Hashtag: #NAF2019 Website: www.heraldlive.co.za
Spotlight on
FESTIVAL FOOD P6&7
PROFILE: Andrew Simpson – P12 Fringe in 50 – 10&11
Photograph: WERNER HILLS
Your official National Arts Festival guide
Saturday July 6 2019
Spotlight
The Herald
THE HERALD SPOTLIGHT
2.
Saturday July 6 2019
FRINGE COMEDY
MAIN DANCE
‘Birds of a Feather’ fails to fly
Stellar tribute from start to finish Gas Lands, Matchbox Theatre Collective and the University of Pretoria Drama Department in collaboration with Dance Initiative Gauteng, (Rhodes Theatre). July 6 at 12pm and 6pm, and July 7 at 11am. Mesmerising and spellbinding from beginning to end, Gas Lands is an emotionally evocative theatre extravaganza of contemporary dance sadly not seen enough on South African stages. Split into six mediations, the stellar performers in Gas Lands
BIRDS OF A FEATHER, Backyard Players, (Masonic Back), July 6 at 12pm. Somewhat of a murder mystery set in the backdrop of a dysfunctional support group, Birds of a Feather misses the mark on occasion but picks up momentum toward the end. Punted as a tragi-comedy, this production could use a tweak here or there to make it more impactful. Directed by Laura Quest and written by two of the actors, Jason Wheeler and Micaela van Heerden,
tell a story of angst, displacement, and the horrors of human trafficking and migration, using only their bodies. Presented as a means to illustrate the challenges faced by many people in society crossing borders either willingly or not, and dealing with the consequences, the production, choreographed by Bailey Snyman, is a hauntingly beautiful piece of theatre. A somewhat sad narrative told through the medium of dance and punted as a requiem for all the
men and women who have carved a path from the past into the present and beyond, Gas Lands is a definite must for any discerning dance or theatre aficionado. With original music composed by Daniel Geddes and set and lighting design by Wilhelm Disbergen, Gas Lands is a stirring experience which puts the audience in a world where there is no other option but to sit up and focus on what is happening around one. – Devon Koen
❢●● vivid contrast
Birds of a Feather seems a bit confusing at first but then the narrative takes a drastic turn which catapults the audience into knowing what is happening and what will happen. Although all the actors should be given some credence for their stage presence, they all could have done something different to make them more believable at the end when all is revealed. Mildly entertaining and somewhat quirky, Birds of a Feather could do a bit better. - Devon Koen
Exhibition opens future doors NMU post-graduate sculpture and painting exhibition, hosted by Nelson Mandela University, (Carinus Art Centre). 9am to 5pm every day until July 7 Housing the work of several Nelson Mandela University post-graduate art students, the exact theme of this exhibition becomes quite difficult to pin down. As you walk through this striking exhibition, you find yourself not only in contact with a detailed and poetic appreciation of the human form, but
also a mystical confrontation with animal sculptures straight out of storybook heaven. Now, the exhibition becomes a house with many doors, all leading into the creative process of each artist and the various shapes and forms each medium can take. The diversity and range of this exhibition is telling of the future of the South African art scene and a welcome gaze into the minds of the country's up and coming creatives. Ophelia Milton
FRINGE COMEDY
‘Bijou’ a feast for eyes, ears
CULTURE COLLISION: PE performance artist Wezile Mgibe as a hooded migrant worker in ‘Arcade’ at the National Arts Festival in Makhanda mirrors a very different immigration journey to that of an 1820 Settler family Picture and graphic: GILLIAN McAINSH
Bijou, presented by FollowSpot Productions, (Kingswood Theatre). July 6 at 3.30pm and July 7 at 2pm. With a flare of vaudeville and a whole heap of sparkling energy, Bijou is a show well worth its ticket. From cabaret to the growing trend of cirque performance, it does not disappoint. Breathtaking displays of dance routines from ballet to contemporary dance and everything in between, the audience is hooked from the start of this show of many talents. Sprinkled with a bit of humour, especially from the Theatre Fairy and some of the cast, Bijou is enjoyable fun. Music, lights, dancing, quirky one-liners and acts of human agility rarely seen on stage, the production puts the spunk in cabaret theatre. No one could or should forget
ENJOYABLE FUN: ‘Bijou’ puts spunk in cabaret theatre the Theatre Fairy’s advice on having people over and ensuring your “front yard” is in good shape, or when it is a good day to do laundry. The raunchy dance routine by two of the male performers using only their bodies and silver pompoms left some members of the audience in awe. Watch out for the “where’s the
lady” routine which will have you in stitches and the spectacular tap dancing routine which will leave you wanting more. Directed by Vanessa Harris and choreographed by Ash Searle who both perform in the production, it is a feast for the eyes and ears which will keep your foot tapping and hands clapping throughout. – Devon Koen
FRINGE THEATRE
Nothing to hide in gripping play ‘A Faint Patch of Light’ A Faint Patch of Light, presented by the Sizile Arts Collective, (Princess Alice Hall). July 6 at 6.30pm Adapted from Athol Fugard’s Statements after an Arrest under the Immorality Act, this gripping play presents an af-
fectionate yet tumultuous night in the lengthy affair between two women. Shifting seamlessly from yearning conversations to gut-wrenching monologues, this play explores the nature of love and desire with poise
and subtlety. Both physically and metaphorically, the play’s characters bear it all for each other. As the nude women converse over hopes, dreams, and quiet fears, every ounce of vulnerability injects itself into the performance,
reminding us that here, there is nothing to hide. Woven intricately throughout the play, heartrending openness glimmers in tender, intimate moments, and sends chills up the spine in its darker, riotous scenes of
blacked-out violence. Alongside these stellar performances, another notable star of this show is its writing. Laced with jampacked meaning, this script is so visceral that Wa Noni and Stofile almost wear it as skin,
letting it shine in this faintlylit township room. Intelligent and vulnerable, A Faint Patch of Light is a chilling tapestry of queer intimacy, bound to leave audiences holding their breath for more. – Jason Maseko
THE HERALD SPOTLIGHT
Saturday July 6 2019
MAIN THEATRE – ARENA PROGRAMME
3.
