Cover image: Mohau Modisakeng
2Cape2TowSnECBPD, WOO-DS8TOCKO, LACNGTA, V&A WATERFRONT & Surrounds
@CTFringe CapeTownfringe www.capetownfringe.co.zA
A Project of the national arts festival
Celebrating the 2016 winners Standard Bank Young Artist Awards
Left to right Visual Art: Mohau Modisakeng Dance: Themba Mbuli SBSA: Hazel Chimhandamba Jazz: Siya Makuzeni SBSA: Jenny Pheiffer Theatre: Jade Bowers Music: Avigail Bushakevitz (absent)
Authorised financial services and registered credit provider (NCRCP15). The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited (Reg. No. 1962/000738/06). Moving Forward is a trademark of The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited. SBSA 236711-4/16
2
CONTENTS 4 6 8 12 15 16
19 20
Festival Messages Acknowledgements Index Standard Bank Young Artist Award Winners 2015 Featured Artist of the Year Two decades of FrenchSouth African collaboration at the National Arts Festival Arena Curatorial Statement
PROGRAMME 21 50 155
Main Programme Student Theatre Fringe Programme
255 273 279 280
2017 Call for Proposals Village Green Booking Procedures Map
ARENA PROGRAMME 48 62 88
Theatre Dance Music
SOLO SEASON 43
Theatre
EASTERN CAPE SHOWCASE 79 81 112
Music Jazz Visual Art
2016 FESTIVAL PROGRAMME UPDATE We will be publishing an update to our Programme which will be available in Grahamstown throughout the Festival, at all of our Box Offices and Information Kiosks. This pocketsized booklet will contain updated information on performances and events, changes, cancellations and additional shows, a daily diary map, local emergency services number, etc and is a must-have for all Festival-goers.
THEATRE
21
SOLO THEATRE
43
STUDENT THEATRE
50
DANCE
55
MUSIC
63
JAZZ
91
PERFORMANCE ART
105
VISUAL ART
107
PUBLIC ART
116
FAMILY FARE
120
THINK!FEST
125
FILM
140
3
156
THEATRE
189
COMEDY
217
PHYSICAL THEATRE
223
DANCE
233
FAMILY FARE
239
ILLUSION
240
POETRY
242
PERFORMANCE/ PUBLIC ART
243
CABARET & MUSIC THEATRE
249
CHORAL/RECITAL MUSIC
251
CONTEMPORARY MUSIC
258
FILM
259
SPIRITFEST
261
VISUAL ART
Disclaimer: The Festival organisers have made every effort to ensure that everything printed in this publication is accurate. However, mistakes and changes do occur, and we do not accept any responsibility for them or for any inaccuracies or misinformation within advertisements. Artists provide images, logos and advertisements and we accept no responsibility for the quality of reproduction in this publication.
4
A MEMORABLE VOYAGE OF DISCOVERY Ayanda Mjekula, Chairman: National Arts Festival Board
W
elcome to the 2016 National Arts Festival – our 42nd edition! This year our artists travel to Grahamstown as South Africans engage with some deep issues that have remained unresolved since democracy, and the context of their work is the introspection, debate, anger, fear and change that is occupying the minds of South Africans. The #mustfall movement, and our response to it, is one that captures this mood in many ways and it is right and proper that it falls into sharp focus on our Think!Fest programme this year. Since its inception the Festival has been the debating ground of the big issues. It has never shied away from controversy nor from providing a stage on which the tough questions can be asked. It has been the home of the activist-artist and, one hopes, will continue to be in 2016 and beyond. Because it is through the work of our writers, performers, artists, directors, poets and musicians that we will continue to discover each other and shape our nation. At the same time we continue to operate in an extremely tough economic environment
as we wish him well for the future, we note that he will be missed. The Festival, however, has huge depth among its management team, and the ability to attract the country’s top talent both on and off the stage. We know that the future of the Festival is in safe hands and look forward now to the next stage of our lifecycle, and the embracing of new ideas under our evolving artistic leadership team. We wish them, our CEO and the rest of management, well in this time of transition and planning. and it is only through the commitment and passion of all those involved in creating the work and in building the Festival stages that we are able to present a programme of such diversity and richness. One of those people has, for the past eight years, been Artistic Director Ismail Mahomed who is moving on in his career and will be relocating to Johannesburg at the end of July. I’d like to thank him, on behalf of the Board, for bringing his considerable insight and viewpoint to bear on the Festival. His contribution has been immense and, even
Thank you, too, to our passionate and engaged funders and sponsors – some of whom are profiled on this page. Your support for this event is much appreciated, as is the depth and quality of engagement you bring to the table. All that remains is to thank you for being here – and to hope that your time with us is rewarding, fulfilling, inspiring and, whether it is your first Festival or your 42nd, that it will be a memorable voyage of discovery for you.
MESSAGE FROM DR PEMMY MAJODINA Dr Pemmy Majodina, MEC for Sport, Recreation, Art & Culture, Province of The Eastern Cape
T
he National Arts Festival is an iconic annual event! It continues to forge ahead and carve new pathways and collaborations with artists in South Africa and across the globe. The Festival’s trailblazing international partnerships are of incredible significance. In 1992, after the lifting of the cultural boycott, Ms Barbara Masekela attended the National Arts Festival. Her presence offered hope and a vision about how the National Arts Festival could engage the healing and transformative power of the arts to build a new South Africa. In 1996, Nelson Mandela returned to Grahamstown to rededicate the Monument on Settlers Hill as a place for all South Africans to enjoy the arts. For more than two decades the Eastern Cape Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts & Culture has proudly associated itself with the National Arts Festival. The Eastern Cape Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts & Culture takes pride in celebrating the Province as South Africa’s cradle of arts, culture, heritage, politics and public intellectualism.
This province is the birthplace of renowned and celebrated writers, musicians, artists, politicians, academics and scientists. Many of these great men and women are alumni of the Fort Hare University. This year marks the centenary of this august institution which proudly lists amongst its alumni Nelson Mandela, Oliver Tambo, Govan Mbeki, Robert Sobukwe, Desmond Tutu, Ivy Motsepe-Cassaburi, Manto Msimang-Tshabalala and many other illustrious South African political leaders. It is also in the corridors of this institution that African leaders such as Kenneth Kaunda (Zambia), Seretse Khama (Botswana), Yusuf Lule (Uganda) and others brushed shoulders with their South African counterparts. This year, the National Arts Festival will celebrate one of University of Fort Hare’s most well-known writers and public intellectuals, Mr Can Themba. A production about the writings of this notable author and journalist is being crafted by two South African writers of a younger generation. This is a
clear demonstration that the arts are unique magnetic force. It can draw people of different generations together in as much as it can attract audiences that are diverse in race, language and cultural origin.
diverse forms of creativity and cultural expressions that give our audiences a sense of hope. I also invite you to experience the richness and cultural diversity that makes the Eastern Cape a truly unique province. This year at the National Arts Festival, the Eastern Cape Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts & Culture will once again feature artists from the Eastern Cape in an Arts Exhibition, Crafts Exhibition, Word Fest programme and the Jazz at Dakawa programme. The ever-popular indigenous dance and music ensemble will pay tribute to the world’s greatest leader of this century, Nelson Mandela, in a production titled We Salute Madiba.
The Eastern Cape Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts & Culture is grateful to the artists and audiences who celebrate our nation’s rich historical and cultural legacy. We are confident that this year several South African artists will honour the struggles of the youth of 1976 through the songs that they compose, the poems that they write and the dances and theatre productions that they create. I urge you to experience the
Every cent spent by artists, audiences and funders during their visit to the Eastern Cape contributes to the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy. It assists to combat poverty and to stimulate the economic growth in the province. For that I salute the National Arts Festival for its leadership role and to the artists, audiences and co-funders for their shared vision to stimulate growth in the Eastern Cape.
5
CELEBRATING OUR BRIGHTEST AND OUR BEST Sim Tshabalala and Ben Kruger, Chief Executives, Standard Bank Group
A
s National Arts Festival’s Artistic Director Ismail Mohamed writes, “The Festival has an immense power to engage the hearts and the minds of South Africans, and South African artists have a proud record of successfully using the arts to advocate for social change.” We agree, and we would add this: Engaging the hearts and minds of South Africans and the world at large has always been essential – and is all the more valuable in these challenging and uncertain times. As we navigate our way through oftenstormy waters towards a more just and prosperous society for all South Africans, challenging art and open dialogue are critical. The arts, in all their variety, inspire, embody and enrich that essential conversation. We are very proud to be the longestserving sponsor for the National Arts Festival. Our sponsorship expresses our commitment to help move our nation and continent forward in all spheres.
Because we believe in long-term partnerships, we are particularly enthusiastic about youth development. We are very proud of the Standard Bank National Youth Jazz Festival and we invite you attend some of the performances to be given by these wonderful young musicians. A series of youth master-classes forms part of this project and some of its alumni include Beatenberg’s Matthew Field, Tutu Puoane, and Kyle Shepherd, Goldfish’s Dominic Peters and David Poole, Micasa’s J’Something and Mo-T. Their successes inspire us to continue our support. Go to a show and catch the next generation of rising stars. The Standard Bank Jazz Festival is another of our flagship events at the National Arts Festival and this year’s extraordinary and unmissable artist line-up is testimony to our commitment to make world-class talent accessible to more South Africans. On behalf of all of us at Standard Bank, we wish you an enjoyable and inspiring National Arts Festival.
A STRONG AND INTELLIGENT PROGRAMME Brett Bailey, Chair: Festival Artistic Committee
W
e have a brand new Artistic Committee, full of ideas and enthusiasm to take the National Arts Festival to the next level, and to address the challenges of the times. Yet this has been a very challenging festival to put together within a milieu of inadequate public arts policy and public arts funding. This year saw an extraordinarily strong raft of proposals for the Festival, but for many months it looked like we would only be able to offer you a very small array of works indeed. It is thanks to the tireless work and wheeling and dealing of the Artistic Director, Ismail Mahomed – fired up by a keen Artistic Committee and supported by his team – that we have the programme we do. And also of course to the Festival’s myriad sponsors. We feel that it is a strong and intelligent programme. We are delighted to be able to support a number of talented artists in showing their work to you. If only we were in a position to platform many more of them. We are living in an era – 22 years after liberation – in which marginalized voices are demanding to be heard with frustration and fury. We all need to listen to one another. The Arts is about more than a good story, a pretty picture, a fun time to be had by all…
2016 Festival Artistic Committee - Photo: Suzy Bernstein
Artists invite us to share their varied realities. To enter into or to look at their worlds. They give us a few moments to experience things in very different ways, and to gain some understanding. The National Arts Festival is a unique forum, in which we have access to the realities of artists from a very wide spectrum of backgrounds and contexts. I encourage you, when you mark the programme with all the performances and exhibitions that you know you will enjoy, to
step out of your zones of comfort; to identify some works that are not ‘safe’ for you; to trawl the depths of the Fringe, the THINK!FEST, the film festival; and to use this Festival to sit down and to listen to what diverse people are saying; to gain some understanding... I am thrilled to have such an energised and astute Committee to work with. We will continue to seek out artists and to nurture them, and will endeavour in the coming years to present to you the most interesting, enthralling and mind-broadening programmes that we can.
