REDDAM HOUSE UMHLANGA CHOIR SET TO WOW NEW YORK CITY

Reddam House Umhlanga choir set to wow New York City on life-changing tour

Reddam House Umhlanga is proud to announce that its choir, comprising 50 talented members of the College, from grades 9 to matric, is gearing up for a lifechanging journey to New York City in June. This co-ed ensemble, including 10 former Drakensberg Boys Choir students, is set to captivate audiences at renowned venues such as Carnegie Hall.

Under the guidance of four dedicated staff members, including Executive Head Adam Rogers, the choir will showcase their musical talent and represent South Africa on an international stage. With a mission to share their passion for music and foster global connections, the choir will participate in workshops, performances, and sightseeing activities during their time in New York City.

The adventure begins on June 4 and includes workshops and performances at renowned institutions such as Carnegie Hall, Dalton School, and St. Patrick's Cathedral, as well as cultural excursions to Central Park, Times Square, and Broadway.

Adam Rogers expressed his excitement about the upcoming tour, saying, "We have been eagerly awaiting our first ever international College Choir Tour in our school’s 21 years of existence. Over a year in the planning, and bringing together Reddam House Umhlanga parents, choir and staff members, as well as the wider Umhlanga community, this College Choir Tour is the culmination of creative collaboration, considerable generosity and commitment. We wish to thank our organising and fundraising committee, parents and sponsors for making this tour possible.”

Aidan McArthur, Choir Captain, added: “This tour might have been just over a year in the planning but, in truth, our College Choir has been preparing to embark on this journey of musical discovery and inspiration for many years under the guidance of maestro Mr Russell Scott. We have also forged bonds that transcend mere friendship. Through shared experiences and shared passions, we have become a tight-knit community bound together by our love for music and the excitement of this shared journey.”

In addition to the performances, the tour serves as a community-driven initiative, with a significant fundraising element aimed at easing the financial burden for students and ensuring that all students have the chance to take part in this unforgettable experience.

For more information, visit https://inspirededu.com/our-schools/ and click on Africa & Middle East link.

 

FOM RECITAL WITH SUZI STENGEL

(Suzi Stengel – pic supplied)

Friends of Music is excited to announce a recital by internationally-acclaimed soprano Suzi Stengel with Andrew Warburton (piano)

Suzi was born in Italy and raised in South Africa as part of the well-known Stengel family. Her talent quickly gained her recognition, leading to numerous soloist performances both in South Africa and Sydney, Australia, where she now lives.

(Andrew Warburton – pic supplied)

She is back to collaborate once again with Andrew Warburton, who is acknowledged as one of the finest solo pianists and accompanists in South Africa. Audiences are invited on a journey through a diverse landscape of music spanning multiple centuries and styles.

From the lush Romanticism of Duparc and Liszt to the shimmering impressionism of Debussy and the dramatic operatic arias of Verdi and Bellini, this concert promises to be a feast for the senses.

Prepare to be moved, inspired, and transported by this unforgettable musical experience.

The concert will take place on May 19, 2024, at 14h30 at the Durban Jewish Centre, 44 KE Masinga Road

Tickets R140 available at the door. (R120 FOM members)

For more information contact millark.millar@gmail.com or phone 0715051021 (Keith)

ARTPRINT STUDIO KZN

John Roome from the Art Print Studio and Patrick Flynn of Style Budd are trying to reactivate the old artSPACE in Stamford Hill.

They will be having their second “First Thursday”’s event later this week on May 2.

They would like to showcase the great work of workshop participants and associates and foster a community of art makers and lovers. It would be great if artists can participate. They will simply hang their print up with clips and supply a tag for writing out their artwork information.

Patrick Flynn says: Artists are welcome to put a price on the work if they want to sell. (The studio will take a 20% commission) but if you do not want to sell and just show, that’s fine.

“We will have some wine and snacks and please bring your own as well. Please spread the party vibes. The previous one was great fun.”

Please let us know if you have a project that you think this space may work for?

For information contact Patrick on 072 684 7313, Annamarie on 073 111 9658 or John on 083 662 2645.

artSPACE is situated at 3 Millar Road, Stamford Hill, Durban.

KZNPO MOTHER’S DAY CONCERT

St. Therese of Lisieux once declared that "The loveliest masterpiece of the heart of God is the heart of a mother."

Show your love and appreciation for the woman who most deserves a heartfelt gift by treating her to the specially-curated Mother's Day concert by the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra. The programme features popular, recognisable songs suitable for all ages, including light jazz, dance music, and hits from movies, operas and Broadway.

Join the KZNPO at 19h00 on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at Grace Family Church in uMhlanga, or make it an extra-special family experience by booking a table for Pre-Show canapes.

Email functions@grace.org.za for menu information and to book your table.

Tickets R120 (R100 pensioners and R80 children under 12) available from Quicket.

BAROQUE 2000: KZN YOUTH CHOIR

Baroque 2000’s next concert will take place on May 5, 2024, at 11h30 at the Church of the Mariannhill Monastery.

The concert will feature The KwaZulu-Natal Youth Choir in the following programme:

Vivaldi - Kyrie RV587

Johann Sebastian Bach - famous chorus "Jesu bleibet meine Freude” (Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring)

Johann Ludwig Bach - "Das is meine Freude"

Handel - "Tornami"

 

Tickets R170 at the door. Children are free.

Ample, free and secure parking.

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

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

 

BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATERS

Join in building The Bridge

Taking a cue from the legendary lyrics of Simon and Garfunkel, many Christians in greater Durban will be working together in Building a Bridge (over Troubled Waters) in the lead up to the May elections, by extending the theme of this year’s Diakonia Good Friday Service, which is “Challenging Indifference”, and using this as a departure point to contemplate these vital few weeks ahead.