❢●● showing off
‘Birthing Nureyev’ SPELL-BINDING show Birthing Nureyev, featuring Ignatius van Heerden, (The Hangar). July 6 at 3pm and 7pm With elegance, fluidity and sinuous but perfectly balanced structure from the outset, this dance infused and dramatic telling of the life of Russia’s legendary ballet dancer, Rudolf Nureyev, is compelling and textured theatre at its finest. Indeed, as the title suggests, we are taken to the very beginning of this iconic performer’s life, his childhood and intense and volatile relationship with his parents, and his dawning passion – nay, obsession – for dance, and unabashed yearning to become the best. Performer and choreographer Ignatius van Heerden, under the direction of Andre Odendaal, is
impeccable in his portrayal of the determined but often tortured Nureyev who had to face the wrath of the KGB who were constantly attempting to sabotage his career, while his performances became hailed and critically acclaimed in the West. “If you want to dance for the rest of the world, you will dance on behalf of Mother Russia!” he was told, an attitude along with the stifling harness of his communist government which finally led to his dramatic defection to the West in 1961 which made headlines all over the globe. Speaking intermittently to an off-stage voice – that of a biographer – Nureyev tells of his relationship and enduring dance partnership with prima ballerina Margot Fonteyn which accorded them
the ballet equivalent of rock star status, and also that of his lover, closest friend and protector Erik Bruhn. All the time, Van Heerden is peppering this autobiography with seamlessly coordinated and disciplined ballet moves. The sense of betrayal when his birth country charged him with high treason and his separation from those he loved, caused him increasing pain but it was his contracting of HIV and his deteriorating health due to Aids-related complications which Nureyev simply refused to accept, continuing to dance despite his failing body. This show is so spell-binding that you cannot believe the 50 minute duration is up so quickly as it is. – Brett Adkins
FRINGE THEATRE
Weighty issues in ‘Empty Wraps’ Empty Wraps, featuring Sibabalwe Mrwebi, Thandi Mzaca, Sika Osei and Marquina Ndimande, (NG Kerk Hall), July 6 at 1pm and 9.30pm. In a lengthy 90 minutes, this tightly packed piece of theatre emphatically tries to explore issues of body shaming, low self-esteem and heartbreak, and how each shapes all genders, women especially. Through the vulnerable monologues of four unnamed women, the audience finds permission to peek into their lives, from shatter-
ing heartbreak to the perpetual policing of women’s bodies. And while these moments shine with power, honesty, and understanding, their role in the play’s grander scheme seems questionable. Cramped between lengthy, abstract scenes where very little is unpacked, the women’s heartrending stories begin to lose their lustre, and every possible meaning moves further out of reach. What’s more, its pacing and tone are less than clear. With reckless adlibs that per-
sist throughout moments of tension, to the actors and the audience slipping out of sync, the play’s important and necessary message loses its weight, and eventually, its significance. In the midst of all this dissonance, though, every actress performs her role with energy and determination. These characters demand to be heard, whether they are listened to or not. Regardless of its message being dangerously lost, Empty Wraps remains a promising show that engages the audience at all costs. – Jason Maseko
SHOW MAN: There's lots to do and see at the National Arts Festival. Stef the hypnotist promotes his show ‘Dr Stef's Side Splitting Hypnosis’ at the Village Green Picture: WERNER HILLS
FRINGE ILLUSION
Peel still has plenty of tricks up his sleeve in show
CAUGHT IN THE ACT: Illusionist Brendon Peel and his partner Li Lau
Carnival Sideshow and Other Magical Things, featuring Brendon Peel and Li Lau, (Masonic Back). July 6 at 2pm. From walking on glass to hitting nails into the nose and everything in between, Carnival Sideshow and Other Magical Things brings together all the bits and bobs of a typical carnival sideshow. Punted as a one-of-akind magic show, the production starring well-known illusionist Brendon Peel and his partner Li Lau, Carnival Sideshow and Other Magical Things has the audience in stitches with their quirky comments, while they also squirm in their seats at some of the “tricks” performed. Following a timing glitch during the production on Sunday, which re-
sulted in Lau’s head being grazed by an arrow shot from a crossbow, a different finale has been conceived and has been performed since the incident. From the onset both Peel and Lau make it abundantly clear that the tricks they do, do not put anyone, including themselves, in danger – now, that is. With fun trickery and illusion style magic from Peel and bizarre acts including escaping from handcuffs and something akin to a straightjacket by Lau, Carnival Sideshow and Other Magical Things is definitely not your average festival show, but is still great fun. Enjoy it with the whole family but also be aware that some of the actions by the performers may not sit well with some audience members. – Devon Koen
THE HERALD SPOTLIGHT
Saturday July 6 2019
STANDARD BANK JAZZ FESTIVAL 5.
Diva Titi follows in mom’s footsteps Tseliso Monaheng The sweet voice of Titi Luzipo is preparing for a studio session when the phone line eventually connects. She is still in Jozi, she says, and shall be heading down to Makhanda the following day. There's been a disruption in her band's line-up; guitarist Lawrence Matshiza, who was meant to be joining her for the show billed Eastern Cape Divas, in which she’ll be showcasing the music from her forthcoming album alongside the equally phenomenal Nombasa Maqoko, has fallen ill. "I guess this is where the musicality and keeping relationships thing comes in, because it's easy for me to call anyone and say 'yo, let's hit this', and they’ll do it without a shadow of doubt," she says. "To be given a title of being an Eastern Cape diva is very interesting because my mother has always been labelled as a diva, with her history and everything that she has done in the past. “She's won many awards in the Eastern Cape around that. So for me to be given [that] title also shows progressiveness, that festival directors are now starting to acknowledge young artists
that are doing amazing things. “We are starting to get a lot of recognition. It's a very exciting time in my life," she says. For the uninitiated, Titi’s mother is Vuyelwa Qwesha Luzipo. She came of age in the 70’s as lead singer of The Soul Jazzmen, which featured greats such the late Zim Ngqawana and Winston Mankunku Ngozi, and bra's Feya Faku, Tete Mbambisa and others. She is, in essence, musical royalty. Coming from a great legacy is often laced with expectations that one live up to such. Titi is aware of this, but is in no hurry. In fact, she's turned down major recording contracts in the past because she just wasn’t ready to be releasing music. "We sign deals, and we get ourselves in these muddy situations because there's a stamp, there's an engravement ethic: You can’t do it without someone else. “So, for me, being free is not only being able to speak freely; it's being able to think freely. “It's being able to liberate yourself from the past, into the future. It means that I can think independently, and not be judged. It's being able to write music like Being Woman," she says, referring to the title of her current single, which she released in the lead-up to her debut album. It's a song not only for wo-
men, but one that is targeted at perpetrators of all forms of gender-based violence. She wants them to know that: "My body is not a rehab centre. Don’t come to me because you want to be rehabilitated from your painful past. It's not your punching bag. Don’t take your anger out on me man, go sort yourself out. I’m in this relationship to be loved, and to love. That's it." For Titi, it's important that she is able to write music of this calibre in this day and age. "Because I am now free, and I have liberated myself, my music has always been about reflecting reality, and evoking emotion. “Over the years, I have written music that is designed for that. People can expect to laugh, to cry, to be moved by my music. “We all have stories of breakups, we all have stories of being in love, we all have stories of a drunk night with friends. We all have stories to tell. I feel like my album is an amalgamation of stories," she concludes. For the Eastern Cape Divas show Titi will perform with Makhanda born and raised Nombasa Maqoko and a Kwanto Choir, which combines Rhodes University students and the community of Rhini and Joza townships from Makana. ● 6 July at 7pm, at the Guy Butler Theatre, Monument
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: 047
MUTHALAND ENTERTAINMENT
IGRUFFALO
NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL / TALL STORIES UK
UMNOTHO THE ECONOMY
(W)ASEM
YOUNG OUTREACH ARTISTS
TERENCE MAKAPAN
YOUR PERFECT LIFE F CREATIONS
WALLS & PILLOWS
PEO ENTLE PRODUCTIONS
BENNY BUSHWHACKER MAMBA PRODUCTIONS
WARONA
UKWANDA PUPPETS & DESIGN ART COLLECTIVE
PREVIOUS WINNERS: A PLACE OF KNOWING
INTSUSA IN COLLABORATION WITH THEATREDUO
A STAR IS BORN - THE RISE AND FALL OF JUDY GARLAND
THE CHOCOLATE CHRONICLES
CLIQUE CLAQ
FRUIT
HOW TO BE A POLITICIAN IN SOUTH AFRICA - 2019
SIV NGESI PRODUCTIONS
WELA KAPELA PRODUCTIONS
CURRENTLY (G)OLD
FRIZZ POP
KWASHA THEATRE COMPANY
FRIZZ POP COMEDY
SKETCH PRODUCTIONS
MAKI HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD
JEREMIAH FYAH ISES AND THE BAAKAHYAAD BAND JEMERIAH FYAH ISES
LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD AND THE BIG LOST & FOUND MATCHBOX THEATRE COLLECTIVE AND THEATRE BAD METAPHORS UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA
NGUVU YA MBEGU
QUAVA VOCAL GROUP
ABENGCONGOLO COLLECTIVE
UMTHOMBO
TATS IS CANCELLED
SIV NGESI PRODUCTIONS
AMANDLA DANCA TEATRO ZA
XOVA
THE SOUTH AFRICAN STATE THEATRE
MOTHER EARTH NAN HUA TEMPLE
ON POINTE
SAXMAN
THE SYRINGA TREE
UNFATHOMABLE
WHEN COASTS MEET
ANDREW YOUNG & BAND
YOU SHOULD BE DANCING FOLLOWSPOT PRODUCTIONS
6.