6
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL
WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS AND SUPPORTERS PRESENTING SPONSORS:
STRATEGIC PARTNERS:
SUPPLIER SPONSORS:
7 WITH THANKS TO: African Festival Network Albany & Bathurst Engineering Albany Museum Group Alliance Français Southern Africa Amsterdam Fringe Artscape Theatre Centre Arts Council Norway ASSITEJ SA Brighton Fringe British Council Cadar Printers City of Guangzhou China Theatre Association Churches of Grahamstown Cinemark CO Colombia Con Hill Creative Industries Fund NL DALRO Danish Arts Foundation Department of Arts and Culture (DAC) Drama for Life DWR Electrosonic South Africa Embassy of Argentina Embassy of Austria in SA Embassy of Colombia Embassy of Denmark Embassy of France Embassy of South Korea Embassy of Russia Embassy of Spain Embassy of Switzerland Embassy of the People’s Republic of China Embassy of Uruguay Eastern Cape Provincial Arts & Culture Council (ECPACC) East Norway Jazz Centre European Union Commission E.T.C Europe French Institute in South Africa (IFAS) Goethe Institute Grahamstown Hospitality Guild Gravel Road Entertainment Group Gauteng Economic Development Agency Gauteng Film Commission Ichikovitz Foundation Iziko Museums of South Africa Joburg City Theatres Line Out Magnetic Storm Mary Lou Meese Youth Jazz Fund Members of the South African and International Media Mid-Atlantic Foundation National Film & Video Foundation (NFVF) Paul Bothner Music PG Bison George Pick 'n Pay Walmer Port Elizabeth Opera House Prague Fringe ProHelvetia Red Pepper Pictures Representation of Flanders Royal Netherlands Embassy in South Africa Royal Norwegian Embassy Russia Today SAfm SAMRO Endowment for the National Arts SGB – Cape So Solo Festival : Wits University South African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) South African Police Service South African National Community Theatre Association Standard Bank for loan of computers
Standard Bank Gallery Stevenson Gallery South African National Gallery Swallows Foundation Swedish Arts Council Swedish Jazz Federation Transnet Port Authority Twist Theatre Development Projects US Embassy Video Vision Village Green Committee World Fringe Alliance The Managements, Presenting Companies, Galleries, Artists and Technical Staff whose talent, professionalism and creativity make the Festival a pleasure to produce, and an amazing 11 days for our audiences to experience. The Schools and Colleges of Grahamstown: Carinus Arts Centre, Diocesan School for Girls, Graeme College, Kingswood College, Nombulelo Secondary School, Khutliso Daniels Secondary School, P J Olivier Hoërskool, St Andrew’s College, St Andrew’s Preparatory, Victoria Girls’ High School, Victoria Preparatory School, and Oatlands Primary School. The Citizens of Grahamstown for their hospitality, support and encouragement. National Arts Festival Team: Tony Lankester (CEO) Ismail Mahomed (Artistic Director) Kate Davies (Festival Manager) Zikhona Monaheng (Fringe Manager) Sanda Mankayi (Fringe Assistant) Nicci Spalding (Technical Director) Ryan Bruton (Operations Manager) Guy Nelson (Production Manager) Michelle Lowry (Production Manager) Kay Mosiane (Production Asisstant) Selina White (Village Green Director) Clarissa Carolus (Village Green Assistant) Renee Engelbrecht (Village Green Assistant) Akhona Daweti (Box Office Manager) Carolyn Stevenson-Milln (Creative City) Emma Chippendale (Think!Fest & Office Assistant) Daniel Bailey (Website) Danielle Wessels (Receptionist and Social Secretary) Lynette Marais (Project Consultant) Leroy Maisiri (Accommodation and Travel) Charl van Deventer (Finance Manager) Etienne Abrahams (Finance Assistant) Sascha Polkey (Rabbit in a Hat) (Media and Public Relations) Tammy Gerber (PR Assistant) Yolisa Madzidzela (Media Assistant) Anne Taylor (Social Media) Festival Programme Kate Davies (Compilation & Editing) Brian Garman, Hannah McDonald and AmyJane Harkess – Rhodes University School of Journalism & Media Studies (Art Direction & Design) Lauren Dixon-Paver, Sara Steiniger, Lara Unsworth, Tiffany Mac Sherry, Alexa Mazza, Nandi Pape, Ash Erasmus, Bianca Levin, Alizwa Mnyatheli, Tevin Tobias, Izelle Taljaard (Layout Team) Cadar Printers, Port Elizabeth (Printing)
BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Ayanda Mjekula (Chairperson) Elinor Sisulu Paul Bannister Letepe Maisela Grahame Lindop Albie Sachs Sikkie Kajee Nkulie Pityana Jay Pather Tony Lankester (CEO)
Audit Committee: Sikkie Kajee (Chairperson) Grahame Lindop Henry Cronje
NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL ARTISTIC COMMITTEE 2016: Brett Bailey (Chairperson) Richard Cock (Music) Samson Diamond (Music) Patrick Tikolo (Music) Attiyyah Khan (Music) Adrienne Sichel (Dance) Gregory Maqoma (Dance) Lliane Loots (Dance) Mandie v d Spuy (Visual Art) Ruth Simbao (Visual Art) Ernestine White (Visual Art) Lara Bye (Theatre) Greg Homann (Theatre) Phyllis Klotz (Development & Multi-disciplinary) Warona Seane (Development & Multidisciplinary) Tracey Saunders (Theatre) Trevor Steele Taylor (Film) Alan Webster (Jazz) Anthea Garman (Think!Fest) SPONSORS’ REPRESENTATIVES Pragasen Chetty (Eastern Cape Department Of Sports, Recreation, Arts & Culture) Hazel Chimhandamba and Dianne Graney (Standard Bank) NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL REPRESENTATIVES Tony Lankester (CEO) Ismail Mahomed (Artistic Director) Kate Davies (Festival Manager) Nicci Spalding (Technical Director) Zikhona Monaheng (Fringe Manager) MEDIA REPRESENTATIVE Sascha Polkey
8
INDEX TO THE 2015 NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL 1606 (Poetry/Storytelling)........................................... 241 1976 Musical (Theatre)................................................. 156 10 Days in a Shebeen (Theatre)................................ 156 119 Lives Unlived (Film)............................................148 2-4-1 Even More Fun! (Family Fare)......................... 233 20 Years of Third World Bunfight (Think!Fest).....................................................................133 40 Stones In The Wall (Visual Art)............................. 261 …feathers…’ (Dance)....................................................... 226 …if the world was listening (Dance).......................... 226 “Days Like These” (Dance).........................................58 (the) Last Supper (Theatre)......................................... 156 #AfterMarikana (Theatre)............................................. 156 #Sirensrock (Student Theatre)..................................50 #The Voices (Visual Art)............................................ 112 #Whatsleftout (Student Theatre).........................51
A
Tiny Hum: Humanity (Student Theatre) .......................................................51 Ababhemu (Visual Art) ............................................. 261 Abangabonwa (The Unseen) (Dance) .......................................................................... 223 Acatears Music (Music) ............................................ 251 Acoustiq Assassins (Music) .................................... 251 Actresses: An Adaptation of Chekov’s “The Seagull” (Theatre) ........................................... 158 African Piano (Music) ................................................69 African Rhythms (Dance) ........................................ 223 Afrika Mkhize Big Band (Jazz) ..............................96 Afriqueer (Theatre) ....................................................33 After All (Theatre) ....................................................... 158 Aka (Music) ....................................................................82 Along the Way (Visual Art) ...................................... 261 Álvaro Meza (Music) ..................................................74 Always & Forever (Film) .......................................... 258 Ammiel Bushakevitz (Music) .................................70 Amsterdam (Theatre) ................................................46 Animal Farm (Theatre) ..............................................31 Apologies in Advance (Comedy) ......................... 189 Arena Art Exhibition (Visual Art) .......................114 Art & Wine (Visual Art) .............................................. 261 Art In Action (Visual Art) ........................................... 261 As Ever, Bessie (Theatre) .........................................48 Asanda Mqiki – The Balladeer (Music) ..............88 Asazi (Theatre) ............................................................ 158 Astonish (Illusion) ...................................................... 239 Athol Fugard - Making Music With Words (Film) ........................................................ 153 Avigail Bushakevitz in Concert (Music)............63 Azlan, Zeezee and Kay Kay (Music)........................ 251
B!*ch Stole My Doek
(Comedy) ...................................................................... 189 Baobab Trio in Concert (Music) ............................ 249 Barrera (Theatre) .........................................................49 Battle of the Keys (Film) ........................................148 Battle of Trafalgar Square, The (Film) ..............................................................................149 Be a Better Dog (Theatre) ........................................ 159 BeSpoke (Comedy) ................................................... 189 Best Of Gauteng: Pantsula Dance (Dance) .......................................................................... 223 Best of Gauteng: Shattered Dream (Theatre) ........................................................................ 159 Best of Rob van Vuuren, The (Comedy) ...................................................................... 189 Bianca Wood (Music) ............................................... 251 Big Boys the Third (Comedy) ................................ 189 Bird / Fish (Performance Art) .................................. 242 Bird / Fish (Visual Art) ................................................ 263 Black Dog-White Cat (Theatre) ........................................................................ 159 Black Gods of the Asphalt (Physical Theatre) ...................................................... 217 Blaqseed (Music) ....................................................... 251 Bloem-Boykie Diaries, The (Comedy) ...................................................................... 189 Blonde Poison (Theatre) ..........................................47 Blue (Physical Theatre) ............................................ 217 Boet ‘n Swaer (Comedy) ......................................... 192 Bon Soir 1.5 (Comedy) ............................................. 189 Boy Ntulikazi (Theatre) ............................................. 159 Breaking The Wall (Theatre) .................................. 159
Breath and Hammer (Music) .................................72 bRENT - A Mobile Thriller (Theatre) ........................................................................ 159 Brothers Streep, The: Same Streep Different Day (Comedy) .......................................... 192 Brothers Streep, The: Stand-Up Musicians Plugged (Comedy) .................................................... 192 Bruce Little Originals (Visual Art) ......................... 263 Bucket List (Comedy) ............................................... 192 Burn (Dance) ................................................................ 223 Butlers and Broadway (Comedy) ......................... 192 Butterfly Dreams (Public Art) .............................118
C
aiphus Semenya (Music) ....................................85 Calabash Children (Theatre) ...................... 161 / 233 Callusses (Theatre) .................................................... 161 Camp Carrawak (Comedy) ..................................... 193 Can Themba Display (Think!Fest) .................................................................133 Cannibalising of an Irish Nun (Music Theatre) ........................................................... 243 Cape Dance Company (Dance) ............................60 Cape to Calais (Jazz) .................................................93 Carinus Art Centre Group Exhibition (Visual Art) ..................................................................... 263 Catch My Soul (Film) ..............................................149 Cenotaph of Dan wa Moriri (Theatre) ........................................................................ 161 Changes (Performance Art) ................................... 242 Chapter 2 Section 9 (Theatre) ............................... 161 Charmaine Haines Contemporary Ceramics (Visual Art) ................................................. 263 Chasing Shadows (Dance) ..................................... 223 Cheers to Broadway (Music Theatre) ................. 243 Cheers to Sarajevo (Theatre) ................................. 161 Children of the Tundra (Film) .............................148 Chisipite School Orchestra and Afrojazz Ensemble (Music) ...................................................... 249 Chris Chameleon (Music) ....................................... 251 Cinema Extravaganza (Music) ..............................67 Claude Cozens Trio (Jazz) ......................................92 Cloud-Catcher, The (Family Fare) ....................... 233 Clues on the Sand (Theatre) .................................. 163 Coat of Many Colours (Theatre) ........................... 163 Cock (Theatre) ............................................................ 163 Come and See (Film) ..............................................146 Comedy Masterclass (Comedy) ........................... 193 Common Roots, Different Routes (Visual Art) ..................................................................... 263 Confession (Theatre) ................................................ 163 Confession Sessions (Student Theatre) .......................................................52 Confessions of a Student (Theatre) .................... 164 Connection to Home (Physical Theatre) ...................................................... 217 Contemporary Migration & the Plight of Refugees (Think!Fest) ......................................127 Continuum (Visual Art) ..........................................111 Conversation with Myself (Theatre) .................... 164 Conveying Stories of Human Suffering (Think!Fest) .................................................................127 Creating Minds (A Journey to Discover) (Theatre) ........................................................................ 164 Creative Expression: The Whirlwind (Music) ........................................................................... 251 Creature (Theatre) ..................................................... 164 Crepuscule (Theatre) ................................................22 Crossing Over (Visual Art) ....................................... 264
