GRAMMY AWARD WINNER PAYS HOMAGE TO DRAKENSBERG BOYS CHOIR

 

(Above: Ndumiso Manana. Pic supplied)

Ndumiso Manana, South Africa’s Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter recently visited his alma mater, Drakensberg Boys Choir School, and paid homage to his musical roots nurtured at the school during his five-year attendance at the school and as a member of its world-renowned boys’ choir.

South African musician Manana’s musical journey started when he was a choir boy at Drakensberg Boys Choir School, also known as Drakies. Eswatini-born Ndumiso Manana joined Drakies, in Grade 4 and attended until grade 9 in 2008.

Manana won a Grammy for his writing work on Burna Boy's song Time Flies, which featured on the 2020 record Twice as Tall. Manana was also part of the project's Global Music Album Grammy win in 2021. In 2021, the talented singer and songwriter also released a song, I Can't Believe I Get to Call You Mine as a wedding gift to his wife, Vuyi Manana.

In a recent media interview, Manana said of his time at Drakies: "Joining Drakensberg Boys Choir School was probably the most influential moment that took me on this path in music because my parents and family aren't really musical."

However, Manana holds music education and Drakies and thereafter in very high regard because it has significantly impacted his musical art and balanced approach to life. He was quoted in the media saying: "I always tell people that I give all credit to the education and learning that I received over my life, especially in music."

DBCS Executive Head Dave Cato states: “It was an enormous privilege for the school (DBCS) to welcome home the Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter and Drakie Old Boy from the class of 2008. It is fantastic to see how our alumni go from strength to strength, applying the principles that are at the heart of Drakie-life including the high work ethic, education focus and pursuing musical excellence.”

In his humble, self-effacing manner, Manna portrayed the essence of the Drakie core values while interacting with staff and boys during his visit. The school’s Academic Head, Erika Linde, remembers him as a polite, well-liked Drakie boy who earned the respect of his peers. Manana was a standout chorister with a stellar profile as a soloist during his tenure in the choir.

Vaughan van Zyl, DBCS Artistic Director, concluded: “Manana’s inspirational visit will remain a distinct highlight for our staff and boys.” He noted that the school is very proud of how anchored Manana pursues his clear artistic vision. “Diversity in one’s repertoire is always important. Manana strives for a unique style that transcends genres in his repertoire, using the best of various styles to bring world-class music to his audiences.”

For more information on the Drakensberg Boys Choir, visit https://dbchoir.com/web/

LIVE AND OPEN FOR BOOKING – 50TH NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL

 

50 years ago, the first ticket for the National Arts Festival was printed. Many thousands more tickets have been printed since, yet each ticket bought represents a commitment to enter a dream, a vision - and a journey into the mind of an artist.

Today the 2024 programme, unfolding from June 20 to 30 in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown), is live and open for booking – and the journey begins again. Bold, visionary, restless and outspoken.

Comment from the NAF: “The Festival’s Curated Programme recognises works from across South Africa’s creative landscape selected by the Festival’s Artistic Committee. Infused this year with works and collaborations from Continental Connections across Africa, Justice and Hope is present through many works as we reach milestones and evaluate the turmoil of our times. A strong African Storytelling Resonance is building through artistic works that cradle new narratives and revisit old ones in themes of History, Nostalgia and Retrospection.

“The 2023 Standard Bank Young Artists hold space for Spirit, Ritual and Celebration while the Generational Bridges of the Festival’s 50-year trajectory are explored directly and indirectly throughout the programme.

“In the weeks to come, we will share more about the Fringe, Visual Art Exhibitions, Third Space, Jazz and Eastern Cape Showcase programmes.”

Tickets range from just R30 to no more than R175, head to https://nationalartsfestival.co.za/ to start making your bookings.

 

CURSED FOR NAF

(Above: Asanda Mhlungu & Mandisa Mnguni. Photo credit: Givethanks communication)

 

Amaciko KwaZulu Art Project and National Arts Festival will be presenting Cursed created by Thamsanqa Khumalo, written by Nokwanda Mnyandu, directed by Thamsanqa Khumalo, Stage Manager by Nonhlanhla Ntuli and performed by amazing talented Mandisa Mnguni and Asanda Mhlungu

Thamsanqa Khumalo explains “In the beginning the first ever cursed was when God Cursed Adam and Eve after the forbidden fruit  saga, but now allow us to take you on the journey of the supernatural curse that was altered by the great one Nkwenhle and NQULABETHU when cursing this family from eNtathakusa  “Hlase Family” with the "Delunga", a spirit that feeds on female twins.

“This supernatural power play will invoke the whole place, whole play, and characters CURSE. Two characters, break and take us through the family curse, a secret that builds up and takes down the family of Hlase twins. This play will be about two twins Cebisa (boy) and Nongcebo (girl), born and bred eNtathakusa.

“It is all about the twins who did not know that they were related because when their young their parents separated after having a fight, they went or took different parts, separated some of the things and some of them were Cebisa and Nongcebo. The mother natured Nongcebo and the father groomed Cebisa when they were both eight months into the world.

“They grew apart, lived different lives, and adopted different styles up until they met up when they were old and fell in love, They take us into this relationship phase they just started only to find out, that they started their family too, and have their twins without knowing that they are related.

“This show will be narrated by our storytellers which is Nkwenhle and NQULABETHU who has so much knowledge and knows so much about THE CURSE. Things keep on getting worse and more cursed because they only realise that at the end they are related and they are cursed with the spirit of Delunga a spirit that feeds on female twins. We will be introduced to challenges and different ways to resolve challenges but the question is, will these challenges be solved since they were CURSED at the beginning?”