SPOTLIGHT ON FESTIVAL FOOD
Saturday July 6 2019
Saturday July 6 2019
7.
CHIPPING IN: Ayden Miller, 19, and Mikaela Goldsmith, 18, from JHB grabbed a quick Chip 'n Dip
GIN UP: Andrew Quin, 18, from Buzz Bar pours a ‘Monks Mary Jane Gin’
FOOD LOVER: Isabella Smook with a selection of food at Pranayum food stall
Feast of fabulous and f a r - o u t f o o d Devon Koen koend@tisoblackstar.co.za
SWEET TOOTH: Stefane de Koch from The Happiness Sweets and Treats stall with some of her fudge which includes a tequila fudge
From green fig and balsamic mustard to tequila flavoured fudge, cannabis infused gin and energy drinks, food lovers have been in for a very different tango on their taste buds at the Village Green during the 45th instalment of the National Arts Festival being hosted in Makhanda. Although some items on the various menus are not to everyone’s liking, a number of unique flavours and unusual combinations have seen many people experiment with the offerings available, including Black Label smoked pulled pork, venison burgers, vegetarian and vegan nibbles, and bacon, whisky and onion jam. Port Elizabethan master of all things mustard, Anthony Vieria da Cruz – aka Mr Mustard - who has been bringing some unusual mustards to the festival for the past four years, said his latest concoction, gin and tonic mustard, has been his top seller this year so far. “Our next challenge is to make a coffee mustard,” Vieria da Cruz said. Included in his mass variety of mustards, is honey and whisky mustard, craft beer mustard, black pepper and lemon, roasted garlic and balsamic, and the unusual combination of tequila mustard, among many others.
ORIENTAL FLAVOUR: Grant Foong from Foong's Food Truck prepares a hit at the festival called the ‘Veldbox’. It is nuggets on chow mein with a handmade sweet and sour sauce
Lerato Mohapi, of Bloemfontein, who visited the festival for the first time, said the bacon, onion and whisky jam, also crafted by Vieria da Cruz, was delicious. “Can I have some more,” were her parting words. Lerato’s sister, Nponki, who tasted the honey and whisky mustard, said it was an unusual flavour which she had never tasted before. “It tastes expensive,” she said. Vieria da Cruz’s stall mate, Lynn-Ray Moore, of Sylvan Belle Country Kitchen in Port Elizabeth, offers a variety of jams and other interesting morsels including pink tonic and gin strawberry jam, pinotage and onion marmalade, coriander, lime and chill pesto, and an apricot, Amaretto and ginger chutney, among others. “Every couple of months we try to do something different. Many of the things we produce go really well on a cheese board,” Moore said. According to Moore, many people visiting her stall showed a lot of interest in what was on offer with a few uncertain about trying something new or different. For people visiting the Village Green with a sweet tooth, Happiness Sweets and Treats have some surprises up their sleeves with a list of various flavoured fudges, Turkish Delight, cookies, nougat and other delicious nibbley bits. These include tequila flavoured
fudge, bacon and whisky fudge, melktert fudge as well as gin and tonic and red wine flavoured Turkish Delights with their latest combination, biltong and beer flavoured fudge, making its debut at the festival. “The best part is seeing people’s reactions to when they taste the different flavours,” owner of Happiness Sweets and Treats, Stefane de Koch, said. Another newcomer to the range is the black velvet fudge made with activated charcoal, cinnamon, honey and chocolate, as well as the now infamously named “slutty fudge”. “It is so named because my husband [Marius] said when he tried it ‘it was so good she [the fudge] couldn’t help herself’,” De Koch said. It especially raises a few eyebrows when congregants ask for some “slutty fudge” at church functions. Also returning to the Village Green with a unique take on Mexican food was Paul Morton – owner of Dos Chido food truck. His offerings include Savanna Cider smoked chicken and Black Label smoked pulled pork. Morton, who hails from Durbanville in the Western Cape, said although they were initially very much an events-based company, they have now branched out to doing catering for functions and
MUSTARD MAN: Anthony Vieira Da Cruz from The Mustard Deli
opened a Mexican barbeque restaurant in Cape Town. “We provide a complete service here [at the festival] from delicious food to award-winning coffee and coldrinks as well,” Morton said. Using authentic ingredients and importing some of his stock, including black beans from Mexico, Morton said his artisanal take on food influenced by Mexican cuisine and adapted to the South African palette, was not just about an income for him but was more about customer satisfaction. “We try to integrate into the community we are catering for – that is very important to us,” Morton said. Offering something different for the non-carnivorous festival-goers, Isabella Smook, of Sedgefield, offers only vegetarian delicacies with a few vegan options as well at her stall, Pranayum. From dolmades to Mexicanstyle corncake to gluten-free sweet potato, potato and spinach cake, Smook has all the deliciousness from different influences all under one stall. “I use good quality ingredients [and although] they are smaller meals, there is a greater variety. “My approach is that you can eat vegetarian and not rely on eating meat,” Smook said. For a feast of flavours, visit the Village Green until Sunday between 9am and 6pm.
PULLING IN CROWDS: Paul Morton, below, from the Dos Chido food truck with his pulled pork smoked in Black Label beer for 16 hours served on panini with chips
NEED A BOOST? Vincent Cumming from KwaZulu-Natal at the Cannabis Energy Drink stall
Pictures: WERNER HILLS
FOODIE: Lynn Moore from The Grocery Express Food Distribution Services with her jam
PUDDING TIME: Ava Cohen, 17, enjoys her Belgian waffle with banana, home-made ice cream and sauce from the Wafelbak Food Truck
THE HERALD SPOTLIGHT
8.