Dakawa Jazz Series (Music) ................................81
DALRO Theatricals (Think!Fest) .......................132 Dance as Change (Film) ........................................153 Dance Spectrum (Dance) ....................................... 224 Dangled (Theatre) ..................................................... 164 Dani & the Lion (Music Theatre) ........................... 244 Dark Ages, The (Comedy) ...................................... 193 David Kontra Trio (Jazz) ...........................................93 Day On Which a Man Dies, The (Theatre) ..........................................................................32 Dead End: The Calais Crisis (Film) ..............................................................................148 Dead Yellow Sands (Theatre) ................................28 Dear Breeder (Comedy) ........................................... 193
Death and Life of Makhaza Mshiyeni (Film) ........................................................... 258 Death of a Clown (Physical Theatre) .................. 217 Death of a Donut (Comedy) ................................... 195 Death Postponed (Theatre) ................................... 164 Death’s Reject (Theatre) .......................................... 164 Decolonising the Arts (Think!Fest) .................................................................131 Decriminalising Dagga (Think!Fest) .................................................................129 Deep Fried Man - In Good Taste (Comedy) ...................................................................... 195 Deep Time: A Final Count-Down (Visual Art) ..................................................................... 264 Defending The Planet (Comedy) ......................... 195 Denuded Thought (Theatre) ................................. 164 Die Glas ennie Draad (Theatre) ............................. 164 Die Huweliksaansoek (Comedy) .......................... 195 Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Memories & Perspectives (Film) .................................................141 Diogo Art (Visual Art) ................................................ 264 Dirty, Blood Money (Theatre) ................................ 167 Discussing 90 Days (Film) ...................................143 Disrupt (Think!Fest) ................................................126 Don’t Burn Your Sausage! (Comedy) .................. 195 Downfall (Dance) ....................................................... 224 Dr Stef’s Sidesplitting Hypnosis (Comedy) ...................................................................... 196 Dracula (Theatre) ....................................................... 167 Dragging 30 (Theatre) ............................................. 167 Dreams (Theatre) ....................................................... 167
E
astern Cape Handmade Collection, The (Visual Art) ...................................................................113 Ebola (Physical Theatre) ......................................... 217 Echo of a Noise, The (Theatre) .............................38 Echoes of a More Gracious Past (Visual Art) ..................................................................... 264 Egazini Expressions (Visual Art) ............................ 264 Emaxesibeni African Dance (Dance) .......................................................................... 224 eMhlab’ Obomvu (Theatre) .................................... 167 Emkhathini (Theatre) ................................................ 167 Emo Adams – Tall, Dark & Afrikaans (Film) ..............................................................................153 Empowering Women as Cultural Leaders in Africa (Think!Fest) ..............................................132 Enemies and Friends (Think!Fest) ...................133 Enslaved by the Absence of a Father (Music Theatre) ........................................................... 244 Every Beautiful Thing (Theatre) ............................ 167 Everybody’s Gone (Film) ......................................147 Exhibition of Photography: Ambassador of the Russian Federation (Film) .......................146 Exodus (Music) ........................................................... 251
Fabric of the Universe (Dance) ............................ 224 Fabulous Nothing (Comedy) ................................. 196 Falling Off the Horn (Physical Theatre) .............. 217 Family Secret, The (Film) ........................................ 258 Fantastical Flea Circus (Family Fare) .................. 233 Father, Father, Father! (Physical Theatre).......... 217 Feda Winning Play (Theatre) ................................. 167 Felt Fire (Music) .......................................................... 252 Festival Gala Concert, The (Music) ....................64 Figs (Student Theatre) .............................................50 Filthy Ent. (Music) ...................................................... 252 Finding Upright (Physical Theatre) ..................... 217 Fingo Festival (Family Fare) ................................... 233 Firebird (Dance) ...........................................................56 Fleurs de Silence (Flowers of Silence) (Public Art) .................................................................... 242 Florence (Theatre) ..................................................... 167 Florence & Watson and the Sugarbush Mouse Book talk (Think!Fest) ............................................136 Florence and Watson and the Sugarbush Mouse (Family Fare) ................................................. 233 For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide when The Rainbow Is Enuf (Poetry/Storytelling) .................................................. 241 Fort England & Tower Hospital Art Group Exhibition (Visual Art) ............................................... 264 Fragments of Land (Visual Art) ............................. 265
9 Framework (Visual Art) ............................................. 265 Frank Paco Art Ensemble (Jazz) .......................101 Free Angela Davis and All Political Prisoners (Film) ..............................................................................144 Free Souls (Theatre) .................................................. 167 Free State Arts Talk (Visual Art) ............................. 265 Friends of Talent Artist Collaboration (Visual Art) ..................................................................... 265 Frontline Reporting (Think!Fest) ......................137 Full Morty, The (Comedy) ...................................... 196
Ga(y)me(n)Play (Physical Theatre) ................... 217
Gabo: The Magic of Reality (Film) ....................152 Gauteng Motjeko Dance (Dance) ........................ 226 Gender Politics (Think!Fest) ...............................128 Genesis (The beginning of an end) (Dance) .......................................................................... 226 Geographer Drank His Globe Away, The (Film) .....................................................................146 German Sisters, The (Film) .................................143 Getting Away With Murder (Film) ....................153 Ghost House (Theatre) ............................................. 169 Ghost Story (Theatre) ............................................... 169 Ghost Town (Theatre) ............................................... 169 Gift from the Mines, A (Theatre) ............................ 169 Giftig (Physical Theatre) .......................................... 217 Ginsburg/Mezza Convergence Band (Jazz) .................................................................................98 Glass in Flux (Visual Art) .......................................... 265 G(l)ory (Performance Art) ........................................ 242 Gluten Free (Comedy) .............................................. 196 God’s Perfect Palette (Visual Art) ......................... 266 Graveyard, The (Theatre) ....................................... 169 Great American Songbook, A (Music Theatre) ........................................................... 243 Guangzhou Song and Dance Company (Family Fare) ..............................................................122 Gug’ Othandayo Musical (Music Theatre) ........................................................... 244 Guy Buttery (Music) ................................................... 252 Guy Buttery & The Odeion String Quartet (Music) .............................................................................66 Gym and Tonic: Memory of a Muscle (Comedy) ...................................................................... 196
Hairy Potter and the Stoned Philosopher
(Comedy) ...................................................................... 197 Hannah Arendt (Film) ............................................143 HarleQueens (Comedy) ........................................... 197 Hashtag Lottering (Comedy) ................................. 197 Hashtag Protests & Student Politics, The (Think!Fest) .................................................................126 Hatchetman (Music) ................................................. 252 Have You Seen Zandile? (Theatre) ...................... 169 Heart’s Hotel (Theatre) .............................................49 Henri Matisse: Rhythm & Meaning (Think!Fest) 133 Henrietta with Love (Theatre) ............................... 169 Her War: Women vs. Isis (Film) ..........................148 Hildegard von Bingen (Film) ..............................144 Homage to Arnold Van Wyk (Music) ..................71 Home (Physical Theatre) ......................................... 220 House of Truth, The (Theatre) ..............................23 How Did I Get Here? (Comedy) ............................ 197 How Stories Began (Family Fare) ......................... 233
I Am (Dance) ................................................................ 226
I Am and We Are (Theatre) ...................................... 169 I Am... Dedanizizwe (Physical Theatre) ...................................................... 220 I Came, I Taught, I Left (Comedy) ........................ 199 Ibn al-Haytham: the Father of Optics (Performance Art) ....................................................... 242 If These Bodies Could Speak (Dance) .......................................................................... 227 If This Be Treason (Film) ........................................141 Ilembe (Theatre) ..........................................................27 Immortal (Theatre) .....................................................46 Impixano / Conflict (Theatre) ................................. 169 In Bocca Al Lupo (Theatre) .....................................45 In her shoes! (Theatre) ............................................. 171 Incognito (Theatre) ................................................... 171 Inconvenience Of Wings, The (Theatre) ..........................................................................24
Incredible Journey, The (Family Fare) .............. 235 Ingrid (Physical Theatre) ......................................... 220 Inside the Sound (Performance Art) ................... 242 Insight (Film) ..............................................................147 Into Us and Ours (Film) ........................................... 258 Intwaso (Dance) ......................................................... 227 Irit Noble Show (Comedy) ...................................... 199 Is it too late (Theatre) ................................................ 171 Isaro (Family Fare) ...................................................... 235 It’s a Fine Line (Think!Fest) .................................133 It’s all about Light 5 (Visual Art) ............................ 266 Itrongo (Film) .............................................................. 258 Ityala la Mawele (Music Theatre) ......................... 244 Izimpande – The Roots (Visual Art) ..................... 266
J
ennefer Ann’s Gallery (Visual Art) ..................................................................... 266 Joanne Cooper (Music) ........................................... 252 Johnny Boskak is Feeling Funny (Theatre) ........................................................................ 171 Julanie J (Music) ........................................................ 252 Just Antigone (Poetry/Storytelling) ..................... 241 Justin Binek (Jazz) .....................................................97
K
aditshwene (Music Theatre) ............................. 244 Kafka’s Ape (Theatre) ............................................... 171 Karoo Moose (Theatre) .............................................25 Keeper of the Kumm, The (Theatre) ..................34 Sylvia Vollenhoven: The Keeper of the Kumm (Think!Fest) .................................................................136 Kettling of the Voices (Film) ................................149 Kochira (Physical Theatre) .....................................62 Kontinuum (Theatre) ................................................. 171 Kukura (Dance) ........................................................... 227
Ladies of Midnight Blue (Music) ........................76
