LEGENDS: REVIEW BY BILLY SUTER

 

(Excerpt from Billy Suter's review)

Hard to believe how fast this year has whizzed by! And, of course, the ever-popular Barnyard Theatre at Durban’s Suncoast Casino has cranked up the party-time vibes for Legends, their latest musical showband entertainment, which closes 2024 and runs until early 2025.

Yes, there are expected favourites in this new production – Tina Turner, Meatloaf, Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson remain firm staples – but there are also some nice, unexpected surprises that include nods to The Cranberries, Johnny Clegg and fab, late Swedish DJ and remixer Avicii.

Among others in the merry mix are chart-toppers by Mandoza, Barry White, Bob Marley, Dusty Springfield, Donna Summer, Roxette, Queen, James Brown, George Michael and Amy Winehouse. Heck, there are even sections highlighting the swing favourite In the Mood and Chubby Checker’s Let’s Twist Again.

See full review at https://sosuterbill.com/2024/11/18/letting-the-good-times-roll/

THE SAUNTER

 

In December of 2017, a private not-for-profit was established to show KZN locals what a treasure of activities, art and craft they had right on their doorsteps but did not know about.

From that beginning, The Saunter has grown to cover some of the best places to holiday across the country and it is still growing. The places to stay, things to do, artists and crafters are only on The Saunter by invitation which means that each entity is very good and is there following strong public recommendation.

(Left: Sarah Richards ‘Meerkat Mini’)

KZN has been through greater trials and tribulations than the rest of South Africa and as a result there has been a significant drop in both those visiting from other provinces and overseas. 

 A small section of the Cape is recovering from Covid slowly but surely but numbers are down in many areas.

We need tourists. For every 14 pairs of holidaying feet that step on the airport tarmac from other countries, 1 new job is created! 

We need them. Tourists could be the way out of South Africa’s malaise economically.

So, The Saunter teamed up with others to create a competition to beat most others. 

A competition that would show South Africans some stunning places to holiday and one to make those going into winter across the globe, think…”oooh, we have got to go there!”

 

(Right: Bongi Bengu ‘The Circle of Consciousness’)

The competition starts now and runs for 2.5 months.

It is The Great South African Giveaway and up for grabs are over R1000,000s worth of absolutely stunning prizes. Most are holiday prizes, but there is also a R300,000 selection of fantastic art, craft and sculpture to be won. 

It is a celebration of South Africa!

 

All you have to do to win … enter the competition on

gosouthafrica.co.za/thesaunter1

 

A JOURNEY BACK TO HEART FROM ZINHLE MADELA

 

(Zinhle Madela, courtesy of Facebook)

South African singer and songwriter Zinhle Madela is set to embark on a powerful journey of reconnection with her audience through her new live music series, ISIGCAWU. 

This first performance will take place on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at Durban’s renowned jazz venue, The Chairman and is titled: A Journey Back to Heart. 

Curated by Madela in association with Heart Print (Pty) Ltd, ISIGCAWU series is a celebration of music, culture, and authenticity, with live sessions planned throughout 2025.

The first ISIGCAWU, A Journey Back to Heart marks a significant moment in Madela’s career, following her 2020 debut album, Iduku, which catapulted her into the spotlight with its quality songwriting and deeply personal storytelling. Known for her seamless blend of soul, jazz, and African influences, Madela has captivated audiences across genres.

Since Iduku, she has collaborated with a diverse array of artists, bridging musical worlds from house to hip-hop, creating a unique sound that resonates widely yet remains distinctly her own.

Through ISIGCAWU, Madela will reconnect with her core audience and share new music that reflects her journey, growth, and resilience.

"ISIGCAWU" is a Zulu word meaning “scene” or “arena,” symbolizing a space for meaningful gatherings and shared experiences. For Madela, ISIGCAWU represents a chance to revisit her roots while exploring fresh musical terrain. The series promises an immersive experience, inviting listeners to journey back to the heart of Madela’s music.