Saturday July 6 2019
FRINGE ILLUSION
FRINGE THEATRE
Journey of intrigue with ‘The Conjurer’
ART OF MAGIC: Roy Swann stars in ‘The Conjurer’
‘Ithongo’ authentic, warm play Ithongo The Dream, (City Hall). July 7 at 10 am Ithongo The Dream is a theatre performance directed by Sinesipho Tyutyani. Written by Bongolethu Tyutyhani and Lonwabo Mzamo, the performance contradicts what the title is. Ithongo breaks into song. The voices are an incredible unity of amagwijo (African folklore) embedded in African spirituality. Its themes are the reclaiming of land. The play address ithongo (African spirituality) which was shaken out of its roots by the arrival of the missionaries. Entrenched in the play is the work of the late Walter Benson Rhubasana’s “Zemk'inkomo magwala ndini” (Wake up, the cows are being stolen while you people are sitting doing nothing!)” The choreography by Lukhanyiso Vuso is authentic. The body movements depict ukudlala intonga (stick-playing) and a form of war as reclamation of land. The composition of music by Mzamo keeps the play on track. It is a warm and well-rehearsed play by young people presented by the company, Walter Sisulu University BCC. -
The Conjurer, with Roy Swann, (Masonic Front). July 6 at 4pm. Using cups, cards, coins and even limes, Roy Swann in his one-man illusion show plays true homage to the art of magic. Playing tastefully with the audience's minds, Swann uses slight-of-hand tricks to make things disappear into thin air and re-appear in places visible to the audience during his act. Scattered with a few funny moments here and there, The Conjurer is a magic show which is entertaining and enjoyable. Developing his magic skills from the age of 10 when his grandparents gave him a book on magic after they arrived back from a trip to Scotland, Swann takes the audience on a journey of intrigue and amusement as he plays with the concept of time. A show definitely for the whole family, The Conjurer is filled to the brim with tricks which will leave the audience with questions of how it is possible to do the things Swann does without any hiccups or “oops” moments. Audience participation is a must and adds much colour to the acts of trickery and magic in The Conjurer to the extent that it would seem that the audience is doing the magic while Swann merely supervises. - Devon Koen
Thandolwethu Gulwac
FRINGE THEATRE
FRINGE DANCE
‘Forever Young’ UNMISSABLE show
Gifted cast star in ‘Dancing with the Dead’
Forever Young, Andrew Simpson Productions, (Bowling Club). July 6 at 2pm. The existential crisis of a young man dealing with his own death and searching for answers in the afterlife puts Andrew Simpson’s Forever Young in the realm of unmissable productions at the National Arts Festival. Written and performed by Simpson, Forever Young uses various forms of media, including film, theatre and music,
to push the narrative along in a way that is both refreshing and entertaining. Witty and riddled with aspects of emotional turmoil as Simpson’s character tries to figure out where and how everything went wrong in his life, this production tastefully forces the audience to look retrospectively at their own lives in a way which could bring positive changes to someone’s own life. Brilliantly paced with inter-
jections of personal musings by Simpson’s character Byron, discussions with his own subconscious and highlighting the fact that the “what if’s” do not matter, Forever Young is as intriguing as it is bemusing. Travelling through different scenarios of how his life would end, Byron faces the reality of life – that there is only the present which can change fate and not the past. Directed by Kim MacQuilkan, Forever Young is mes-
merising and intellectual and brings to the fore many of life’s burning questions about what is right, what is wrong, how to be a better person for yourself and others, as well as what happens after death. If you are keen to step into a world where fantasy, dreams and the imaginary merge with reality, then do not miss out on this experience. – Devon Koen ● See Andrew Simpson profile on Page 12.
Phenomenal celebration of the conscious soul Mandla Mlangeni & Amandla Freedom Ensemble – Born To Be Black: A Celebration of the Conscious Soul, (DSG Hall). “You know the performers or you don’t know the performers," were the words of Paul Sedres as he opened the invisible curtains to Mlangeni and this jazz ensemble. The established sounds of Mlangeni, pictured, on trumpet were as rich as Zim Ngqawana. Gontse Makhene on percus-
sion had my white beads shaking endlessly – I knew immediately the ancestors were in the room! With Homeless, Nhlanhla Mahlangu and Simon Manana on saxophone it was superlative. This was incredible music made by young artists who sounded as established and tasty as a well-marinated steak – and they certainly satisfied the appetite.
The bass, played by Ariel Zamonsky, was golden and mine deep while the keys of Andile Yenana took you into a Nina Simone concert, reminding you that these types of piano sounds are incomparable and extraordinary. You would perhaps not expect such energy, but well-established drummer Louis Moholo-Moholo delivers. As for the versatility of Salim Washington on saxophone and clarinet, this was indeed a phenomenal celebration of the conscious soul. - Thandolwethu Gulwatmgdisc
Dancing With The Dead, featuring Ayanda Nondlwana, Masixole Heshu, Litha Kepe, Thanduxolo Kilana and Siphuxolo Nxuzula, (Centenary Hall). July 6 at 6.30pm. This piece, featuring some of Makhanda’s most gifted performers, journeys through three men’s experiences of home and migration. It is a non-linear narrative that explores notions of memory, nostalgia and loss. Through the dance of Pantsula, lyrical prose and song, Xhantilomzi, Mziwamadoda and Gcinumzi narrate their stories against the backdrop of a ghostly omnipresent chorus. In this piece, the Pantsula dance functions almost as a character of its own. It connects and often conjures the dead as they are remembered in the monologues of the three men. The dead, represented by the six-person chorus, provide some interesting images that complement the main trio. Though the footwork and energy of the trio’s dancing is well-rehearsed, it does become monotonous as the show progresses. The chorus is not always as synchronised as it could be but it is very clear that the whole cast is committed to the work. The parts of the show that are the most interesting are whenever isiXhosa is used both in songs and in the scenes as well. The first performance had almost a full house. This is evidence of the great reputation that the director and cast have among the people who call this place home. - Sboniso Thombeni
THE HERALD SPOTLIGHT
Saturday July 6 2019
9.
WEEKEND LISTING Saturday July 6 09:00 Writing Skills Workshop - Craft Talk (Lit-Fest / Wordfest)) NELM ....................143
Bell-Ringing in the Cathedral Tower (Spiritfest) Cathedral ...............................234
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Lambs to the Laughter (Comedy)
14:00 z Buried Seeds (Theatre) Masonic Front .....158 z Carnival Sideshow and Other Magical Things (Illusion) Masonic Back .................201 z Dr Thokozani Mhlambi (Music)
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Library Hall ..............................................186 Moonless (Theatre) Graeme College ...........31 Nipho and Sophiatown (Music) Slipstream ....
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Spirit of 76 (Walkabout) Monument Façade ..