There is a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between Good Friday (Fri March 29) and the SA elections (Weds May 29) by creating a virtual pilgrimage throughout the suburbs of Durban. This period is a time when people will be anxious about the electoral process and also thinking about how to vote.

On each of the Mondays until May 27, a set of video material will be published online to help Christians engage in a prayerful way with the election process. The process comes live on Monday April 22. To access the material, one needs to join the private The Bridge WhatsApp channel (none of the members of the group can either see or communicate with each other)

People are invited to ‘tune in’ live at 18h00 every Monday to join together in prayer; and then they can continue to access the material throughout the week. The project has been spearheaded by the Denis Hurley Centre, Diakonia Council of Churches and Christian churches in and around Durban.

On WhatsApp click “updates” then “channels” and search for “the Bridge.”

 

DURBAN CITY ORCHESTRA: A MUSICAL THEATRE ENCORE

Music-lovers are invited to an intimate Sunday concert in the company of the Durban City Orchestra (DCO) as they perform a beautiful programme of musical theatre greats at St Thomas in Musgrave Road on Sunday May 5 at 14h30.

The orchestra, one of the longest running orchestras in the country, has a complement of approximately 35 active members who get together weekly. The orchestra includes two accomplished professional musicians in Charl van der Merwe as Resident Conductor and Jitske Brien as Concert Master.

The programme is a carefully curated programme of musical theatre favourites including Lord of the Dance, Phantom of the Opera and The Sound of Music

Tickets: R150 / R120 booked through Quicket.

AFTER ISIMANGALISO

 

(Above: Pic supplied)

DUT second year Drama and Production students are staging a brand new especially-created production which looks at the notion of democracy and hope. After Isimangaliso (After the Miracle), comes to the DUT Courtyard Theatre from Mon 6, Tues, 7 and Wed 8 created, devised and directed collaboratively by Drama HoD, Dr Tanya van der Walt and Senior Lecturer, Dr Tamar Meskin working with dance lecturer Mduduzi Mtshali and singing specialist Zenneth Cibane.

The production looks at South |Africa’s recent past – the hope as we transitioned into democracy, and our grave disappointments 30 years on. It explores South Africa today and considers the possibility of daring for a better future, particularly for South Africa’s youth. 

After Isimangaliso has been created by workshopping ideas with the cast. Excerpts inspired from seminal works by Antjie Krog and Athol Fugard have been incorporated into the script, as well as material sourced from the archives of the Denis Hurley Centre.

The production is part of the Challenging Indifference series looking at our indifference to democracy and social justice, hosted by the Denis Hurley Centre, Diakonia Council of Churches and DUT Drama. Challenging Indifference was the theme of the annual Good Friday Service this year, which is being further unpacked in The Bridge - the time from Good Friday on March 29 to the national elections on May 29.

Each week the Bridge provides on-line prayerful and reflective material to help people to get a theological perspective on some important topical issues.  Materials will be prepared by groups of churches around Durban and so will form a kind of virtual pilgrimage.

Show times – May 6, 7 and 8 at 18h00. Tickets R50 (R20 students) available through secretary Bawinile at 031 373 2194, email: BawinileM1@dut.ac.za

DUT Courtyard Theatre is situated at 51 Steve Biko Road, Musgrave, Durban. Off-road parking available.

 

To sign up to The Bridge send your name via What’s App to 068 765 4107.

On WhatsApp click “updates” then “channels” and search for “the Bridge.”

I HEART MARKET – MOTHER’S DAY SHOPAGANZA

 

(Above: Pic supplied)

The ever-popular I heart Market, Durban’s iconic monthly market with soul, will take place this month on Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 09h00 to 14h00, allowing visitors an opportunity to indulge in a “shopaganza” a week before Mother’s Day.

The market, which is thriving in its new home at Northlands Primary School, Durban North, has a wonderful selection of locally handmade, homemade, up-cycled, recycled, and beautifully designed crafts, art, fashion, jewellery, home-ware, artisanal foods, second-hand gems, and more.

As the May market is a week ahead of Mother's Day, shoppers can explore the myriad beautifully handcrafted goods, just perfect for gifting that special mom in their lives.

With a focus on supporting local artisans and businesses, I heart Market encourages visitors to make a day of it and discover the unique offerings created by the skilled traders.

The I heart Market has become an important monthly event in the community, providing a vibrant space for artists, designers, and food vendors to showcase their creative abilities and helping to galvanize a warm community spirit. With its commitment to sustainability and promoting local talent, the market continues to attract visitors seeking unique and ethically sourced products.

For those with small children, there is a dedicated play area and a pram park, allowing adults to have a stress-free retail experience. The School Hall has air conditioning, guaranteeing a comfortable visit rain or shine.

There are designated areas for parking within the school grounds and precinct monitored by security guards.

For further details email info@iheartmkt.com

 

4TH ANNUAL ARTFLUENCE HUMAN RIGHTS FESTIVAL

 

(Above: We Stand for Freedom. Pic supplied)

 

4th Annual Artfluence Human Rights Festival: Building Bridges Through Arts

The Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal presents the 4th annual Artfluence Human Rights Festival, a weeklong exploration of the power of art as a defender of social justice and human rights. Under the theme Bridges of Solidarity, the 2024 festival takes place from May 3 to 8, 2024, and fosters collaboration among 40 cultural producers who will develop strategies that advance shared values.

