 15 years, finally culminating in this bluesy trio playing both blues standards and putting their unique blues twist on more modern music.

 

Gerry Van Rensburg

(at 20h00)

Gerry picked up the guitar for the first time in 1982 with the express purpose of performing to drunk people in bars, a lofty goal which he achieved as a student in 1984, performing at the Saint James Hotel in Point Road, Durban, with three of his friends. It is now an accepted fact that, at the time, nobody in Durban was playing to audiences as drunk as his were. He continued to perform with his bad band friends for his entire student career. By 1989 midi backing tracks became popular and he spent the entire year writing backing tracks and performing them to drunk people at the Cecil hotel in Bloemfontein where he became a big name, but due to the rules of decency on this page we cannot disclose what that name was. He arrived in Pietermaritzburg in 1990 where he would teach technical drawing at Alexandra High School and Maritzburg College. While Gerry is mostly remembered for the many years he performed at DaVinci's restaurant in the ‘90s, over the past 30 years he has performed at restaurants, pubs, weddings, birthdays, and any other venue with a cash bar.

 

Grace Botha

(at 19h00)

Grace Botha is a singer, songwriter and pianist with a passion for amalgamating her love for jazz, pop and folk. She majored in Jazz and Popular Voice at Howard College from 2011-2013 and was a soloist for the close-harmony group the UKZN Voices. In addition to winning the Amsterdam Acoustic Artist challenge in 2012, she was also runner-up in the Gateway to Fame competition 2013 and opened for the SAIFTA awards in a collab at the ICC Durban. She has performed with several top artists including Beatroute, Sebastian Goldswain, and Majozi, and opened for Idols winner, Jason Hartman. Grace Botha is an accomplished session artist and has delighted audiences at many different venues in KZN with her witty charm and her incredible voice.

 

The evening takes place from 19h00 at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm, Knoll Drive, Hilton. Doors open at 18h00 and the music will kick off at 19h00. Entrance is R50 at the door. Bring your own booze. Food and soft drinks are available for sale.

ALL COVID-19 PROTOCOLS OBSERVED

For more information contact 082 331 7271. Visit www.mith.co.za for more details and directions. Musicians can contact mithbookings@gmail.com for slots.

DIRECTIONS TO MiTH: Take the N3 to Hilton, take the Hilton turnoff and go South into the Village (away from Hilton College). Travel 5,2km along Hilton Avenue (past two sets of traffic lights and Crossways Pub) and keep going straight as Hilton Avenue turns into Dennis Shepstone Drive. At the 5,2km mark, Knoll Drive will be on your right – the entrance to MiTH is the *second* entrance on your left into The Knoll Historic Guest Farm.

NEW TECHNIQUE, NEW PAINTINGS BY SANDI BEUKES

(Right: "Land and Sea no.1" & "Land and Sea no.2" by Sandi Beukes – gilli. 500 x 530 mm framed. R4,500 each)

Durban’s Elizabeth Gordon Gallery is happy to share new paintings by Sandi Beukes, of a new technique, especially for the new year!

Sandi Beukes is an artist who enjoys trying out different styles and exploring new techniques. This way she keeps her followers and collectors interested and keen to see what she’s going to do next.

Elizabeth Gordon Gallery owner Joy Reynolds says: “Last year, Sandi decided to do a course in Gelli Plate printmaking. This is a technique which uses a gelatin plate, a clear flexible plate of different sizes, which enables the artist to create prints without having to use a printing press. Paint is put on the gilli surface, spread out with a brayer, and then water colour paper is placed on top. A variety of stencils can be used to create texture and patterns, areas can be masked off to enable shapes to be defined and more paint added to give different thicknesses.

Sandi works on at least six paintings at a time, keeping to a similar palate so they work together as a series.”

This series is titled Land and Sea and are each identified by number. They are framed in white mounts and a simple white box frame. The size is 500 x 530mm and are priced at R4500 each but can only be bought in pairs.

Elizabeth Gordon Gallery is situated at 120 Florida Road, Morningside, Durban. For more information visit https://elizabethgordon.co.za/

 

MOTHER AND CHILD EXHIBITION

(“Madonna” by Giovanna di Paolo)

The Mother and Child exhibition, currently on display at the Tatham Art Gallery in Pietermaritzburg closes at 14h00 on February 6, 2022.

One of the most consistently reproduced subjects in all of art history, especially Western art, is the theme of the mother and child. This exhibition, which celebrates the unique bond between mother and child is drawn from the Gallery’s permanent collection, and includes a wide variety of media, ranging from small intimate sculptures, to prints and paintings which explore the tender and protective nature of the mother and child relationship.