Performances will take place during the National Arts Festival at DICKS in Makhanda on June 20 (10h00), June 21 (16h00), June 22 (18h30) and June 23 (12h00)

Ticket prices R70. The play is supported by the Playhouse Company.

MEDIUM AS A METAPHOR AT TATHAM

 

(Above: Monique van Deventer, Ayanda Mthethwa-Siwila & Anda Dodo. Pic supplied)

 

Medium as a Metaphor: art beyond the classroom is a group exhibition featuring three Pietermaritzburg-based, female teaching artists: Anda Dodo, Ayanda Mthethwa-Siwila and Monique van Deventer. It will run in the Schreiner Gallery at the Tatham Art Gallery in Pietermaritzburg opening on June 2, 2024, at 11h00 and running until July 28, 2024, at 17h00.

Beyond the classroom, the artists are occupied with making art that serves a narrative purpose. Their artworks engage in conversations which question personal experiences, tradition, conservation, culture, memories, femininity and their medium; clay. Their artworks appear to be familiar while imbued with symbolic meaning beyond its physical appearance.

The artists suggest that the medium itself conveys deeper messages and concepts that enhance the understanding of the artworks. The artworks become more than just physical objects – they become carriers of meaning that evoke and communicate the complex emotions and ideas associated with their personal philosophies.

They offer unique discourse and thoughts surrounding sensitive issues seen in their unglazed and bare artworks, and this vulnerability is reflected in their handling of the medium.

For more information contact pinky.nkabinde@msunduzi.gov.za or call 033 392 2811.

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 2800 or visit https://www.tatham.org.za/

 

GOD’S POCKET: REVIEW

 

Equally idiosyncratic, surreal and marvellously nuanced, I found reading this book to be a most entertaining experience. (Review by Keith Millar)

A year ago, I had the pleasure of reading Sven Axelrad’s debut novel, Buried Treasure. An experience which I thoroughly enjoyed. It is an unusual and rather eccentric story which refuses to be categorised into any particular genre. It was a real triumph for the novice author and I really looked forward to his next offering.

And now here it is. Sven Axelrad’s second book, God’s Pocket. And in my humble opinion, it is even better than his first.

Equally idiosyncratic, surreal and marvelously nuanced, I found reading this book to be a most entertaining experience.

God’s Pocket is a coming-of-age tale of sorts. Set in the same town of Vivo as Buried Treasure and features five best friends who are about to start their university studies.

However, one of them - Filipe or Filo as his friends call him - is at odds with his parents’ insistence that he study accountancy. He feels that this is a soul-destroying subject and his ambition is to skip varsity and to write a novel.

Together with his friends, he hatches a plan to run away from home for a period of six months and spend this time writing his novel.

A remote and rather ramshackle shack at the bottom of an abandoned quarry seems to be the ideal place to hide out. His friends agree to support him by bringing him water supplies on a monthly basis.

However, evil lurks in the quarry, and all does not go according to plan.

Axelrad, who is a Durban resident, has created a largely interesting and engaging cast of characters, both human and supernatural, to tell his story. There are exceptions, however, who add considerable spice to the proceedings.

This book I feel cannot be categorised into any of the usual genres. It is unusual and quite eccentric and magical.

So, if you enjoy something different this could be the book for you.

I, for one, am once again left looking forward to Sven Axelrad’s next offering. – Keith Millar

God’s Pocket is published by Umuzi, an imprint of Penguin Random House, South Africa. ISBN is 978-1-4152-1133-5. The recommended retail price is R320.

GASLIGHT: REVIEW

 

It all adds up to a complex and satisfying crime novel, with an attractive and rounded main character and a clever plot to unravel. (Review by Margaret von Klemperer, courtesy of The Witness)

 

Femi Kayode is a Nigerian who trained as a clinical psychologist before turning to writing. 

He currently lives in Namibia and Gaslight is his second novel after the acclaimed Lightseekers.

 Both feature investigative psychologist Philip Taiwo. Gaslight can be read as a stand-alone though there are references to events in the earlier book.

Philip and his family are back in his home country of Nigeria after many years in America, and there are degrees of culture shock for all the Taiwos. But things seem to be going relatively smoothly until Philip’s sister gets him involved when the wife of the bishop of the charismatic church to which she belongs goes missing, and the bishop, to the horror of his faithful flock, is very publicly charged with her murder.

Despite his reservations about the church – Philip says he hovers between being a lapsed Christian and an agnostic – he checks the apparent crime scene, and forces the police to agree that it is all a set-up. But who has set it up?

Then the Bishop’s wife is found genuinely dead and things begin to get very murky and complicated, and ultimately dangerous for Philip and his family. The more he discovers about the financial and moral shenanigans at the church, the more dangerous his situation becomes.

Another body appears, an obvious warning to Philip not to meddle. Nothing and nobody is quite what they seem on the surface and it gets very hard to know who to trust, but Philip is determined to get to the bottom of the case.

To add to his problems, his daughter is having a hard time at school, and wants to go back “home” to America. The digressions into issues of racism in both America and Nigeria are cleverly handled and add another and appealing dimension to the novel.

Philip is a likeable and believable narrator, a man of principle and one with very human doubts and concerns.

