Hashtag: #NAF2019 Website: www.heraldlive.co.za
The Herald
Spotlight on
P6&7
Your official National Arts Festival guide
Wednesday July 3 2019
Spotlight
BUSKERS
JAZZ: Billy Monama – P5 The Lost Botanist – P8
THE HERALD SPOTLIGHT
2.
Wednesday July 3 2019
MAIN MUSIC
Boys deliver perfect performance Drakensberg Boys Choir, (Guy Butler Theatre). July 3 at 10am With a few of their men down with “man flu”, the iconic Drakensberg Boys Choir didn’t let it show when they delighted festival goers with a remarkably diverse repertoire that travelled from Austria to Estonia to the heart of Johannesburg. It is not difficult to immediately see why generations of young singers from this choir school have toured the globe and developed a huge following – their discipline and synchronisation on stage, whether it’s voice, instrumental or body movement, is impeccable. Opening with stirring renditions of compositions from Mozart’s Requiem in D minor, the ambience takes a turn to the “dark side” with a fervent, urgent and daunting take on Estonian composer Veljo Tormis’s Curse Upon Iron with its raging vitriol against the invention of metal that is used for bad instead of good. Fully embracing the mood of the piece, the choir members (who had to study 45 pages of ultra-tricky Estonian text) give it
all they’ve got as it builds to a crescendo. The first half of the show ends with a rousing arrangement of Johnny Clegg’s The Crossing (O Siyeza) which again demonstrates the choir’s versatility as they get the rhythm and pitch just right. The second half of their programme is a marvellous history lesson in what makes SA music so richly layered and divergent. From Joshua na die Reen’s joyful Lig op die Horison to the choir’s latest folklore set which celebrates 25 years of freedom – a glorious montage titled Lalela – Zulu (Listen – Zulu) that takes us back to 1950s Sophiatown, and sounds of a healing, reconciled nation. Here the Guy Butler Theatre stage is transformed as the singers are now storytellers and the streets are filled with kwela and pata pata rhythms and harmonies along with gumboot dancing. It is a heart-warming celebration of music. Of course, nothing short of a standing ovation would do – and that’s exactly what these talented and professional youngsters got. – Brett Adkins
HEART-WARMING CELEBRATION: The Drakensberg Boys Choir
MUSIC – ARENA PROGRAMME
Soaring tribute to jazz icon Dorothy Masuka Seasons: Dorothy Masuka Songbook in the style of Vivaldi, (Victoria Theatre). July 3 at 7 pm. Neo Motsatse is as colourful as the music which unfolds as endless, ancient pages in this tribute to the jazz icon Dorothy Masuka, who died earlier this year. Conductor Kutlwano Kepadi conducts the Makhanda Kwantu Choir, extracting harmonious sounds. Dr Hleze Kunju reads from a songbook of all four seasons of Masuku’s timeless music. A quartet of strings alongside solo violinist Motsatse plays music that shines as bright as the sun in summer. The quartet consists of JF Viljoen (violin), Lwazi Mkula (violin), Michaela Karabo van Blerk (viola) and
Picture: EUGENE COETZEE
Rob van Vuuren does it ‘Again!’ AGAIN! featuring Robert van Vuuren. Drill Hall, July 3 at 8.30pm, July 4 at 11.30am and July 5 at 5.30pm. In his 25th year of performing at the National Arts Festival, comedic legend Rob van Vuuren returns with his strangest and most hilarious show yet. Stark, sharp, and swift, Van Vuuren engages the crowd with a plethora of personal and political material. Whether it’s the wary state of his current home renovations or the lofty race relations rampant at the head of Cape Town’s water crisis, Van Vuuren relays everything with intention, passion, and an ear to the mouths and hearts of his audience. Like any good comic, Van Vuuren gets a feel for the crowd, and in this one, racism, youth culture and new-age American terrorism were his cards of choice. No matter what he does, though, Van Vuuren can’t seem to get it wrong. From reciting pop songs in exaggerated poetic fashion to undressing quite frequently, he turns discomfort into comedic gold. Full of laughter, character and quick wit, Again! is a show every audience will want to watch over and over, as he hopes you will. This is Rob van Vuuren at his loudest, wildest, and quite frankly, his best. – Jason
Kwazi Mkula (cello). Mkula’s bow moved like a flamingo – light and featherless – on the strings of the cello. These sounds of seasons, which called loudly for Vivaldi, danced into the ears on a cold Makhanda night. Elijah Madiba on bass guitar did not let the bass loose, while the lead guitar of Luvuyo Plum called in the drums played by Chris Thorpe as thunder in the wintry rain. The keys played by pianist Tamsyn Monique Hanslo were reminiscent of a spring sunrise and Asakhe Cuntsulwana’s praise song closed the songbook with lesedi kganya (sunshine). It is music that relieves tension like a blanket of leaves in autumn. – Thandolwethu Gulwa
TIMELESS CLASSIC: Neo Motsatse’s colourful music brings sunshine to the winter chill in Makhanda
Maseko
TOP PICKS .JLF 7BO (SBBO T
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Variety of international fare on offer
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Bob Mayes, of the Afrovibes Festival from the Netherlands, who has been visiting the National Arts Festival for years, gave a chat at a media get-together in Makhanda as to why he comes back to the festival every year. He also gave Spotlight his Top 5 picks for this year’s festival:
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Arcade This was just a great piece. I thought it was a brilliant show.
Samson This is a Brett Bailey piece. Elvis Sibeko is the leading actor and it was just marvellous and super.
Spirt Child Qudus Onikeku is the choreographer from Nigeria and he is coming to our festival [in the Netherlands] with another production. When we were in talks in Lagos, Spirit Child was not ready yet – I am excited to see his work.
The Boat Thulani Chauke is the choreographer – he always has great works. I know nearly the whole cast and I am curious as to what they get up to.
Candongueiro [This] is a dance company coming from Angola through our company. I am going out of curiosity as well.
Ordentlik This show caught my eye because it is in Afrikaans – this should be exciting.
THE HERALD SPOTLIGHT
Wednesday July 3 2019
3.
MAIN THEATRE
‘All Who Pass’ stirring story ALL WHO PASS, presented by PaperJet, (Rhodes Box). July 3 at 2pm and 8pm. A stirring story of friendships lost and found, courage in the face of adversity and dealing with things out of one’s control, gives 2019 Standard Bank Young Artist for Theatre Amy Jephta’s heart-wrenching play the grace and respect it truly deserves. Using not-often-seen techniques to teleport her audience between different timelines, Jephta propels the narrative of those displaced during the height of apartheid and the time of the group areas act with a spectacular display of artistic talent. Set in Cape Town’s District Six, All Who Pass gives the audience a glimpse into the lives of those who were forcefully removed from their homes and relocated, and their return. Following the lives of two characters, Saleem and Aziza, Jephta puts the audience in their lives and takes them on a journey of recollections of the past and hopes for the future. Opening with a scene which mixes both the present and the past, the cast cleverly presents the different timeframes through their brilliant acting skills, jumping from one era to the next with seamless agility. All the actors must be commended for their stage presence and ability to keep the audience so engrossed
TARYN BENNETT
‘Silkworm’ fantastically funny show
Picture: MARK WESSELS
ENGROSSING WORK: ‘All Who Pass’ is one of the real gems on stage in Makhanda that they feel part of the families. Told through a lens which many people can relate to, the play is a master class in how to use actors' abilities with superb lighting design
by Jon Keevy and praiseworthy directing by Quanita Adams. Actors Elton Landrew, Carmen Maarman, Jawaahier Petersen and Roberto Meyer make up a stellar
cast with great talents, embodying their characters with genuine believability. This show is not to be missed. – Devon Koen
FRINGE THEATRE
Hemingway tale real treat for lovers of theatre THE OLD MAN AND THE SEA, Contagious, (The Hanger). July 3 at 8pm, July 5 at 5pm and July 6 at 10am. Sparklingly sweet and sentimental, The Old Man and the Sea is Ernest Hemingway's quintessential tale of a young boy's obsession with an older male figure who guides him and helps shape his love for fishing. Told through the guise of folklore
by three village fishermen from Cuba, this production has it all – from friendships, relationships, heartache and sorrow, to love and laughter. Central to the story is the friendship between the young boy and the older fisherman, Santiago, who sets sail to catch fish and is lost at sea for several days while hauling in the biggest marlin ever caught. While Santiago is out at sea, pre-
sumed missing or dead, the young boy yearns to help his friend, at the behest of his father. Funny at times while addressing more emotional sentiments, The Old Man and the Sea is a treat for theatre lovers. With the use of a turning stage prop, the audience is transported to the small seaside fishing village and the fishing boats where all the ac-
tion takes place. James Cairns, Taryn Bennet and Jacques de Silva each deliver a brilliant performance, taking on different characters as the narrative progresses. With the use of specially crafted masks – seven in total – Cairns, Bennet and De Silva bring to life each of the characters they portray so convincingly one would think they were different people. – Devon Koen
SILKWORM, featuring Taryn Bennett. (Princess Alice Hall) 3 to 6 July at 12pm. As a 2018 Standard Bank Ovation Award winner, director Jenine Collocott’s Silkworm has a lot to live up to. With an outrageously excitable Georgina (played by Bennett), and a slew of chuckleworthy audience interactions, this hilarious one-woman show rarely disappoints. The play follows Georgina through a single day as she journeys across her imagination (and the audience’s) to share her lengthy list of favourite things. On its surface, Silkworm is a well-paced comedy, with Georgina as the character whose life can only bring laughter. Whether it’s her obsession with silkworms or the series of dates she has with special guests, almost everything she does has the audience keeling over. Beneath the laughs, though, the talkative Georgina lapses into teary-eyed silence, slowly beginning to let us know that this isn’t just her perfect, most important day after all. Despite all her mirth, Georgina is going through a terrible mental ordeal, and as the audience watches her unfold, there is not laughter, but quiet understanding. Warm, refreshingly uncomfortable and fantastically funny, Silkworm is a show that will live long in the memories of the audience. – Jason Maseko
BOTTOMLESS COFFEE BAND PRESENTS 2 PEOPLE, MULTIPLE INSTRUMENTS; A MOVING MUSIC EXPERIENCE
Sikhumbuzo Makandula & Mthwakazi
INGOMA KA TIYO SOGA New Gallery, Monument Open daily 09:00 - 17:00
Brought together by their quality and imagination, the works on the Festival’s Curated Programme offer a special insight into the practices of culture makers and the ways they seek to heal wounds, articulate experience, and navigate pathways through the situations in which we as humans find ourselves.