On February 5, Alleyn Diesel will present a talk entitled The Spiritual Symbolism of Mother and Child. This talk will examine aspects of the recurrent motif of Mother and Child in art and mythology reaching back to our human origins. These images form part of what psychologist Carl Jung referred to as our “collective unconscious” reflecting primordial themes such as birth, death, separation, nurturance, preservation, regeneration – characteristics associated with our conceptions of the divine, particularly The Great Mother.

Alleyn Diesel’s Mother and Child illustrated talk will take place on February 5 at 10h30 in the Tatham Art Gallery’s Lecture Theatre. Entrance is free.

For more information, contact the Tatham’s Education Officer, Pinky C Nkabinde, on 033 392 2811 or 086 770 2609.

The Tatham Art Gallery is situated opposite the Town Hall in Chief Albert Luthuli Street, Pietermaritzburg. It is open from Tuesdays to Sundays from 10h00 to 17h00. Café Tatham is open on Saturdays. Safe parking with a car guard available. More information on 033 392 2801 or visit https://www.tatham.org.za/

 

BBC STUDIOS FEBRUARY HIGHLIGHTS

(Right: Mark Williams as Father Brown)

This February, BBC Studios will continue to offer a selection of great programmes to keep viewers entertained.

On BBC Earth the latest landmark nature series, The Green Planet, follows Sir David Attenborough as he travels across the globe to bring viewers the first immersive portrayal of an unseen, inter-connected world, full of remarkable new behaviour and surprising heroes in the plant world. Meet fascinating plants that count, hunt, deceive, communicate, and protect their relatives, and manipulate animals for their own ends.

BBC Brit fans can look forward to the return of Father Brown and multi-award-winning drama Call the Midwife. 

Rick Edwards returns with Impossible, the popular quiz show which sees a cast of 30 returning players compete for the chance to win £10,000.

(Left: “Call the Midwife”)

The cooking competition that gets everyone talking is back with six new episodes, as part two of Come Dine with Me South Africa S7 returns to BBC Lifestyle. 

Viewers can also look forward to more jaw dropping makeovers without any surgery on 10 Years Younger in 10 Days.

TRIO CONCERT

(Right: Aristide du Plessis)

Aristide du Plessis (cello) Myfanwy Price (oboe) and Andrew Warburton (piano) will perform a programme of Beethoven, Bruch and Poulenc at St Thomas Church in Musgrave Road on January 30.

The programme features three beautiful eclectic pieces for cello / oboe / piano: Beethoven: Trio in B-flat major for Oboe, Cello and Piano, Op.11; Bruch: Number 1 and number 6 from 8 Pieces for Oboe, Cello and Piano, Op.83 and Poulenc: Trio for Oboe, Cello and Piano, FP 43.

The Piano Trio in B-flat major was composed by Ludwig van Beethoven in 1797, one of a series of his early chamber works using predominantly woodwind instruments as they were popular at the time.

(Left: Andrew Warburton)

Child prodigy Max Bruch composed his Eight Pieces for Clarinet, Viola, and Piano, Op. 83 in 1909, in his 70th year, for his son Max Felix, a talented clarinetist. The clarinet and viola parts were also arranged for violin and cello to appeal to a wider audience.

Trio for oboe, bassoon and piano by Francis Poulenc is a three-movement chamber work which has been performed and recorded frequently and critics have praised the work's depth of feeling. It is regarded as the first major chamber work by Poulenc.

Aristide du Plessis has established a reputation as one of South Africa’s leading cellists, making regular appearances on national television and radio. Having earned his Master's Degree in 2014 from the Zürich University of the Arts, Switzerland, he has performed in some of the world's most renowned concert halls. He has performed as a soloist with all of the South African orchestras, and has been the Co-Principal Cellist of the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra since 2017.

Andrew Warburton has been active as a performer on South African concert stages since 1982, both extensively as a soloist and accompanist, and as a chamber musician. He received his PhD in 2019 and is lecturer in piano at the UKZN School of Music.

(Right: Myfanwy Price)

Myfanwy Price earned her BMUS degree and the Master of Performance (Orchestral Specialism) degree at the Royal College of Music, London. As an orchestral musician, she has toured and performed in venues around the world, including Carnegie Hall, the Konzerthaus Berlin and the Royal Albert Hall. Since 2017, she has been the Principal Oboist of the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra.

The concert takes place at St Thomas Church in Musgrave Road on January 30 at 11h00. It forms part of the chamber series taking place on occasions. Tickets R100 (R80 pensioners and students) must be pre booked before the day. Booking through Patti on 079 564 5230.

Covid protocols will be observed.