The reader has information that Philip doesn’t have. There are short sections throughout the book that are apparently in the voice of the bishop’s missing and ultimately dead wife. It all adds up to a complex and satisfying crime novel, with an attractive and rounded main character and a clever plot to unravel. - Margaret von Klemperer

Femi Kayode’s Gaslight is published by Raven Books - ISBN 978-1-5266-1764-4

MCCOY MRUBATA & GARY WITTNER FOR THE HEADROOM

 

The Headroom presents McCoy Mrubata a revered South African saxophonist in a duo with an amazing guitarist from the USA Gary Wittner on June 8, 2024, at The Headroom.

McCoy and Gary first met in 2006 at The Grahamstown (now renamed Makhanda) Arts Festival.

The Festival paired them with a South African rhythm section that included McCoy’s friend Paul Hanmer, it became immediately obvious that they shared a similar musical sensibility and sensitivity.

Mrubata and Wittner enjoyed performing together so much that they have continued to do so in Wittner’s four subsequent visits to South Africa and also in each of McCoy’s recent trips to the USA.

Their music partnership is in full flight having gained momentum after regular previous collaborations as Mrubata was in the USA in October 2022 to join Wittner on a mini tour, performing and conducting workshops at some schools and higher education institutions.

In February 2023, Mrubata returned to the USA to join Wittner on another tour performing as a duo and conducting workshops.

The highlight of the tour was a performance at Dizzy’s Jazz Club where they performed with Lumanyano Mzi, Jennifer Vincent and Melanie Schutz

In June of 2023 Wittner came to South Africa for a series of gigs with Mrubata and his quartet performing around Johannesburg. They went back to the USA for another series of gigs, later in that month at the end of the tour, they went into the studio to record the album they are currently promoting. The album is called McCoy Mrubata & Siyabulela – Lullaby for Khayoyo.

Mrubata went back to the USA in April this year to perform at The San Francisco Jazz Festival and continued to tour the USA until May.

Wittner has joined him in South Africa on his 65th Birthday celebration and CD launch tour.

At The Headroom they will perform as a Turner Sax and Guitar duo.

The Headroom does not sell liquor. Bring your cooler box and come enjoy great music in the garden.

Boerewors rolls for vegetarians and non-vegetarians will be on sale

The Headroom is situated at 21 Bridlington Road, Sea View in Durban. Phone: 031 459 0840

THINGS WE DO FOR LOVE

Westville Theatre Club will be staging a musical showcase Things We Do For Love from June 6 to 8 and 13 to 16, 2024.

Featuring songs rich in harmonies and instrumentals, the cast will be accompanied by the theatre club band. Songs include those of the Beatles, Carly Simon, Neil Sedaka, Phil Collins, Billy Joel, Steely Dan, to name but a few.

Why not join the cast for a fun evening of music and romance and bring along a picnic basket and drinks to Westville Theatre Club (alongside Westville Swimming Pool)?

Doors open at 18h30 and curtains up at 19h00 (except for Sunday, June 16 which is a matinee show - doors open at 14h00 and curtains up at 14h30).

Tickets R100 (R80 for members, students & pensioners). To book contact Dorothy on 083 776 1754 or email: dorothyannoneill@gmail.com

The Westville Theatre Club is situated next to the Westville Swimming Pool in St James Avenue, Westville, Durban

NB Players in the Westville Theatre Club perform on a non-financial basis so audiences are strongly advised to offer support.

 

TEXAS TO SOUTH AFRICA

 

Texas To South Africa, A Tribute to the Music of Stevie Ray Vaughan & Dan Patlansky will be performed by “Good Trouble” on June 2 at Rhumbelow Theatre.

Good Trouble! Is a local Durban band fuelled by a passion for the electrifying sound of blues rock. 

Drawing inspiration from legends like the late Stevie Ray Vaughan and local blues icon Dan Patlansky, Good Trouble is poised to mesmerise audiences at the Rhumbelow Theatre with their soulful and energetic performance.

Formed in 2023 by lead singer Andrew Miller, a respected local music teacher, Good Trouble initially took shape as a showcase for his learners' recital.

 The overwhelming response prompted the group to step onto larger stages. With the talented duo of guitarists Andre Adkins and Connor Jensen, the skilful bassist Lucian Young, and experienced drummer Matthew David, Good Trouble is dedicated to reigniting the passion for blues and blues rock.

At the Rhumbelow Theatre Umbilo in the show Texas To South Africa, Good Trouble will pay homage to the late guitar icon Stevie Ray Vaughan, whose influence has shaped generations of musicians, and local guitar legend Dan Patlansky, renowned for his virtuosity and connection to Vaughan's legacy.

Don't miss their performance on Sunday, June 2, 2024, at 14h00. The venue is open 90 minutes before show.

Catch the soulful melodies and electrifying energy of Good Trouble as they revive the spirit of blues rock on stage.

*Direct permission from Dan Patlansky was obtained to perform his work. *

Tickets R200. Booking is essential on email: roland@stansell.co.za or https://www.webtickets.co.za/

Bring food picnic baskets or buy at the venue. Bar is available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises)

Limited secure parking available

For more information contact Cell 0824998636 or http://events.durbantheatre.com/

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

MASTERCLASSES WITH BEN SCHOEMAN

 

Applications deadline: June 8, 2024

Attention advanced pianists!

Five students will be offered the opportunity to take masterclasses with Ben Schoeman, who is in Durban to perform with the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra and has kindly agreed to make himself available for this time.

Applications are open to advanced piano students, preferably Grade 6 and higher.

Applications close on June 8, 2024, and the KZNPO management will contact you to let you know by June 14, 2024, if you are performing.