ć ćć "Crazy, entertaining and energetic the entire way through." Broadway Baby, Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Scotland
Festival 2019 Makhanda
THE HERALD SPOTLIGHT
Wednesday July 3 2019
STANDARD BANK JAZZ FESTIVAL 5.
Guitarist brings his GrazRoots jazz Tseliso Monaheng Guitarist Billy Monama sounds upbeat over the phone when we call him to speak about his upcoming shows at this year’s fest. He’s just returned from his tailor, and says that what he’ll be rocking is “something you’ve never seen before”. “When I was growing up, the only jazz musicians that I looked up to were older like the George Bensons, Wes Montgomerys, authentic guitar players – they were wearing suits. All those guys were always looking presentable on stage. They were always on point.” And he’s serious about his looks. He views his place in jazz music as that of a youngster who plays music normally reserved for the older crowd. “So I have to look the part, you know what I’m saying?” Billy grew up in the North West Province, in a place called Mokopane, Mahwelereng. It’s here that he picked up the guitar some 23 years ago. Among his early musical influences were Marabi, Mgqashiyo, Gospel music and jazz. He went on to study music theory, harmony, and ensemble work at the Central Johannesburg College. He utilised the knowledge he gained to transcribe the music of guitar masters who soundtracked his childhood – Wes Montgomery, Marks Mankwane, Jimmy Dludlu, Tal Farlow, and many others were suddenly accessible to him in new ways.
BILLY MONAMA Picture: THAMI NTULI
He’s gone on to do work with cross-genre artists, from pop to Afro- and straight-ahead jazz, and more. In fact, he let it spill that he’d just been in a session with rapper Khuli Chana just before he paid the tailor a visit. Billy “conceived, founded and directed” the GrazRoots Project in 2016. It’s a platform that seeks to create inter-generational dialogue; he “revisits old South African classics and celebrates past South African composers and musicians”.
With the assistance of the SAMRO Foundation’s Concerts SA, Billy was able to undertake the Geleza Tour with the great master, Themba Mokoena. The aim was to “educate, to do workshops and masterclasses around the [universities], colleges, and all the music institutions in South Africa”. “When I met [him] in 2006, I was introduced to him by [renowned pianist, composer, and father to Afrika] Themba Mkhize. When he played guitar, I was like wow, we
speak the same language! I realised that when I was a student, there was no documentation of that kind of sound. That is the sound that speaks volumes to South African music. It’s the [same] music that [got] black people through hard socio-political times. We are speaking about Marabi and Kwela music.” The first time Billy came to Makhanda for the Standard Bank Jazz Festival was in 2008. “I came for the workshops there,” he says. He returns as a bandleader this year.
“I’m gonna take the audience down memory lane to when I started playing guitar in 1997. I will be echoing all the sounds that I’ve drawn inspiration from, from Wes Montgomery, George Benson, to Allen Kwela, to Jimmy [Dludlu], to Selaelo [Selota]. It will be up-close and personal,” he says. ● Billy Monama performs at the Standard Bank Jazz Festival on July 3 at 8.30pm (DSG Hall) and July 4 at 10.30pm at the Standard Bank Jazz and Blues Cafe.
Sirqus Alfon presents
I AM SOMEBODY
A high-octane, electro clown ride through a bizarro post-internet world of pop culture, music, light and video. Fresh from Season 12 of America’s Got Talent
GUY BUTLER THEATRE
3 July (18:00 & 21:00) 4 July (12:00 & 18:00) 5 July (11:00)
6.
SPOTLIGHT ON BUSKERS
Wednesday July 3 2019
Wednesday July 3 2019
7.
The international buskers who entertained festinos at the National Arts Festival’s Village Green were a hit in 2018, and now a new batch are back, wowing six-year-olds to 70-year-olds by juggling anything from a battle axe and chainsaws to soccer balls and razor-sharp knives. Managing to dodge the sharper objects, DEVON KOEN chatted to the trio about their globe-trotting performance art lives
Razor-sharp juggler offers serious fun
Gasping crowds love it
DEATH DEFYING: Stickman has the Village Green audience spellbound with his dangerous stunts
Thrill of the street sees Stickman travelling the world
Controlling pain a mindgame Suffering a traumatic head injury at the age of six while living on the family farm in Canada, busker Stickman, aka Tim Michell, learnt from a young age how to control pain, which has helped him develop and master astonishing stunts including lying on a bed of nails while someone stands on him. From tossing chainsaws and sharp knives in the air simultaneously with a ball, Stickman has a number of world records to his name for his ability to juggle sticks along with other objects. A former computer engineer from Toronto, Stickman – as he prefers to be called – said he decided to go into street art which includes performing death-defying stunts just for the thrill of it. “[Street performance] is the hardest form of art [and] the audience interaction is the most rewarding part,” Stickman said. Having visited 56 countries and currently based in London, Stickman used to be a magician and hypnotist before he moved on to more dangerous performances on the streets and at festivals. “There is something about walking onto the street and gathering the audience from nothing. It is the ultimate experience,” he said. After a few stints on TV and stage, Stickman, almost 50, said he preferred the streets. This is his first stint at the Village Green and first visit to SA, and he said his experience in Makhanda so far had reminded him of home. “It truly feels like I am at a country fair back home,” he said. During his perilous routine, Stickman uses different objects to juggle and toss around, leaving people gasping at his antics. “It is more of a kids’ show, parents get scared but not the kids.” Of his experience here, he said everyone in SA was so friendly. “London is the exact opposite.” Catch Stickman at the Village Green every day from 9am to 6pm until Sunday.