Lambs to the Laughter (Comedy) ....................... 199 Langa Yanta- Monster Hunter (Family Fare) .... 236 Last Drop, The (Theatre) ......................................... 171 Last Laugh, The (Comedy) .................................... 199 Late Night Jazz Café (Jazz) ...................................92 Le Morceau (Theatre) ............................................... 171 Lefa la Ntate (Visual Art) .......................................107 Legato (Music) ............................................................ 252 Lenyalo (The wedding) (Public Art) .................... 242 Leomile (Music) .......................................................... 252 Les Cenci (Theatre) ....................................................35 Let There Be Music - A Choral Celebration (Music) ................................................... 249 Life (Comedy) .............................................................. 199 Lifting the Veil on Islam, Women and Islamophobia (Think!Fest) .................................129 Light House, The (Family Fare) ............................ 236 Lilith - Genesis One (Film) ...................................... 258 Listening Lounge with Richard Haslop (Think!Fest) .................................................................138 Little Cadre (Theatre) ................................................ 171 Little Prince, The (Film) ........................................150 Live Jukebox (Comedy) .......................................... 203 Local Artists Exhibition (Visual Art) ...................... 266 Looking/Seeing/Being/Disappearing… (Dance) ............................................................................59 Love Factually (Comedy) ........................................39 Love Runs Out (Theatre) ......................................... 173 LoveChild (Music) ...................................................... 254 Loxion Story: UmaVusana (Physical Theatre) ...................................................... 220 Lu Dlamini (Music) ..................................................... 254 Magnet Theatre: Three Decades of Making Space (Think!Fest) ..................................................136
Malalapipe (Theatre) .............................................. 173 Maluju Zulu! (Theatre) .............................................. 173 Mama, The Storm Is Outside (Student Theatre) .......................................................54 Man and a Dog, A (Theatre) ................................... 173 Man with a Movie Camera (Film) ......................146 Mapping the Cultural Industries (Think!Fest) .................................................................131 Masechaba the Poetess (Theatre) ....................... 175 Masidumiseni noSisanda (Music) ........................ 254 Mateo Mera (Music) ...................................................75 Mating Game, The (a.k.a Body Language 2) (Comedy) ........................................... 203
Matthew van der Want (Music) ............................. 254 Maybe, Baby, It’s You (Comedy) ........................... 203 Medical Care for People on the Move (MSF) (Think!Fest) ...................................................127 Memoirs of a Survivor (Film) ...............................144 Methuen Drama Guide to Contemporary South African Theatre (Think!Fest) .................136 Metropolar (Poetry/Storytelling) .......................... 241 Milked Voice (Theatre) ............................................. 175 Mille/Chausse (Jazz) .................................................95 Mind over Magic (Illusion) ...................................... 239 Mohlakeng the Musical (Music Theatre) ........................................................... 244 Mommy (Film) ...........................................................150 Money Speaks (Theatre) ......................................... 175 Monumental Dilemmas: Reconsidering Names and Art in the Public Domain (Think!Fest)... 132 More Goosebump A Capella (Music) ................. 249 Morethetho Rhythm (Dance) ................................ 227 Morwa the Rising Son (Theatre) ........................... 175 Moses Tladi Unearthed (Visual Art) ................110 Mpephe the Prophet 2 (Film) ............................... 258 Mpinga Mornings (Theatre) ................................... 175 Mr Right Swipe (Comedy) ....................................... 203 Msaki (Jazz) ................................................................104 Msaki & Golden Circle (Music) .............................. 254 Multiple Identities, Dislocation & Belonging (Think!Fest) .........................................128 Music in the Air - The Musical (Music Theatre) ........................................................... 247 My Body, My Life, My Decisions (Dance) .......... 229 My Choice (Theatre) ................................................. 175 My Home Town (Music Theatre) .......................... 247 My Johannesburg (Music) .....................................78 My Johannesburg - Book talk (Think!Fest) .................................................................136
N
arrative Dreams (Theatre) .................................. 175 Native Footprints - Book talk (Think!Fest) .................................................................136 Naturally Caffeinated (Comedy) .......................... 203 Necrophilia (Theatre) ................................................ 175 Nefelibata (Dance) ..................................................... 229 Nefelibata (Student Theatre) ................................54 Neo Motsatse the Concert (Music) ...................... 250 Next Door to Happiness lives Sorrow (Theatre) ........................................................................ 175 Ngwao Ya Rona (Dance) ......................................... 229 Nine to Fiver’s Anthem (Theatre) ......................... 178 Nkwekhwezana Cultural Group (Dance) .......... 231 No Exit (Student Theatre) .......................................54 No Fun Ction All Anguage (Dance) ....................62 Noka Ya Bokamoso (Visual Art) .........................109 Nokukhanya Dlamini (Jazz) ...............................103 Nomakhisimsi the Pondo Comedian (Comedy) ...................................................................... 205 Nombasa (Music) ....................................................... 254 Not Only Futurists - Lecture & Workshop (Think!Fest) .........................................134 Not The Futurists (Music) ........................................90 Novel Script Reading: We Need New Names (Think!Fest) .................................................134 Ntsiki Speaks (Poetry/Storytelling) ...................... 241 Nyanga (Student Theatre) ......................................50
Of Love and Other Demons (Film) .................152
Of Spells and Monkeys (Student Theatre) ......52 Offshore (Jazz) ..........................................................101 Okapi (Theatre) ........................................................... 178 One Man One Light (Family Fare).....................120 One Zero One 777 (Theatre) .................................. 178 Oom Schalk, from the Heart (Comedy) .............. 205 OoMaSisulu (Theatre) ...............................................26 Open (Theatre) ............................................................ 178 Open Spaces (Visual Art) .. ....................................... 266 Opportunity (Dance) ................................................. 231 Othello (Film) .............................................................149 Ottoman Slap: Spice Roots (Music) ....................89 Out of Bounds (Comedy) ........................................ 205 Own the Spotlight (Dance) ..................................... 231 Oxford Imps, The (Comedy) .................................. 205
P
aintings and Glass (Visual Art) .......................... 267 Paleho (Theatre) ......................................................... 178
10 Palettes In Nature (Visual Art) ................................ 267 PANSA Directors’ Indaba (Think!Fest) ...........132 Pathless Woods (Visual Art) ................................... 267 Paul Hanmer & Wendy Oldfield (Jazz) ...........100 Paula Slier: 119 Lives Unlived (Think!Fest) .................................................................137 Pay Back the Curry! (Comedy) ............................. 205 Penny (Theatre) ...........................................................45 People Beneath Our Feet (Theatre)..................... 178 Petter Wettre Quartet (Jazz)...................................99 Phallas (Visual Art)...................................................... 267 Pharmakon (Student Theatre) ..............................53 Phillip “Kulneck” Dikotla (Comedy) .................... 208 Phumlani Mtiti (Jazz) .............................................100 Picturing Change - Book talk (Think!Fest) .................................................................136 Pieces of Every Me (Physical Theatre) ............... 220 Pig Headed (Perfomance Art ) ...........................105 Plebs (Comedy) .......................................................... 208 Plothole, The (Comedy) .......................................... 208 Poet.O.Type (Theatre) .............................................. 178 PoeticSoul (Music) ..................................................... 254 Politrix Kurup (Comedy) .......................................... 208 Portals (Visual Art) ...................................................... 267 Post-performance Discussions (Think!Fest) .................................................................137 Predicament / Ayeye (Dance) ............................... 231 Presentation about the Herero of Namibia, A (Theatre) ........................................................................ 178 Preview: The Keeper of the Kumm (Film) ......... 140 Pride (Film) ..................................................................152 Prime Circle (Music) ..................................................84 Printing Girls, The (Visual Art) ............................... 270 Private Parts (Music Theatre) ................................. 247 Project Spear (Film) ................................................153 Pulp (Physical Theatre) ............................................ 220 Pulse (Dance) .............................................................. 231 Purple Rain (Dance) .................................................. 231 Push-ah! (Theatre) ..................................................... 178 Pushmi Pulyu (Family Fare) .................................... 236
Qadasi & Maqhinga (Music)................................. 254 Rabitsch & Pawlik Quartet (Jazz) .......................94 Race Trouble (Theatre) ............................................ 180 Raiders Spaced Out: The Moon Rock Musical (Comedy) ...................................................................... 211 Rat Race (Family Fare) .............................................. 236 Rational Assassin (Comedy) .................................. 211 Real? (Physical Theatre) .......................................... 220 Reconciliation In and Through Performance (Think!Fest) ....................................130 Red Eye Soldiers (Theatre) ..................................... 180 Reflection (Visual Art) ............................................... 267 Remember (Film) .....................................................151 RETRO (Visual Art) ..................................................... 270 Return of the Cypher, The (Music) ...................... 255 Rhythms of the North - The Musical (Dance) .......................................................................... 231 Rice (Physical Theatre) ............................................ 221 Rights of Passage (Film) .......................................153 Ringo Madlingozi (Music) .......................................86 Role of a National Arts Festival in SA Today, The (Think!Fest) .................................131 Run (Theatre) ............................................................... 181 Ruth First: 117 Days (Theatre) ..............................43
S
A Comic Books (Visual Art) ................................ 270 Sacre for One (Physical Theatre) .......................... 221 Salt (Theatre) ............................................................... 181 Samthing Soweto (Music) ...................................... 255 Saver Popsters, The (Family Fare) ...................... 236 School/Youth Bands (Jazz) ....................................95 Scorched (Theatre) ....................................................21 Scratch (Music Theatre) .......................................... 247 Screams of Tatiana, The (Theatre) ...................... 181 Search for Intelligent Signs of Life in the Universe, The (Theatre) .......................................... 181 Secret Ballot (Theatre) .............................................48 Seshego Gospel Choir (Music) ............................. 250 Shakespeare: Religion, Psychology, Anthropology (Think!Fest) ..................................134 Shef and the Kitchen Music (Music) ................... 255 Short.Sharp.Stories: Die Laughing (Think!Fest) .................................................................135