 

Apply via this link: https://forms.gle/Bae1C8J4iGNsL5Rz8

The cost is R250 per participant. However, there is free entry to watch the masterclasses to all parents, fellow music pupils, and interested people.

Enquiries can be made by email to: orchestramanager@kznphil.org.za

To link direct to the KZNPO website, click on the advert at the top right of this page.

031 FESTIVAL

 

The Durban Theatre community is excited to announce the second annual family-friendly 031 Theatre Festival to take place at the Seabrooke’s Theatre at DHS on June 7, 8 and 9, 2024.

First losing her husband and then her mother in the space of a year has put Marie in a position she never imagined she would be in. Feeling invisible and desperate, her only hope, it seems, is to find herself a rich husband. She’ll also need to make a few changes in order to attract said rich man. Can mutton really be dressed up as lamb? So, you want to be a trophy wife? is a hilarious and critically-acclaimed one-woman show produced by Faeron Wheeler of F Creations written and performed by Sue Diepeveen and directed by Wynne Bredenkamp and Greg Karvellas.

Yesterday’s Hero, written and performed by Ovation winner Patrick Kenny, is a hilarious one-man comedy about the ups and downs of being almost famous! It is directed by multi-award-winning comedian Aaron McIlroy.

Perennial favourites Aaron McIlroy and Lisa Bobbert return to the 031 Festival with their hit musical comedy, Mr and Mrs Normal. Billed as an ‘all-you-can-eat comedy buffet’, Mr & Mrs Normal is a zany musical smorgasbord that caters for all theatrical tastes. You’ll get to revel in some sizzling new characters, as they rub shoulders with those old favourites, you’d feel cheated to miss. Interspersed with show-stopping musical hits, this laugh-out-loud comedy is directed and choreographed by theatre whizz Daisy Spencer.

The hilarious and extremely thought-provoking one-hander, A Vegan Killed my Marriage, starring Aaron McIlroy is written and directed by the multi award-winning, Craig Freimond.

McIlroy plays James, a red-blooded, meat-eating South African male. He is fully aware of the consistent concerns about the meat industry’s role in the impending climate catastrophe. Out of the blue, he becomes a vegetarian, not realising how unwelcome this change and his newfound fanaticism will be in his meat-eating home.

A whimsical fantasy wrapped up in a bubble of sincerity encompasses the must-see Adventure of Who. Taking audiences on a journey of self-discovery, Adventure of Who follows the story of a child on a magical quest to find a name. This warm-hearted solo show written and performed by Kaylee McIlroy and directed by multi-award winning Aaron McIlroy is an absolute gem; a magical show for children (and adults) of all ages.

The Tower & the Tree, Patrick & Shannon Kenny’s multi-award-winning story is a wonderfully funny and thoroughly delightful modern fairy tale about love and friendship told through puppetry. Puppet design and direction by Peter Court.

 

Programme:

 

Friday June 7:

18h00 - Trophy Wife - Adults R150 (Pensioners and students - R100)

20h00 - Yesterday’s Hero. - Adults R150 (Pensioners and students R100

 

Saturday June 8:

10h00 - Adventure of Who – Adults R100 (young children R75)

12h00 - Tower and the Tree - Adults R100 (young children R75)

14h00 - A Vegan Killed my Marriage - Adults R150 (Pensioners and students - R125)

18h00 - Yesterday’s Hero – Adults R150 (Pensioners and students R100)

20h00 - Trophy Wife - Adults - R150 (Pensioners and students - R100)

 

Sunday June 9:

10h00 - Adventure of Who - Adults R100, (young children R75)

12h00 - Tower and the Tree - Adults R100, (young children R75)

14h00 - Trophy Wife - Adults R150 (Pensioners and students - R100)

16h00 - Yesterday’s Hero - Adults R150 (Pensioners and students R100)

18h00 - Mr and Mrs Normal - Adults R165 (Pensioners and students R150)

 

Tickets through Webtickets.

 

Seabrooke’s Theatre is situated at Durban High School, 255 St. Thomas Road, 4001. Contact on 031 277 1500 or fax 031 277 1555 or visit www.durbanhighschool.co.za

 

THE EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES

 

(Above: Lyle Buxton, Roland Perold & Marion Loudon. Pic supplied)

KickstArt is delighted to present the SA premiere of the fabulous family musical – the South African première of The Emperor’s New Clothes, which comes to the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre on campus over the July school holidays from June 15 until July 7, 2024.

This will be a musical of a very different kind: The Emperor’s New Clothes, is a version of the famous Hans Christian Anderson fairytale by Broadway stalwarts Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty. This team was responsible for the delightful musicals Once on this Island and Seussical, as well as Ragtime and Anastasia.

Directed by Steven Stead, with magical designs by Greg King, musical direction by Roland Perold and fresh new orchestrations by Jaco Griessel, The Emperor’s New Clothes stars Daniel Anderson as Emperor Marcus, with Roland Perold as The Swindler. Others in the cast are Marion Loudon (Deena, the Head of the Imperial Wardrobe), Lyle Buxton (William, the Emperor’s Chief Advisor), Mthokozisi Zulu (Arno, the Royal Stable Hand), Keryn Scott, Amahle Tembe and Roshanda Lewis, as villagers. Roland, Lyle and Roshanda were recently in Company.

This colourful and highly entertaining musical will delight children and adults alike. It will run during the July holidays, from June 15 to July 7, at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre on UKZN campus.

Book for all KickstArt’s 2024 shows at WEBTICKETS. 