Join Zinhle Madela as she bridges the past and the present, bringing together familiar favourites and new, unreleased pieces that capture her evolution as an artist.

The performance will take place on November 30 at 19h00 at The Chairman in Durban. Tickets available from Webtickets and at all Pick n Pay locations nationwide.

CELEBRATION FESTIVE LIGHTS

 

If it’s Durban and it’s December... it has to be Trail of Lights time!! CELEBRATION is this year’s theme for South Africa’s largest and most popular festive light extravaganza!

Celebrating eight years of brilliant awe and wonder, this year’s luminous event offers a double-whammy to visitors – the Durban Botanic Gardens is proud to mark their 175th anniversary milestone, in collaboration with the Durban Botanic Gardens Trust and the Trail of Lights, which is the Trust’s biggest annual fundraiser.

Bringing enchantment and joy to visitors of all ages in Africa’s oldest surviving botanic garden, the show runs from December 6, 2024, to January 3, 2025. Organisers are promising a host of sparkling new attractions, from a re-imagined Santa’s Workshop and Grotto and Build-A-Bear Workshop, to a variety of themed areas, including the iconic Whale Tails created by SAAMBR (SA Association of Marine Biology Research).

The popular Paws and Claus evenings are also back in the mix for 2024, with the nights of December 8 and 12 earmarked for when visitors can bring along their ‘fur babies’ (sorry, dogs only), to join in the festive fun! Ticket sales from these evenings go to Feeding the Furballs charity Tickets on the Paws and Claus nights are R50 per pet, when booked with a full-paying adult ticket.

While the technical and lighting teams have already started laying the groundwork for one of the City’s biggest seasonal events, visitors can start planning their holiday schedules around the enhanced offering the family-focused show will bring to all ages - from the really young, to the young at heart!

-Entertainment and live music each evening

-Two food gardens offering food and beverages to suit every palate

-Mail off your Christmas Wish List at the North Pole Mailbox

-Festive shopping with some of Durban’s most talented makers

-Wheelchairs will be available to hire on a first-come first-served basis

 

Ticket prices range from R70 - R90 per person, depending on the time you visit and are available through Webtickets or at select Pick n Pay outlets. Tickets are available at the door, subject to availability, at R120 pp (card payments only) and are limited, so early booking is advised in order to secure your preferred date. Pensioners tickets are R60 per person (Proof of ID required).

The Trail of Lights runs from December 6, 2024, to January 3, 2025, from 18h00-22h00 each evening and will be closed on December 9, 10, 11, 25 and 31.

STUDENT RECITALS FOR UKZN

Student recitals (Classical Music) will take place at Howard College Theatre:

 

(Right: Lunga Sivenathi Zozi)

 

14h30 Lunga Zozi piano

 

15h30 Graham Alexander (Violin) at Howard College Theatre.

(Left: Graham Alexander)

 

 

 

From 17h30 at Centre for Jazz and Popular Music 

Jazz: Sifundo Myeza (Trumpet)

 

Pop: Ntethelelo Vilakazi, Tamia Rex, Celimpilo Cele (Voice)

FILMMART.AFRICA PARTNERS WITH CAIRO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Filmmart.Africa is thrilled to announce a new partnership between Filmmart.Africa and the renowned Cairo International Film Festival!

This collaboration, aimed at boosting visibility and engagement for African filmmakers, aligns with Filmmart’s mission to foster meaningful connections and professional growth across the continent's film landscape.

What This Partnership Brings:

-Enhanced Visibility: African filmmakers and film projects will gain increased exposure through the Filmmart.Africa portal, amplifying their reach and impact.

-Collaboration Opportunities: The partnership paves the way for stronger alliances and connections, helping film professionals and organisations connect seamlessly across Africa.

Explore Filmmart.Africa: Your Hub for Film Industry Connections and Resources

At Filmmart.Africa, the organisation is building Africa’s leading online film business network, offering resources and connections that empower filmmakers to thrive. Here’s what you can discover on our platform:

-Connect with Filmmakers and Film Professionals: Meet industry leaders, decision-makers, and emerging talents who are shaping African cinema.