The festival’s performance line-up boasts six not-to-miss events. During opening night, audiences can expect to be captivated by renowned arts policy specialist and political playwright Mike van Graan’s acclaimed solo production, My Fellow South Africans, which is a satirical take on contemporary South Africa performed by Kim Blanche. For film enthusiasts, the festival will screen a documentary from Enver Samuels’s acclaimed documentary series, Truth Be Told on the TRC, titled Ntombikayise Kubheka, Bones of Memory.

Choreographed by Ukrainian Choreographer Kateryna Aloshyna and performed by South African dancers, We Stand for Freedom reflects what fighting for freedom means for Ukrainians and South Africans. The performance involves interactive participation by the audience via digital medium.  Based on the responses received, the dancers adapt the performance on stage.

Shakespeare to Gaza is a form of protest theatre drawing on liberation and resistance. This is a decolonial, Pan-African response by South African activist artists to the unfolding genocide, weaving together key historical moments reflected in Shakespearean text and extracts of the Gaza Monologues while harnessing our intertwined spirit of liberation resistance against injustice in solidarity with Palestine.

(Right: Musa Hlatshwayo. Pic supplied))

 

Durban-based choreographer, dancer and community activist Musa Hlatshwayo will introduce his interactive and performative installation, Rubbish Orchestra, to festival audiences. 

This installation integrates movement and sound into a creative orchestral jam.

 

The festival culminates in a free-of-charge closing event at KZNSA Gallery curated by Dr Michelle Stewart of the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Digital Arts Unit. 

This event will feature large-scale digital projections showcasing animation, experimental film, and digital imagery by Digital Arts postgraduate students. This programme will also include interactive multimedia performances, an exhibition, and a collaborative 30-metre artwork accompanied by performances by students from the Centre for Jazz & Contemporary Music. This project is presented in association with the Royal Academy of Art in Antwerp.

Expanding its reach, the Artfluence Human Rights Festival partners with the African Festival Network to welcome delegates from Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Mali and the DRC. Additionally, Nike Jonah, a Pan African Creative Exchange representative, will join the festival. Supported by the Flemish Representation of Flanders in South Africa, the festival will also host Philip Meersman, founder member and President of the World Poetry Slam Competition. The KZN Chapter of the South African Human Rights Commission has also pledged its support. Mike van Graan will curate a series of roundtables and discussions for the festival. The programme will also include site visits to the KwaMuhle Museum, Luthuli Museum, and the Nelson Mandela Capture Site. An evening programme will feature performances, exhibitions and film screenings.

The Artfluence Human Rights Festival unfolds from May 3 to 8, 2024. The main event venue for the 4th annual Artfluence Human Rights Festival is Howard College Theatre at UKZN, and the closing event will take place at the KZNSA Gallery.

The full programme is available on the Artfluence Human Rights website (artfluence.ukzn.ac.za). Bookings for ticketed events are available on Webtickets (R40-R100).

 

For more information on the Centre for Creative Arts, click on the advert to the right of this article.

 

UNDYING FACES BY MICHELLE STEWART

 

(Giclee paint on glass still 4 by Michelle Stewart. Pic supplied)

Undying Faces comprises postmortem portraits of unclaimed deceased from the Johannesburg Forensic Services, executed in several mediums: including an oil paint-on-glass animation, a series of 3D digital models, and a series of 2D oil paint-on-glass digital prints.

The exhibition aims, on the one hand, to present a final portrait of an anonymous individual, and to leave an indelible trace of their existence.

On the other hand, it aims to acknowledge the commemorative and transcendental roles of the traditions of the final portrait. While the portrayal of the dead is inevitably contentious, artists have long been working in this field of representing one of the very few constants we can understand as being a condition of life. The images have been fashioned with an acute awareness producing this work brings into tension the duty to the corpse, and the desire to hold onto a tangible memory or a visible trace.

Michelle Stewart is a senior lecturer and academic co-ordinator for Digital Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. She has an MA in Fine Arts and a PhD in Media and Cultural Studies. She has exhibited on various exhibition and symposia platforms locally and internationally. Her animated works have been represented on The International Film Festival (Belgium), The Manifesto Film Festival (Amsterdam, The Animation and Social Engagement Symposium (Texas) and the International Symposium of Electronic Art and was awarded ‘Best Animation’ at the Euro-Kino Film Festival in Prague.

Undying Faces runs from Friday 3 May to Sunday 19 May 2024

The KZNSA - KwaZulu-Natal Society of Arts - is situated at 166 Bulwer Road, Glenwood, Durban. Phone 031 277 1705 or visit www.kznsagallery.co.za

Keep an eye on KZNSA socials for the walkabout date

 

KWASUKASUKELA

 Kwasukasukela – Once Upon a Time

by Ande Magoso and Sibusiso Mthembu

Patrons are invited to the openings of Kwasukasukela – Once Upon a Time, a duo exhibition by Sibusiso Mthembu and Ande Magoso, and Undying Faces by Michelle Stewart on Friday May 3 from 17h30.

 (Ande Magoso & Sibusiso Mthembu. Pics supplied)

 

Magoso’s paintings are rooted in land, both mythical and real, and in history and stories. In contrast, Mthembu’s ceramic sculpture is light, of the air and of daydreams. Both artists use rare forms of expression in their chosen mediums.

Early in life, Magoso found that drawing and painting shifted his focus to another realm, and as a young artist he was interested in the emotional responses of other people to his work.

Mthembu’s approach is more pragmatic; he always had a dream of making a living with his hands. The mythological elements of his ceramic work draw on the tradition of Josephine Ghesa and harkens forward; his imagined animals seem to have their eyes on the future.

Excerpt from text by Kirsten Miller

The exhibition runs from May 3 to 19, 2024.

