ROCK GUITAR LEGENDS

 

Rhumbelow Theatre will present Rock Guitar Legends featuring The Reals - Barry Thomson, Dawn Selby, Mali Sewell and Robz Millar on the following venues, dates and times:

 

Rhumbelow Durban

SATURDAY, April 11, 2026. Show starts at 19h30 – Durban

SUNDAY, April 12, 2026. Show starts at 14h00 – Durban

 

Northlands Bowling Club

SATURDAY, April 18, 2026. Show starts at 19h30 – Northlands Bowling Club

 

(Venues open 90 minutes before show for snacks/drinks) 

Rock Guitar Legends pays tribute to some of the greatest guitar players of all time with the focus on the classic rock guitarists of the 60s, 70s, and 80s eras. The show features a variety of guitar styles ranging from Hank Marvin to Jimi Hendrix. Also highlighted are the distinctive playing styles and sounds of Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin) and Slash (Guns ‘n Roses).

Leading the team of top Durban musicians is maestro Barry Thomson on guitar and vocals, Musical Director Dawn Selby on keyboards and vocals, Mali Sewell on drums and Robz Millar on bass guitar. The Reals will take you on a journey full of hit songs, nostalgia, fun, and top class playing. Also featured are David Gilmour (Pink Floyd), Santana, Ritchie Blackmore (Deep Purple) and the soulful Gary Moore.

If you’re a classic rock fan, then this is the show for you!

Tickets R220 (R200 pensioners, R180 under 13 and R180 Northlands Bowling Club Members.)

Booking is essential on email: roland@stansell.co.za or Webtickets. Bar available (no alcohol may be brought onto the premises)

Bring food picnic baskets (Northlands & Durban) - or buy at the venue (Durban ONLY).

Limited secure parking available.

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

 

Rhumbelow Theatre is located at 42 Cunningham Road off Bartle Road in Durban and Northlands Bowling Club is located at 50 Margaret Maytom Avenue, Durban North.

PANDEMONIUM IN PARADISE

 

A mystery wrapped in comedy, served with a side of retirement home rebellion.

This April, Westville Theatre Club brings audiences a production that proves life in a retirement home is anything but quiet. Written and directed by local talent Melanie Visser, Pandemonium in Paradise is a community-driven comedy mystery that sees a group of sharp-witted retirees take on a world that continues to underestimate them.

Life at Paradise Pastures Retirement Home is turned upside down when a big-shot developer arrives, offering tempting promises to all its residents. Things quickly begin to fall apart, and it soon becomes clear that everything is not as it seems.  As suspicion grows, the retirees begin to uncover a web of intrigue, sparking a chain of events that quickly descends into chaos.

Expect sharp dialogue, unexpected twists, and a good-old dose of mischief and rebellion.

It’s the perfect outing for friends and family to enjoy an afternoon or evening of laughter. Don’t forget to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy at your table.

Catch Pandemonium in Paradise over two weekends:  

April 10–12 and 17–19, 2026.

Evening performances (Fridays and Saturdays) begin at 19h00, with doors opening at 18h30. Matinees (Saturdays and Sundays) start at 14h30, with doors opening at 14h00.

 

Tickets are R120 for general admission and R100 for members, pensioners and students.

To book, email dorothyannoneill@gmail.com or contact 083 776 1754.

 

COOL OAKS MUSIC FESTIVAL 2026

 

(Above: Hartman brothers - Jason and Scott)

Escape to Music and Magic at the Cool Oaks Music Festival 2026

Music lovers are invited to shake off the winter chill and immerse themselves in an unforgettable weekend of live music, connection, and countryside charm at the Cool Oaks Music Festival, taking place on June 26 and 27, 2026, at The Oaks Hotel in the scenic Byrne Valley, Richmond, KZN.

Presented in association with Music in The Hills (MiTH), the festival brings together some of KwaZulu-Natal’s top musicians alongside the vibrant extended musical family of the KZN Midlands. Audiences can expect a rich blend of folk, rock, and acoustic performances in a warm, welcoming atmosphere that celebrates authentic music and community spirit.

 

(Left: Rusty Red)

The 2026 line-up features an exciting array of artists, including Idols winner Jason Hartman, Rusty Red, Rob Warren (from Black Lapels), 3 Daughters-3 Dads, The Chickpeas, MMM Band, Blackbird, Grace & Tanya, Brian Bedingfield & Friends, Bowstring, Bruere Venter, as well as an Open Mic stage and additional performers to be announced.