-Discover Film Companies: Find production houses, distributors, and financiers to support every step of your film journey.

-Explore Projects at Every Stage: From development to distribution, Filmmart.Africa features an array of ongoing film projects.

-Access Essential Film Resources: From skill-building guides to industry insights,

Filmmart.Africa’s curated resources will help you elevate your craft and expand your network.

-Stay Updated: With the latest business insights, news, and events, Filmmart.Africa keeps you informed in the fast-evolving world of African film.

 

About the Cairo International Film Festival:

Running from November 13 to 22, 2024, the 45th Cairo International Film Festival will present 194 films across 15 sections. Highlights include competitive categories spotlighting Palestinian cinema and the 6th edition of Cairo Industry Days

(November 15 – 20) - an essential platform for industry networking, masterclasses, and thought-provoking conversations. Cairo Film Connection, the industry day’s co-production forum, celebrates its 10th edition this year, with 18 projects from 13 countries.

Sign Up Today!

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to engage with the Cairo International Film Festival and start building impactful connections across Africa.

Join Filmmart.Africa now, explore the Cairo Festival programme, connect with attending delegates and advance your film journey!

Join Filmmart.Africa Today (https://filmmart.africa/)

Filmmart.Africa is proudly powered by the Durban FilmMart Institute and supported by DW Akademie.

About Durban FilmMart Institute:

The Durban FilmMart Institute is a pioneering organisation dedicated to advancing the growth and influence of the African film industry. With the generous support of DW Akademie, the institute plays a pivotal role in elevating the African film landscape by nurturing talent, fostering collaboration, and facilitating funding opportunities.

About DW Akademie:

DW Akademie is Germany's leading organisation for international media development. As part of Deutsche Welle, Germany's international broadcaster, DW Akademie supports media professionals worldwide in promoting free and independent journalism. Their partnership with the Durban FilmMart Institute in building Filmmart.Africa aligns with their commitment to fostering media development and empowering voices in Africa.

For further information contact: info@filmmart.africa

https://www.facebook.com/FilmmartAfrica-113979608343398

https://www.instagram.com/filmmart.africa/

https://twitter.com/FilmmartAfrica

https://www.linkedin.com/company/filmmart-africa/

https://www.youtube.com/@filmmart.africa

 

TWO SOUTH AFRICAN ARTISTS AMONG TOP 3 IN REGIONAL ART COMPETITION

 

(Above: Nhlakanipho Mkhize receives his cheque for 3rd place overall from Lillian Henderson, BIC’s Marketing Director for Southern and East Africa)

Art Master Africa Ballpoint Pen Competition by BIC Rewards Winners

South African artists Zolani Makibi and Nhlakanipho Mkhize were named as winners at the sixth edition of BIC’s flagship art competition, Art Master Africa. Makibi was named second place winner, while Mkhize took third place.

Makibi and KZN artist Mkhize triumphed over around 6,000 entries in the competition across Africa and the Middle East. Second place overall winner, Zolani Makibi won a cash prize of $1500 for his piece titled Raised by the Community and third place winner, Nhlakanipho Mkhize won $500 for his work titled Brother’s Keeper.

The Art Master Africa competition was launched earlier this year and called on creatives to portray their interpretation of Ubuntu (One Africa) which emphasises interdependence and the power of collective harmony, using the iconic BIC ballpoint pen.

Marc D’Oliveira, General Manager at BIC South Africa, said: “We are proud to have run Art Master Africa for the sixth year in a row. The competition has come a long way, starting in South Africa in 2017 and expanding into the wider region. It has brought to life phenomenal talent from across the region and is a testament to our commitment to unleashing creativity using writing tools and living up to our vision of bringing simplicity and joy to everyday life through our products. We continue to be in awe every year after seeing the submissions we receive, and we are confident that we will continue to help more talent surface through this flagship competition.”