Sillage (Theatre) ......................................................... 184 Simphiwe Dana (Jazz) ...........................................102 Sins (Dance) ................................................................. 231 Six Inches (Comedy) ................................................. 211 Siya Makuzeni 1 (Jazz) .............................................94 Skanks of the Professionals, The (Comedy) ... 211 Sleepless Misery (Theatre) ..................................... 184 Sleepwalkingland (Theatre) ..................................29 Slindelo and his Bones (Theatre) ......................... 184 Solaris (Film) ...............................................................147 Sold! (Dance) .................................................................55 Some Mother’s Son (Theatre) ............................... 184 Something Left To Save (Visual Art) ................... 270 Somnyama Ngonyama (Visual Art) .................108 Sonder Jou (Physical Theatre) .............................. 221 Songs For A New World (Student Theatre)........................................................53 Sons of the Soil (Music Theatre) ........................... 247 Sophia Williams-de Bruyn Reminisces (Think!Fest) .................................................................137 Sophie Scholl: The Final Days (Film) ..............................................................................142 SOS: Sold as Slaves (Film) ....................................148 Soul Housing Project (Jazz) ...................................91 Soul Renovators (Music) ......................................... 255 Spirit of Uhuru (Music Theatre) ............................. 247 Spiritfest (Multiple disciplines).............................. 260 St. Paul’s Gospel Choir - The Red Sea Music (Music) ........................................................................... 250 Staffroom (Theatre) ................................................... 184 Stalker (Film) ..............................................................145 Standard Bank National Schools’ Big Band (Jazz) .................................................................................99 Standard Bank National Youth Jazz Band (Jazz) .................................................................................99 Stimela the Musical (Music Theatre) .................. 248 Stories Behind Bars (Music Theatre) ................... 248 Strangerland (Film) .................................................152 Streets of Freedom Street Parade (Public Art)...................................................................119 Stuart Lightbody’s Sleepless Dreams (Illusion) ......................................................................... 239 Suffragette (Film) .....................................................142 Sugar Sugar (Theatre) .............................................. 184 Suggestion Box #Everythingmustfall (Public Art) ..................................................................117 Sweet Paradise - Book talk (Think!Fest) .................................................................136 Sweet Phoebe (Theatre) .......................................... 184 Sweetie Darling (Comedy) ..................................... 211 Swing City (Jazz) ......................................................102
T
apping Hearts (Music Theatre) ......................... 248 Tarynne Swarts (Music) ........................................... 255 Tease! (Theatre) .......................................................... 184 Ten (Dance) .................................................................. 231 Termite! Tall Tales for Big People (Theatre) ........................................................................ 184 Territory, The (Film) ...............................................145 The Calling - Ubizo (Music Theatre) .................... 243 The Kiffness (Jazz) .....................................................96 The Muffinz (Music) ...................................................83 The Prophet (Film) ...................................................150 The Silence (Theatre) ............................................... 181 Theatre as a Tool for Activism & Healing (Think!Fest) .................................................................130 Theatre Production in SA: Skills and Inspirations (Think!Fest) ......................................135 Thee Legacy (Music) ................................................ 255 Thenx Presents Aza-Nya is Five-to (Comedy) ...................................................................... 214 This Is For Keeps (Theatre) ..................................... 185 Those You Pass On The Street (Theatre) ..........................................................................30 Thunzi (Theatre) ......................................................... 185 Tigerlily: Josie Field And Laurie Levine (Music) ..............................................................88 Time of your Life, The (Theatre) .......................... 184 To 4rm (Physical Theatre) ....................................... 221 To Ike (Film) ................................................................. 258 Tokara’s “Celebration” (Visual Art) ...................... 270 Toon Roos Quartet (Jazz) ........................................95 Tough Tenors (Jazz) ..................................................94 Township Girls (Theatre) ......................................... 185 Traditional Fishing Methods of Africa
(Think!Fest) .................................................................135 Trio Corrente (Jazz) ...................................................91 Troubling Inheritances (Think!Fest) .................................................................132 Tschopp/Mombelli (Jazz) .......................................97 Tshepang (Theatre) ...................................................25 Tshepo Fela (Music) ................................................. 256 Tshimbila Rantsula (Family Fare) ......................... 236 Two Women (Film) ..................................................147
Ubuze Bam (Theatre) .............................................. 185 Umjuxuzo Alive (Student Theatre) .....................51 Umle: Amakhoboka Anomsindo (Music) .............................................................................89 Understanding Learning Challenges (Think!Fest) .................................................................129 Undesignated (Theatre) .......................................... 186 Unearthed (Visual Art) .............................................. 270 Unfair Lady (Theatre) ................................................ 186 Unforgettable (Music Theatre) .............................. 248 University Fees (Think!Fest) ...............................126 University of Johannesburg Choir (Music) .............................................................................77 Unlocking Horns (Visual Art) ................................. 270 uNontombi Musical Play (Theatre) ...................... 186 Unsettling, Unlearning & Undoing Gender based violence (Think!Fest) ...............................126 Unveiled (Theatre) ......................................................44
Vague Narrative (Visual Art) ................................. 270 Vat en Sit (Theatre) .................................................... 186 Very Big Comedy Show IV, The (Comedy) ........................................................................41 Victims of ISIS (Film) ...............................................148 Village, The (Student Theatre) ............................53 Violet Online (Comedy) ........................................... 214 Vlower (Physical Theatre) ....................................... 222 Voice of Russia Today, The (Think!Fest) .................................................................138
Waiting for Jack (Theatre) ................................... 186
Warrior Green (Family Fare) ................................... 236 Watching, Ceci N’est Pas De Deux (Theatre) ..........................................................................44 Waterline (Physical Theatre) .................................. 222 Watts Up With Streep: A Panel Show (Comedy) ...................................................................... 214 Ways of Knowing (Think!Fest) ..........................128 We (Student Theatre) ................................................52 We Didn’t Come to Hell for the Croissants (Theatre) .................................................. 186 We Salute Madiba (Music) ......................................79 We Three (Visual Art) ................................................ 270 Welcome To New York (Film) .............................150 Weeding out Legislative Democracy (Think!Fest).................................................................129 What should White People be Doing, Thinking, Saying Now? (Think!Fest) ..............127 Whistle Stop (Theatre) ............................................. 186 White Bird In A Blizzard (Film) ............................151 White Tiger (Film) ....................................................145 Who’s Your Daddy? (Comedy) ............................. 214 Why Everyone in Southern Africa should be concerned about Human Rights (Think!Fest) .................................................................127 With/Hold (Dance) ..................................................... 232 Wits Trio Plays Brahms, The (Music) .................68 Wolf Totem (Film) .....................................................151 Women in Theatre (Think!Fest) ........................130 WoMEN thou art Loosed (Theatre) ..................... 188 Women’s Liberation (Theatre) .............................. 188 Wonderful World Of Fok’s Park, The (Theatre) .............................................................. 188 Writing SA Theatre (Think!Fest) .......................134
XX (Dance) .................................................................. 232 Y
ou Suck and Other Inescapable Truths (Theatre) ........................................................................ 188 Young Guns (Jazz) ......................................................96 Youth Jazz Vocals (Jazz) .........................................99
ZLS_HipHopPro (Music) ........................................ 256
12
SIYAVUYA MAKUZENI
2016 STANDARD BANK YOUNG ARTIST FOR JAZZ
S
iyavuya Makuzeni is a trombone player, vocalist, lyricist and songwriter well known for her uniquely experimental, edgy yet pure intonation. Born in 1982 in the Eastern Cape, Makuzeni grew up singing in the choir and playing recorder before picking up the trombone while at Sterling High School in East London. Throughout high school, Makuzeni participated in the Standard Bank National Youth Jazz Festival, was consecutively selected for the Festival’s National School’s Big Band, National Youth Big Band and National Youth Jazz Band. Knowing that she was destined to follow a creative path, she enrolled to study music and drama at Rhodes University in 2000, before deciding to focus on music at Pretoria Technikon (now Tshwane University of Technology) with a BMus Jazz degree. Makuzeni regularly collaborates with South African musical royalty, including Marcus Wyatt who she met in Grahamstown as a teenager. They have collaborated regularly ever since – most recently on Maji Maji from In the Land of Milk and Honey, the new album from Wyatt’s SA jazz collective, Language 12. In a review of the ‘intellectually stimulating’ album for the M&G, Makuzeni is described as ‘a majestic vocalist, rich in tone, expansive in range, and wise in interpretation’.
Makuzeni’s genre-busting style is influenced by drum and bass, hip hop, traditional Xhosa music and electronica. She uses vocal pedals to manipulate her voice, creating soundscapes and backing loops in her live performances. A session musician and voice-over artist when not performing live, Makuzeni has lent her songwriting skills to albums by well-known artists. She has performed with Carlo Mombelli’s Prisoners of Strange, worked with Themba Mkhize, McCoy Mrubata, Frank Opperman, Wendy Oldfield, Tlale Makhene, Khaya Mahlangu, Sibongile Khumalo and many others. Her live collaborations include performances with William Kentridge and Phillip Miller in Dancing with Dada. To top it all, she is also a band leader of her own experimental rock band, IppYFuz. Makuzeni tours extensively, featuring in the line-up of some of the world’s biggest jazz events, from the Cape Town International Jazz Festival to the Stockholm Jazz Festival. In 2005, she was awarded a grant to attend Fabrica Musica, Benetton Foundation’s ‘applied creativity laboratory’ just outside Treviso in Italy. The experience culminated with a multimedia theatre concert in Brisbane, Australia, a year later. Please refer to the Jazz Programme for details of Makuzeni’s Festival performances – see pages 96 and 100.
‘The influence of Xhosa music and jazz is the foundation of my musical beginnings, and has helped me to shape my own voice or individual expression.’
THEMBA MBULI
2016 STANDARD BANK YOUNG ARTIST FOR DANCE
‘Out of all the young South African Artists who are already doing innovative and groundbreaking works, I’m really humbled to be part of the few that are recognised with such a significant award. I feel very honoured and grateful that my work as a young artist is recognised in a pool of all the great works by my fellow artists in the same field as me.’
C
horeographer, dancer and teacher Themba Mbuli’s love affair with the performing arts started about 15 years ago when he joined Zola Musical Drama, a youth club in Soweto, where he performed drama, music, poetry and dance. And it was dance that drew him to Moving into Dance Mophatong (MIDM) a few years later, where he received formal training.
After graduating with a certificate in performing arts in 2007, Mbuli joined Inzalo Dance and Theatre Company as a trainee performer under Moeketsi Koena. A year later, he was back at MIDM as a dancer, teacher and choreographer. While there, he choreographed Dark City, which was inspired by the history of Johannesburg’s Constitutional Hill, once the Old Fort Prison and the notorious Number Four prison, where many political prisoners were held. It won the Pick of the Fringe award when it was performed at the FNB Dance Umbrella Festival in 2010. Mbuli joined Talipot Theatre Company in 2011 as a principal dancer in the touring production !AIA – From Cave to Sky, choreographed by Philippe Pelen Baldini. He has performed in many productions by renowned choreographers and directors such as Gregory Maqoma, Sylvia Glasser, Thabo Rapoo, Jerry Mofokeng, Jaco Bouwer, and Kent Ekberg – the Swedish theatre director and Mbuli’s mentor. His 2012 solo creation Dark Cell, a response to Dark City,
draws its inspiration from images of political prisoners on Robben Island to explore issues around mental imprisonment. The work has been performed in South Africa, Sweden, Zimbabwe, Argentina, Uganda, the Netherlands and the UK. Mbuli is an associate project manager and a co-founder – together with Fana Tshabalala and Thulani Chauke – of Broken Borders Arts Project. He is also a co-founder, choreographer and managing director of the Unmute Dance Company, which was formed in 2014 to help pioneer integrated dance in South Africa, using the arts to inspire the inclusion of people with disabilities in society. His recent works include Trapped, Robot Citizens, choreographed for The Forgotten Angle Theatre Collaborative, and Ashed, which was performed together with Trapped as part of the Artscape Women/Humanity Arts Festival last year. Mbuli’s 2016 Festival premiere is Sold! – see page 25.
