2026 WORLD SYMPHONY SERIES SECOND LEG

Bongani Tembe, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra announces: “As the air turns crisp and our beloved city of Durban settles into the quiet magic of winter, I am thrilled to welcome you to the second leg of our 2026 World Symphony Series!

“We have handpicked two unforgettable programmes designed to inspire, elevate, and deeply connect with you. Concerts take place on June 11 and 18, at 19h00.

“We urge you to secure your Season Ticket savings of up to 20% by contacting our offices on 031 369 9438 or info@kznphil.org.za

“There is something truly special about gathering in the warmth of the iconic Playhouse Opera to experience the transformative power of live music together.”

 

Programme:

 

CONCERT 1: June 11 at 19h00 – Playhouse Opera

Conductor: Daniel Boico

Soloist: Elvin Ganiyev, violin

Beethoven: Egmont Overture

Dvořák: Violin Concerto, Op. 53 in a minor

Brahms: Symphony No. 3, Op. 90 in F Major

 

 

CONCERT 2: June 18 at 19h00 – Playhouse Opera

Conductor: Alexandra Arrieche

Soloist: Federico Colli, piano

 

Curtain Raiser performed by the KZN Youth Orchestra

Schumann: Piano Concerto, Op. 54

Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 3, “Scottish”

 

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

ISICATHAMIYA CONCERT

 

The Playhouse Company proudly presents its 2nd Isicathamiya Concert, featuring outstanding groups from Gauteng Province, eThekwini District and uThukela District. This vibrant and celebratory event brings together diverse voices and communities in a powerful showcase of harmony, tradition and cultural expression.

Rooted in rich South African heritage, Isicathamiya is renowned for its intricate vocal arrangements, disciplined choreography and deeply resonant storytelling. This special concert offers audiences an authentic and uplifting musical experience, celebrating the enduring legacy and unifying spirit of one of South Africa’s most treasured musical traditions.

Featuring incredible performances by:

Pomeroy Golden Stars | Zulu Messengers | Royal Messengers | Inkululeko |

Khalabhayi Boys | Umlazi Tremendous Boys | Abafana Benkokhelo | O-Ben 10

 

This will be an unforgettable afternoon of rhythm, heritage and soul-stirring harmony as the beauty of Isicathamiya music takes centre stage.

The concert takes place on May 30 at 14h00 in the Playhouse Drama Theatre.

Tickets: Standard – R100 booked through Webtickets.

 

A vibrant celebration of heritage, harmony and cultural pride, the Isicathamiya Concert brings together powerful voices and timeless traditions in an unforgettable live experience.

35 YEARS OF ARTIST PROOF STUDIO

 

(Photo Credit: Provided by Artist Proof Studio)

The KZNSA will host 35 Years of Artist Proof Studio: A Legacy in Printmaking on May 28, 2026.

This is a landmark exhibition that celebrates one of South Africa’s most influential centres of printmaking, honouring three and a half decades of artistic excellence, collaboration, and community impact.

Artist Proof Studio (APS) was founded in 1991 and has become a leading force in fine art printmaking, recognised for its commitment to training, mentorship, and creative exchange. Over the years, APS has supported generations of artists whose work has been exhibited at major art fairs, represented in prominent galleries, and developed in collaboration with some of the country’s most celebrated practitioners.

 

35 Years of Artist Proof Studio

Programme Highlights

Walkabout with APS Kim Berman and Nathi Simalane –on May 29 May, at 09h30 for 10h00 to 11h00

This guided tour will offer a rare opportunity to hear directly from the visionaries from APS, as they reflect on the studio’s history, its impact on South African printmaking, and the stories embedded within the works on display as an attendee you will gain a deeper understanding of the artistic processes, collaborations, and community‑centred ethos that have shaped APS over the past three decades. Kim and Nathi will also be available after the walkabout for any questions relating to the exhibition and APS’s ongoing work.

 

Printmaking demonstrations by Nkosana Nhlapho and Tshogofatso Nkhumeleng - First Thursday, 4 June 14h30 for 15h00 to 17h00.

 

APS 35‑Year Walkabout - Saturday, June 6, 10h30 for 11h00 to 13h00.