Visit www.kickstarttheatre.co.za for more details and to make bookings.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY FOR 67 BLANKETS

 

Join the hugely popular 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day at Springside Café in Hillcrest to celebrate Christmas in July with a soup and sherry lunch!

This will take place on Wednesday July 17, 2024, from 11h00 to 14h00.

Cost: R60.

Butternut soup and a buttered roll with a complimentary tot of sherry! Additional eats or drinks will be for your own account.

The idea is to see how many beanies and scarves can be collected for the “SSS” project!!

RSVP by 05/07/2024 to Sue Hubach on 079 999 2443

MUSIC FOR CELLO, FLUTE & PIANO

 

(Above: Marguerite Spies, Sabine Baird & Margrit Deppe)

The KZN Philharmonic Orchestra is pleased to announce a repeat performance of Music for Cello, Flute & Piano. The programme of classical favourites by members of the KZN Philharmonic is set to delight Pietermaritzburg audience just as it did the Hillcrest-based fans. Part of the programme includes:

 

Antonio Vivaldi: Sonata in A minor for Flute, Cello and Basso continuo

Johann Sebastian Bach: Sonata in C Major for Flute and Basso Continuo

Ludwig van Beethoven: Allegro from the Cello Sonata in A Major Op. 69

Carl Maria von Weber: Trio in g minor for Flute, Cello and Piano

 

Marguerite Spies is a vibrant, lively, and versatile Music Performer and Educator in and around Durban. She spent 12 years as a tutti cellist for the Orchestra, and now spends her time educating the next generation of musicians.

Sabine Baird began her music studies in Germany, won a scholarship from the Comite Albert Roussel, Paris, studied with the principal flautist Genevieve Amar-Vonin of the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France, and was associate principal flautist with the Hofer Symphoniker in Bavaria. Since immigrating to South Africa, she has performed with all of the major orchestras in Gauteng, and has been the KZN Philharmonic's principal flute since 2006.

Margrit Deppe currently holds the position of Co-Principal Oboe with the KZN Philharmonic, but is also a talented pianist. In 2021, she completed a C-Diploma in Church Music in Halle, Germany and also obtained a Licentiate in Piano from Trinity College London with Professor Jürgen Pfuller in Halle.

Music For Cello, Flute and Piano will take place on Sunday June 2, 2024, at 15h00 at the Lutheran Church, 2 Bester Road, Hayfields, Pietermaritzburg

Tickets are R100 from Quicket (R80 for children under 12), or R120 at the door (R100 for children under 12)

 

HAPPY 25TH BIRTHDAY, ARTSMART!

 Creator and editor of the artSMart website acknowledges its 25th birthday.

I can barely believe that 25 years ago, artSMart was created and proudly appeared on its own website - www.artsmart.co.za

It has been a fascinating 25 years, often battling to get a whole batch of information out. artSMart is dedicated to the arts in KZN and reviews also appear in Facebook on my page (Caroline Smart) and the artSMart page.

My huge gratitude to the people who assist me – my PA, my financial advisor, my advertisers and my webmaster - and am so grateful to those who write reviews of shows or books on an honorary basis.

Next, of course, is you – the reader. Without you artSMart would be of no use.

Please support the advertisers and I would welcome more to help the financial side of things. Contact me on csmart@iafrica.com for suggestions - Caroline Smart

 

THE WOMEN: REVIEW

 

Kristin Hannah has shone a spotlight on a group of women whom history has done its best to ignore. (Review by Margaret von Klemperer, courtesy of The Witness)

Women who served in the Vietnam war have long had their contribution ignored, but in her latest novel The Women, Kristin Hannah sets out to rectify this by paying tribute to the nurses who went to South East Asia with the US army.

Her main character is Frankie McGrath, who at the outset is almost unbelievably naïve, even for a sheltered middle-class child in the 1960s. Her wealthy California family are conservative, and she has been brought up to believe that her role in life is to look attractive and marry well.

While she does feel that there might possibly be more to life than this, she is going along with it until her adored brother heads off to Vietnam. She has trained as a nurse, and so she volunteers to join the army nursing corps, against the wishes of her family.

What Frankie encounters in Vietnam is something she could never have imagined – the chaos, the sheer terror she feels, the conditions and above all the numbers of casualties are all way beyond anything she expected.

The first part of the book deals with Vietnam and Frankie’s experiences there. Thrown in at the deep end, she makes good friends among the other nurses, and almost inevitably, working in the intense life of combat, falls in love. But she also comes to a growing awareness that the American government is lying to its people, telling them that the war is winnable, and being won. Hannah lays the horror on thickly, and the pace is breathless.

Having faced the seemingly unendurable and having become a very different person, Frankie’s tour of duty ends and she returns to the States where she finds herself being spat at and reviled by the growing army of anti-war protesters. Frankie cannot fit into the life she finds – she knows the war is wrong and unwinnable, but also knows that many of those fighting it are brave and committed. Her sacrifice goes unrecognised, and the life her parents lead, ignoring both sides of the debate, is alien to her.

Inevitably, with Frankie out of combat, some of the impetus of the novel is lost but her struggles to cope with civilian life and her own trauma occupy the second half of the book. She lurches from one crisis to another as the world seems to conspire against her. Only towards the end does she find a measure of peace.