Nhlakanipho Mkhize’s placed third overall for his hyper-realism drawing Brother’s Keeper, which was inspired by the good that emerges in people despite challenges they face. “As a self-taught artist, using a BIC pen to achieve a hyper-realistic technique was a new personal challenge I relished. Unlike pencil, which can be edited, ink requires precision and patience to complete,” he said.

BIC Art Master Africa is a bi-annual art competition that calls on artists to express themselves through the iconic ballpoint pen. Every edition reflects the unique cultures that span the African continent. The competition continues to grow each year, providing a platform for emerging artists to showcase their work, explore their creativity, and share their stories through the art of ballpoint pen drawings. Earlier this year, BIC launched its first-of-its-kind Art Master Africa Metaverse Gallery.

JAZZ GIANTS UNITE

 

A Stellar Concert at The Playhouse

Prepare for an unforgettable afternoon of world-class jazz as South Africa’s celebrated jazz musicians Nduduzo Makhathini, Ernie Smith, Xolisa Dlamini and Dumza Maswana come together for an exceptional concert at The Playhouse in Durban.

The highly anticipated once-off concert will be hosted by radio legend Shado Twala and will take place on December 14 at 15h00.

 Audiences will be treated to heartfelt performances that reflect the depth and diversity of South Africa’s jazz heritage.

Nduduzo Makhathini: An internationally acclaimed pianist, composer and leading figure in the world of South African jazz.

Ernie Smith: Ernie’s fusion of jazz, soul and Afro-pop has won him numerous accolades and a devoted fan base.

Xolisa Dlamini: Xolisa’s distinctive style bridges traditional African sounds with contemporary jazz, creating a performance that is both vibrant and soul-stirring.

Dumza Maswana: Dumza’s emotive vocal delivery and moving compositions offer a fresh, yet deeply rooted, interpretation of jazz music.

Pre-booking is strongly advised. Tickets are R150, available at WebTickets now.

DEATH OF ANN BOARDMAN

 

(Pic by Storm Stevenson)

Tribute by Anthias Stavros:

Ann Boardman was one of the doyennes of Durban’s dance scene for many years, and mentored many local dancers over the years. Her passion was Spanish dance.

She was vivacious, full of energy and had an infectious laugh.

She had an entrepreneurial spirit, and over and above her extensive dance commitments, she was a successful estate agent for many years, and also an award-winning Justine cosmetics dealer.

She was married to George Jacobs, who was the love of her life.

 

She fulfilled her dream to retire in Thailand, and resided on the island of Ko Pha-ngan, where she passed away on November 8, 2024.

She is survived by her daughter, Vicki, and her grandchildren, Storm and Sahara.

RICHARD HASLOP FOR ST CLEMENTS

 

(Right: Richard Haslop. Pic supplied)

 

December 2 at 18h00.

Table Bookings Essential: RSVP ST Clements 031 202 2511

 Friends of Pieter Scholtz invite audiences — regardless of whether you’re gobsmacked, fearful, jubilant or couldn’t-care-less about the US elections results — to come and be entertained and enlightened by multi-talented musician, music guru, raconteur, former president of the SA Society for Labour Law, blues and roots music aficionado, Richard Haslop.

"The US has a new president. Who knows yet whether that’s good or bad, but Ian Hunter, formerly of the band Mott The Hoople, wrote a song entitled When I’m President in which he warned, “You go in with the right intent when you become president / You hold those truths to be self-evident when you become president / But something happens to you up on the Hill / There’s business as usual”.

"There have been vast numbers of songs written about the presidency and about individual presidents … supportive ones, critical ones, happy ones, sad ones, humorous ones and as-serious-as-your-life ones, from FDR In Trinidad, Eisenhower Blues and Lincoln’s Funeral Train, through a string of complaints about Nixon like Neil Young’s Ohio, Country Joe’s Tricky Dickie From Jorbalinda and Frank Zappa’s Dickie’s Such An Asshole, to Lyndon Johnson Told The Nation and Rocky Mountain Mike’s Mr Tangerine Man.