 

The KZNSA looks forward to welcoming art lovers as they celebrate 35 years of artistry, resilience, and the shared humanity at the heart of printmaking.

The KZNSA Gallery is located at 166 Bulwer Road, Bulwer, Durban. For more information visit https://kznsagallery.co.za/

BANK OF AMERICA ART CONSERVATION PROJECT

Bank of America has announced the latest recipients of its global Art Conservation Project (ACP), an initiative that has supported the conservation of more than 15,000 artworks and cultural artefacts across 40 countries since 2010.

In addition to commentary from Brian Siegel, Global Arts, Culture & Heritage Executive at Bank of America, they can also arrange virtual interviews with Andrea Sullivan and Nikki Wright, Bank of America’s international Arts and Culture leads based in London.

The interviews would offer an opportunity to explore Bank of America’s broader commitment to arts and culture globally, including:

• The growing importance of conservation and preservation work

• How partnerships between corporates and cultural institutions are evolving

• The role of the arts in education, access and community development

• Global trends shaping arts funding and cultural investment

• How organisations are working to make art and heritage more accessible to wider audiences

 

As Brian Siegel notes:

“Conservation is the quiet work that brings those stories forward today and for future generations… the goal is simple: to ensure these works remain visible, accessible and enjoyed by visitors for years to come.”

 

For more information contact cecilia.cran@bofa.com

UKZN FESTIVALS PREVIEW CONCERT

 

(Pop Voice Ensemble. Pic by Sethu Dlamini)

 

UKZN Centre for Jazz and Popular Music presents Festivals Preview Concert UKZN Jazz Ensemble and UKZN Pop Voice Ensemble.

The University of KwaZulu-Natal Centre for Jazz and Popular Music will host a special preview concert on Wednesday, May 27 2026 at 17h30, showcasing the outstanding student ensembles preparing to represent the university at two major jazz festivals later this month.

Audiences will experience an exciting evening of contemporary jazz, Afrocentric rhythms, vocal excellence, and the jazz band energy as the students present the repertoire they will perform at the prestigious Mandela Bay Jazz Legacy Festival in the Eastern Cape and the highly anticipated Jam in Mzansi: Africa Day Jazz Celebration in Durban.

The concert will feature performances by the UKZN Jazz Ensemble and the UKZN Pop Voice Ensemble, highlighting the depth of musical talent emerging from the University of KwaZulu-Natal School of Arts.

The UKZN Jazz Ensemble is set to perform on May 29, 2026 ,at the Mandela Bay Jazz Legacy Festival’s University Jazz Schools Concert, alongside the NMU Jazz Ensemble and Wits University Jazz Ensemble — a platform celebrating jazz heritage, collaboration, and musical excellence among South Africa’s leading tertiary institutions. https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1593323450 (Gqeberha).

The UKZN Pop Voice Ensemble will then take to the stage at Jam in Mzansi: Africa Day Jazz Celebration on May 31, 2026, at the Durban Botanic Gardens. Presented by Sompisi Events in partnership with Durban Tourism, the event will bring together celebrated jazz artists and emerging performers in a vibrant celebration of African music and culture. https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1590970200 (Durban).

This preview concert offers Durban audiences a unique opportunity to support the students before they embark on these important festival appearances and to experience the creativity, artistry, and energy that continue to define UKZN’s contribution to South Africa’s jazz scene.

 

Event Details

Event: UKZN Festival Preview Concert

Date: Wednesday, May 27 2026

Venue: Centre for Jazz and Popular Music

Concert Time: 17h30

Ticket R130 (R100 pensioners - R70 students)

 

Tickets will be available at the door. An inspiring evening celebrating the next generation of jazz excellence.

EAST COAST RADIO HOUSE + GARDEN SHOW 2026

 

(Right: The Gin Garden)

 

The East Coast Radio House + Garden Show 2026 promises a whole lot more fun and fascination than you can handle! Get your family to the Durban Exhibition Centre June 27 to July 5 … and prepare to be entertained!