13
MOHAU MODISAKENG
2016 STANDARD BANK YOUNG ARTIST FOR VISUAL ART
M
ohau Modisakeng is a multidisciplinary artist working primarily as a sculptor who moves into performance, film, installation and large-scale photographic prints as the concept requires. He was born in 1986, and grew up in Soweto. He graduated from the Michealis School of Fine Art at the University of Cape Town in 2009, and went on to complete his Masters in 2012. Modisakeng uses his body to explore the influence of South Africa’s violent history on how we understand our cultural, political and social roles as human beings. ‘The work responds to the history of the black body within the (South) African context, which is intertwined with the violence of the apartheid era and the early 1990s,’ reads his artistic statement on WHATIFTHEWORLD gallery’s website. ‘His images are not direct representations of violence, but powerful yet poetic invocations where the body is transformed into a poignant marker of collective memory.’ In just a few years, Modisakeng has notched up a large number of exhibitions in South Africa and internationally, including the Joburg Art Fair and Chavonnes Battery Museum in partnership with Zeitz MOCAA in Cape Town; the VOLTA NY invitational fair in New York and the LOOP Fair in Barcelona; the Museum of Fine Art, Boston; the Saatchi Gallery, London; the Dak’Art Biennale, Dakar; and Focus 11, Basel in 2011 – the same year he won the Sasol New Signatures Award. In 2015, he had his first solo exhibition in Europe – at Kunstraum Innsbruck in Austria and at Big Pond Artworks in Munich, Germany. In a review of Modisakeng’s solo exhibition Ditaolo at Brundyn+ Gallery in Cape Town in 2014, the Mail & Guardian’s Athi Mongezeleli Joja writes: ‘As Modisakeng has repeatedly remarked,
‘My work has always presented a channel for me to engage my mind and my spirit in something reflective and introspective.’ his work reflects on narratives of trauma, violence and race – but not in any direct autobiographical sense. That isn’t to say he suspends his personal experience: rather, he locates it within a larger frame of black existentiality.’ This double meaning runs through his work, where he substitutes, displaces and conflates historical experiences between the personal and the collective. His ambitious video work, Inzilo (isiZulu for ‘mourning’ or ‘fasting’), is a perfect example of this affecting doubleness. Produced in association with Samsung as a special project for the 2013 FNB Joburg Art Fair, it was also selected as part of the South African Pavilion at the 56th Venice Biennale in 2015. Modisakeng’s work is in public collections including the Johannesburg Art Gallery; the Iziko South African National Gallery in Cape Town; Unisa in Pretoria; the Saatchi Gallery in London; Zeitz MOCAA and the New Church Collection in Cape Town. Lefa La Ntate is Madisakeng Festival exhibition - see page 107.
JADE BOWERS
2016 STANDARD BANK YOUNG ARTIST FOR THEATRE
B
orn in Cape Town in 1987, Jade Bowers is a director and designer who experiments with physical style and conceptual form to make theatre that is fuelled by invention and creativity. Bowers has been listed as one of online magazine Afripop’s ‘Five Female Theatre Makers in South Africa You Should Know’. She holds a Bachelor of Social Sciences in Drama and Sociology from the University of Cape Town, and received her Honours degree in Theatre Design and Directing for the Stage from the University of the Witwatersrand in 2014. Bowers, who runs her own production company, works at DALRO as a theatrical rights administrator, and was previously the resident stage manager at the University of Johannesburg. In 2011, she was involved in UJ’s Reading Gay and THATSOGAY theatre festivals, and was part of the team that staged Arts and Culture head Ashraf Johaardien’s adaption of K Sello Duiker’s The Quiet Violence of Dreams. She has been the showcase curator of the Wits 969
Festival and director of the Wits Arts and Literature Experience (WALE). She produced, directed and designed Salaam Stories for the 10th anniversary revival of Johaardien’s autobiographical Salaam. The work Bowers produces represents her interests in the intersections between culture, identity and sexuality. She has been recognised for her ability ‘My journey as a maker and practitioner of live theatre to revisit South African texts in an has been marked with as many challenges as it has been inventive yet deeply respectful blessed with opportunities – I am profoundly grateful for way. Her beautiful and compelling both … The common denominator through all of this has reworking of Rehane Abrahams’s always been the telling of unique stories and, to me, the script What the Water Gave Me only thing more powerful than the stories we are told, are earned a Silver Standard Bank the stories that we choose to tell and how we choose to Ovation Award at the 2014 tell them.’ National Arts Festival, as well as a Naledi Award nomination in 2015 in the visually and intellectually with imaginative, category, Best Production: Cutting Edge. highly intuitive, yet astutely crafted, theatre making’. Arts writer Adrienne Sichel says Bowers is ‘not only an actor’s director, but one Jade Bowers’ 2016 Festival premiere is that has ‘the ability to ignite audiences Scorched – see page 21.
14
AVIGAIL BUSHAKEVITZ
2016 STANDARD BANK YOUNG ARTIST FOR MUSIC
B
orn in Jerusalem in 1988, Avigail Bushakevitz’s family moved to South Africa when she was one. Wanting to keep up with her older brothers, Avigail began playing piano when she was five, venturing into violin at eight. Determined to nurture her undeniable talent, her mother, Leonore, used to drive her the 400-odd kilometres from their home in George to Stellenbosch, and later Cape Town, for lessons with Professor Jack de Wet every fortnight. ‘I owe everything to him,’ she has said of one of South Africa’s most legendary teachers.
‘The many opportunities that have arisen simply from being South African – including winning the Standard Bank Young Artist Award – make me a very lucky girl and a fortunate musician. I have met so many other incredible violinists who grew up in New York or Berlin or Tel Aviv, who have not once had the opportunity to play a concerto with an orchestra, whereas my country has blessed me with many such occasions.’
Home-schooled so that she could keep up with the rigorous practice routine required by De Wet, Avigail registered for a Bachelor of Music with Unisa in 2006, and received a scholarship from the Ackerman Foundation to study at the prestigious Juilliard School of Music in New York a year later. She was one of only two students that violin teacher Sylvia Rosenberg took on that year. ‘She has phenomenal musical instincts, and I am extremely lucky to be her student,’ Avigail said of Rosenberg in an interview with ClassicSA. ‘She is one of the greatest influences on my life.’ At Juilliard, Avigail worked as a teaching assistant in ear training, developing a fascination with the different ways music students hear. She went on to graduate with a BMus in 2010, and received her Master of Music in 2012. While in New York, she
performed at Carnegie Hall with the Juilliard Orchestra under conductor Michael Tilson Thomas, an experience she lists as one of the highlights of her young career. She moved to Tel Aviv in 2013, where she started her artist diploma studies under Hagai Shaham at the Buchmann-Mehta School of Music. In 2009, Avigail played Sibelius’s Violin Concerto with the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra and won the Unisa National Strings Competition and, in 2012, she won the Samro Foundation’s Overseas Scholarships Competition. In 2013, she was awarded first prize in the UNO Competition in Jerusalem. She regularly plays in a duo with her pianist brother, Ammiel. Last year, they won an international chamber music competition in Catalonia, and included in the prize was a 15-recital tour of Spain. She continues to build her concert experience by playing around the world, not least as a member of Daniel Barenboim’s West-Eastern Divan Orchestra in their tour of Spain and Abu Dhabi last year. Now based in Germany, where she is a member of the Essenz Streichquartett in Berlin and the 1st violins of the Konzerthausorchester, she often returns to South Africa to give recitals, usually with Ammiel. For details of Avigail’s Festival performances, please see pages 65 and 72.
The Standard Bank Ovation Award is given to Fringe productions which have attained new levels of artistic innovation and excellence, which celebrate the exploration of new performance styles and which have the courage to open new conversations through the arts. Look out for the logo on posters, flyers and in advertisements, and know that the production behind the logo has been given an ovation by our panel of judges in previous years. And then, during this year’s Festival, new winners will be named in CUE every day...a whole new crop of Ovation winners to make your Festival even more AMAZ!NG.
15
LARA
FOOT 2016
NATIONAL ARTS FEATURED
FESTIVAL ARTIST
I
SINCE LAUNCHING THE FEATURED ARTIST PROGRAMME IN 2012, THE SPOTLIGHT HAS SHONE ON ARTISTS WHOSE PROLIFIC WORK HAS FEARLESSLY CONTRIBUTED IN CHALLENGING WAYS TO OUR NATIONAL DISCOURSES ABOUT RACE, CLASS, ETHNICITY, GENDER AND ENVIRONMENT.
n 1996, Lara Foot was awarded the Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Theatre. Now having directed more than 50 professional productions, of which 38 have been new South African plays, Lara Foot continues to trail-blaze and retain her position as one of the most important personalities in South African theatre. Lara has won a host of South African theatre accolades. Her own hard-hitting plays tackle social issues in South Africa and these have earned her great respect and recognition both locally and internationally. Tshepang, Hear and Now, Reach, Karoo Moose, Solomon and Marion and Fishers of Hope are just a few of her plays which have won multiple awards and that have toured internationally with great success. Lara wrote and co-directed the interdisciplinary short film And There in the Dust, which won five international awards
and two Golden Horn awards and was selected to be part of the Sundance Film Writer’s Lab in 2007 and the Sundance Film Director’s Lab in 2008. With a passion for the development of new indigenous work, young writers and directors, she has put most of her energy into helping other playwrights and theatremakers realise their work, having nurtured several dozen new South African plays to their first staging. This includes producing the international hit Mies Julie, written and directed by Yael Farber. Lara Foot is a founder of the Barney Simon Young Directors and Writers Festivals and has been integral in the development of more than 35 new South African plays. She worked at The Market Theatre under the mentorship of Barney Simon and, in 1996, became Resident Director, and was appointed to the post of Associate Artistic Director in 1998.
In 2005 she became the Resident Director and Dramaturge at the Baxter Theatre Centre – a post that she held until 2007. In January 2010 she became the first female to be appointed as CEO and Artistic Director of the Baxter Theatre Centre. Lara has transformed the Theatre’s development programme – the Zabalaza Theatre Festival – into as one of the most vital and important platforms of its kind in South Africa. As a former Rolex protégée to Sir Peter Hall, she hosted a unique cultural gathering at the Baxter with Mentors William Kentridge, Wole Soyinka and Peter Sellars alongside seven protégés. Lara completed her BA (Hons) degree at Wits University in 1989 and in 2007 attained her Master’s degree at the University of Cape Town. The National Arts Festival is proud to present Lara Foot as the 2016 Featured Artist.
16
TWO DECADES OF FRENCH-SOUTH AFRICAN COLLABORATION AT THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL Over the past two decades the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS) and the National Arts Festival have enjoyed an inspiring and dynamic partnership that has showcased various productions across different genres. Since 1996, when the first partnership strategy resulted in the French-sponsored production by Compagnie les Piétons, more than forty productions supported by the French Institute of South Africa have been presented in Grahamstown. This partnership highlights the strong bonds of collaboration, dialogue and mutual understanding that are shared between artists and audiences of our two countries. MESSAGE FROM MRS ELISABETH BARBIER, THE AMBASSADOR OF FRANCE TO SOUTH AFRICA
MESSAGE FROM IFAS DEPUTY DIRECTOR, MARION CLAUDEL
The French Embassy and the French Institute of South Africa are delighted and proud to partner again with the National Arts Festival, as this year marks the 20th anniversary of our partnership. Since 1996, through our shared vision of the promotion of the arts, we have enabled over forty productions across all genres to be presented at the National Arts Festival as part of a strong and meaningful partnership. From the street theatre company Les Piétons presented in 1996 to this year’s premiere of Les Cenci, these productions have left brilliant impacts and lasting artistic memories for all.
Over the past two decades, the National Arts Festival, the French Embassy and the French Institute of South Africa have contributed to help build the singular cultural connections between both our countries. This exceptional partnership has been punctuated by intense artistic collaborations, highly successful shows and annual encounters with ever growing audiences.
During the France-South Africa Seasons in 2012-2013, a larger programme of highly acclaimed French artists and productions were successfully presented at the National Arts Festival, including dance, theatre, music and public art and we have seen the ties between our two countries get stronger ever since these Seasons. We are honoured to share with South African audiences some of the best of what the French and francophone art scenes have to offer. The National Arts Festival is also a major platform to showcase the inspiring collaborations that illustrate and contribute to building the cultural bridges between our countries. This partnership has also allowed the French Embassy and the French Institute to support both emerging and established artists from South Africa, and to make their work accessible to wider audiences. We wish the National Arts Festival a very successful edition and look forward to many other opportunities to collaborate, exchange and create together.