Most children might take up a musical instrument at the age of 11, but instead J P Koala – growing up in Australia – took up the art of juggling. The now 44-year-old father of one, who is performing at the National Arts Festival in Makhanda, said he became hooked on the craft after he saw performers like himself for the first time when the World Expo came to Australia. “I loved it – I especially loved the way the performers worked with people,” he said. Juggling a 3kg battle axe along with two razorsharp knives, Koala keeps his audience entertained with his skills and antics, which also includes a master display of whip-cracking and witty jokes enjoyed by all. “[I] always try to build and bring the crowd [to the act]. The energy of the shows is purely from the audience,” he said. His first time in SA, Koala has been to nearly 25 countries over his 31-year career. “I am really loving it here, it is really beautiful and the audiences here really get into [the act],” he said. Having previously studied psychology and social sciences, Koala said people-watching helped him gauge how an audience would relate and interact with him. “People are here to be entertained so [the Village Green at the National Arts Festival] is the perfect venue for street performing. “It is a new place so there is a lot to focus on the performance but I’m loving it,” he said. With experience in cabaret, Koala said he preferred street performing because it was more spontaneous. “I do cabarets when I have to or when I am invited to but my preference is definitely street performing,” he said. Asked about which age groups related to him best, Koala said he really enjoyed seeing the reactions on the faces of young children during his act but admitted that some of his favourite audience members were 60 or older. “[The over 60s] have the knowledge of what to expect but still play along. “But to see the wonder on the faces of children 10 or younger is beautiful,” he said. Koala said he was looking forward to going on a safari while in SA “to see what I haven’t before”. He said he loved performing at the Village Green. Catch Koala at the Village Green in Makhanda daily between 9am and 6pm.
JUST HAVING FUN: Street artist Victor Rubliar is a juggler, magician, escape artist and football fan
Multi-skilled street artist won’t drop the ball
Freestyle, street-style
SPOT ON: Australian busker JP Koala thrills the crowds with his antics
Growing up as a shy young boy in Buenos Aires, Argentina, street performer and international football freestyle superstar Victor Rubliar never thought of himself as a performance artist and shied away from being in the spotlight – until high school where he learnt to do magic. Now the 38-year-old busker, who performs unimaginable tricks with soccer balls including juggling five at a time, is a five-time Guinness World Record holder and tours at least 15 countries per year. “If I were a superhero, my superpower would be to sleep anywhere,” Rubilar quipped. Currently entertaining audiences through his skills with soccer balls along with a few other tricks at the Village Green in Makhanda, Rubilar said he had always wanted to come to South Africa to see the penguins. “I arrived a week earlier and went to Cape Town for a day to surf and go on a safari, but I really wanted to come to South Africa to see the penguins,” Rubilar said. Having already toured 51 countries in total, Rubilar holds 18 international awards for his spectacular display of human agility. “It is all about my two greatest loves – football and girls, and it is all about having fun at the end of the day,” Rubliar said. Starting off small by performing magic tricks as a struggling magician, Rubilar said he wanted to do something different. “These were the days before YouTube, so what you see is all self-taught. “It is not actually doing tricks, it’s my passion,” he said. Performing in cabarets as well,
Rubilar said he loved doing street performance because he found it to be more real. “If [the audience] doesn’t like it, they can leave,” Rubilar said. Having visited nearly 300 cities and towns across the globe, Rubilar said apart from SA, which he had visited once before, he also loved Canada but in both cases it was because of the people and not the places. “The audience is great, people really like to get involved in the show which is the most difficult thing to do,” Rubilar said.
Currently in the middle of a world tour, Rubilar said the highlights of his 15-year career included meeting and spending time with the likes of soccer legends Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Pele. Based in Barcelona, Rubilar studied dance, theatre and juggling among other disciplines at the school of contemporary arts at Cirkus Cirkor, a Swedish circus company based in Sweden. Catch Rubilar at the Village Green between 9am and 6pm daily.
THE HERALD SPOTLIGHT
8.
Wednesday July 3 2019
SA sibling’s world-class experience at festival South Africans will get their first chance to experience The Lost Botanist at the National Arts Festival, just weeks after the five-minute interactive adventure for immersive devices became the first virtual reality (VR) experience from Africa to screen in competition at Annecy, the world’s most prestigious animation festival. Co-directed by Kokstad-raised sister and brother Ree and Rick Treweek, The Lost Botanist was one of just nine VR experiences selected for VR@Annecy from 90 submissions from nearly 30 countries. A collaboration between Rick’s Johannesburg-based emerging technology research and development house, Eden Labs, and Ree’s Cape Town-based creative studio, Tulips & Chimneys, The Lost Botanist was up against big name projects like Gymnasia, from the Emmy-winning Felix & Paul Studios; Doctor Who: The Runaway, voiced by Jodi Whittaker; Wolves In The Wall, Chapter 2, It’s All Over, based on the Neil Gaiman book; and Gloomy Eyes, narrated by Colin Farrell, which took home the Cristal. In June, The Lost Botanist also screened at New Images Festival in Paris, where it was selected from 109 applications from 21 countries. In the experience, you are “the lost botanist”, misplaced in a world that’s forgotten all about nature. While researching the lost marvels of the natural world, you open a grimoire that transports you to the dream-like home of the spirits of all forgotten things. In each of the wondrous places you’ll visit, you must find a mythical creature to guide you further into the unknown, from The Nethermere to The Amber Vale to The Nevermist . . . “I’ve always wanted to create a world people could step into, a visual world people could be immersed in and lost in, so for me The Lost Botanist is an absolute dream come true,” Ree, who is one of Africa’s most-watched animation directors,
VR
❢●● in animation:
AFRICA’S BEST: Ree and Rick Trewick, with their custom-designed VR headsets
says. Technically, Rick says The Lost Botanist stands out for its counterintuitive use of 2D animation in a 360 environment; its use of a 3D printed Oculus Go case shaped like an owl, that feels like an artwork in itself; and its development focus on the standalone VR headset Oculus Go, a comparatively light and low-spec platform.
Rick and Ree plan to extend The Lost Botanist with additional levels in the immersive experience; a spinoff film; an augmented reality game and a merchandise range that includes toys, adult colouring books, and puzzles “This is just a prologue for a much bigger experience,” says Rick, who has worked with artists like
William Kentridge and Mary Sibande at Eden Labs. He believes The Lost Botanist’s timing couldn’t be better. “There’s a pure lack of VR content, so if we can get The Lost Botanist on the stores now, it will get eyeballs,” says Rick, whose first company, Breakdesign, generated over 16 million mobile game downloads.
Opposite the Arch 38 Somerset Street Grahamstown www.oppositethearch.co.za
Set in a vibey courtyard Major Fraser’s provides an escape from everyday life Wood Fired Oven | Craft Beers Gin on Tap | Delicious Food Monday - Saturday: 11am-10pm Sunday: 11am - 5pm For Bookings please contact Mo: 046 004 0006
The Barista Sisa is an authentically African coffee shop run by the much loved Sisa. Freshly baked breads, homemade savoury bites, sweet treats and the very best coffee in town! Open Monday - Sunday 7am - 5pm
Milk & Honey Hair & Beauty salon and Beautiful Things gifts stocks local brands including Shelley Taylor Jewellery, Mieks Knickers and Madame Luna Candles. Monday - Friday: 8:00AM - 4:30PM Saturday: 8:30AM - 2:00PM For an appointment call: 046 622 3368 / 079 296 2844
“It feels a lot like mobile games in 2007, like everything is coming full circle for me . . .” ● At the festival, Eden Labs’ art director Gareth Steele is speaking at The Ntsikana Gallery on Wednesday July 3 at 2.30pm and on Saturday, July 6 at 4pm, while Ree is speaking at The Thomas Pringle Hall on Saturday, July 6 at 1pm.
THE HERALD SPOTLIGHT
Wednesday July 3 2019
9.