There’s a load of colourful and intriguing entertainment and activities lined up for visitors young and not so young, at this year’s East Coast Radio House + Garden Show at Durban’s Exhibition Centre. The motto? The more the merrier!

From June 27 to July 5, the Show will pop the lid off a new brand of entertainment, so expect the unexpected. It’s carnival time. There are oodles of mega surprises, the likes of which you haven’t seen before. No matter whether you’re junior, senior, or somewhere in between, come empty-handed, and we’ll keep your hands full with multiple Show attractions, interactions and activations.

For the children, it begins at the gate. Wind through the indoor and outdoor Show stands and halls, keeping an eye out for the juggling stilt walkers and talented duo of hip-hop dancers, eye-catching characters like the floral Blooming Beauties and the bright Living Lamps. Hunt down the extraordinarily mobile Dolly with her Trolley. She’s the Show’s half-human, half-AI waitress. Real Magic Productions has waved its flamboyant wand, and pulled so many funtastic things out of the bag!

 

(Left: Lamp Lady)

Whimsical fairies, pirates, elves and mythical creatures will welcome little ones to the Neverland-inspired themed Kids’ Zone. There’ll be face painting, temporary airbrush body art, Melissa & Doug interactive play spaces, meet and greet photo opportunities, and craft stations. This is the Show’s imagination station, keeping the youngsters busy for hours.

This year’s Show will blow young minds. The entire South Plaza is a colourful and crazy play zone, edge-to-edge with Nick’s inflatable everything … picture gigantic blow-up slides and cubes, soft and bouncy activities for safe landings, every young kid’s dream.

Hirsch will be showcasing the most advanced appliances and tech globally, but this year, they have much more: a Nintendo Activation Area where youngsters can meet characters Mario and Luigi. For the adult in you, come and view the latest Porsche x SMEG appliance range … you won’t want to miss the real live iconic Porsche 911 parked in the hall.

From eateries to action, there’s plenty to keep adults engaged. Choose your favourite chef demonstrating something delectable at Hirsch’s Demo Kitchen, or head for Edgars House of Red master classes to learn the perfect way to get your beauty routine down pat.

Not to be missed is the Mobiclaw Rescue Experience, bringing a dynamic, interactive rescue and emergency response experience to the Show for visitors of all ages. Be first in line for the thrilling Jaws of Life Challenge … lift an egg without cracking it … using the Jaws of Life. Guaranteed to push your boundaries!

What’s to eat? Plenty. For evening and weekend visitors, the Show puts the ooh into food with a wide array of gourmet street food. Drink, eat and be merry at all the foodie stalls. The Gin Garden is a delightful barstool away, with colours and flavours of a host of gins, and live music from your favourite musicians. For Burger fans, Filthy Moustache is your vibe; for Mexican, go Lawmans, and Korean, go Krazy Korean. Ole Smoki has a glorious range of smokehouse goodies, and on the pretty side, go pink with Sophie’s Café and its sweet and savoury treats. There’s something lip-smacking for everyone.

Interactivity is the name of the game this year, and you’ll be able to get the right answers from Builders’ DIY experts. Don’t miss out on the spectacle of Khakibush’s BraaiBoss Challenge – the preliminaries – every Saturday at the Show, where hot-shot braaiers fight it out for the title of Braai Boss 2026.

Entertainment is always an integral part of the East Coast Radio House + Garden Show. Only this year, it’s bigger, better and bolder! Plenty to do, see, and marvel over. It’s a day or night out, and we’ve got you entertained.

The East Coast Radio House + Garden Show takes place from June 27 to July 5 at the Durban Exhibition Centre. 

Tickets are available online via quicket.co.za or housegardenshow.co.za or at the entrance on the day.

 

THE BARBECUE AT NO. 9: REVIEW

 

The characters were thin and rather stereotypical and the changes that some of them underwent in a relatively short time seemed improbable. (Review by Fiona de Goede)

 

When I read the blurb describing this novel by Jennie Godfrey, it seemed to tick many of the boxes that I look out for in a good read:  the era, diverse characters and a gripping plot. Tick. Tick. Tick.  And, my other favourite thing:  a map, detailing the area in which the story is set.