 

Designed as a family-friendly experience, the festival offers something for everyone. Attendees can enjoy free camping or opt for comfortable 3-star hotel accommodation at just R500 per person per night sharing. The music programme spans Friday evening, Saturday afternoon, and Saturday night, all hosted in a dedicated music tent.

(Right: Rob Warren)

Beyond the music, guests can explore a variety of outdoor and leisure activities, including mountain biking, hiking, putt-putt, horse riding, and even a refreshing “polar bear” swim in the hotel pool. Evenings promise magical moments under the stars, accompanied by exceptional live performances.

 

Ticket Information:

Weekend Pass: R500 (Under 13: half price)

Saturday Pass: R300 (Under 13: half price)

Please note that no outside alcohol is permitted, as the venue is fully licensed with food and beverages available for purchase. Campers are welcome to bring their own food.

Whether you’re seeking great music, fresh Midlands air, or a relaxed winter escape, the Cool Oaks Acoustic Festival offers the perfect weekend getaway. Produced by Charles Webster Music.

 

Bookings & Enquiries:

Email: info@oaksatbyrne.co.za

Phone: 082 554 1702

 

More Information:

www.oaksatbyrne.co.za

www.charleswebstermusic.co.za

www.mith.co.za

 

DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID JR

(Pictured by Shelley Kjonstad at uShaka Marine World are:

Ariel, a mermaid - Chloe Marot (St. Mary’s DSG); Sebastian, a crab - Khethukuthula Ngcobo (International School of Performing Arts) and Flounder, a tropical fish - Azania Mavimbela (Crawford North Coast).)

 

Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr to be staged by The Young Performers’ Project at Milkwood Theatre, Danville from April 2 to 12, 2026.

Countdown to Easter holidays!!!

Fishy Fable: Inspired by Hans Christian Anderson’s beloved fairy tale, and based on the classic animated Disney movie, The Little Mermaid Jr stage musical is The Young Performer’s Project’s first show of 2026, coming to The Milkwood Theatre in Durban North over the Easter holidays from April 2 – 12 featuring a cast of 50 young performers all getting valuable experience understanding what it is like to be part of a “professional” production.

YPP is Durban’s longest-running youth creative arts empowerment project, and every season opens with a performance (this time on April 2) designed for special needs, autistic and children and adults with sensory issues. (Tickets Webtickets).

The cast spent a morning observing sea-life at uShaka Marine World, Durban’s foremost marine theme park, which is also gearing itself up for a busy Easter holiday. 

RIAAD MOOSA: BRAND-NEW COMEDY EXPERIENCE

 

Award-winning comedian, presenter, writer, and actor Dr Riaad Moosa is back on stage with a brand-new comedy experience. He will appear at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre from April 7 to April 12, 2026.

The Best Medicine Comedy Show is a feel-good comedy showcase that brings together some of South Africa’s most loved comedic talents alongside exciting new voices on the scene. The result? A dynamic, high-energy night of laughter that feels fresh, relatable, and full of heart.

True to its name, the show offers audiences a “prescription” for their funny bone — blending Dr Moosa’s signature humour with off-the-cuff moments, real-life stories, and the kind of comedy that connects across generations. Expect sharp observations, unexpected punchlines, and a warm, uplifting atmosphere where established comedy meets rising stars in one perfectly-balanced dose.

Known for his unique ability to mix humour with humanity, Dr Riaad Moosa once again proves why he remains one of the country’s most respected and versatile entertainers. The Best Medicine isn’t just a comedy show — it’s an experience designed to leave audiences lighter, happier, and laughing long after the curtain falls.

Audiences are encouraged to book early for what promises to be a standout comedy event on Durban’s entertainment calendar.

Because sometimes, laughter really is the best medicine.

Performances take place from April 7 to 11 at 19h30 and on April 12 at 16h00.

Price: R250pp

Age Restriction: No Under 16's (language)

Tickets available through Webtickets at Pick 'n Pay outlets, or online at https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1586822921

DEY & RUNGAN PREVIEW LAUNCH OF AFRICAN BREYANI

 

The Centre for Jazz and Popular Music presents award-winning South African vocalist, songwriter, and educator Natalie Rungan, performing music from her latest album, African Breyani. The performance will take place on April 1, 2026, at 17h30.