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Beethoven Room ......................................221
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The Holy Ghost (Theatre) PJ’s ...............162 tHis Is Very IMPORTANT (Theatre)
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10:00 z Between Land and a Raised Foot (Walkabout) Raw Spot Gallery .....................71 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) Glennie Hall .....205 z Isithunzi (Theatre) NG Kerk Hall ...............162 z Mvumbo ya vharema (Dance) PJ’s ........211 z Once Upon a Time (Family Theatre)
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Ekasi Lam - An Ode to Kwaito; Un-Owed to Kwaito (Performance Art) Rhodes Box ...30 Forever Young (Theatre) Bowling Club .....160 It’s a Guy Thing (Comedy) Dicks ............186 Ladysmith Black Mambazo (Jazz)
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Guy Butler Theatre ......................................99 Lazola Gola Live (Comedy) Library Hall ....189
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Makhanda Kwantu Choir: Voice Dance! (Music) Rhodes Chapel .............................219 Malope (Music Theatre) PJ’s .................215 My Daily Bread (Theatre) Rehearsal Room .41 Tears of a Woman (Theatre) B2 Arena ....172 Tey (Today) (Film) Olive Schreiner ..............123 The Boy Who Cried Ninja (Family Theatre)
Tell Us More (Comedy) Library Hall ..........194 The Blue Period of Milton van der Spuy (Theatre) Princess Alice Hall 1 ......................56 The Bookbinder (Family Theatre)
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Memory Hall ............................................204 Two To Tango (Comedy) Gymnasium .......196
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Under The Jacaranda (Theatre)
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Glennie Hall .............................................175 Xova (Theatre) Victoria Theatre .................178
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Victoria Theatre ..........................................50 The Letter (Theatre) City Hall ..................165
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The Old Man & The Sea (Theatre)
14:30 z Back to Our Roots (Dance) City Hall .......208 z Life in Art (Art Workshop) Carinus Annex .232
Memory Hall ............................................205 z
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Raiders: The Fallen Crown (Theatre) St Andrew’s Hall .......................................169
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The Hangar .............................................166 z
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Lit-Fest The Eastern Cape Literary Festival (Literary Festival) NELM Venues ...............141 Life in Art (Art Workshop) Carinus Annex .232
11:00 z JR Nkosi Duo (Music) Graham Hotel ........222 z Wanderer (Dance) Great Hall ..................176 11:30 z New Year’s Resolutions (Comedy) Drill Hall ... 194 z
The Last Straw (Music Theatre) Centenary Hall ..........................................215
12:00 Arranged Marriage (Theatre) Dicks ........155 z Big Boys Don’t Dance (Comedy) z
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Kingswood Theatre ....................................182 Birds of a Feather (Theatre) Masonic Back156
Continuing Conversations (Walkabout) Ntsikana Gallery .........................................75
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Dr Stef’s Sidesplitting Hypnosis (Comedy)
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Victoria Theatre ........................................184 Gas Lands (Dance) Rhodes Theatre ...........58
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Itoyi-toyi the story of a dance that got tired - Zize Zibuye Emasisweni (Dance) City Hall .. 210
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Samantha’s Dubious History of Musical Comedy (Music Theatre) Beethoven Room 216 Swarm Theory (Performance Art) Site Specific
Jannie du Toit and Ensemble (Music Theatre) Beethoven Room .............215 Let’s get personal (Comedy) Library Hall .189 Moonless (Theatre) Graeme College ...........31 Silkworm (Theatre) Princess Alice Hall ......172 Still (Theatre) Rehearsal Room .................172 The Unseen (Film) Olive Schreiner ............124 The Young Scientist (Dance) Glennie Hall 213 Umnotho The Economy (Theatre) Masonic Front ..........................................174 Veronica’s Monster (Family) Memory Hall 205
12:30 Death of a Donut (Comedy) Bowling Club 184
z z
15:00 Birthing Nureyev (Theatre) The Hangar .....37 z Impixano (Theatre) NG Kerk Hall ..............162 z The Gospel According to Jan Coetzee (Theatre) Princess Alice Hall ......................161 z
15:30 Bijou (Comedy) Kingswood Theatre ..........182 z MOjak Lehoko and Mo Mothebe: Two Mics (Comedy) Drill Hall .................................194 z
16:00 z A Lekker Ou (Comedy) Library Hall ..........181 z Amawethu (Dance) Great Hall ...................61 z Benji (Theatre) Masonic Back ..................155 z Encryption (Dance) Centenary Hall .............65 z Fruit (Theatre) Gymnasium ......................161 z Fundisa’s Fabulous Adventure (Family Theatre) Memory Hall ..................205 z Loula (Theatre) B2 Arena ........................165 z Namane Tsa Tholo (Dance) PJ’s ............212 z One Wish (Theatre) Dicks ......................167 z Synthesis from Cherra (Music) Slipstream .... 223 z z
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16:30 Ilanga (Music Theatre) City Hall 215 z Qina (Theatre) Victoria Theatre 169 17:00 Becoming Liam (Comedy) Kingswood Theatre
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182 z
13:00 Benny Bushwhacker (Comedy) The Hangar ..
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Claude Samuel (Music) Graham Hotel .....220 Empty Wraps (Theatre) NG Kerk Hall .......160 Swarm Theory (Public Art) Village Green ....47 Umxhentso Wamamfengu (Dance) Sundowner Stage ............................. 213 Bell-Ringing in the Cathedral Tower (Spiritfest) Cathedral ...............................234
13:30 z Artifice with Stuart Lightbody (Illusion) Princess Alice Hall .....................................201 z
Barriers, Bridges and Bones (Dance) Centenary Hall ..........................................208
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Nairobi Horns (Jazz) DSG Hall 117 The Calling (Theatre) Graham Hotel 41 Time of your Life: The 90’s (Theatre) Bowling Club 174
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68
Gymnasium .............................................172 z
Wake Up South Africa (Theatre)
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Rehearsal Room .......................................176 Warts and All (Theatre) St Andrew’s Hall ....39 Zombie Attack (Dance) Masonic Back ......213
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18:30 z A Faint Patch of Light (Theatre)
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Princess Alice Hall .....................................160 Back to Our Roots (Dance) City Hall .......208 Black Lives Matter (Film) Olive Schreiner .128
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Dancing with the Dead (Dance)
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Centenary Hall ..........................................209 z
Troubadours - A Tribute to James Taylor and Carole King (Music Theatre) Lowlander Winging It! The Turbulent Revelations of Meghan & Shivan (Theatre) Princess Alice .... 178
17:30 Dangled (Theatre) Drill Hall ....................159 z Lerato (Theatre) NG Kerk Hall ..................165
19:00 ADHD (Comedy) Kingswood Theatre .........181 z Amawethu (Dance) Great Hall ...................61 z Birthing Nureyev (Theatre) The Hangar .....37 z Clayton Human (Music) Lowlander ..........220 z Eastern Cape Divas (Jazz) Guy Butler Theatre . 100 z
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Dicks ......................................................184 Gas Lands (Dance) Rhodes Theatre ...........58
How to be a Politician in South Africa 2019 (Comedy) Bowling Club ..................186 Keiskamma Music Academy (Music) Victoria Theatre ........................................219 Moletlo (Music Theatre) Glennie Hall .......216 Robby Collins Live (Comedy) Drill Hall ...194
19:30 Searle@ Noluthando (Performance Art)
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All Finge performances are half price on this last day of the Festival! 10:00 z #selflove (Theatre) Dicks ........................170 z Bubble Show. Maxwell the Bubbleologist (Family Theatre) Kingswood Theatre ..........204 z iGruffalo (Family Theatre) Glennie Hall .....205 z Ithongo the Dream (Theatre) City Hall .....163 z Jannie du Toit and Ensemble (Music Theatre) Beethoven Room .............215 z Swarm Theory (Performance Art) Site Specific ..............................................47 z
z z z z
The Bookbinder (Family Theatre) Victoria Theatre ..........................................50 The Trickster (Illusion) Masonic Back .......202 Warona (Theatre) Gymnasium .................176 Youth and the truth (Theatre) PJ’s .........179
Lit-Fest: The Eastern Cape Literary Festival (Literary Festival) NELM .........................141
11:00 z Amawethu (Dance) Great Hall ...................61 z Gas Lands (Dance) Rhodes Theatre ...........58 12:00 z Bloopers (Comedy) Kingswood Theatre .....182 z Fruit (Theatre) Gymnasium ......................161 z Moonless (Theatre) Graeme College ...........31 z One Wish (Theatre) Dicks ......................167 z The Bookbinder (Family Theatre) z z z
Victoria Theatre ..........................................50 The Letter (Theatre) City Hall ..................165 The Maid (Film) Olive Schreiner ................225 Vuma (Music) Beethoven Room ..................87
13:00 z Swarm Theory (Public Art) Church Square ..47 14:00 z Bijou (Comedy) Kingswood Theatre ...........182 z Black Lives Matter (Film) Olive Schreiner .128 z Ekasi Lam - An Ode to Kwaito; Un-Owed to Kwaito (Performance Art) Rhodes Box ...30 z Freshlyground (Jazz) Guy Butler Theatre ...101 17:00 z Leonard Cohen - A Tribute (Music Theatre)
Noluthando Hall ..........................................67
Lowlander ...............................................215
20:00 Buried Seeds (Theatre) Masonic Front ....158 z Ekasi Lam - An Ode to Kwaito; Un-Owed to Kwaito (Performance Art) Rhodes Box ...30 z Loula (Theatre) B2 Arena ........................165 z On the Edge: The Late Night Show (Comedy) Princess Alice Hall .....................196 z OTE Artistry (Music) Slipstream ...............222 z The Trickster (Illusion) Masonic Back .......202 z Warona (Theatre) Gymnasium .................176 z Youth and the truth (Theatre) PJ’s .........179
19:00 z Duende (Music) Lowlander .....................221
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20:30 Barriers, Bridges and Bones (Dance)
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Centenary Hall ..........................................208 Bloopers (Comedy) Kingswood Theatre .....182 Ernie Smith (Jazz) DSG Hall ....................117
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Itoyi-toyi the story of a dance that got tired - Zize Zibuye Emasisweni (Dance) City Hall ..