Hannah has created a very readable novel, but the plotting is perhaps a little breathless and sometimes predictable, with drama piled on drama, only to come to a conclusion that is almost too neat. But she has shone a spotlight on a group of women whom history has done its best to ignore. - Margaret von Klemperer

The Women by Kristin Hannah is published by Macmillan - ISBN 978-1035005680

 

ACT ANNOUNCES NYOLOHA T-SHIRT DESIGN COMPETITION

 

Deadline: Midnight June 30, 2024

The Arts & Culture Trust announces the Nyoloha Scholarship Programme T-shirt design competition

The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) invites young creatives to participate in a competition to design the 2024 limited edition ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme (NSP) T-shirt, capturing the spirit of this programme. To find out more about the ACT NSP, visit act.org.za/nyoloha

If you have a flair for design or you enjoy being creative, then it’s time to get your artistic juices flowing. Think fresh, think funky – it’s time to make a visual statement! ACT is looking for a youthful T-shirt design that reflects the 2024 programme theme: #NyolohaAfrica: Our canvas, our voice, our future.

Have you always dreamt of what a future South Africa could look like? Perhaps a never-never land – think Wakanda in Black Panther. Now is the opportunity to reimagine South Africa through your voice and creativity. Think African modes of storytelling, performance, and visual art connected with immersive technologies. Whether it's striking visuals, inspiring typography, African prints and patterns, or thought-provoking artwork, let your creativity run wild while making a powerful statement!

What’s in it for you? Not only will you contribute to a meaningful cause, but you'll also receive fantastic prizes. Imagine your design being featured on the official 2024 ACT NSP merchandise, gaining recognition on their social media platforms, receiving an MTN merchandise hamper, and earning R2,500 in cash!

ACT CEO, Jessica Denyschen, says: 'We encourage budding artists, creatives and young people between the ages of 18 and 35 years with a flair for innovative expression to let their imagination for a future Africa bourgeon. 'We encourage them from concept to the visible expression of their art and vision.”

It’s so easy to enter. Begin by creating a captivating and original design for the ACT NSP inspired by the theme #NyolohaAfrica: Our canvas, our voice, our future. Submit your original design digitally, in high-resolution PDF, at act.org.za/nyolohacompetition before midnight June 30 2024.

Multiple entries are not allowed. If you have any questions, email marketing@act.org.za.  Only South African citizens between the ages of 18 and 35 years are eligible. Neither participants of the 2024 ACT NSP nor last year's competition winners are allowed to enter. Terms and conditions apply.

Note that entering the competition means that you agree to ACT making your submission public for marketing purposes. Entering also allows for the public to vote for your design as part of the competition.

 

The ACT NSP is an undergraduate scholarship programme aimed at providing opportunities for school-leavers to pursue a tertiary qualification in the visual and performing arts. In partnership with Nedbank, Sun International, the MarketTheatre, the Southern African Music Rights Organisation and the Dramatic, Artistic and Literary Rights Organisation, ACT has offered scholarships since 2009. Following a two-year interruption due to Covid-19, the 2022 relaunch of the programme took place in partnership with ACT's long-term sponsors – Sun International, Nedbank, and Business and Arts South Africa (BASA) – under a new organisational strategy.

Through the programme, talented and ambitious young people from across the country are introduced to the world of professional arts through an intensive week of training, talks, and performances, culminating in a showcase and exhibition. Working with industry professionals and experts, participants gain valuable experience and the opportunity to work with other artists from different backgrounds.

Poovi Pillay, Head of Group Sponsorships and Cause Marketing at Nedbank, says: 'Our artists are essential in helping us to reflect on society and who we are as human beings. South Africa has an abundance of young artists with wonderful intellectual capacity and talent. We encourage you to share these qualities with us through this competition. You are our future and we believe in you. That is why we annually offer professional training and mentorship as part of the ACT NSP for up to 85 selected artists in the build-up to the finals.”

Heidi Edson, Group Socioeconomic Development Specialist at Sun International, says: “The ACT NSP provides an opportunity for qualifying talented and ambitious young people from across the country to study for an arts degree. In addition, the NSP also provides a platform for young creatives to launch their artwork by entering the Nyoloha T-shirt design competition.”

Let’s keep #ImpACTingFutures for tomorrow! To keep in touch with ACT, visit their website, follow them on X or like their Facebook page.

To connect to the ACT website – click on the logo advert to the right of this article.

CENTRE FOR JAZZ CELEBRATION OF AFRICA MONTH

 

(Above: Bantu’s Clef: Leon Scharnick & Milton Chissano. Pic supplied)

 

Jazz, Music and Dance in Celebration of Africa Month at Centre for Jazz and Popular Music

Concerts SA in collaboration with Zimboni and iSupport Creative Business presents Afro-Jazz band Bantu's Clef, which headline a night of music along with guest performers Ikusasa Lethu at the Centre for Jazz and Popular Music University of KwaZulu-Natal on Wednesday May 29 as part of Africa Month celebrations.

The concert is funded by the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture (South Africa) - Mzansi Golden Economy, as part of ‘30 years of Democracy: A Celebration of African Music and Heritage’.

Hailing from a dynamic musical crossroads, Bantu's Clef weaves together the rich tapestry of Afro-Jazz. Led by the masterful Mozambican guitarist Milton Chissano and the soulful South African tenor saxophonist Leon Scharnick, the band brings a unique sound that is both deeply rooted in tradition and invigoratingly fresh.

Their music is a captivating exploration of Bantu rhythms, the lifeblood of sub-Saharan African music. These infectious grooves form the foundation upon which Chissano and Scharnick, along with their band members, Doc Vezi on electric bass and José Albert Chemane on drums, layer improvisational flourishes and sophisticated harmonies, all expressed through the universal language of Jazz.