 A Durban-born artist with a career spanning over two decades, Rungan has earned recognition locally and internationally, including Best Jazz Vocalist at the Old Mutual National Jazz Encounters (2002) and a PhD in Music from Rhodes University in 2023. She has released eight albums and performed across Africa, Europe, and the United States.

African Breyani, created with Ghanaian pianist and composer Victor Dey Jr., blends South and West African jazz influences. The project places African musical traditions at the centre of jazz, combining rich rhythms, melody, and storytelling into a contemporary, collaborative sound.

This live tour offers an intimate preview of the album, featuring Rungan and Dey alongside Shaun Johannes (bass) and Riley Giandhari (drums). Audiences can expect live performances of the first three singles, along with insights into the creative process behind the music.

Date: Wednesday, 1 April 2026

Doors open: 17h00 | Music starts: 17h30

Venue: Centre for Jazz and Popular Music - University of KwaZulu-Natal – Howard College Campus, Dennis Shepstone Building, Level 2

Tickets (cash at door): R130 (Pensioners: R100 & Students: R70)

IMBIZO AFRIKA LAUNCHES THE PLATFORM

 

Robby Collins headlines as Durban’s newest comedy stage opens its doors for the first time

DURBAN — IMBIZO AFRIKA, Durban’s experiential marketing and comedy event production company, proudly announces the debut of The Platform — a brand new monthly live comedy show launching on Sunday March 29, 2026, at the BAT Centre, 45 Maritime Place, Small Craft Harbour, Durban. Doors open at 18h00.

For a first show, IMBIZO AFRIKA has set the bar deliberately high.

Headlining the debut is Robby Collins — one of South Africa’s most celebrated stand-up comedians and a name that needs no introduction to anyone who has followed the country’s comedy scene. Collins brings national credibility and genuine star power to a stage that is only just finding its feet — and that combination says everything about what IMBIZO AFRIKA intends The Platform to become.

Joining him is a line-up that reflects the full, vibrant spectrum of Durban’s comedy talent.

Andrew Hughes brings his signature observational wit to the stage – a comedian who finds the absurd in the everyday and makes an audience feel like he has been reading their diary.

Daryl Williams delivers the kind of comedy that builds slowly and lands hard — a performer who understands timing the way a musician understands rhythm.

Holding the night together as host is Annie Botha — a natural on stage, sharp between acts and the kind of presence that makes a room feel like a room rather than an audience waiting for the next thing.

In a moment that signals just how seriously the Durban comedy community is taking this new platform, Prince K — Durban’s newest Comics Choice Award nominee — will make a special appearance on the night. His presence is not just a performance. It is an endorsement.

Rounding out an already remarkable evening is a musical guest appearance by Roshanda Lewis — bringing soul, warmth and a reminder that the best nights out are never just one thing.

“We want the debut of The Platform to tell Durban exactly who we are and what we are here to do,” said IMBIZO AFRIKA founder Arthur Charles Van Wyk. “We believe the best things in life come from people coming together. This line-up — Robby, Andrew, Daryl, Annie, Prince K, Roshanda — is our way of saying Durban deserves a stage this good. And we are just getting started.”

The Platform will be held on the last Sunday of every month at the BAT Centre. March 29 is just the beginning.

For more information contact Arthur Charles Van Wyk, Founder, Imbizo Afrika, on 083 539 0655.

 

AMERICAN ACADEMY OF BALLET PERFORMANCE AWARDS IN HILTON

 

(Robin van Wyk puts aspirant ballet competition dancers through their paces at a previous South African Performance Awards Competition in Gauteng. Pic by Lauge Sorensen)

 

Ballet fans – plan a drive to Hilton this weekend as Hilton College Theatre has the huge honour of hosting the South African Performance Awards Competition on behalf of the American Academy of Ballet (AAB), a New York-based global ballet organisation that coordinates and hosts auditions and Performance Awards events all over the world – which comes to the Hilton College Theatre for the first time on Saturday March 28 from 13h00.

The public is invited to watch a thrilling high-stakes afternoon of top aspiring ballet dancers showcasing their skills in a competition format.  