DAILY LISTING: WEDNESDAY JULY 3 09:00 Phulaphulani Writing Workshop (Workshop)
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School of Languages .................................139 z
Fingo Festival (Multi-discipline) Fingo Square ...........................................140
10:00 Benji (Theatre) Masonic Back ..................155 z Bubble Show. Maxwell the Bubbleologist (Family Theatre) Kingswood Theatre ..........204 z Fifty Thousand Words Confession (Poetry / Storytelling) Masonic Front ........224 z Florence and Watson: The Great Pangolin Mystery (Family Theatre) Drill Hall .........204 z iGruffalo (Family Theatre)
13:00 Dao Wiz (Music) Graham Hotel ................221 z Organ Recital 2: Christopher Cockburn (Spiritfest) Cathedral ...............................234 z
13:30 z Artifice with Stuart Lightbody (Illusion) Princess Alice Hall .....................................201
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Glennie Hall .............................................205 z
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Itoyi-toyi the story of a dance that got tired (Dance) City Hall .......................210 Let’s get personal (Comedy) Library Hall ..............................................189
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Once Upon a Time (Family Theatre)
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Memory Hall ............................................205 One Wish (Theatre) Dicks 167
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Raiders: The Fallen Crown (Theatre) St Andrew’s Hall .......................................169
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The Blue Period of Milton van der Spuy (Theatre) Princess Alice Hall ......................156 The Bookbinder (Family Theatre) Victoria Theatre ..........................................50
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The Drakensberg Boys Choir Live in Concert (Music) Guy Butler Theatre The Last Straw (Music Theatre)
.90
Centenary Hall ..........................................215 z
Wake Up South Africa (Theatre)
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Rehearsal Room .......................................176 Walls and Pillows (Theatre) NG Kerk Hall ....... Warona (Theatre) Gymnasium .................176
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Lit-Fest The Eastern Cape Literary Festival (Literary Festival) NELM Venues ..141 Book Launch: Land of my Ancesters (Wordfest) Eden Grove .............................143 Life in Art (Visual Art Workshop) Carinus Annex ......................................... 232
10:30 z The Ugly Noo Noo (Theatre) The Hangar ....38 11:00 Claude Samuel (Music) Graham Hotel .... 220 z The Boat (Dance) Great Hall ......................60 z The Return of the Cypher ( Hip Hop Festival) z
The Black Power Station .............................136 z
The Young Scientist (Dance) Nompumelelo Hall .....................................213
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For God’s Sake hold your tongue and let me love (Spiritfest talks) Cathedral ....234
11:30 Book launch: The Land is Ours (Wordfest)
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Dangled (Theatre) Drill Hall ....................159 So What, Sara Fina!? (Music Theatre)
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You Should Be Dancing (Comedy)
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12:00 z #selflove (Theatre) Dicks ......................170 z Angola: Camp 13 (Music Theatre)
Kingswood Theatre ....................................196
14:00 A Day of Mourning (Theatre) B2 Arena ...159 z All Who Pass (Theatre) Rhodes Box ...........27 z Arranged Marriage (Theatre) Dicks ........155 z Between Land and a Raised Foot (Walkabout) Raw Spot Gallery .....................71 z Carnival Sideshow and Other Magical Things (Illusion) Masonic Back .................201 z Khuluma Mngoma (Theatre) NG Kerk Hall 163 z Lambs to the Laughter (Comedy) z
Library Hall ..............................................186 z
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Makhanda Kwantu Choir: Voice Dance! (Music) Rhodes Chapel .............................219 Namane Tsa Tholo (Dance) PJ’s ............212 Nipho and Sophiatown (Music) Slipstream ....
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Book launch: Braveheart with a Red Lipstick (Wordfest) Eden Grove ................143
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The Pursuit of Hobby-ness (Theatre)
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The Story of the African Choir (Music Theatre) Glennie Hall ....................217 Two Can Play (Theatre) St Andrew’s Hall ....42 Zombie Attack (Dance) Masonic Back ......213
Masonic Front 1 ..........................................68
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12:30 A Crying Orphan (Theatre) Rehearsal Room ...
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158
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Sundowner Stage .....................................212 z
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The Gospel According to Jan Coetzee (Theatre) Princess Alice Hall ......................161 The Mother of All Eating (Theatre) The Hangar ...............................................37
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Horn of Plenty - Painting-Poems (Spiritfest) Rhodes Chapel .........................................234
15:30 New Year’s Resolutions (Comedy) Drill Hall
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194
Umxhentso Wamamfengu (Dance) Sundowner Stage .....................................213
Rhodes Theatre ..........................................86 z z z
It’s About 2 (Theatre) NG Kerk Hall ..........163 Malope (Music Theatre) PJ’s .................215 Once Upon a Time (Family Theatre) Memory Hall ............................................205
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Ordentlik (Theatre) B2 Arena ..................167 Sound Word, A Woman in Prayer (Poetry / Storytelling) Masonic Front .......224 The Chocolate Chronicles (Comedy)
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This song is for ... (Walkabout) Monument
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16:00 Your Perfect Life (Theatre) Dicks 179 16:00 Indigenous Literature Moment: Umthetho Wabantu (Wordfest) NELM 143
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Library Hall ..............................................184 Gallery ......................................................69 z
16:30 Currently (G)old (Theatre) St Andrew’s Hall z Dr Thokozani Mhlambi (Music)
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..159
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Beethoven Room ......................................221 Xova (Theatre) Victoria Theatre .................178
Princess Alice Hall .....................................163 z z z
Tears of a Woman (Theatre) B2 Arena ....172 The Holy Ghost (Theatre) PJ’s ...............162 Where She Walked (Theatre) Rehearsal Room 38
22:00 Butlers and Bombshells (Comedy) Dicks 184 z Joel Leonard does scenes from Hamlet (Theatre) Masonic Back ...........................163 z Medusa Incarnate (Theatre) Masonic Front .... z
166
22:30 Asanda Mqiki (Jazz) SB Jazz & Blues Café
z
@ Saint’s Bistro ........................................115 z
The Last Laugh (Comedy) Drill Hall
........189
Princess Alice Hall .....................................160 z
Amal (Film) Olive Schreiner ......................121 Born Naked (Theatre) St Andrew’s Hall .....158
z
Lowlander ...............................................215
21:30 z James Cairns Against Humanity (Theatre)
18:30 A Faint Patch of Light (Theatre)
19:00 z ADHD (Comedy) Kingswood Theatre .........181 z Eastern Cape Jazz Showcase (Music)
Siyahluma - Simanye (Dance)
.............224
z
Rehearsal Room .........................................38 XXL (Theatre) St Andrew’s Hall .................178
z
NG Kerk Hall ............................................178
The Letter (Theatre) City Hall ..................165 The Trickster (Illusion) Masonic Back .......202 Two To Tango (Comedy) Gymnasium .......196 Young Sino_SA (Music) Slipstream .........224
Where She Walked (Theatre)
15:00 z Bijou (Comedy) Kingswood Theatre ...........182 z JR Nkosi Duo (Music) Graham Hotel ........222 z Leonard Cohen - A Tribute (Music Theatre)
Tsholofelo (Music) Graham Hotel
Monument Façade ......................................68 z
z
Maluwa Paper Passion (Visual Art Workshop) Carinus Annex ........................232
z
Isithunzi (Theatre) NG Kerk Hall ...............162 It’s a Guy Thing (Comedy) Dicks ............186 Lazola Gola Live (Comedy) Library Hall ....189 Spirit of 76 (Walkabout)
Bowling Club ............................................174
z
Lizzie Gaisford (Music) Lowlander ...........222 The Wrong Off-ramp (Theatre)
........224
z
Confessions of a Mormon Boy (Theatre)
z
Fifty Thousand Words Confession (Poetry / Storytelling) Masonic Front I Am Somebody (Music Theatre)
z
z
Guy Butler Theatre ......................................83 z
z
z
Victoria Theatre ........................................184 Flying Solo (Family Theatre) Memory Hall ..52 Lerato (Theatre) NG Kerk Hall ..................165 Lindelwa M (Music) Slipstream ...............222 Silkworm (Theatre) Princess Alice Hall ......172 Snow White (Walkabout) Rhodes School of Fine Art Studio Gallery 1 ............................66
z
Masonic Front ..........................................174
Big Boys Don’t Dance (Comedy)
Dr Stef’s Sidesplitting Hypnosis (Comedy)
z
Umnotho The Economy (Theatre)
z
z
Graeme College ..........................................33