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My Daily Bread (Theatre) Rehearsal Room .41 No Direction Home: Bob Dylan (2005)
210 z
(Film) Olive Schreiner .................................127 z
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Samantha’s Dubious History of Musical Comedy (Music Theatre) Beethoven Room 216 Tats is Cancelled (Comedy) Drill Hall ......194
21:00 047 (Music) Victoria Theatre .....................220 z Dao Wiz (Music) Graham Hotel ................221 z Intaka (Dance) Glennie Hall ......................210 z The Fishwives (Music) Lowlander ...........221 z
21:30 Empty Wraps (Theatre) NG Kerk Hall .......160 z James Cairns Against Humanity (Theatre) z
Princess Alice Hall .....................................163
22:00 z #selflove (Theatre) Dicks ........................170 z Freshlyground (Jazz) Guy Butler Theatre ...101 z The Chocolate Chronicles (Comedy) Library Hall ..............................................184
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18:00 z 2Dee (Illusion) Masonic Front ...................201 z 18:00 Butlers and Bombshells (Comedy)
Jannie du Toit and Ensemble (Music Theatre) Beethoven Room ........................215
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217 z
Siyahluma - Simanye (Dance) Sundowner Stage .....................................212
Benny Bushwhacker (Comedy) The Hangar 182
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The Conjurer (Illusion) Masonic Front .......202 The Story of the African Choir (Music Theatre) Glennie Hall ....................217 Vuma (Music) Beethoven Room ..................87
222
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You Should Be Dancing (Comedy) Kingswood Theatre ....................................196
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182
Sunday July 7
22:30 Robin Auld (Jazz) SB Jazz & Blues Café @
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Saint’s Bistro ............................................117 The Last Laugh (Comedy) Drill Hall ........189
21:00 z The Fishwives (Music) Lowlander ...........221
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
047 A very vibrant Eastern Cape boy band with amazing lyrics, voices and stage personality. There were guest appearances from 2 other artists and the crowd loved them all. A very participative and enjoyable show. SF
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
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. Real characters can be recognised and are brought to light leaving the audience in fits of laughter. GS
ADHD A festival favourite is back! Aron Mcllroy gives a hilarious one-man performance on the ups and downs of ADHD. Taking on multiple roles throughout, from grade 1 Angus to his long-suffering teacher Miss Cook and a bit of Shaka Zulu in between, he sings and dances his way through the performance with no Ritalin in sight! KK
mour. TVO
Big Boys Don't Dance (The Original Hit Revival) 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. KK
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 hour’s worth of the best entertainment money can buy. KK
Birds of a Feather This tragi-comedy featuring four females and one male and one imaginary Chinese man that flock together to create a dysfunctional support group. The characters have to figure out what is imaginary, what is reality and what are the hidden agendas? HP
Bloopers The hilarious married couple Aaron Mcilroy and Lisa Bobbert bring their brand new musical comedy to #NAF2019. KK
Butlers and Bombshells 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. The opening night lacked a bit of fluidity, but this show is sure to get a good chuckle out of a mature audience. RO
Carnival Sideshow and Other Magical Things
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
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
Artifice with Stuart Lightbody
Claude Samuel
Arranged Marriage
A masterful performer and mind blowing real in your face magic. Actual gasps from the audience I was captivated. This is how you make an hour disappear that you will remember forever. Stuart embodies the art of wonder. NA
Barriers, Bridges and Bones This piece of dance theatre showcases the journey of two artists- a South African and an Americanwho make good use of modern contemporary dance to bridge the barriers between their identities and to come to an understanding. It is an enjoyable and solid performance. NM
Becoming Liam 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 musicianhas the world at his feet. KK
Benji This production has a line in it about being desperate for attention, but it had my full attention, as it tackles the issues of lost opportunities, forgiveness, redemption and the struggle to make a living. HP
Benny Bushwacker 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 hu-
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. . SF
Clayton Human The lowlander is the perfect venue to revisit that teenage angst through Clayton's gruff vocals. The often experimental set was a closer fit to theatrical performance, which was pleasantly surprising and enjoyable. Definitely for those who love the alternative, like a great 80s genderneutral haircut, black skinny jeans and blood-red lighting. MM
Dancing with the Dead Coming from an evocative Pantsula background, Dancing with the Dead is a beautiful combination of spoken word poetry, an incredible music track and brilliant dancing all connected with a strong African them that work to make the performance a visually stunning experience and is one of the best expression of African theatre you can find at the fest. VJ
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
Death of a Donut An interactive who-done-it comedy
Saturday July 6 2019
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
A play about discrimination of races and also talks raising how youth are faced with challenges that sometimes they regret them. It was educational and yet carried a significant role in uplifting the art, as it had a scene about what is an artist. TB
Dr Stef's Sidesplitting Hypnosis
Isithunzi
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
A theatre production by two men who venture on their daily stories. It’s a play that draws us into a space looking for means to not be angry at someone else when they do good. TB
Duende 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. TB
Faint Patch of Light An incredibly courageous performance, Tiisetso Mashifane Wa Noni and Indalo Stofile perform on stage at their most vulnerable with a powerful and emotional story of a forbidden relationship between two black women in the midst of brutal sexual assault. VJ
Fifty Thousand Words Confession Riveting exploration of the life and journey of one of SA’s most notorious gangsters. It is based off a note found in his jail cell after having committed suicide. RO
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. 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. TVO
Fruit 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.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
How To Be a Politician in SA This solo act covers a variety of political influences which make us realise how some people vote according to their own political preference. GS
iGruffalo An amazing show for the family about a brave rodent who journeys through the forest. Actors exhibit excellent singing 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. NM
Impixano
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 and punny. LK
Itoyi-toyi: The Story of a Dance A dance production by a moving and soulful choir who was talking about the struggles that people seem to have been cursed with. They raise their voices to be heard, in doing so they run elections and bring out impressions through their voices and movements that portrayed suffering but yet relieved tiredness of the normalisation of a struggle. It was a powerful performance. TB