"Sad Day In Texas and Crucifixion, a song that made his brother cry, are about the death of JFK while the Ramones’ My Brain Is Hanging Upside Down is about Reagan. And whether or not Little Feat’s Fat Man In The Bathtub is in fact about William Taft, it remains a great song.”

Through some of these and several more presidential songs, Richard Haslop will present a trawl through recent-ish American electoral history that will hopefully seem less haphazard than the US electoral system seems to him.

Richard Haslop is a practicing attorney with a focus on human rights, labour law, arbitration and industrial relations. He, is a multi-instrumentalist, music reviewer, radio personality and one of South Africa's leading experts on blues and roots music. He is a former president of the South African Society for Labour Law (SASLAW) and has acted as a judge in the Labour Court of South Africa on a number of occasions.

Richard has:

-written about music for national and international publications for more than 30 years;

-presented a number of seriously eclectic music shows on SAfm;

-lectured courses on the history of popular music at UKZN Music Department;

-given talks, lectures and presentations at a number of festivals and conferences in SA and overseas;

-played an incredible number of weird and wonderful musical instruments, solo and in a variety of aggregations (for more than 40 years).

— See an article listing some of his favourite artists and music here. http://www.rock.co.za/files/cs_richard_haslop.html

When the donation box is passed around, a minimum of R50 per person is suggested. The plan is to be outdoors. If it rains, they will set up indoors.

Bookings limited to diners in support of St Clements restaurant and staff. (They stay open specially for these programmes.)

Be there in time to order before the performance, scheduled to start at 18h00.

Please cancel if you book then can’t make it.

St Clements is located at 191 Musgrave Road in Durban. Mondays @ Six run between 18h00 and 19h00. Table bookings are essential on 031 202 2511.

If you wish to dine after the presentation, place your order before 18h00.

JAZZ GIANTS UNITE: A STELLAR CONCERT AT THE PLAYHOUSE

 

Prepare for an unforgettable afternoon of world-class jazz as South Africa’s celebrated jazz musicians Nduduzo Makhathini, Ernie Smith, Xolisa Dlamini and Dumza Maswana come together for an exceptional concert at The Playhouse in Durban.

The highly anticipated once-off concert will be hosted by radio legend Shado Twala and will take place on December 14 at 15h00. Audiences will be treated to heartfelt performances that reflect the depth and diversity of South Africa’s jazz heritage.

Nduduzo Makhathini: An internationally-acclaimed pianist, composer and leading figure in the world of South African jazz.

Ernie Smith: Ernie’s fusion of jazz, soul and Afro-pop has won him numerous accolades and a devoted fan base.

Xolisa Dlamini: Xolisa’s distinctive style bridges traditional African sounds with contemporary jazz, creating a performance that is both vibrant and soul-stirring.

Dumza Maswana: Dumza’s emotive vocal delivery and moving compositions offer a fresh, yet deeply rooted, interpretation of jazz music.

Pre-booking is strongly advised. Tickets R150, available at WebTickets.

O HOLY NIGHT AT REDDAM HOUSE

Reddam House Umhlanga, in association with the Durban City Orchestra, proudly presents O Holy Night – A Festive Carols Concert on November 30 featuring the Reddam Preparatory and College Choirs.

Bring along your camping chairs, blankets and picnic baskets as you are serenaded by familiar Christmas Classics, and sing along to your favourite Christmas carols accompanied by the outstanding Durban City Orchestra.

 Audience members can look forward to well-known carols including Silent Night, Away in a Manger, and Ding Dong Merrily on High to name a few, as well as upbeat classics Sleigh Ride and White Christmas.

 

Taking place in the Muir Auditorium at Reddam House Umhlanga – so weather will not be an issue – this relaxed and informal concert is all about bringing the community together in the spirit of Christmas.

Concert starts at 17h30 and is FREE to the public.

No seating is provided – please bring camping chairs & blankets, picnic baskets are welcome.

For more information contact info.umhlanga@reddam.house