z
z
Centenary Hall ..........................................209
18:00 z Candongueiro (Dance) Centenary Hall ......209 z Confessions of a Mormon Boy (Theatre)
z
16:00 z (W)asem (Theatre) Masonic Back ................178 z Fruit (Theatre) Gymnasium ......................161 z In Situ (Walkabout) Red Foyer,
Dancing with the Dead (Dance)
The Hangar ...............................................38
Memory Hall ............................................204 Ukama (Theatre) Gymnasium ..................174
Schreiner ................................................126 Beau Soir (Music) Beethoven Room ............95
z
17:30 Holy Communion (Theatre) B2 Arena ......161 z Robby Collins Live (Comedy) Drill Hall ...194 z The Ugly Noo Noo (Theatre) z
z
14:30 z Majub’s Journey (Film) Olive Schreiner ....124 z Time of your Life: The 90’s (Theatre)
In Africa with Avi and Kumbi (Book launch) NELM Foyer .............................................138
z
z
Graeme College ..........................................33
z
z
z
Winging It! The Turbulent Revelations of Meghan & Shivan (Theatre) Princess Alice ......................................... 178
222
Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest (2011) (Film) Olive
Kingswood Theatre ....................................182
z
Qina (Theatre) Victoria Theatre .................169 The Boy Who Cried Ninja (Family Theatre)
z
Rhodes Theatre ..........................................82 z
Rehearsal Room .......................................176
City Hall ..................................................216
z
Eden Grove ..............................................143
17:00 Duende (Music) Lowlander .....................221 z Electric Juju (Theatre) Kingswood Theatre 160 z Jurassic World (Film) Noluthando Hall ......129 z Nomabotwe (Music) Graham Hotel ..........222 z The Young Scientist (Dance) Glennie Hall 213 z Wake Up South Africa (Theatre) z
Nombulelo Hall ...........................................88 z
z z
How to be a Politician in South Africa 2019 (Comedy) Bowling Club ..................186 Pink Money (Dance) Scout Hall .................64 Seasons: Dorothy Masuka Songbook in the style of Vivaldi (Music) Victoria Theatre . 97
z z z
Tats is Cancelled (Comedy) Drill Hall ......194 The Wolves (Theatre) Alec Mullins ...........178 Troubadours - A Tribute to James Taylor & Carole King (Music Theatre) Lowlander ...217
19:30 z Crazy Rich Asians (Film) Noluthando Hall .129 z Searle@ Noluthando (Performance Art) z
Noluthando Hall ..........................................67 Still (Theatre) Rehearsal Room .................172
z
The Maxhoba Village: Lost Tribe (Theatre)
z
The Untold Lesson (Theatre) PJ’s ..........175 Under The Jacaranda (Theatre)
B2 Arena .................................................165 z
Glennie Hall .............................................175
20:00 2Dee (Illusion) Masonic Front ...................201 z All Who Pass (Theatre) Rhodes Box ...........27 z Ilanga (Music Theatre) City Hall ..............215 z On the Edge: The Late Night Show (Comedy) Princess Alice Hall .....................196 z Tell Us More (Comedy) Library Hall ..........194 z The Old Man & The Sea (Theatre) z
The Hangar .............................................166
20:30 z Again! (Comedy) Drill Hall ........................44 z Billy Monama (Jazz) DSG Hall .................115 z Bloopers (Comedy) Kingswood Theatre .....182 z Kafka’s Ape (Theatre) St Andrew’s Hall .....163 z Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck (2015) (Film) Olive Schreiner .................................127 z
Samantha’s Dubious History of Musical Comedy (Music Theatre) Beethoven Room 216
21:00 Dr Stef’s Sidesplitting Hypnosis (Comedy)
z
Victoria Theatre ........................................184 z
I Am Somebody (Music Theatre) Guy Butler Theatre .....................................................83
FREEDOM FIGHTERS: A scene from the moving ‘Angola Camp 13’ Picture: SANMARI MARAIS
Powerful lesson in SA histor y ANGOLA CAMP 13, presented South African State Theatre, (Rhodes Theatre). July 3 at 12pm Set in an Umkhonto weSizwe training base in Angola, this production becomes a powerful lesson in SA’s anti-apartheid history. Brave and unflinching in its rendition of one of the ANC’s more tumultuous periods, the audience is invited into the lives of the patriots who left home to pursue the liberation struggle in Africa. As we follow the lives of these freedom fighters, stuck in a foreign country and yearning for freedom and home, the audience is confronted with not only the trauma of war, but also the murky waters of morality and patriotism. Through a mix of soaring vocals, thrilling choreography and, at times, humour – this action-packed production puts a human face to the human rights abuses, corruption and internal power struggles that took place in Umkhonto weSizwe training camps around Africa. The production ends with a powerful plea to remember the unsung heroes of South Africa’s liberation struggle and a call for SA to heal from the traumas of our past. – Ophelia Milton
THE HERALD SPOTLIGHT
10. FRINGE IN 50 Fringe in 50 gives festival goers a snapshot of shows on the Fringe programme. They are listed in alphabetical order.
#selflove This is a hilarious and powerful one woman show, in which that women shall find particular relevance. It is an impactful show that everyone can take some meaning from. Maybe not suitable for younger audiences but it is a topical and super funny show. VJ
(W)asem One man takes you on a journey telling a tale of race and sexual identity in a real and captivating simplistic way that is refreshing and thought provoking. A reminder that we still live in a society rife with challenges of finding your identity and the meaning in it all. NA
2Dee Light and shadow play a vital part in this unique production. Avril Cummings explores storytelling with shadow puppets with audience participation for some improv poetry. Great concept. KK
A Crying Orphan A story of loss, pain, abandonment and a little bit of a twist on Cinderella. This is ultimately a story about encountering hardships but never losing a sense of self, prevailing and succeeding. SB
Artificially Infeminated A one-woman comedy portraying characters with wit and smart humour. Her interaction with the audience brought out some shining and some rather shy stars. GS
ArtSpoken A musical journey by four guys from a township called Soshanguve. All their songs were a story on our daily lives, social issues that sometimes we forget to look beyond our means. It was breath-catching. TB
ADHD A festival favourite is back! Aron Mcllroy gives a hilarious one-man performance on the ups and downs of ADHD. KK
Arranged Marriage A piece by four actors in wanting to portray a belief that marriage is about happiness, but loyalty, commitment and responsibilities must take place. TB
Artifice with Stuart Lightbody A masterful performer and mind blowing real in your face magic. Actual gasps from the audience I was captivated. Stuart embodies the art of wonder. NA
Battles! Iimfazwe - transportation to the past
nal Hit Revival)
Duende
Oh yes they do! Ash and Brad revive their original hit show with lots of laughter and smooth moves. These Big Boys will have your feet tapping and your hands clapping in between the laughs. The Dirty Dancing routine is not to be missed. KK
Dave Starke and Nish Pillay perform a collection of beautiful and powerful original songs. One can feel the emotional intensity of the writer portraying different elements about today’s world. The lighting and sound creates an atmosphere that makes one connect with the songs. TB
Bijou
If you enjoyed 2018’s Caliente you will LOVE Follow Spot’s 2019 #NAF2019 offering Bijou. Vanessa Harris leads this insanely talented group of dancers and musicians through a raunchy (and sometimes naughty) hour’s worth of the best entertainment money can buy. KK
Bloopers This duo is brought to life by a different approach to some of our own ways spreading a variety of topics from weddings to cultural heritage as individuals. They are lively and make a special take on what is challenged to equate our thoughts into a comedy of ways. GS
Born Naked Is an entertaining lip-synching, buttwiggling dance show, but it is also a touching story about a drag-mother and her adopted child - Blaq Widow. . SL
Butlers and Bombshells
Florence and Watson present the Great Pangolin Mystery A marvellous performance by Florence and Watson where they take us on their village journey of trying to show/teach us that every person/thing has a role to play in our society regardless of how small, tall, thin you may be, but you can make a difference. The performance was very educative and funny at the same time. KB
Forever Young This is a thought provoking look into the life of Byron who committed suicide at age 33, delving into his psyche and all the factors that influenced his life choices. Brilliant use of multimedia and excellent song choices to match. TVO
Carnival Sideshow and Other Magical Things
Fruit
An impressive start grabs your attention, followed by tricks and stunts using objects ranging from Rubik cubes and string to cards and crushed glass. The Brendon Peel / Li Lau duo, along with eager sidekick Phil, entertained and amazed, drawing lots of oohs and aahs from a young audience. LG
Claude Samuel Claude Samuel is a talented musician, amazing on guitar and is a one-man band. He plays many of his own compositions along with some classic rock songs. Very entertaining. SF
Currently (G)old Well-deserved Ovation Award recipient. The Kwasha Theatre Company bring you a moving festival premiere performance by a group of four talented actors who explore the ins and outs of Human Rights and how they affect the youth of today. KK