There are two sessions – one for junior and one for senior dancers. Both sessions start with class taken by Karen Beukes, former Artistic Director of Joburg Ballet AD, followed by a carefully-curated competition format dance showcase. Approximately 20 dancers will be participating. Many from KZN but also from further afield.

Dancers will perform choreographed routines before judges as a means of boosting their technique, artistry, and confidence, and has proven to be an extraordinary way to inspire, train and motivate dancers to improve while truly enjoying ballet.

The AAB Performance Awards Competition is open to all ballet teachers and their students. The dancer and teacher may decide the most appropriate level for entry and each dancer must perform the solo variation for the level they select. The judge for the day is Knysna-based Sidwell Roman, supported by Iain Macdonald, who represents AAB in South Africa, and is former Artistic Director of Joburg Ballet.

There are cash prizes for the best dancers.

The American Academy of Ballet, located in New York, is an exceptional ballet company renowned for its top-notch ballet instruction. The American Academy of Ballet offers world-class dance training and performance opportunities. Its mission is to provide rigorous and inspiring ballet education to prepare students for professional careers. Long recognised as one of the premier ballet training institutions in the United States, the AAB is particularly renowned for its Summer School of Excellence taking place in July. Its international faculty boasts teachers drawn from prestigious ballet institutions such as the Paris Opera Ballet School, the Royal Ballet School in Antwerp, the New York City Ballet and from South Africa, Iain Macdonald.

Established by the visionary South African trailblazer in the world of ballet education, Mignon Furman, in the early 90s, the prestigious Performance Awards programme offers aspiring dancers from around the world the opportunity to refine their skills in a focused, supportive environment.

Laurence Kaplan, the son of Mignon Furman and the AAB Executive Director, says: “We invite dancers to be part of an international ballet event celebrated worldwide and to earn medals, certificates, and personalized feedback as well as experience the joy of performing in a supportive and inspiring atmosphere to build confidence, artistry, and lifelong memories.

“Every dancer deserves their moment — and in Hilton, that moment awaits. Join us for an afternoon that celebrates passion, progress, and performance — and maybe your journey will continue all the way to New York City! We look forward to a wonderful competition filled with talent, growth and inspiration.”

Junior and Seniors will be adjudicated on Saturday March 28 from 13h00, with registrations from noon. Tickets are R160 through Webtickets. Tickets are in the form of a day-pass allowing access to the auditorium throughout the day.

For enquiries/information contact: aaboffice@gmail.com or visit www.americanacademyofballet.com

OPEN CALL: MEMBERS' AWARD SHOW

The KZNSA Gallery has officially opened submissions for the 2026 Members’ Award Show. This year’s theme, Traces, was selected by Friends of the KZNSA Gallery.

Traces reflects on what remains, fades, or persists over time. It invites artists to explore memory, residue, and mark‑making, engaging with presence and absence. Works may draw on archival material, drawing, printmaking, photography, video, sculpture, performance, or painting, addressing ideas of erosion, accumulation, and material memory.

The Members’ Award Show is the KZNSA’s annual competition where members submit works responding to a chosen theme. Entries are reviewed by the Exhibition Sub‑Committee, with only those that meaningfully engage with the theme exhibited.

From these, a panel of external judges selects the top three works. Winning artists receive cash prizes, and the overall winner is awarded the opportunity to present a solo exhibition at the KZNSA Gallery the following year.

 

Submission dates (at the KZNSA Gallery):

Friday, April 10: 10h00 – 16h00

Saturday, April 11: 10h00 – 15h00

No late submissions will be accepted.

 

The Members’ Award Show will open with the prize‑giving on April 17, 2026.

 

Important: Only paid‑up members of the KZNSA may participate. Each member may submit a single work, with no restrictions on medium. Works can be framed or unframed, but must not exceed 150 x 150 cm due to space constraints. Entries that do not conform to these conditions will be disqualified.

 

The KZNSA Annual Members’ Award Show prizes are made possible through the generous support of the Key Foundation and the Joan Emmanuel Trust.

 

UPCOMING EXHIBITION: BRIDGING PERSPECTIVES

Opening on April 1 2026, World Autism Day, the KZNSA Gallery presents Bridging Perspectives, co‑curated with Ayanda I Am Art Gallery. Showing in the KZNSA Main and Mezzanine Galleries, the exhibition explores how different neurological experiences shape artistic expression.