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 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
Jannie du Toit Together with his two companions, Chanie Jonker (piano and accordion) and Susan Mouton (cello and piano), Jannie Du Toit presents a musical extravaganza called “Bonjour Monsieur Brel”. This is a selection of 15 of Jacques Brel’s love and/or drinking songs. In honour of the centenary of the Blind Library, the programme is also printed in Braille. HP
Jeremiah Fyah Ises and the Baakahyaad This show is nothing short of extraordinary, talented Jeremiah and the band take will take your soul through an unforgettable journey through their music and connection with the audience. SB
JR Nkosi “I am autistic” was the slogan on his T-shirt, accompanied by his mother with a beautiful voice, JR Nkosi plays everything from Michael Jackson to Leta Mbuli. Every time his mother introduced his next song, the audience was emotional. This autistic, yet greatly talented boy alongside his super-mom set awareness with their music. GM
Keiskamma Music Academy We are surrounded by music and therefore we need to embrace it. This group really picked up from those lines and that it has shown that with music there's a lot of stories if one listens to the in between parts or strings in a song. A very dynamic way of making music. TB
Lambs to the Laughter Brilliantly funny. 5 comedians, all different and all hilarious. Great audience interaction. 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 co-
median 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. His hit songs such as So Long Maryanne and Halleluia brings back memories and Starke weaves the story of this man with such empathy that you gain a new perspective of the mind and inspiration of this enigmatic musician. WK
Let’s Get Personal A brand new comedy offering from a brand new comic. Quite interesting, a different take on stand up, closer to bar side story telling with friends. Breaking into a new world and not doing too badly at it. LK
Lerato A piece about a teenager who's under a lot of pressure as she struggles to survive with her single mother. TB
Loula Powerful, important and courageous but quite traumatic. Play about the trial of a woman accused of murdering her husband. The central issue is about a woman's place in society - how can she have human rights if there is no such thing as marital rape? Superb acting and superior production. SL
Makhanda Kwantu Choir: Voice Dance! Top marks for a wonderful show. First half featured beautiful choral music from other countries with perfect harmonies that were sometimes complicated without showing off. Second half was isiXhosa music accompanied by frequent ululations from an enthusiastic audience who loved the 19 singers & charismatic choirmaster. Local highlight of Fest 2019. - SL
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. 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
Saturday July 6 2019 Continues from P10
Namane Tsa Tholo A piece of dance, drama and musical about the struggle of not having rain. TB
Nipho and Sophiatown An African jazz show with a combination of modern dance and electronic music. An uplifting and high energy music which reminds one of familiar sounds and compositions from some of SA’s great musicians such as Hugh Masekela. TB
On the Edge: The Late Night Show What a treat! Folk-Rock instrumentalist duo Bottomless Coffee had us wide awake with their fantastic vocal performance. KK
Once A Woman Musical This story of black women’s participation in The Struggle is told with high energy and beautiful singing voices. LG
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. PB.
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. . 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. NOT PG, 16+ LK
Samantha’s Dubious History of Musical Comedy Samantha takes us on a colourful journey through musical comedy with a variety of songs from Gilbert and Sullivan, Benny Hill, Monty Python and Victoria Wood to name a few. KK
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
Still A powerful performance. Enhanced with effective lighting and symbolic use of water, the dramatic and poignant story delivered by the cast is both current and relatable. Brilliant production overall. MC
Synthesis from Cherra It may sound like an oxymoron, but Synthesis from Cherra at the Slipstream is “mellow rap”. What I liked about the show was its
tapestry of styles and artists to provide a soul-fulfilling melody and harmony that had the hands clapping and the feet stomping. HP
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. SL
Tears of a Woman
The Story of the African Choir
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
A touching tale of a African Choir group that accepts an invitation to tour the UK in the 1800's. Beautiful singing voices and some realistic acting delivers an overall enjoyable performance. WK
Tell Us More
The Trickster
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
Local magician Brendan Peel entertains and mystifies the audience with his mentalist and illusionistic abilities. The show will keep you engaged and entertained and will leave you wondering how he does what he does long after the show has ended. Good fun for the whole family. KK
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. NA
The Boy Who Cried Ninja 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. PB
The Untold Lesson This play performed by the North West University Mafikeng Campus and contains dialogue in English and Tswana. It is also only suitable for a mature audience. The play begins and ends at a grave, yet despite its bleak tale it offers redemption in a single word: Forgiveness. HP
This Is Very Important
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
Rahvaunia Johnson has the ability to shed some insight into the world of the existence of HIV and AIDS. Denial plays a major part in her story, a true reflection of our times with the stigma associated of having this illness. GS
The Conjurer
Time of your Life: The ’90s
The Chocolate Chronicles
Roy Swann entertains and amazes with his variety of mind boggling card, rope and coin tricks. Audience participation was key and we will be kept awake tonight wondering where those limes came from? Very entertaining first performance. Highly recommended. KK
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. . VJ
The Holy Ghost This is a dramatic piece that depicts the battle between good and evil in traditional culture in a changing world. WK
The Last Laugh Bringing the best comedians #NAF2019 has to offer all onto one stage. KK
The Last Straw A stunning performance of singing and dancing, both modern and classical. Fabulous colourful costumes and set. Bravo! WK
The Old Man & The Sea
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. NA
Troubadours: A Tribute to James Taylor and Carole King With a melody of two, the music chosen brings back to life the favourites of these two song writers in a very decisive enactment of this guitar and piano recital.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. LK
Two To Tango A witty and light hearted comedy that tells the story of white South Africans today who are challenged by racial equality, BEE and being politically correct. Refreshing and thought provoking but also hopeful and encouraging. WK
UKAMA A compelling story about an innocent young lady from rural Zimbab-
FRINGE IN 50 we and her wrestle with injustice. This tale of forgiveness and loss paints an emotive picture that sheds light on the complex stories of Africans and the trade they are forced to make in hopes to see their dreams materialise. SN
11.