Dangled Rob van Vuuren shocks, terrifies and mystifies in this psychosexual horror-comedy. A man descending into madness contemplates his experiences with the help of his trusted, yet hated desk and chair. Amidst the maddening chaos, truths are revealed - questioning how we ‘dangle’ in humanity. JF
Becoming Liam
Death of a Donut
Another winning Followspot Production debut show follows Liam McDermott from his days of being a (not so good) waiter to how he got to where he is today (thank you Eskom). This extremely talented young musician who, along with his boyish good looks and cheeky grin has the world at his feet. KK
An interactive who-done-it comedy show of murder and mayhem, doughnuts and dastardly deception. Join the host as he unpacks the clues and help him solve the murder case in the Donut Factory! The packed teen audience loved the process, great fun indeed. LK
Benny Bushwacker
Á very entertaining show that leaves you wondering if it is real or not. But then, why would a person eat an onion believing it was an apple? This hilarious show which relies on volunteers leaves the audience begging for more. It was side-splittingly funny! KB
Big Boys Don't Dance (The Origi-
As one might imagine, Van Vuuren's reputation precedes him and he does not disappoint with this magical mystical story set in a unique and ethereal world unlike any you have ever seen. His dark and electric characters draw the audience into a truly theatrical experience. Teen to adult audiences will enjoy it. LK
An outrageous comedy chock full of slapstick humour and countless one-liners. The theatre piece makes use of audience interaction to drive the who-dunnit murder mystery. RO
A historical tour of events that has to do with the narratives of the past and the language of the present. A theatre act that introduces poetry, story telling, dance (pantsula), visual arts and physical performances, all formed from forms of the creative arts. TB
A very entertaining performance by a slightly insane conservationist who touches on quite a few controversial issues about our country adding his own special dash of humour. TVO
Electric Juju
Dr Stef's Sidesplitting Hypnosis
A girl gives us a window into her life in a township influenced by crime and poverty. Her use of stones and cardboard boxes as props are enchanting and reflects creativity. She is thorough and sharp in her message with laughter and shock all colliding at the same time. GS
Fundisa's Fabulous Adventure Six brilliant performers present a heart-warming musical comedy. Fundisa is a young girl who lives in a colourful South African township. She dreams of one day becoming a pilot and reaching the stars, despite being told that girls can’t fly. Her adventure is filled with humour, optimism, and a little bit of magic! SH
Holy Communion Strong vocals resonating throughout the arena, this show is for anyone who enjoys a more flexible script that allows for interaction with the audience. SF
How To Be a Politician in SA This solo act covers a wide variety of political influences which make us realise how some people vote according to their own political preference. He uses the audience in an exchange of ideals and consequence. His humour in comparison to how to be a politician is in good favor. GS
iGruffalo An amazing show for the family about a brave rodent who journeys through the forest. Actors exhibit excellent singing and choreography skills. IM
iLanga This production uses traditional South African song and dance to tell the story of miners in Matlosane. One is taken on a journey to experience what our local miners do daily. Although the story lacks in originality, the song and dance elements are enjoyable and is overwhelming at times. NM
isithunzi A theatre production by two men who ventures on their daily stories. The older is jealous that his younger
Wednesday July 3 2019 brother is fortunate to get good education. It a play that portrays a lot of images of young people that grow to and yet draws us into a space looking for means to not be angry at someone else when they do good. TB
It's a Guy Thing Good dirty comedy delivered with a uniquely South African flavour. A refreshingly tasteful adult show for people with an irreverent sense of humour. Funny, punchy and punny. Anyone who just doesn’t understand men ... t his is the one for you. You can learn everything you need to know, at just this one show! LK
It's About 2 An emotional account of how secrets and infidelity destroy the marriages of two households which lead otherwise virtuous lives. With beautiful hymns, poetry and physical performances, this tragic drama with a surprising twist proved to be captivating! The mixture of SeTswana, isiZulu and isiXhosa made it even more special. MM
James Cairns Against Humanity Zany comedy where every show is different. This one-man improv stand-up comedy presents a unique performance where the audience (Humanity) must battle it out with James Cairns in a game show based on a popular card game. This act promises to be a hit with both young and old. WK
Joel Leonard Amazing one man show with a modern day interpretation on Hamlet. Wonderful audience interaction, hilarious and very thought provoking at the same time. Superb performance, one definitely not to be missed. VJ
Kafka’s Ape A simulating exhibition of a primates battle through the stereotypical type of human identity. The narrator uses simple antics through the values of being a closed animal wanting to get out of our social boundaries with in our primal instincts. With slight humour this will entice you to a visual treat by a solo man. GS
Lamb’s to the Laughter Brilliantly funny. 5 comedians, all different and all hilarious. Great audience interaction, definitely worth watching. SF
Lazola Gola Live A brilliant performance by Lazola Gola that any mature audience can relate to! He has this fascinating way of dealing with what's considered taboo in a way that will leave you thinking … as you recover from all the laughter, presented by a comedian that we have come to love on Bantu Hour. SN
Leonard Cohen -A Tribute Dave Starke gives an exceptional tribute to the legendary singer, songwriter and poet, Leonard Cohen. WK
Lerato A piece about a teenager who's under a lot of pressure as she struggles to survive with her single mother. TB
Lizzie Gaisford A beautiful lone guitar set from a very skilled musician, with a poetic, otherworldly ethereal feel. Something to close your eyes and sink into. A lovely experience in a cosy and intimate style. LK
Love ‘n Greed The film is about a young couple that have recently married and moved into a new house because the husband is a successful business
man. The film has an interesting twist to the storyline, and it touches on daily challenges. SR
Malope This production follows the journey of Kgosi Malope of the Batswana Tribe. When the tribe is divided into two, due to the possibility of a woman ruling the people, trouble begins. The villagers use South African song and dance to communicate their struggle as well as to choose a ruler. NM
Maxwell the Bubbleologist This is an amazingly enchanting show that will make everyone feel their inner child again no matter how old you are. A very touching and hilarious show. It uses emotion, humour and the magical science of bubbles. An absolutely amazing show for absolutely everyone. PB.
Medusa Incarnate A one-woman show from a garish Hades almost brought up-to date because her Internet is still dial-up. The show is funny and entertaining but Medusa is evil - she used to turn men into stone and now she loves plastic - shudder. Rhodes alumnus, Kate Pinchuck, is clever and brave for shooting off quick lines, doing the unexpected and wearing the highest heels that are not stilts. SL
Mojak Lehoko and Mo Mothebe: Two Mics Raunchy comedic duo Mo and Mojack hit up the Grahamstown Festival with a vibrant comedy spectacle. Political satire and South African stereotypes are let loose while engaging with the audience. Old jokes are revived with a new and original flair. Recommended for a good laugh. JF
New Year’s Resolutions Khanyisa entertained her first audience with a laugh a minute despite her opening night jitters. We have every faith that many more NAF goers will enjoy her performances. JDK
Nomabotwe This performance is one you do not want to miss, and once you watch it, you will not want it to end. The band is on fire. Loved it! SN
Once A Woman Musical This story of black women’s participation in The Struggle is told with high energy and beautiful singing voices. The caricature nature of the Afrikaans characters brought dark humour to terrible scenes. Although I found the background music often too loud to hear the actors clearly, the audience response was lively and enthusiastic. LG Continues on P11
The Fringe in 50 reviewers for 2019 are (initials then name): AV Asiphile Vena, GM Gcobisa Mpande, GS Greg Scheibe, HP Helmo Preuss, IM Iviwe Mzandisi, JDK Jackie de Klerk, KB Kamvelihle Buwa , KK Karen Kouari, LG Lisl Griffioen, LK Lee-Anne Knowles, MC Michelle Coupe, MM Mihlali Mbunge, MQ Mziwonke Qwesha, NA Natasha Alison, NM Nicole Mamphey, PB Phoebe Bunyan, RO Ronald Oats, SB Siphosethu Balakisi, SF Shaan Forster, SL Steven Lang, SN Sean Nkosi, SR Sposethu Ralo, TB Thembani Buka, TH Terri Harris, TVO Tanya Van Onselen, VJ Victoria Jackson, WK Wendy King, SH Shannon Hansen , JF Jeanne Fourie, AE Adrienne Ehrich.
THE HERALD SPOTLIGHT
Wednesday July 3 2019 Continues from P10
Once Upon a Time This is a really sweet show that will teach you about our environment and some of our beloved happy ever after tales. Very dramatic and very funny, this is a show that all children will adore. PB.