The premise is quite simple:  the Live Aid concert is the big event of the summer of 1985.  And what better opportunity for house-proud, snobbish Lydia Gordon than to invite the neighbourhood around for a barbecue so she can show off their new state-of-the-art TV whilst watching the concert?  So, the invitations are sent out to everyone living in the Close and this is when the reader is introduced to the various role players.

Steve, a young soldier back from the Falklands, lives with his mother. He is battling his own demons and cannot come to grips with adjusting to civilian life.  Rita, from Australia, a new resident in the Close, with a past that she is trying to hide.  Hanna, Lydia’s 16-year-old daughter with a secret so huge she is contemplating running away from home.  The other characters all contribute in one way or the other to the unfolding of the drama at the barbecue.

The novel is split into hourly time slots and the bands performing in each segment is mentioned at the beginning of every chapter.  This adds a huge dose of nostalgia and manages to move the pace along to the finale which takes place between 9 and 10p.m. 

Some of the boxes that I felt were ticked prior to me reading this book, are also, unfortunately, the very things that, in my opinion, failed.  The characters were thin and rather stereotypical and the changes that some of them underwent in a relatively short time seemed improbable.  Especially Lydia, the snobbish mother.  The plot unfolds in a single day with the result that it often became rather slow and mundane.  I did not experience one single moment of suspense.  Even when the big secret is revealed, it felt a bit flat.

I felt the references to the era were authentic and well-handled.  Walkmans, Dynasty, recording the top 40 music charts on cassette, Princess Diana and Delia Smith all set the tone for the 1980’s.

This is the second novel by the author – the first being The List of Suspicious Things, a Sunday Times bestselling novel. - Fiona de Goede

The Barbecue At No. 9  -   ISBN 978-1-529-15502-0

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ARTSMART!

 

 

 Happy Birthday, artSMart!

Today, artSMart celebrates its 27^th birthday!

It has gone through some difficult patches but always pulls back into survivor mode.

I want to thank every single person and organisation who assists in keeping artSMart alive and available – administrators, financial advisors, reviewers – as well as all the people who look to the site for information. Your input is invaluable.

Here’s to the next 27 years!!

Caroline Smart

artSMart Editor/Owner

 

TRIBUTE TO TOM PETTY

 

A show paying tribute to the late, great Tom Petty with guest guitarist, Shaun Dragt, is a completely new show for The Reals.

“This one is extremely close to our hearts and is sure to rock your socks off and have you dancing or grooving in your seats even if you aren't familiar with all the songs.”

This show has everything from rock to moody blues to some amazing feel-good songs! And of course we will be playing the classics that will be sure to have everyone singing along!

Be sure to book soon for this one to avoid disappointment!

The show takes place at Rhumbelow Theatre, on Saturday June 6, at 19h30 and Sunday June 7 at 14h00

Contact Roland on 082 499 8636 or roland@stansell.co.za or book on WEBTICKETS.

JEWELS, GEMS AND MASTERPIECES

 

(Right: Christopher Duigan. Pic by Val Adamson)

 

Jewels, Gems and Masterpieces presented by Steinway pianist Christopher Duigan unites treasured classics with lesser-known, often complex gems from the piano repertoire. This thoughtfully-curated programme pairs familiar melodies with seldom-heard works and personal discoveries, creating a captivating contrast between the instantly recognizable and the delightfully unexpected.

Including several of the pianist’s own favourite pieces alongside carefully-chosen rarities, the selection offers fresh perspectives on the repertoire, inviting listeners to uncover hidden gems alongside enduring masterpieces.

 

Monday May 25 at 15h00 Amberfield

Thursday May 28 at 15h30 Woodgrove

Thursday May 28 at 19h00 Amber Valley

Tuesday June 2 at 19h00 St Agnes, Kloof

Friday June 5 at 19h00 Casa Mexicana

 

Casa Mexicana is located at 35 Montgomery Drive, Athlone, Pietermaritzburg.

DOUBLE THE EXCELLENCE FOR THE SIGUDI FAMILY

 

(Above: The twins at their graduation)

 

On Friday, May 15, 2026 ,as the University of Zululand (UNIZULU) celebrated another cohort of graduates, the spotlight shone brightly on two sisters whose journey to the stage was a powerful testament to resilience, sisterhood, and the enduring strength of family.