Stop press – changes
Under the Jacaranda Excellent two-hander written by Kingswood College pupil, Ben Maposa who is also one of the lead actors. SL
Uthakathiwe An uncensored play about the way women are abused and how this shapes their lives and the lives of those around them. GM
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. PB
Wake Up South Africa They all want to be heard but are they prepared to do some listening? This is a thought-provoking 'talk show' that juggles some of the intersecting issues like land, gender, race and poverty. SN
Warona Riveting theatre! A multidisciplinary theatre work exploring the hardships of the township and the consequences of street justice. IM
Warts and All This production takes the simple premise of whether a bird, a snake and a frog can put aside their differences and coexist and turns it into a surreal and visually amazing story. VJ
Winging It! The Turbulent Revelations of Meghan and Shivan A very well written play about the turbulent secrets we keep. NA
Xova The theatrical performance is captivating in presentation with the use of symbolic objects as well as spot on lighting and impeccable acting. The performance is of a hybrid form of theatre, it infuses dance as well as song into the piece. AV
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. KK
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. A real feel good show that we can all relate to. TH
MAIN PROGRAMME – SWARM THEORY Start times and venues for the public theatre piece, Swarm Theory: ● 6 July – Meet at 1pm in the central 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 Hobbyness: is directed by Avril Cummins and not Ryan Dittman as advertised ● Raiders: The Fallen Crown: Lulu Read has been replaced by Jessica LeighStanley. ● Carnival Sideshow and Other Magical Things is a 12+ show – not all ages, as advertised. ● Zombie Attack: is a physical theatre piece (not dance).
FRINGE CANCELLATIONS ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
A Day of Mourning Cat As Trophy Ingenxa Kamama Just 6 Loyiso Madinga Live #Marimba Musical One Wish Samaria So Naive Trust Me, I’m a Superhero
WORDFEST CANCELLATIONS ● Katlego Shoro - SERURUBELE (Poetry reading)
MULTICHOICE SUNDOWNERS Makhanda Kwantu Choir: Voice Dance Keiskamma Music Academy
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
Luke Kaplan
HINTERLAND
Studio 1 Gallery, Rhodes Fine Art 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.
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
THE HERALD SPOTLIGHT
12.
Saturday July 6 2019
Simpson has antidote for the blues Naziziphiwo Buso
FESTIVAL FUNNYMAN: Andrew Simpson in ‘Forever Young’ at the Bowling Club in Makhanda Picture: WERNER HILLS
Buson@tisoblackstar.co.za
When the country – and individuals – are going through a rough patch, people tend to gravitate towards things that make them feel good and which treat the weightier issues in a light-hearted way. That antidote for the blues is to be found at the National Arts Festival, according to regular festival funnyman and prolific performer Andrew Simpson, who may always get the sniffles in Makhanda, but says you won’t find this kind of festive ambience anywhere else in the country. “All of our lives are sometimes stressful – I think when you have the ability to laugh at yourself or laugh at a situation, gives you the power back over that situation that might be controlling you in your life,� said Simpson, who has performed at the National Arts Festival since 2009. “I think having the national [arts] festival in [Makhanda] has its pros and cons. “The pros are that it is a magical town with lovely people – there is a buzz that you do not find anywhere else in the country.� Simpson said the ability to hop to different venues on foot as
2019
well as being able to bump into artists makes that buzz. And as for the cons, he said Makhanda is, unfortunately, a far way to travel for many performing artists and festival visitors alike and there is also a shortage of good accommodation with many people having to stay in hostels. Asked about the value of arts in SA when considering the current socio-political landscape, Simpson said art should reflect the good and the bad, and that there are lessons to be learnt from both sides. “I think when life gets really tough for people – they tend to gravitate towards things that make them feel good. “I think if we can talk about the big political issues but in a light-hearted way, it gives an opportunity and a chance for us to air the things that are not going well,� he said. On encouraging young performers, Simpson said: “You can prep and rehearse and get into your character as much as you can, but there is a moment where you have to trust and allow the show to be what it is. “The funny thing about theatre is that it could be the same show, but it will always be differ-
ent because your audience will be different,� he said. He encouraged people to visit Makhanda during the festival because of the multitude of things that one can see and do. Although he has gotten sick for all the years since he began performing at the festival – this year being no different with a throat and chest infection – Simpson said he has learnt a lot from the experience. “Sometimes the audience does not connect to my material – but these have been some of the best learning opportunities. “I have also learnt every year that I have performed and I have gotten the opportunity to put on a variety of shows,� he said. Although he has had the opportunity to tour and perform in the UK and Australia, Simpson said the highlight of his career was meeting Nelson Mandela in 2009 in Makhanda. Simpson encouraged people coming to the festival in 2020 to book their accommodation for up to six months in advance, to avoid inflated prices. � Simpson is still performing in these Saturday shows: Death of a Donut at 12.30pm, Forever Young at 2pm, and Time of your Life: The 90’s at 5pm.
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SATURDAY 6 JULY 2019 10:00 11:30
ART-DUINO
12:00 12:30
The New Creative Utopias with Julius Wiedemann
13:00 14:00
WORLD BUILDING THROUGH ANIMATION
14:30 15:30
16:00 16:45
Explore the creative space where programming, design and art meet. In this informative hands on workshop you will explore the introductory elements of Arduino and programme your own unique artwork. The future we imagined a century ago is now a reality and, more often than not, one ĂŚ
Ì to survive, it is a challenge like no other. Let’s embrace the next generation of utopias and use the tools we ought to create and shape a new future. Julius is from Taschen one of the world’s eading art book designers, based in Germany. Tulips and Chimneys are a Cape Town based creative studio specialising in animation, Ì dream up and construct unique, diverse aesthetics for environments, sets, props and constumes for all media. They are renowned for their character design - whether its a bohemian princess, a wacky vegetable or an outlandish pirate, great care is taken to ensure that their stories and unique personalities are beautifully depicted.
Dubship 1 – Black Starliner
One hundred years ago, the Black Star Line was established by Marcus Garvey as a black-owned shipping line with the aim of repatriating the descendants of African slaves. Fifty years later, the singer Fred Locks recorded the dub track ‘Black Star Liner’. In conjuring imaginary spaces through sound, dub embraces imagery of space travel. The sculpture ‘Dubship I - Black Starliner’, a project by African Robots and SPACECRAFT with funding from the National Arts Council of South Africa, takes these elements to produce its own ‘version’ of an imagined spacecraft. This ‘dub lecture’ by the lead artist Ralph Borland explores the history of the Black Star Line.
An Artistic Approach to Emerging Technology 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
MOVING PERFORMANCE: Well Worn Theatre Company presents their performance art and physical theatre work called 'Swarm Theory' on the Drostdy Lawns and at Drostdy Arch and on Somerset Street during the National Arts Festival held in Makhanda. Swarming the streets of Makhanda, performers engage with their environment, exploring the street corners, green spaces and market places of life. Each swarming is unplanned, immediate, dynamic and unique to its ecosystem of sounds, smells, rhythms and people Picture: MARK WESSELS
FRINGE COMEDY
Lehoko will have you in stitches TELL US MORE, Siv Ngesi Productions, (Library Hall). July 6 at 10am. Stand-up comedy is never an easy thing to pull off, especially with a very limited crowd, but Mojak Lehoko managed to do so with a bang. Unassuming and funny to
the core, Lehoko knows how to work his audience, making them feel relaxed and welcome in his world, where political issues are addressed in subtle and engaging ways. Not shying away from taboo subjects dealing with society and cultural differences but presenting them in
a relatable way while engaging with his audience, Lehoko takes no shame for his musings on subjects of love, life, family and everything in between. Fun-filled and hilarious up to the end, Lehoko will have you in stitches - the good ones. - Devon Koen