Pets Are Family A promising play that subtly blurs the lines between man and dog. Mandla is so caught up in building his empire that he has little to no space for his wife and dogs. This is a light-hearted piece of work that you may want to add to your day. SN
Raiders: The Fallen Crown This much loved family show is back with a new adventure "the Fallen Crown". Clever reparte' and intelligently written script. A totally engrossing storyline. Follow the action with this interactive performance that is so much fun and great entertainment for the whole family. WK
Robbie Collins Live Robbie does not disappoint his audience! With an impressive ability to improvise and speak off the cuff, he kept us shrieking and snorting in agreement throughout his appearance. He is without a doubt one of the best stand up performers fest has to currently offer! NOT PG, 16+ LK
Silkworm A charming comedy with a quirky Mr Bean feel. Clever use of audience interaction and vivid imagery brings the story to life. Charming, funny and an excellent performance. NA
Sound Word, A Woman in Prayer This workshopped play by director Gcebile Dlamini and her inter-generational cast with ages ranging from 10-year old Mbalehle Ncube to 70-year old Harry Carol from the Tswelopele Frail Care Centre addresses the universal questions: Who am I? and Why am I here? The 17-year-old Amanda Othandwayo in a standout debut performance answers these questions. HP
Sounds Like You and Me This workshopped play by director Gcebile Dlamini and her inter-generational cast with ages ranging from 10-year old Mbalehle Ncube to 70-year old Harry Carol from the Tswelopele Frail Care Centre addresses the universal questions: Who am I? and Why am I here? The 17-year-old Amanda Othandwayo in a standout debut performance answers these questions. HP
Still A powerful and heart-wrenching
performance. Enhanced with effective lighting and symbolic use of water, the dramatic and poignant story delivered by the cast is both current and relatable. A trigger warning for rape should be advised - strictly no children. Accolades to the character Chloe - outstanding acting. Brilliant production overall. MC
Tats is Cancelled This brilliant entertainer had us in stitches as he touched on the very real, sometimes sensitive issues of our lives in 2019 and our tendencies to avoid talking to each other about important matters. TVO
Tears of a Woman Emotion evoking, high energy and cross genre. A musical, theatrical and movement piece following abuse through various cycles of relationships and how we must rise and come together to end it. TH
Tells Us More Mo's performance was fast paced, funny and very interactive. Covering a wide range of topics ranging from government hospitals to the playing of board games. JDK
The Blue Period of Milton van der Spuy A sold out first performance. Francis Mennigke delivers a captivating performance telling a heartbreaking story of Milton as he comes to terms with the death of Mona Lisa Van de Spuy. A well-deserved standing ovation this was a privilege to watch. NA
The Boy Who Cried Ninja
● Walls and Pillows,
Love does not last forever, what happens when love fails? We turn to be monsters, sweet words turn to insults and the beautiful love melodies into complete silence. Fear of birth complicates the authentic ambitions of love, it breaks matrimonial vows. When world crumbles pillows wipe our tears and the only comforting reference is the conversation between walls and pillows.
The Last Laugh Bringing the best comedians #NAF2019 has to offer all onto one stage. Each with their own hilarious and original act, had the audience in stitches. A laugh a minute, perfect way to end a very busy festival day. KK
The Maid This is a Zulu film about a maid from hell who turns out to be the preferred candidate for marriage. She works her heart to be admired by the boss and convinces him to see the cheat in his fiancee. After having ruined the affair of her male boss she ends up being the chosen one. Central in the film is the importance of a lack of mother's love. This also dispels the myth that a bird in hand is worth two in the bush. MQ
The Old Man & The Sea Three very busy, top-class actors using three sets on a large, lazy-Susan platform bring life to a vibrant edition of the Hemingway classic. Each actor plays various parts changing three-quarter face masks for each character. They add to the play's unique Cuban flavour by speaking in convincing Spanish accents. Enjoyable and could help students who have this as a set-work. SL
This is a highly enjoyable experience for the whole family. It's a show that will get you up on your feet and dancing along. It gives good morals and is very funny. It tells of how a boy learns that telling the truth is always best. PB
The Pursuit of Hobby-Ness
The Chocolate Chronicles
The Trickster
A truly delicious stand-up show. Fun and engaging. A skilled performer, Mo is one of the top guys on the circuit for sure. A thoroughly enjoyable show to delight and entertain any adult audience. LK
A charismatic, energetic and engaging Brendan Peele headlines this festival mentalist display, promising mystery, excitement and psychological illusion. Unfortunately, this halfhazardous mash up fails to deliver on thrills and mystique. Disorganized and seemingly unprepared, Peele wheedles his way through failed card tricks and underwhelming mind games with wit and some dad-jokes. JF
The Gospel According to Jan Coetzee The Gospel of Jan Coetzee, directed by Wessels Pretorius cannot be understated, it is a truly brilliant and fascinating example of South African theatre. An absolutely captivating story is propelled by the excellence its actors all of whom injected exceptional talent into one of the best theatre anyone can find this fest. VJ
The Holy Ghost This is a dramatic piece that depicts
Stop press – changes ADDITIONAL SHOWS
the battle between good and evil in traditional culture in a changing world. A story of how Christianity brings hope and salvation in an abusive and cruel situation. A brave effort to portray this controversial topic. Venda language interpretation. WK
Venue: the NG Kerk 3 July at 10am, 4 July at 12pm and 5 July at 4.30pm. Ticket prices: R40 / R35 / R33
MAIN PROGRAMME – SWARM THEORY Start times and venues for the public theatre piece, Swarm Theory: ● 3 July – Meet at 5pm on the Drostdy Lawns ● 4 July – Meet at 1pm outside Noluthando Hall ● 5 July – Meet at 2.30pm outside the Shoprite, Market Square,
A stellar performance, delivered with great control and discipline. A multi-layered dramatic monologue capturing the poignant moments of the delusional feelings of helplessness resulting from heartbreak. MC
The Wrong Off-Ramp A startling and powerful play given by actors Kabelo Mpete and Mpho Mzima tell a brutal story of a man’s descent into prison gang-life and his ultimate redemption. This play was beautifully portrayed by actors who gave a visceral and incredibly emo-
FRINGE IN 50 tional performance that will grip you to the end. VJ
This is my house, Kukwami la This excellent play is based on two serious subjects, physical abuse and sexual abuse of a minor, as well as the perennial fear of women who do not want to report either of these crimes to the authorities as the perpetrator invariably holds a trump card over them. In this case the perpetrator is the bread winner in the home. Most of the dialogue is in isiXhosa. AE
Time of your Life: The ’90s I had high hopes for this show. The ‘90s was the time of my life and many of the visuals and the music took me back. The narrator tells a touching story of growing up in the ’90s. Leaves you feeling nostalgic. NA
Trinity Tenor A night filled with joyful coral soul music. Two musicians from here in Grahamstown Sisa Nomana and Sibusiso Mkhize embraced us with their beautiful voices filled with love and passion yesterday talking about "never walking alone, be my love and love changes everything..." They showed us if you really love and believe in what you do you can achieve greater things. KB
Troubadours: A Tribute to James Taylor and Carole King With a melody of two, the music chosen brings back to life the favorites of these two song writers in a very decisive enactment of this guitar and piano recital. With crisp clear voices your mind and soul are truly awakened. Enjoy! GS
Trust Me, I'm a Superhero A rather ambitious one-man piece with a myriad of diverse and crazy characters that mirror Marvel and fantasy personalities we all know and love, with a dollop of uniquely South African flavour to spice things up. For an interactively entertaining collection of cameos, meet these unlikely superheros! LK
uthakathiwe An uncensored play about the way women are abused and how this shapes their lives and the lives of those around them. According to this cast title Uthakathiwe which means, bewitched, which seems to be the only answer that makes sense, when every woman victim of rape and other abuse asks "why?" or "why me". GM
uFlorence noWatson neMpuku yoMoba A marvellous performance by Florence and Watson (in isiXhosa) where they take us on their village journey of trying to show/teach us
Beaufort street
● Carnival Sideshow and Other
● 6 July – Meet at 1pm in the cen-
Magical Things is a 12+ show – not all ages, as advertised. ● Zombie Attack: is a physical theatre piece (not dance)
tral avenue of the Village Green ● 7 July – Meet at 1pm in Church Square, near the church entrance For daily updates, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/
FRINGE UPDATES ● 2Dee: is directed by Avril Cummins and not Kirsten Harris as advertised ● The Pursuit of Hobby-ness: is directed by Avril Cummins and not Ryan Dittman as advertised ● Raiders: The Fallen Crown: Lulu Read has been replaced by Jessica Leigh-Stanley. ● Battles! Iimfazwe! Transportation to the past: performance on 3 July cancelled.