Expect a riveting performance featuring a blend of original compositions, where the band pushes the boundaries of the genre, alongside treasured works by Mozambican and South African composers. Bantu's Clef promises a journey that will transport you to the heart of Africa, all while keeping you on the cutting edge of contemporary Jazz.

Vibrant dance and music ensemble Ikusasa Lethu founded by Dr Patricia Opondo, is comprised of African Music and Dance students from UKZN. This dynamic group that has the pulse of the country running through its blood, has captivated global audiences wherever they have performed or conducted workshops including in Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Canada, Peru, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Seychelles, Thailand, Uganda, and of course right at home in Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Grahamstown, and East London.

The concert takes place on May 29, 2024. Doors open at 17h00 and the concert starts at 17h30.

Tickets R110, (R80 pensioners and R50 students) can be booked through Webtickets or through zamat1@ukzn.ac.za

For more information contact info@isupportdoyou.com

BAROQUE 2000 CONCERTI

 

(Left: Rosamund Eliza Ender – Cellist (Photo depicts the soloist as a viola da gamba player). Pic supplied)

Baroque 2000 will present a great concerti for Cello and Violin on June 2 at 11h30 at The Church of the Mariannhill Monastery

The concert will feature cellist Rosamund Eliza Ender and the programme is as follows:

Handel - Overture from Rinaldo opera

Rameau - 6ème concert (Including the famous "chicken" number)

Vivaldi - Concerto for 2 violins and cello Op3 No2

Monn - Concerto for cello

Tickets @ R170 - Children are free. Besides cash payments, a card machine will now be available at the door.

The Tea Garden will be open for refreshments and light meals.

Ample, free and secure parking available.

For more information contact Michel on 082 303 5241 or email: sursouth@iafrica.com

THE LIST OF SUSPICIOUS THINGS: REVIEW

 

“The List of Suspicious Things: is at heart a coming-of-age story, and a moving and well-constructed one. Review by Margaret von Klemperer, courtesy of The Witness)

Jennie Godfrey’s debut novel The List of Suspicious Things centres on Miv, a child on the cusp of adolescence. Much of the story is told in her voice, which is a notoriously difficult thing to make convincing in writing, but on the whole, Godfrey succeeds.

Miv has a difficult home life: her mother is almost catatonic from some unexplained trauma which will only be revealed at the end of the book, her father is anxious and depressed, and her aunt who is helping the family is efficient but not warm.

Miv’s mainstay is her best friend, the pretty and kind Sharon. Miv is the clever one but Sharon is somewhat more attuned to the nuances of life, closer to breaking out of childhood.

The setting is working class Yorkshire in the late 1970s, when the local society was consumed by the depredations of a serial killer, the Yorkshire Ripper. One night, Miv overhears her father and aunt discussing whether they should move south, away from Yorkshire and its current horrors. Terrified at the thought of leaving Sharon, she comes up with a plan – the girls will track down the Ripper, and then her family will stay.

Of course, the Yorkshire Ripper story is well-known in the annals of serial killers, and the reader is aware that two pre-teens are not going to find him so that is not the tension in the book. However, they make a list of people whom they suspect could be guilty, including, of course, a teacher they dislike. But while their search may be childish, they begin to uncover secrets and undercurrents in their community that are anything but.

There is the racism of the time as well as other prejudices, there are adult secrets that have been kept from them but that they slowly and tentatively begin to understand, and there is violence that bubbles just below the surface. It is a turbulent time, both in society and in the development of the girls.

The 1970s were a more innocent age than ours. Children grew up later, but as Sharon and Miv follow their quest, they are forced to confront the world of adults and to slowly understand it – and not always like it. There is humour and warmth in the book, but there is also profound tragedy. The List of Suspicious Things is at heart a coming-of-age story, and a moving and well-constructed one. - Margaret von Klemperer

The List of Suspicious Things is published by Hutchinson Heinemann. ISBN 978-1-529-15330-9

19TH ANNUAL NALEDI THEATRE AWARDS 2024

 

19th Annual Naledi Theatre Awards 2024 for Productions staged during 2023 offered an almost unprecedented high standard of productions across all genres. Judges saw over 88 productions in the Plays and Musicals Category alone.

“When it came to judging this year, the judges were faced with a very difficult task, as the standard of productions we see are competing at the standard aligned with fulfilling the Naledis’ mandate of celebrating excellence in the performing arts,” enthused Renos Spenoudes, Chair of the judging Panel.

Lihan Pretorius, CEO of the awards, agreed, “2023 provided us with truly innovative work, that engages the audience and make us appreciate really superb theatre, in fact, the bar has definitely been raised. What is really exciting, is the standard of tertiary - and school productions, which are proving to be so instrumental in producing the next generation of performers, which is becoming evident in the calibre of the artists we see entering the industry.”

This year’s Awards Ceremony has risen to the challenge and the production was, as always, a most glamorous event. There was a star-studded line up of performers who provided the entertainment on the evening, which includes the likes of Jonathan Roxmouth with the love medley from his hit show, Key Change, I’m Here from Actress, performed by Thalia Kodesh, and Abel Knobel performed My pa se huis from Die Kaplyn.

Daniel Anderson performed Vincent from the musical of the same name. The evening was rounded off by the cast of Lifted – let the blind sing, who performed a medley from this celebrated work.