You are invited to a walkabout with the artists on Saturday May 11 at 11h00

The KZNSA - KwaZulu-Natal Society of Arts - is situated at 166 Bulwer Road, Glenwood, Durban. Phone 031 277 1705 or visit www.kznsagallery.co.za

 

TAPESTRY FROM KD DANCE STUDIO

 

Tapestry is a culmination of the dance genres taught at KD Dance Studio - namely Ballet, Modern, Tap, Contemporary and Musical Theatre. 

From tiny ballerinas to teenage dancers, they dance together to strengthen bonds of friendship, and to weave a dance performance for you.

 Life is a Tapestry. The individual is only an insignificant thread in an immense and miraculous pattern.  In the Tapestry of life, when all connected, each one of us is a gift to those around us, helping each other be who we are; weaving a perfect picture together.

Tapestry takes place from May 4 to 5 at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre. Performances are on Saturday May 4 at 14h00 and 18h00, and Sunday 5 May at 14n00.

Tickets R160 and available through Computicket as follows: Online: https://computicket.com/event/tapestry/7278529

Outlets: Checkers Money Market Counters

For more information contact the Call Centre on 0861 915 8000

THE ANTIQUE HUNTER’S GUIDE TO MURDER: REVIEW

 

The denouement is certainly surprising, and there are lots of red herrings scattered along the way, but this novel, which is destined to be the first in a series, never really gets off the ground. (Review by Margaret von Klemperer, courtesy of The Witness)

The author of this debut novel is the daughter of the late Judith Miller of Antiques Roadshow and Miller’s Antiques Guides fame. So she certainly knows her antiques. 

The central character is Freya Lockwood, whose first career was as a hunter of missing antiques, aiming to restore them to their countries of origin and their original owners, until a tragedy made her turn away from both that work and her mentor, Arthur Crockleford.

 

But then, years later, Arthur dies somewhat mysteriously, and Freya’s imperious Aunt Carole, who was a close friend of Arthur’s, summons her back to her old home as a lawyer wants to see them both. And they discover that Arthur has left them a letter, instructing them to follow various clues to find an item of immense value. And so the hunt begins.

Freya and Carole end up in a semi derelict not-so-stately home in the English countryside for an apparent antiques weekend, with Freya supposed to be the valuer of the contents of an estate. But she quickly realises that all the antiques on show are reproductions, and not very good ones at that, and the weekend entertainment is not what is appears on the surface.

Meanwhile, the other people in the house are a curious bunch, all it seems with something to hide. And slowly Freya begins to realise that there are sinister links to the earlier tragedy in her life, which is finally explained to the reader.

Miller is aiming to put her novel squarely into the “cozy crime” category. But the trouble is that for cozy crime to work, even if the plot is convoluted and maybe improbable, the characters must be realistic, likeable and believable and the writing should be skilful. And here this book falls down. The baddies are too obviously bad and even the goodies are cardboard cutouts so that no-one is really convincing. And even when the plot speeds up towards the end, it is hard for the reader to care very much.

One of the major oddities is that, while Freya’s sections are in first-person narrative, other parts, dealing with other characters, are apparently from an omniscient narrator and this device unbalances the whole plot structure.

The denouement is certainly surprising, and there are lots of red herrings scattered along the way, but this novel, which is destined to be the first in a series, never really gets off the ground. - Margaret von Klemperer

The Antique Hunter’s Guide to Murder by C.L. Miller is published by Macmillan: ISBN 978-1035021819

ANA PEREIRA DE VLIEG EXHIBITION

 

(Above: “Looking Up To Hottentot Holland Mountains “  –15 x 20cm , oil on wood  panel)

 Travel With Me En Plein Air is the title of an exhibition by Ana Pereira de Vlieg which will run at Tamasa Gallery from May 4 at 11h00 to May 25.

 Tamasa Gallery is situated at 740 Currie Road, Durban. Phone 031 2071223 or visit www.tamasagallery.co.za

 

ABBA – THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC

 

Rhumbelow Theatre will present ABBA: Thank You For The Music choreographed by Cathy Barry and musical arrangement and audio visual by Alan Barry.

Shows take place on April 26 and 27 at 19h30 and on April 28 at 14h00. The venue is open 90 minutes before show 

Mention ABBA and the upbeat foursome springs readily to mind but to ignore their melancholy side would mean we have not captured the true essence of ABBA.

This amazing foursome shot to stardom with hits such as Super Trouper, Money Money, Gimme Gimme and Mamma Mia. But as the group headed into the 80’s, a deeper/darker tone came out in their music.

One Step Productions will take you through the real-life journey of Agnetha, Anni-Frid, Benny and Bjorn as we celebrate their greatest hits.

The talented cast consists of fabulous singers Marion Loudon and Kiara Teunissen , as well as our Steps Dance Company dancers Shaye Caldicott, Caitlyn Petterson, Thandah Gazu and Tanya Webb. And last but not least, Brian Petterson as the fabulous guitarist for the production.

Book your tickets now and you won’t be disappointed.

R200 a ticket. Bar available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises). Bring food picnic baskets or buy at the venue.

Limited secure parking available.

Booking is essential on email: roland@stansell.co.za or Computicket http://events.durbantheatre.com/

Rhumbelow Theatre is situated at 42 Cunningham Road off Bartle Road in Umbilo, Durban. For more information contact 0824998636.

THE ROYAL OPERA - MADAMA BUTTERFLY

 

Rhumbelow Classics Cinema - On The Big Screen will present The Royal Opera’s Madama Butterfly on Monday, April 29.