FRINGE CANCELLATIONS All Gone, #Marimba Musical, Cat As Trophy, Ingenxa Kamama, Just 6, Loyiso Madinga Live, Samaria, Senior Citizens, Sisonke “Alive” Kids, So Naive, Trust Me, I’m a Superhero
WORDFEST CANCELLATIONS ● Katlego Shoro - SERURUBELE
(Poetry reading)
ERRATA Please note: The Fringe productions 2Dee and The Pursuit of
11.
that every person/thing has a role to play in our society. Regardless of how small, tall, thin you may be you can make a difference. The performance was very educational and funny at the same time. KB
Veronica's Monster This is a lovely show for young children to enjoy. It uses gorgeous songs, poetry and puppets to animate the story and teach you valuable life lessons. Veronica learns to face her fears and the monster under the bed. Extremely enjoyable for the whole family. PB
Winging It! The Turbulent Revelations of Meghan and Shivan A very well written and performed play about the turbulent secrets we keep. It’s about how we are stuck in a strange loop in a small space and how we have to face our dark truths. A light hearted and comedic depiction with excellent use of props. NA
XXL Brilliantly put together and acted, this cast of 2 complement each other. They tell a heart-warming and touching story of being overweight in a skinny world. Thought provoking and funny. SF
You Should Be Dancing The gorgeous Follow Spot troupe are back and boy, are we lucky! Singing and dancing to a variety of hit songs from various decades, this is a show that will sell out quickly. The humour, dancing and singing will make you want to see it more than once so get your tickets while you can! KK
Young SinoSA The 21 year old rapper Young Sino from Port Elizabeth delivers a highoctane energy boost to the ear at the Slipstream Sports Bar. The lyrics are laced with expletives, so sensitive listeners beware. Young Sino is ably supported by his DJ, rapping partner and dance team that engender a lively vibe. HP
Your Perfect Life The juxtaposition between the wit of Karleen and the somber attitude of Caitlin create a well-rounded performance filled with the stereotypes and nerves that surface during a dreaded reunion day. TCH
Zombie Attack Gaëtan Schmid gives an impressive mime performance to a variation of sound tracks from movies such Fight Club, Apocalypse Now, Harry Potter and so much more. He truly embodies the mental turmoil we all go through before we face public speaking. A real feel good show that we can all relate to. TH
Hobbyness were directed by Avril Cummins, not Kirsten Harris and Ryan Dittmann as (respectively) indicated in the printed programme. HeyJanice Productions sincerely apologises for any confusion or inconvenience caused Stuart Cairns was listed as the director of Barefoot Chronicles. This information is false – Stuart has informed the Festival Office that he was not involved in any way in this production.
MULTICHOICE SUNDOWNERS 3 JULY EMCEE: Tyson Ngubeni The Last Straw, Synthesis from Cherra, The Holy Ghost
THE HERALD SPOTLIGHT
12.
Wednesday July 3 2019
KATE PINCHUCK: Back with a vengeance Devon Koen koend@tisoblackstar.co.za
“An enigma. A visionary. A genius.� All the self-proclaimed words of 26-year-old comedienne Kate Pinchuck who, according to her, moonlights as an actor and was most recently fired from a DVD store 2018 double Ovation Award winner Pinchuck is back with a vengeance this year and will be bringing with her the re-telling of the ancient myth of Medusa in Medusa Incarnate, a one-woman show which she wrote and acts in herself. In her sixth year performing at the National Arts Festival, Pinchuck said she was looking forward to mingling with fellow artists and like-minded people. “The more people I meet in my industries and collaborate with, the more nuanced and developed my skills become. “If you’re working hard and making an effort to connect with people who know more than you, it’s pretty hard to get worse. “I try to keep stretching myself and doing new things or things
I try to keep stretching myself and doing new things
that scare me to keep growing as a performer and creator.� Although it is a bit of a financial strain for fringe artists to attend the National Arts Festival, Pinchuck said because it has become an institution for performers and artists, it was a great platform to showcase one’s work. “It’s great for sharing and learning in an environment where you’re just surrounded by art and I’m always so in awe of all the creativity and innovation I see at the festival,� Pinchuck said. Since rising up in the comedy scene, Pinchuck recently recorded two line-up comedy specials for Mannequin Films, Laugh At First Sight, (DStv on Demand) and Fun-
ny People Africa (Showmax). She has performed consistently around Cape Town and Johannesburg, and runs and performs in Lambs to the Laughter at the National Arts Festival. Pinchuck has been featured in the 2017 Next Generation Showcase at Grand West and was a semi-finalist in the 2017 Savannah Show Us Your Apples competition. Not sorry for not giving the audience what they want, Pinchuck said it was the various experiences she had enjoyed that made her confident and comfortable enough to continue as a performer and creator. “Generally, performing to audiences who aren’t having a great time is not so much fun. “One year I was the opening act for a stand-up comic friend of mine and a lady walked out during, like, the first two minutes of my set because she hated it so much. But I’m not sorry,� Pinchuck said. Pinchuck’s general advice to festival-goers is: “Bring lots of warm things [and] the food on the Village Green is banging.�
RISING FAST: Kate Pinchuck in her solo show ‘Medusa Incarnate’ last year Picture: JAN POTGIETER
Profiled 2019
The Standard Bank Ovation Awards are given to productions on the Fringe that demonstrate artistic innovation and excellence. The jury seeks out productions that have the courage to open new conversations through the arts.
TODAY’S WINNERS: WHEN COASTS MEET
A STAR IS BORN - THE RISE AND FALL OF JUDY GARLAND
WEDNESDAY 3 JULY 2019
WELA KAPELA PRODUCTIONS
JEREMIAH FYAH ISES AND THE BAAKAHYAAD BAND
CURRENTLY (G)OLD
KWASHA THEATRE COMPANY
JEMERIAH FYAH ISES
PREVIOUS WINNERS: A PLACE OF KNOWING
FRIZZ POP
INTSUSA IN COLLABORATION WITH THEATREDUO
FRIZZ POP COMEDY
HOW TO BE A POLITICIAN IN SOUTH AFRICA - 2019
LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD AND THE BIG BAD METAPHORS
LOST & FOUND
MOTHER EARTH
MAKI HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD
MATCHBOX THEATRE COLLECTIVE AND
10:00 11:00
Triggerfish Animation Masterclass:
&
How to create and pitch your animated content
13:00 14:00
Join Malcolm Wope, lead character artist ĂŚ
12:00 12:20
THE POWER OF PURR
14:30 15:15
An Artistic Approach to Emerging Technology
UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA NAN HUA TEMPLE
THEATRE ON POINTE
NGUVU YA MBEGU
QUAVA VOCAL GROUP
SAXMAN
THE SYRINGA TREE
ABENGCONGOLO COLLECTIVE ANDREW YOUNG & BAND
TATS IS CANCELLED
UMTHOMBO
SIV NGESI PRODUCTIONS
AMANDLA DANCA TEATRO ZA
UNFATHOMABLE
YOU SHOULD BE DANCING FOLLOWSPOT PRODUCTIONS
Explore the Power of Purr as illuminated by US-based multidisciplinary artist Gary Baseman. In reaction to what the artist sees as his homeland country s widespread anxiety about a crumbling democracy and growth of divisiveness and racism, Baseman gains inspiration and wisdom from his pet companion Blackie the Cat, a long-time muse that inspired iconic Baseman characters ChouChou and Ahwroo who both represent the need for love. Starting In 2018, The Purr Room presented in Los Angeles and London has shared Blackie s meditative triple purr with thousands, encouraging all to pause, re/focus on goodness, and feel the healing power of purr. Eden Labs is a research and development lab exploring emerging technology. Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, the lab develops immersive experiences with artists to push the limits of these technologies. Focusing on VR / AR, 3D printing and software development, Eden Labs uses variety of mixed reality technology and other digital media to tell captivating and interactive stories.
Thomas Pringle Hall * Monument ALL TALKS AND WORKSHOPS FREE OF CHARGE * EXHIBITIONS OPEN DAILY