This Black-Tie event, always a highlight on the Theatre Calendar, would not be possible without the wonderful sponsorships in kind the Naledis receive from their host, The Joburg Theatre, our technical sponsor, Splitbeam, the South African State Theatre, Alan Ford Productions, Cepacol (a brand of Adcock Ingram), Heineken Beverages, Mindpool Productions, Blue Key Digital Marketing, Galore SA Media, Lift Airline, Stageworx, The Buz Hive, the STAND Foundation, WS Pianos, Yihan Brönn Couture and all the volunteers who have helped with the event.

Without these generous contributors, the event would not take place despite very concerted efforts to find a Headline Sponsor for the awards. enthuses Lihan Pretorius, CEO of the Awards, enthuses: “The Naledis are especially proud to be announcing two lifetime achievement awards, which go to Theatre Legends Ismail Mahomed and Paul Ditchfield, and the CEO’s Award for Innovation in Theatre to the Sibikwa Arts Centre.

“The Lesedi Spirit of Courage awards goes to Caleb Swanepoel and the Dawn Lindberg World Impact award goes to the internationally renowned Robyn Orlin. A new award, the STAND Foundation Mohlopi Award (in association with the Naledi Theatre Awards) goes to Gerard Bester.”

The CEO and Board of the Naledi Theatre Awards are proud to announce the Winners of the 2024 Naledi’s for productions staged in 2023 as follows:

 

Best Production for Children & Young Audiences – Supported By Assitej SA

The Hobbit (National Children's Theatre)

 

Best Performance In A Production For Young Audiences

Tebogo Molepo (Momo's Magical Adventure - Sandton City and Phly Media)

 

Best Production: Independent/Fringe Theatre

Born Naked (ZikkaZimba & Hijinks Theatre at IYABUYA iPOPArt Festival, supported by the National Arts Council of South Africa)

 

Best Performance In An Independent/Fringe Theatre Production

Qondiswa James (Retch The Market Theatre and Qondiswa James)

 

Best Production: Student Theatre

The Birdcage (St. Stithians College)

 

Best Performance In A Student Theatre Production

Shane dos Reis (The Birdcage St. Stithians College)

 

Best Production: Dance, Physical Theatre and Ballet

Kganya (Light) (The South African State Theatre (Kucheza  Afrika  Festival))

 

Best Choreography in a Dance, Physical Theatre and Ballet Production

Chloe Blair ("Table for two" from Dialogues – Joburg Ballet)

 

Best Performance in a Dance, Physical Theatre and Ballet Production

Nelmari Bornman (Sins – Kmad Dance Company)

 

Best Supporting Actress in a Play

Zaza Cala (Imxinwa)

 

Best Supporting Actor in a Play

Caleb Swanepoel (A Midsummer Night’s Dream)

 

Best Breakthrough Performance

Daniel Anderson (Vincent)

 

Best Choreography in a Play or Musical Theatre Production

Natalie Fisher & Sylvaine Strike (The Promise on Stage)

 

Best Original Score/Musical Soundscape/Arrangements

Charl-Johan Lingenfelder (The Promise on Stage)

 

Best Musical Director

Jonathan Roxmouth (Key Change)

 

Best Performance in a Solo Production

Mpume Mthombeni (Isidlamlilo/The Fire Eater)

 

Best Cabaret/Revue/Small-Scale Musical Production

Vincent (Wê la Kapela Productions)

 

Best Ensemble in a Musical Theatre Production

Ensemble of We Will Rock You (Showtime Management)

 

Best Ensemble in a Play

Cast of The Promise – On Stage (Club Dezza Productions & The Market Theatre)

 

Best Costume Design

Michaeline Wessels (A Midsummer Night’s Dream)

 

Best Theatre Set and/or AV Design

Josh Lindberg (The Promise –on Stage)

 

Best Lighting Design

Tina le Roux (Isidlamlilo/The Fire Eater)

 

Best Sound Design

Charl-Johan Lingenfelder (The Promise – On Stage)

 

Best Director of a Musical Theatre Production

Aubrey Sekhabi (Sophiatown)

 

Best Director of a Play

Neil Coppen (Isidlamlilo/The Fire Eater)

 

Best Supporting Actress in a Musical Theatre Production

Danelle Cronjé (We Will Rock You)

 

Best Supporting Actor in a Musical Theatre Production

Tiaan Rautenbach (We Will Rock You)

 

Best Lead Actress in a Musical Theatre Production

Talia Kodesh (Actress)

 

Best Lead Actor in a Musical Theatre Production

Daniel Anderson (Vincent)

 

Best Lead Actress in a Play

Cintaine Schutte (Tien Duisend Ton)

 

Best Lead Actor in a Play

Rob van Vuuren (The Promise –On Stage)

 

Best New South African Script

Jefferson “J Bobs” Tshabalala (Khongolose Khommanding Khomissars)

 

Best Production of a Play

Isidlamlilo/The Fire Eater (The Market Theatre, in association with Empatheatre & The National Arts Festival)           

 

Best Production of a Musical/Musical Theatre Production

We Will Rock You (Showtime Management)

 

 

SPECIAL AWARDS:

 

Stand  Mohlopi Award

(presented in partnership with Naledi Theatre Awards) Gerard Bester

 

CEO's Award for Innovation In Theatre

Sibikwa Arts Centre

 

Lesedi Spirit of Courage Award

Caleb Swanepoel

 

Lifetime Achievement Award

Ismail Mahomed

 

Lifetime Achievement Award

Paul Ditchfield

 

Dawn Lindberg World Impact Award

Robyn Orlin