Screening starts at 18h00. (Venue opens 60 minutes before show for snacks/drinks)

Running time: 195 minutes (incl 1 interval)

Welcome to the Royal Opera House Season 2023/2024, these presentations are LIVE STREAMED EVENTS, with intervals, starring some of the world’s top performers. They are also recorded for venues such as The Rhumbelow Theatre and we are proud to bring you this series of Cinema experiences, as we endeavour to provide entertainment to appeal to everyone.

Madama Butterfly

Live in cinemas from Tuesday March 26, 2024

Music:  Giacomo Puccini

Conductor:  Kevin John Edusei

Directors:  Moshe Leiser and Patrice Caurier

Set designer:  Christian Fenouillat

Costume designer:  Agostino Cavalca

Lighting designer:  Christophe Forey

Cio-Cio-San: Asmik Grigorian

Lieutenant B.F: Pinkerton Joshua Guerrero

Sharpless: Lauri Vasar

Suzuki: Hongni Wu

Goro Ya-Chung Huang

The Bonze: Jeremy White

Prince Yamadori Josef: Jeongmeen Ahn

Kate Pinkerton: Veena Akama-Makia

Imperial Commissioner: Romanas Kudriašovas

 

Royal Opera Chorus

Orchestra of the Royal Opera House

Sung in Italian with English subtitles

Generous philanthropic support from Royal Opera House Principals Julia and Hans Rausing

 

For more information, and to book, visit: ROH - Cinema

 

About The Royal Opera

The Royal Opera, under the artistic direction of Antonio Pappano, Music Director, and Oliver Mears, Director of Opera, is one of the world’s leading opera companies. Based in the iconic Covent Garden theatre, it is renowned both for its outstanding performances of traditional opera and for commissioning new works by today’s leading opera composers, such as George Benjamin, Kaija Saariaho, Mark-Anthony Turnage and Thomas Adès.

About the Royal Opera House

Home to The Royal Ballet, The Royal Opera and the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, the Royal Opera House brings together world-class performers and trailblazing creative teams to share unforgettable performances with audiences near and far. Our theatres are in London’s Covent Garden, but our work is accessed and experienced across the UK and globally through our streams, tours, cinema programme, radio broadcasts and TV output. 

Over the course of the pandemic, we curated the #OurHouseToYourHouse programme – nine live-streamed concerts and 38 productions from our archives. Content was viewed over 15 million times in 183 countries, and broadcast in partnership with the BBC, Sky Arts, Marquee TV and Netflix. During the pandemic we lost £3 in every £5 of our income and we continue to feel the financial impact as we slowly recover.

In September 2021, we returned for our first full Season since 2019, presenting a packed programme of world premieres, landmark new productions and returning favourites. Since then, we have expanded our audience through a flagship Young ROH scheme, returned to live cinema, launched Royal Opera House Stream, and extended our national impact through an ambitious curriculum-linked programme for schools, specially designed to ignite creativity, broaden participation and diversify the future of opera and ballet. We are committed to reducing our impact on the environment and aim to achieve net zero emissions by 2035.

About ROH Cinema

Since 2008, our cinema programme has brought over 120 opera and ballet broadcasts to audiences across the globe. It now reaches more than 1,500 cinemas from the UK to New Zealand, bringing the best of our resident companies to the big screen. Each broadcast offers audiences the best seat in the house, and includes exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, interviews and insights into the rehearsal process. The programme forms an integral part of our plan to secure our future, expand audiences and continue to help facilitate the vital recovery of cinema domestically and internationally.

R150 a ticket. Food available at the Rhumbelow Theatre. Bar Available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises)

Limited secure parking available.

Booking is essential on email: roland@stansell.co.za or Computicket http://events.durbantheatre.com/

Rhumbelow Theatre is situated at 42 Cunningham Road off Bartle Road in Umbilo, Durban. For more information contact 0824998636.

WORLD SYMPHONY SERIES 2024 WINTER SEASON

 

"Greetings, my dear friends!"

Bongani Tembe, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra takes delight in welcoming patrons back into the fold for the World Symphony Series 2024 Winter Season.

He says: “Spreading some mid-year warmth among us, our four-concert season’s artist and repertoire line-up is as enticing as ever. Luminaries returning to grace our podium include the accomplished Cape Town conductor Brandon Phillips; our much-loved associate guest conductor Daniel Boico; and longstanding favourites Yasuo Shinozaki from Japan, and the renowned Russian-born maestro Daniel Raiskin.

“The season’s guest roster of soloists includes the renowned Czech pianist Jan Bartoš; the US-based, Durban-born soprano Bronwyn Forbay; the celebrated American oboist James Austin Smith; and Ben Schoeman, one of our country’s most in-demand concert pianists.

“We have leavened our richly curated programme of concert staples with Beethoven, Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Bizet, Gounod, Richard Strauss, and others, with some enticing rarities that are sure to delight. Not the least of these is the mesmerising Symphony in c minor by Edvard Grieg, a thrilling work whose neglect will confound you on discovery, as it brings our season to a resounding close. There is nothing like a fresh uncovering of a hidden masterpiece to push the “wow” factor.

Who says Classical Music isn’t exciting?”

 

The full details of the Winter Season are laid out in our digital brochure, accessible here. chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://mcusercontent.com/a9401b52c844e85fe6ffcacc0/files/f8048847-8e4f-6342-a372-dfb4b3a37423/eBrochure_KZN_Phil_Winter_Season_2024.01.pdf

 

Audiences are encouraged to secure their Season Ticket bookings by contacting info@kznphil.org.za or 031 369 9438. Subscriptions will close on May 22, 2024. Single tickets are available for purchase through the KZNPO office and through Quicket.

Bongani Tembe adds: “Your participation as our audience is the very lifeblood that sustains our musicians. Each one of you adds something special to our work in the service of music, and you have our sincere appreciation.”