This year’s edition of the festival promises to offer once again a diverse programme from theatre to music performances and talks. The programme will first shine through the premiere of Gopala Davies’ inter-medial production of Les Cenci, a riveting and deeply contemporary take on Antonin Artaud, the troubled genius who wrote some of the most important pages on French theatre – and mental illness. There will also be piano recitals by Ammiel Bushakevitz, a South African artist trained in France, a brilliant example of an artist bridging our cultures. We are also proud to present concerts with French accordionist Daniel Mille and French clarinetist Stéphane Chausse at the Standard Bank Jazz Festival, in partnership with the Alliance Française. Finally our partnership with the Festival and Standard Bank would not be complete without a talk about Matisse as part of the Think! Fest programme, before the opening of the Matisse exhibition in Johannesburg on 13 July. As part of the fringe festival, Theatre Thump! from Bordeaux (France), in association with ASSITEJ SA, will also give a series of workshops entitled “My partner, my audience and I”, and present visual and musical street performances of the public art shows “Flowers of Silence” and “Lenyalo”. We wish the 2016 National Arts Festival all the success it deserves, and express our gratitude to the Festival team for this renewed opportunity for artists from our two countries to challenge our visions, meet new audiences and shape fresh narratives for the future.
17
AMMIEL BUSHAKEVITZ (page 70)
FLEURS DE SILENCE (page 242)
LES CENCI (page 35)
HENRI MATISSE EXHIBITION TALK BY WILHELM VAN RENSBURG (page 133)
LENYALO (page 242)
MILLE / CHAUSSE (page 95)
DANIEL MILLE – FRENCH/ SA COLLABORATION (page 93)
Henri Matisse, Jazz Paris, Tériade, 1947 Stencil prints Pl. VIII. Icare Donation Alice Tériade, 2000 Musée départemental Matisse, Le Cateau-Cambrésis © Succession H. Matisse Photo Philip Bernard
ART BELONGS TO ALL WHO LIVE THROUGH IT. How do the arts shape your world and move you?
Join the conversation by using #artMOVESme and help us promote the value of arts in society.
For more information and assistance with the BASA Supporting Grant contact Tshepo@basa.co.za/011 447 2295 www.basa.co.za
19
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL
ARENA PROGRAMME
SUPPORTED BY BUSINESS AND ARTS SOUTH AFRICA (BASA)
T
he Arena is the playground of awardwinning companies from the National Arts Festival and our global festival partners. On the back of their past successes, artists are invited to propose new work for the
Arena...work that will inspire and challenge them, and move our audiences. From 2016 the Arena is supported by Business and Arts South Africa – our partner in presenting world-class, cutting edge work by South
AMAKHOBOKO ANOMSINDO PRESENTED BY UMLE
African artists and their international peers. The partnership sets the scene for a great Arena programme that we’re sure will leave you breathless.
AMAKHOBOKO ANOMSINDO
AS EVER, BESSIE
Page 89
AS EVER, BESSIE PRESENTED BY DENISE NEWMAN
Page 49
BARRERA PRESENTED BY Q&A
Page 49
NOT ONLY THE FUTURISTS PRESENTED BY THE FUTURISTS
BARRERA
Page 90 OTTOMAN SLAP
ASANDA MQIKI
ASANDA MQIKI THE BALLADEER PRESENTED BY ASANDA MQIKI
Page 88
TIGERLILY PRESENTED BY LAURIE LEVINE AND JOSIE FIELD Page 88
NOT ONLY THE FUTURISTS
TIGERLILY
SECRET BALLOT PRESENTED BY KIRI PINK NOB
Page 48
KOCHIRA PRESENTED BY MASIDLANE THEATRE
Page 62
NO FUN CTION ALL ANGUAGE
NO FUN CTION ALL ANGUAGE
THE HEART’S HOTEL
PRESENTED BY THE CHAELI CAMPAIGN Page 62
THE HEART’S HOTEL PRESENTED BY THE CONSPIRACY OF CLOWNS Page 48
OTTOMAN SLAP – SPICE ROOTS PRESENTED BY OTTOMAN SLAP
Page 89
KOCHIRA
SECRET BALLOT
20 Curatorial Statement:
INSPIRED BY HISTORIES TO CRITIQUE THE PRESENT AND TO RE-ENVISION THE FUTURE A
creating their own versions of it. Les Cenci (page 35), The Firebird (page 56) and A Day On Which A Man Dies (page 32).
rtistic directors at festivals across the globe often reflect on the past to critique the present and to re-envision the future. Key South African anniversaries have been the catalysts for devising this year’s programme which embraces critical reflection, celebrations, analysis and a re-imagination of our histories, our contemporary society and the kind of society that we wish to endow to future generation. In drawing on these anniversaries as catalysts for programming strands, we attempt to look at how artists have engaged with our histories to shape our nation. We also reflect on how parallel events in other parts of the globe have impacted on the socio-politics of those societies.
Curated Strand 6:
ART FOR ART’S SAKE This strand creates a much needed platform for artists whose work may not necessarily be branded as advocacy and / or be tied to particular historical anniversaries but whose track record of excellence has grown a significant audience for the arts. Dead Yellow Sands (page 28), Cape Dance Company (page 60), Continuum (page 111), One Man One Light (page 120), Guangzhou Song & Dance Ensemble (page 122), Butterfly Dreams (page 118), UJ Choir (page 77), Music Recital by Avigail Bushakevitz (page 63), Gala Concert (page 64), Cinema Extravaganza (page 67), The Guy Buttery String Project (page 66), African Piano (page 69), Breath & Hammer (page 72), Ammiel Bushakevitz Piano Recital (page 70) and the Wits Trio (page 68). The National Arts Festival also continues strengthen its partnerships with South America: Mateo Mera (page 75) and Alvaro Meza (page 74).
Curated Strand 1:
CELEBRATING WOMEN Inspired by the 60th anniversary of the Women’s March to Pretoria, this year’s programme sharpens the spotlight on how women writers, directors, choreographers, designers and artists engage with the arts. It attempts to celebrate the compassion, tenacity and integrity with which women engage in their political landscapes. The 2016 Featured Artist programme (pages 24 and 25) and the Solo Theatre Season (pages 43 to 47). Curated Strand 2:
CONFLICT & RESOLUTION Reflecting on the 40th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising of 1976, the 20th anniversary of the Truth & Reconciliation Commission, and the 65th anniversary of the signing of the Freedom Charter, this curated strand encourages us to consider how we move forward without betraying the past, and where responsibility lies for taking the vital first step in initiating any peace-building process. Scorched (page 21), Those you Pass on the Street (page 30), OoMaSiSulu (page 26), Sleepwalkingland (page 29), Animal Farm (page 31), My Johannesburg (page78), Days Like These (page 58), Endabeni (page 107), Noka Ya Bokamoso (page 109), Pig-Headed (page 105), Ladies of the Midnight Blue (page 76), #Suggestion Box 2 (page 117), The Keeper of the Kumm (page 34), Sold! (page 55), and Posteruptive (page 116). Curated Strand 3:
THE POLITICS OF IDENTITY A curated strand inspired by the 10th anniversary of the Civil Unions Act offers the audience an opportunity to make sense of the work of artists who wish to offer us a lens through which we can engage with
Ismail Mahomed, Artistic Director Photo by Suzy Bernstein
issues of racial, cultural, sexual and historical identities. Afri-Queer Project (page 33), Somnyama Ngonyama (page 108), The Echo of a Noise (page 40) and Looking/Seeing/ Being/Disappearing (page 59). Curated Strand 4:
LEGENDS & LEGACIES To honour the centenary of Fort Hare, the Festival programme will feature two productions centred on Can Themba, an illustrious alumnus of the university. Crepuscule (page 22) and The House of Truth (page 23). Reflecting on the 200th anniversary of Shaka ascending the throne of the Zulu monarchy, ILembe (page 27) will attempt to open a celebratory, reflective and critical conversation about King Shaka’s leadership. Moses Tladi Unearthed (page 110) honours South Africa’s first black artist to have exhibited at the South African National Gallery. Pieter van Zyl will pay Homage to Arnold Van Wyk (page 71) to mark the centenary of the birth of a composer who is recognised for the special contribution he made to South African art music. Curated Strand 5:
RE-IMAGINING CLASSICS In this curated strand directors attempt to connect their audiences with the classics by
The Eastern Cape Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts & Culture’s collaboration with the Festival is an annual showcase of the Department’s commitment to skills developing and broadening access. The Department’s showcase consists of We Salute Mandela (page 79), #Voices (page 112), Dakawa Jazz Series (page 81), Word Fest and the Eastern Cape Handmade Collection (page 113). A Festival programme that aims to reflect, critique and celebrate is hardly ever complete without providing opportunities to laugh and to lay down one’s hair. Alan Committie’s Love Factually (page 38) and The Very Big Comedy Show IV (page 39) will offer both moments of reflection at the absurdities of life and lots to laugh about. And the contemporary bands AKA, Prime Circle and The Muffinz (pages 83 – 85) offer performances that blur the lines between entertainment and art. There are several productions in the Film Festival, Think! Fest, Arena, Student Theatre Festival and Fringe programmes that complement the above curated strands. Each of the curated strands intends to entertain, inspire and challenge. When it does challenge it will attempt to pose more questions than it will attempt to answer; and it is deliberately intended to leave the final resolution with the audience. ISMAIL MAHOMED ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
21 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH JADE BOWERS DESIGN & MANAGEMENT PRESENTS THE 2016 STANDARD BANK YOUNG ARTIST JADE BOWERS’ SOUTH AFRICAN PREMIERE OF WAJDI MOUAWAD’S
SCORCHED
TRANSLATED BY LINDA GABORIAU
“Many have been the productions that made us aware of the “white” experience, of the “black” experience, the latter often in the service of the wider cause of political emancipation. In the process an awareness of our much-vaunted diversity has suffered as apartheid’s nefarious simplicity divided people into white and non-white, blind to differences of class, religious affiliation and a labyrinth of other nuances that make people cultural beings.” Wilhelm Snyman in his review of Salaam Stories. (Cape Times, 7 January 2003)
W
JACQUES DE SILVA
riting for The Guardian, Lyn Gardner describes Scorched as “a beautiful, sorrowful play about the legacy of anger, and the cycle of revenge and war.” According to director Jade Bowers, “On the surface Scorched may appear to be a play about the atrocity of war and the poetry of loss. Which it is. But for me it is, more importantly, also a play about who we are and where we come from… It is a play about family, memory and history. It is about secrets and lies – and about a labyrinth of other nuances that make people cultural beings,” she adds, echoing the above quote from a review which summarises the kind of stories she is drawn to. Scorched is an epic yet intimate family drama by acclaimed Lebanese-Canadian playwright Wajdi Mouawad. The play follows twins, Jeanne and Simon Marwan, on a riveting journey to the heart of their mother’s war-torn Middle Eastern homeland in pursuit of their tangled roots and a long-lost sibling. In this land, where civil war, massacre and revenge constitute a way of life, the twins uncover shocking secrets about their mother’s history and also about themselves and their origins. In the introduction to the script Mouawad is described as “Lebanese in his childhood, French in his way of thinking and Québécois in his theatre. That’s what happens when you spend your childhood in Beirut, your adolescence in Paris and then try to become an adult in Montreal.” Bowers explains that, “Mouawad himself was a witness to the beginnings of Lebanon’s civil war. In 1975, at six years of age, he was a bystander to an attack on a bus full of civilians, a scene that is recounted in Scorched.” she explains. “That the work is anchored in that kind of personal truth resonated deeply with me.” “The mystery of life is central to the play, the fact that who we are and what we do are often shaped by forces beyond our control ... The playwright knows the devastation war brings, the way it scars people and places. The grisly accounts of innocents slaughtered and spirits broken channel the power of testimony. Simply speaking about these horrors aloud gives the play a cathartic quality that is quite gripping.” Karen D’Souza (Review for Mercury News) Scorched is presented at the National arts Festival with support from the University of Johannesburg.