Featuring painting, sculpture, digital art, photography, textiles, and mixed media, the show reflects on sensory perception, pattern recognition, emotional communication, and community connection.

Exhibition opening: Wednesday, April 1 2026 at 18h00

Main and Mezzanine Galleries

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

MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS ARRIVES ON DURBAN’S SHORES

 

Get ready, Durban. Things are about to look a little different.

Durban is about to welcome one of the world’s most fascinating attractions. The globally renowned Museum of Illusions will officially open its doors at Gateway Theatre of Shopping on Saturday, April 25, 2026, bringing its signature blend of science, art and immersive fun to KwaZulu-Natal.

Already a global phenomenon with locations in cities including Madrid, Paris, Amsterdam, New York and Dubai, the Durban opening marks another milestone for the brand’s expansion in Africa. With successful museums already operating in Johannesburg and Cape Town, the Durban location will further cement South Africa as a major destination in the Museum of Illusions’ worldwide network.

Originally founded in Zagreb, Croatia in 2015, the Museum of Illusions has welcomed millions of visitors globally, captivating audiences with its playful mix of perception-bending exhibits and interactive installations. Each museum is uniquely designed, offering visitors a hands-on journey through illusions that challenge the way we see the world.

Mark Collie, owner of Museum of Illusions South Africa, says: “Durban is a city known for its energy, creativity and vibrant culture, which makes it the perfect place for the next Museum of Illusions.  After the incredible response, we’ve seen in Johannesburg and Cape Town, we’re excited to bring this experience to KwaZulu-Natal and invite visitors to step into a world where nothing is quite as it seems.”

Situated inside the iconic Gateway Theatre of Shopping, the museum will take visitors on a fascinating adventure through a world of optical illusions, immersive rooms and interactive exhibits designed to entertain, surprise and spark curiosity.

Ditch everything you thought you knew about museum etiquette. At the Museum of Illusions Durban, you’re invited to get hands-on, dive in, and experience it all for yourself. From defying gravity in the Tilted Room to multiplying yourself in the Clone Room or stepping into the hypnotic Infinity Room, every installation is designed to surprise, challenge your perception, and deliver seriously shareable moments.

Built around its signature “edutainment” approach, the experience blends curiosity with play, appealing to kids, grown-ups, and everyone in between. Whether it’s a family day out, a standout date, a team-building session, or content that stops the scroll, the Museum of Illusions Durban will deliver something unexpected at every turn.

The museum also caters for birthdays, school trips, corporate events, and group experiences, making it a versatile venue for a wide range of occasions.

The Museum of Illusions Durban will be open seven days a week:

Mondays to Thursday from 09h00 to 20h00.

Fridays & Saturdays from 09h00 to 22h00 and Sundays and Public Holidays from 09h00 to 19h00.

 

Tickets will be available online and at the door, although advance booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.

Follow our social media for sneak peeks and updates:

MOI Durban Facebook

MOI Durban Instagram

#MOIDurban

 

For more information or to book tickets, visit the website MOI Durban

PILLAYBOY - JARYD PILLAY

 

Award winning comedian Jaryd Pillay is returning to Durban, with an all new stand-up comedy serving. Fresh off a 2025 Ovation Award winning run at the National Arts Festival, The Pillayboy is coming home!

 

Performance at the Rhumbelow Theatre:

Saturday, March 28, 2026. Show starts 19h30

The venue is open 90 minutes before show.

Get Reddy to put yourself in the right Moodley and witness 75 min of punch for punch hilarity from Cape Town's spiciest comic as he navigates tales of love, the South African Indian identity and what it truly means to be a real Pillayboy!

Reviews:

"Crisp insight and edgy hilarity" - The Critter

“Comedy Gold" - Cue

“Jaryd’s command of the stage, the microphone and his connection with the audience was evident as he walked on stage.” - Eddy Cassar for Plainsman Founder of Cape Town Funny Festival

"Pillay’s life stories and edgy humour come together effortlessly” - Cue

 

Tickets R180. Booking is essential on email: roland@stansell.co.za or Webtickets

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

Limited secure parking available.

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

Rhumbelow Theatre is located at 42 Cunningham Road off Bartle Road in Durban.