 

CONCERT LINE-UP

 

June 6, 2024,19h00. Playhouse Opera Theatre

Brandon Phillips, conductor

Jan Bartoš, piano

Haydn: Symphony No. 59 in A Major, “Fire”

Mendelssohn: Piano Concerto No. 2, Op. 40 in d minor

Beethoven: Symphony No. 5, Op. 67 in c minor

 

June 13, 2024, 19h00. Playhouse Opera Theatre

Yasuo Shinozaki, conductor

Bronwen Forbay, soprano

Bizet: Suite No. 1 from Carmen

Bizet: “Je dis que rien m’epouvante” from Carmen

Fauré: Pavanne, Op. 50

Cilea: “Ecco: respiro appena” from Adriana Lecouvreur

Gounod: Overture from Romeo et Juliette, CG9

Gounod: “Je veux vivre dans ce reve” (Romeo et Juliette)

Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 3, Op. 29 in D Major, “Polish”

 

June 20, 2024, 19h00. Playhouse Opera Theatre

Daniel Boico, conductor

James Austin Smith, oboe

Elgar: Serenade, Op. 20 in e minor

Strauss: Oboe Concerto, TrV 292 in D Major

Mozart: Symphony No. 41, K. 551 in C Major, “Jupiter”

 

June 27, 2024, 19h00. Playhouse Opera Theatre

Daniel Raiskin, conductor

Ben Schoeman, piano

Andrėe: Concert Overture in D Major 

Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 4, Op. 58 in G Major

Grieg: Symphony in c minor

 

DON'T MISS OUT! SECURE YOUR TICKETS ASAP

SEASON TICKET HOLDERS SAVE UP TO 20% ON THE PRICE OF INDIVIDUALLY BOUGHT TICKETS FOR ALL 4 CONCERTS

Season tickets are now available through KZNPO offices on: info@kznphil.org.za or 031 369 9438. Single tickets are also available through us or via Quicket.

Don't delay! Secure your seats and enjoy up to 20% off when you subscribe.

Note that gallery seating is available during the Winter 2024 Season, but in the Gold category only

The KZN Philharmonic Orchestra is a not-for-profit company and a public benefit organisation with a committed board of directors consisting of prominent business people and community leaders.

The Orchestra is chaired by business luminary, Mr Saki Macozoma, and ably led for the past 25 years by Mr Bongani Tembe, an accomplished Juilliard School trained singer and distinguished arts manager. Mr Tembe’s strong vision fosters high artistic values and a commitment to engaging with the diverse communities of South Africa.

A comprehensive education, development and community engagement programme exposes more than 30,000 urban and township learners per year to music educational concerts, whilst the Orchestra also spends part of the year in the rural areas working with local schools and communities. In addition, the Orchestra presents its flagship World Symphony Series (WSS), which features four seasons of symphony concerts at the Durban City Hall and the Playhouse Opera Theatre.

To link directly to the KZNPO's website, click on the advert at the top right-hand side of this  page or visit www.kznphil.org.za

MUSIC IN THE HILLS (MITH) APRIL 24 2024

 

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

 

19h00: Michaela-Skye

Michaela-Skye is a passionate vocalist whose soulful sound captivates audiences with its blend of jazz and blues. Reminiscent of Norah Jones, her voice exudes warmth and depth.

Michaela discovered her love for singing at the age of 12 and has been immersed in music ever since. Accompanying her is the talented pianist St. John Haw, whose skills add a rich layer to their performances. Together, they create a mesmerizing musical experience that leaves listeners wanting more.

 

19h50: andtheRiddle

andtheRiddle are free-spirited and fiercely independent multi-instrumentalists with Jacky van Staden on vocals, guitar, ukulele, harmonica and percussion, and Daniel Winterbach on guitar, percussion and vocals. Influences include Fokofpolisiekar, aKING, Mumford & Sons, and of Monsters and Men. Intent on creating something honest and sustainable in an inherently dishonest and unsustainable modern world, they describe their genre as “acoustic cross-pollination”.

andtheRiddle live, write, rehearse, record, mix, design, edit and produce everything in-house. Devoting their energy to the pursuit of reason, happiness and harmony, they embody this philosophy in the powerful, percussive acoustic melodies they create, and look forward to once again treating MiTH patrons to a feast of eclectic and captivating sound.

 

20h50: Lotshiwe Tshabalala

Lotshiwe Tshabalala is an independent soul and reggae artist based in Pietermaritzburg. Her love for music is indescribable; music is everything.

Her musical journey started at a very young age. She sang in church and school choirs, and decided to learn the guitar at the age of 19. She has since had the opportunity to perform at many venues across KZN, including markets, festivals, and even the Conversing Kingdoms One Woman Poetry Show by Luleka Mhlanzi. She also curates and organises festivals with Undivided Roots, and plays with an all-female band that promotes the magic of women. She has also worked on an award-winning tuberculosis-awareness film with Oros Mampofu.

Lotshiwe is currently working on an EP covering all the experiences she has endured in life through melody. She will be accompanied by Heaven Khwezi Cele on drums, Nompumelelo Zikode on bass, and Rainbow Cele on keys serving up beautiful melodies and grooves to keep you on your feet.

 

Entrance: R50 - Cash or Zapper at the door

Doors open at 18h00 and the music will kick off at 19h00. Bring your own booze. Food and soft drinks are available for purchase.

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

MiTH takes place at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm, Knoll Drive, Hilton.

 

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

SIBONGILE & THE DLAMINIS SURPASSES 2 MILLION LIVE VIEWERSHIP

 

Mzansi Wethu telenovela Sibongile & The Dlaminis has recorded viewership numbers of over 2.6 million, making it the most watched show on Mzansi Wethu.