Abongile Sisipho Sigudi and Bongiwe Aphiwe Sigudi did not just walk across the stage to receive their degrees, they carried the dreams of a family and honoured the legacies of those who paved the way for them.

The twins’ story begins in the small village of Enkungwini in Bizana, Eastern Cape. Raised by their grandmother while their parents worked in Durban to provide for them, the sisters learned early on about the values of love, strength, and guidance.

Their pursuit of education eventually took them to KwaZulu-Natal, where they attended Newlands East Secondary and later Wiggins Secondary School. It was during these formative high school years that tragedy first struck: the loss of their father. In the wake of this painful moment, their mother became the sole provider, a pillar of strength who moved mountains to ensure her daughters could reach university.

 

A Bittersweet Triumph

While graduation day should be a day of pure joy, it is also a moment of deep reflection. Just last week, the family lost the matriarch who raised them, their beloved grandmother. After graduating, they had to rush to the Eastern Cape where their grandmother will be laid to rest a day after their big day.

"She was our hero and our biggest supporter," the sisters shared. "We are dedicating this achievement to our late father and grandmother. This qualification represents hope, healing, and a real chance to change our family’s future."

 

Science, Sisterhood and Balance

Though they share a bond that only twins can understand, Abongile and Bongiwe have carved out distinct paths in the sciences: Abongile graduated with a BSc in Computer Science and Chemistry and is currently pursuing her BSc Honours in Computer Science. She dreams of becoming a software engineer.

Bongiwe earned her BSc in Biochemistry and Microbiology and is currently enrolled for her BSc Honours in Biochemistry, with sights set on becoming a clinical biochemist.

Despite different majors, they remain each other's greatest allies. Bongiwe, known for her quiet hard work and stellar grades, often steps in to tutor Abongile - especially in the nuances of research. Abongile, described jokingly as the "emotional" one of the pair, provides the heart and balance that keeps the duo grounded.

 

Building a Future

For the Sigudi twins, the motivation to keep pushing comes from seeing their mother’s sacrifice. Their success is a tribute to her hard work and a promise to provide her with a better life.

As they crossed the graduation stage, they proved that while loss can be a heavy burden, it can also be the fuel that drives excellence. Coming from a background where opportunities were never taken for granted, these two young women are now building a foundation for a legacy that will inspire generations to come.

Simangele Mhlongo, the Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering Manager congratulated the twins, saying the pair were a symbol of UNIZULU’s pride.

HISTORY HIGHLIGHTS

Highlights on the History Channel for June:

 

American Pickers S27

June 3

Wednesdays 20h15

Repeat: Thursday 12h35

Mike Wolfe has done it all - tracked down elusive finds, stumbled upon hidden gems in the most unexpected places, and negotiated with the most intriguing characters. Now, as the ultimate treasure hunter and History's Greatest Picker, he is embarking on a thrilling new journey.

Join Mike as he dives into History's Greatest Picks, uncovering the intriguing stories, epic journeys, and astonishing values behind legendary treasures. From bizarre artifacts to rare collectibles with incredible backstories, Mike reveals the secrets and significance of each find with his trademark enthusiasm and expert insight, bringing history to life one pick at a time.

 

 Extreme Airport Africa

June 4

Thursdays 19h25

Repeat: Friday 11h45

In the wilds of Southern Africa, aviation takes over where roads don’t go. Extreme Airport Africa brings you into the world of high-octane, high-risk bush flying where pilots brave rough runways, wild fi res and wild animals.

Go behind the scenes at Southern Africa’s major airports, into the cockpits of airliners and heavy lift helicopters, and over the wilds of Kruger National Park and the Okavango Delta. Out in the bush, scientists take to the air to search for lost elephants and pilots land on dirt airstrips while baboons invade.

Even in Johannesburg, the main aviation hub for Southern Africa, nature still makes its presence felt, as staff battle flocks of birds overrunning the runways and pilots fly through some of the most intense storms in the world. Aviation doesn’t get any more intense than this.