The past month has seen an impressive average viewership of over 2 million, with the highest being 2,688,338 live viewers.

“This is a cause for celebration and a clear indication of the love and appreciation that our viewers have for Sibongile & The Dlaminis,” says Nomsa Philiso, CEO of General Entertainment. “What makes this telenovela so special is the combination of good scripting, casting and overall production, which makes it a pleasure to watch. Thank you very much to our Middle and Mass scripted team for this one and we hope that with Season 2 coming soon, we will see more growth in viewership numbers because there is still more to this story.”

Sibongile & The Dlaminis tells the story of Sibongile Mbambo (played by Luyanda Zwane), a young woman from the rural village of Ixopo in KwaZulu-Natal who becomes a domestic worker in the lavish mansion of the wealthy Dlamini family. Her journey to fulfilling her dreams of happiness, love, and success is met with challenges which include having to lie to her father, losing out on love, and missing the opportunity to rise above expectations that people have of her.

Other star cast members who make this a must-watch include Vuyo Biyela (Kwenzo), Siyabonga Shibe (Njengaye Dlamini) Ayanda Borotho (Phetheni Dlamini), and Slindile Nodangala (Deliwe Mbambo)

Sibongile & The Dlaminis has been renewed for season 2 and you can continue watching it on Monday-Wednesday at 18h30 on Mzansi Wethu DStv Channel 163 and you can also watch it on DStv Stream, anywhere.

SERENE INTENT

 (Above: Serene Intent - Sculpture by Dave Tomlinson. Pic supplied)

Joy Reynolds, owner of the Elizabeth Gordon Gallery based in Durban, is delighted to announce a special work in the gallery.

“This wonderful piece of bronze sculpture of a Grey Heron Serene Intent from KZN's master sculptor is an important and a very special emotive work for all of us who love Dave Tomlinson and his works.

“Dave, now in his eighties is concentrating on his maquettes as he is finding the demands of producing large pieces a heavy challenge. So, this heron is the last big piece he will be doing, ever.

“We are privileged and honoured to have this important piece in the gallery. It is one of an edition of 4 - No.1 was sold in Johannesburg, No. 2 in Cape Town, and Elizabeth Gordon Gallery in Durban now has the third.

“This is your last chance to acquire one of Dave's big sculptures.”

Serene Intent, to the top of the reeds stands at 60 cm. and the base is 50 cm. in length. The price of the piece is R130,000 inc. vat.

Joy adds: “Art lovers are invited to feel free to pop in to see and admire this gem. The piece can be professionally crated and freighted anywhere in the world.”

Elizabeth Gordon Gallery is situated at 120 Florida Road, Durban. For more information contact Joy Reynolds on 082 2100 641 or email joy@elizabethgordon.co.za or visit www.elizabethgordon.co.za

 

LEX FUTSHANE AT CENTRE FOR JAZZ

 

(Right: Lex Futshane. Pic supplied)

The Centre for Jazz and Popular Music proudly presents much-loved bassist Lex Futshane on Wednesday April 24, 2024, at 17h30.

Lex Futshane is an internationally proclaimed electric and acoustic bassist, prolific composer, arranger, performer and educator. He spent many years in Durban performing, arranging music and lecturing in the music departments at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and DUT (Natal Technikon) where he is also a graduate of the former.

He currently lectures the ensemble classes at Wits University. Lex will be playing music from his album Innocent Victims and Perpetrators with hits such as Iculo and uBhuti noHopa. “I came to UKZN to study music and stayed in Durban for 15 years, it is home” said Futshane.

Lex Futshane on acoustic bass will be joined by Zola Futshane on vocals, Phumlani Mtiti on saxophone, Neil Gonsalves on piano and Sbu Ncube on the drums.

The concert takes place at UKZN’s Centre for Jazz and Popular Music on April 24. Doors open at 17h00, Music starts at 17h30.

Tickets: R110 (R80 pensioners, R50 students).

The venue is located at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Howard College Campus, Dennis Shepstone Building, Level 2.

TONY COX SUNDAY NIGHT SESSIONS

 

(Tony Cox – pic supplied)

Popular guitarist Tony Cox, now based in the UK, is presenting Sunday night sessions, having recently completed his 9^th Sunday night session.

He notes: “I'm delighted to say, I show no signs of flagging. I look forward to every Sunday because I know I am going to do what I love doing and that is, play the guitar for you guys. That is my raison d'etre for being on this earth, as far as I can tell. My joy at finding myself at 70, fingers, limbs, heart, mind, all seemingly intact and functioning, is a wonder to behold and I give thanks to the universe via my Sunday Night Sessions.

“Each week I play to an audience that spans the world. Friends and fans and loved ones that have by now, spread all over the globe. Peeps put their feet up and get me on the big screen, wine is poured, food is consumed. On my end, I make sure to deliver quality sound for the sound junkies out there.

“The show is free to all but if you do tune in to listen and watch, and it is within your means, I ask you to consider making a donation of any size whatsoever. These go a long way to helping me to continue making the music that I bring to you.”

Register Now

www.facebook.com/tonycoxmusic

paypal.me/tonycoxguitar

 

 

“JOURNEY” FROM FLATFOOT

 

(Rehearsal for “Soritra”. Pic by Val Adamson)

Celebrating its 21st birthday, Durban's award-winning Flatfoot Dance Company presents a short season of contemporary dance that promises to nourish and enrich, at The Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre on May 10 and 11, 2024.

Titled Journey, the season features two new works, one by resident choreography and artistic director, Lliane Loots, and another by special guest from Madagascar, Gaby Saranouffi. The season not only celebrates the 21-year journey of getting to this milestone, but it also delves into the head and heart of what it means to be alive at this point in history.

Saranouffi's Soritra (traces) opens the evening in a fast-paced journey of self in a search for “traces of where we come from and where we are going.” Inspired by a Malagasy indigenous abstract strategy board game called “diam-panorona”, the movement of stones on a board, horizontally, vertically, and diagonally are intriguingly replicated in a contemporary dance formation with bold athletic movements. Interestingly this work is now in its own 21st-year as Saranouffi has shared it in many spaces and places. She says, “I love letting it breathe new life when new dancers step in and learn it and make it their own. This is a work about the translation of culture, history and memory from one body to another and I am so excited to give it now to Flatfoot on their 21st birthday.”

(Right: Siseko Duba & Ndumiso Dube. Pic by Val Adamson)

Loots's premieres a new work for Flatfoot, titled the salt on your skin, and begins to journey to the cities (or sites?) of the interior in an often painful, always beautiful, look at intimacy. 

Referencing sweat and skin, and other acts of love and labour that make up the everyday of our lives, this work is co-created with the six resident Flatfoot dancers (Sifiso Khumalo, Jabu Siphika, Zinhle Nzama, Ndumiso Dube and Siseko Duba).

Drawing on deeply personal stories of love, loss, and ultimately hope, the salt on your skin sees Loots once again using dance to delve into the small stories to imagine; and thus change the bigger narrative that hold our lives.

Loots says, “we often mistake intimacy as being only about romance and sex, and while this is also true, the intimacies of raising children, being a mother or father, of mourning lost family and friends, of waking up each day to come to work, of sweating in the studio as we dance through this all, is a shared intimacy that the Flatfoot dancers have given me. This work, on our 21st birthday, is for the six dancers – it is a love song we created together”.

the salt on your skin is made up of four sections that traverse a landscape of intimacies, loss, love, shame, and hope. With subtle and evocative lighting by Wesley Maherry, this is a surprisingly gentle dance work given the voracity and intimacy of the unfolding stories.

Journey is at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre for only three performances, May 10 @ 19h00, May 11 at 14h30 and 19h00. Tickets R120 (R85 for pensioners, students, scholars and block bookings of 10 or more).

Booking via Computicket: https://computicket.com/event/journey/6688047

This season is made possible through a special partnership with the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre. Thanks to Itrotra Art X Connection NPC

EVENT BY DURBAN VINTAGE MARKET

 

Make a date for an intimate curated market of vintage delight for the next Durban Vintage Market at Love Coffee on April 27, 2024 from 09h00 to 14h00. Collection of curated vintage goods: retro household, collectibles, preloved and vintage clothing.

There will be amazing coffee and snacks on offer by Love Coffee.

Enjoy a day of vintage and antique treasures while you sip on a G&T or some bubbles.

Love Coffee is situated at 484 Lilian Ngoyi Road in Morningside, Durban. FREE for all. Well-behaved dogs allowed.

For more information on the market or to become a vendor DM @Durbanvintagemarket

67 BLANKETS FOR MANDELA DAY ON TOUR

 

(Above: The itinerary that includes KZN - #3))

 

67 Blankets for Mandela Day Embarks on Peace, Love, Tolerance Road Trip to Spread Warmth and Kindness Across South Africa

 67 Blankets for Mandela Day, a beloved national and global movement, is hitting the road on its Peace, Love, Tolerance Road Trip to bring warmth and compassion to those in need across South Africa. Founded 11 years ago in support of Nelson Mandela Day, the organisation has evolved into a beacon of hope, rallying volunteers worldwide to knit blankets for the less fortunate.

In previous years, 67 Blankets for Mandela Day held large-scale events to collect and distribute blankets. However, this year, the organisation is returning to its roots by embarking on a road trip to personally deliver blankets to various regional locations throughout the country. The road trip has already covered George in the Western Cape and The Flora Clinic in the Johannesburg West Rand, with numerous stops planned until the end of June.

Carolyn Steyn, the founder of 67 Blankets for Mandela Day, expresses the importance of making personal connections with those in need. She says: “We are visiting all regions of our beautiful country to distribute blankets to people less fortunate than ourselves. This year, we wanted to make those personal connections that are so important to us and spend time with the organisations and people we support. What better way to do that than a good, old-fashioned road trip where we personally deliver the blankets our Knitwits across the country have so lovingly crafted to keep those in need warm throughout the winter months.”

Dubbed the Peace, Love, and Tolerance Road Trip, this initiative goes beyond providing warmth; it embodies the spirit of compassion and unity that Nelson Mandela championed. Steyn emphasises: “It’s about more than handing over blankets for warmth – it’s about showing that we care and fulfilling what our country needs now more than ever: peace, love, and tolerance. One small act of kindness goes a long way, and when we connect with each other, we knit the fabric of our society, built on peace, love, and tolerance, just as Madiba inspired us all to do.”

 

Background:

In December 2013, Zelda la Grange, late former President Nelson Mandela’s trusted assistant, challenged Carolyn Steyn to knit, sew, or crochet 67 blankets for Mandela Day. This led to the establishment of 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day, a global movement to provide blankets for those in need on Mandela Day.

Mandela Day, celebrated annually on July 18, honours the legacy of Nelson Mandela and was officially declared by the United Nations in 2009.

Since its inception, 67 Blankets for Mandela Day has grown exponentially, with volunteers from around the world pledging to knit blankets for the less fortunate.

For more information about 67 Blankets for Mandela Day and how to get involved, visit www.67blankets.co.za or email info@67blankets.co.za

(Below: Maps of the last two legs of the tour)