CHERAE HALLEY
CAST JEANNE SIMON NIHAD ANTOINE SAWDA ALPHONSE NAWAL
Cherae Halley Jaques de Silva Mpho Osei-Tutu Bronwyn van Graan Ameera Patel Gopala Davies Ilse Klink
TEAM DIRECTOR LIGHTING DESIGN DESIGN MUSIC COMPOSITION
Jade Bowers Oliver Hauser Nadine Minaar Matthew MacFarlane
For full biographical details on Jade Bowers, please refer to the Standard Bank Young Artist pages at the front of the Programme A moderated post-performance discussion with the director and cast will take place after the 20:00 performance on Friday 8 July. See the Think!Fest programme for more details.
RHODES BOX THEATRE FRIDAY 8 JULY 20:00 SATURDAY 9 JULY 12:00 & 20:00 SUNDAY 10 JULY 12:00 & 20:00 DURATION 2hrs 40min (incl. interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 16+ TICKETS Full Price R75 Concessions
R70
22 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE MARKET THEATRE PRESENTS
CREPUSCULE
TEAM WRITER & DIRECTOR Khayehilihle Dom Gumede MENTOR TO DIRECTOR Kgafela oa Magogodi MUSICAL DIRECTOR & CHOREOGRAPHER Nhlanhla Mahlangu SET DESIGN Nadya Cohen LIGHTING DESIGNER Nomvula Molepo COSTUME DESIGN Thando Lobese
CAST JANET Kate Liqourish CAN TBC MALCOLM Conrad Kemp STAN Nhlanhla Mahlangu BABY / KLEINBOY Lerato Mvelase LETHABO / MAMA DORA / Thami Ngoma SIS PINKY
“As The Market Theatre turns 40, I had to source a work to bring to the National Arts Festival, as part of this celebration. A work that articulates the journey of this iconic space and how we as the present custodians of this dream that the Market Theatre was and still is.”
JAMES NGCOBO (ARTISTIC DIRECTOR : MARKET THEATRE)
F
rom winning 302 national and 39 international theatre awards for the artistic quality of the work it produces and the calibre of the writers, directors, actors and lighting, set and costume designers it engages, the Market Theatre is one of South Africa’s most iconic theatres with a 40 year history. In 1995, in recognition of its historic role and status, the Market Theatre received the prestigious American Jujamcyn Theatre Award for ‘it having proved that art can change a society’. Today, the Market Theatre continues its legacy by giving fresh young talent a platform to express and showcase their skills. Winner of the Sophie Mgcina Emerging Voice category at the Naledi Theatre Awards, Khayelihle Dom Gumede, revisits an old flame in Can Themba’s Crepuscule to inspire conversations about our current socio-political landscape and issues that have remained with us since the early days of the iconic works that propelled the Market Theatre to national and international recognition. Khayelihle adapted Can Themba’s short story, Crepuscule, which is believed to be a fictional interpretation of Themba’s real life love affair with a white woman, Jean Hart, during the 1950’s. Set in the often-revered and romanticised world of Sophiatown, the play asks a range of pertinent and contemporary socio-political questions. Themba and Hart’s illicit relationship serves as a means to unpack how much of our identity is formed by our environment and how much is shaped by our choices as individuals. Crepuscule is a story about human connection in search for freedom and humanity in a world that sought to deny it.
VICTORIA THEATRE FRIDAY 8 JULY 18:00 SATURDAY 9 JULY 10:00 & 18:00 SUNDAY 10 JULY 10:00 & 18:00 DURATION 1hr 25min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 13+ TICKETS Full price R75 Concessions R70
Khayelihle attempts to negotiate with contemporary eyes our interpretation of this magical era in South African artmaking and social politics. Every visitation of this contradictory world of half slum and half suburb remains an intense learning. Perhaps for Can Themba, too, Sophiatown itself was crepuscular: full of shadows, everything and nothing, all at once. This enigma of a man serves as our portal into this world and to a series of socio-political questions about the then and now that we ask through this production. Perhaps the reason Can’s life has evaded the biographers’ microscope is because of this strange distance he managed to achieve in his observations of the place. Maybe it is fitting, then, that Khayelihle borrows from Don Mattera’s words by saying: ‘Nobody can write the real story of Sophiatown, the rise and fall of the township, the magic and wonderment of the place”. Can Themba is an alumnus of the Fort Hare University. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the historic South African institution. This year also marks the 10th year since Sophiatown reclaimed its original name after the Nationalist government named it Triomf to celebrate its destruction of the multi-cultural and multi-racial suburb. It is also the 90th anniversary od when the Immorality Act, a key component of apartheid legislation that prevented inter-racial relationships was signed into law. The legislation was repealed in 1985 signalling a growing crisis and the imminent end of apartheid. At a time when the Market Theatre’s 40th anniversary intersects with these significant anniversaries, it is no ordinary co-incidence that it should choose to showcase Crespucule at the National Arts Festival.
23 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL, TO CELEBRATE THE CENTENARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF FORT HARE, PRESENTS SELLO MAAKE kaNCUBE IN A PLAY ABOUT ONE OF ITS MOST ILLUSTRIOUS LITERARY ALUMNI
THE HOUSE OF TRUTH A BIOGRAPHICAL PLAY ABOUT CAN THEMBA
F
ounded in 1916, the University of Fort Hare has, on its illustrious alumni roll of honour, Nelson Mandela, Oliver Tambo and Govan Mbeki and at least three African Heads of State: Seretse Khama (Botswana), Julius Nyerere (Tanzania) and Yusuf Lule (Uganda). Amongst its many literary alumni the name of Can Themba is celebrated. Multi award-winning theatre, television and radio actor and producer, Sello Maake kaNcube pays homage to Can Themba in this biographical play. Laced with wit, humour and a deep sense of irony, The House of Truth reveals the circumstances that inspired some of Themba’s most intriguing works, as well as revealing some profound aspects of his life that are barely written about. Themba’s complex life story is interwoven with his troubles with the Transvaal Department of Education which, in spite of Themba holding a degree from the University of Fort Hare and passing English with a distinction, refused to recognise him as a fully-fledged teacher. Themba’s decision to register for a University Education Diploma with Rhodes University brought on even more frustration. Turning to journalism, Themba rose along the ranks of Drum magazine and became an Assistant Editor, but this did not come with any monetary reward. ‘The House of Truth’ – a single roomed bachelor abode, for which Themba had an official opening and invited the greatest celebrity of the time, Dolly Rathebe, to render a live musical performance – is the setting for this biographical drama. ‘The House of Truth’ was a platform for candid debate for all those who were interested in intellectual engagement – black and white – despite the apartheid legislation that separated race groups. Can Themba’s former student, Stan Motjuwadi described ‘The House of Truth’ as “Can’s way of cocking a snook at snobbery, officialdom and anything that smacked of the formal. Everybody but a snob was welcome at The House of Truth.”
TEAM WRITER Siphiwo Mahala DIRECTOR Vanessa Cooke SET DESIGN Nadya Cohen LIGHTING Bruce Koch STAGE & COMPANY MANAGER Oefentse Mothusi PRODUCER Sello Maake kaNcube
THE HANGAR THURSDAY 30 JUNE 20:00 FRIDAY 1 JULY 13:00 SATURDAY 2 JULY 13:00 SUNDAY 3 JULY 19:00 DURATION 1hr 10min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION All TICKETS Full price R75 Concessions
R70
24 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE BAXTER THEATRE CENTRE PRESENTS THE WORLD PREMIERE OF
THE INCONVENIENCE OF WINGS
WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY LARA FOOT
T
he National Arts Festival 2016 Featured Artist and 1996 Standard Bank Young Artist for Theatre, Lara Foot, has assembled a stellar cast and creative team for the muchanticipated world premiere of her latest production, The Inconvenience of Wings, in which she tackles the issues of friendship, dysfunction, addiction and angels. The play takes place in a landscape of memory and dreams. Sara (Steyn) has been diagnosed with bi-polar disorder; she is compulsive, alive and hates women who know how to make cupcakes. Andrew (Buckland), her husband, is on a mission to find a cure for her afflictions and Professor James (Shabangu) quietly tries to save Andrew from the ‘inconvenience of his wings’.
The inspiration for this dynamic new production is based on author Abraham J Twerski’s book Addictive Thinking that examines the notion of compulsion, addiction, denial and abuse of self, as well as conversations on bipolar disorder which Lara had with celebrated psychiatrist Dr Sean Baumann. It was further stirred by her father who has suffered from dementia for more than a decade. This production also celebrates Foot’s illustrious history of collaborating with Andrew and Mncedisi and this marks her first journey with the highly acclaimed Jennifer Steyn. She once again teams up with the award-winning set designer Patrick Curtis and lighting designer Mannie Manin, with whom
RHODES THEATRE SUNDAY 3 JULY 20:00 MONDAY 4 JULY 14:00 & 20:00 TUESDAY 5 JULY 14:00 & 20:00 DURATION 1hr 30min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 14+ TICKETS Full price R75 Concessions
R70
she shared success for Solomon and Marion. Lara has worked with Andrew Buckland on productions such as Betrayal, The Well Being and Scrooge, and with Mncedisi Shabangu in Tshepang and Fishers of Hope. Collaborations with Patrick Curtis include Remembering the Lux, Fishers of Hope, Betrayal, Karoo Moose and Scrooge. Lara is the CEO and artistic director of the Baxter Theatre Centre and a former Rolex protégé to Sir Peter Hall in the Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts Initiative. She has become known and respected for her own hard-hitting plays which sensitively and creatively tackle social issues in South Africa and for which she won has several awards.
TEAM SET DESIGN LIGHTING DESIGN
Patrick Curtis Mannie Manim
CAST ANDREW PROFESSOR JAMES SARA
Andrew Buckland Mncedisi Shabangu Jennifer Steyn
A moderated post-performance discussion with the director and cast will take place after the 20:00 performance on Sunday 3 July. See the Think!Fest programme for more details.
25 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE BAXTER THEATRE CENTRE PRESENTS
TSHEPANG “This searing and compassionate, powerfully acted play … is a committed act of remembrance.” The Stage (London)
lauded the production stating simply that, “If you only see one show this year, Tshepang demands to be the one … superbly written and performed”.
B
Tshepang draws on a South African style of story-telling, combining striking visual imagery with an African sense of magic realism while cleverly and sensitively layering the story with complex psychological and personal issues. Although the topic may be brutal, the way it is handled is sensitive, even poetic, earning the production praise from audiences and critics around the globe.
ased on the true story that rocked the nation and shocked the world, Lara Foot’s critically acclaimed Tshepang stars the original cast of Mncedisi Shabangu, who reprises his role as narrator and sculptor Simon, and Nonceba Constance Didi who plays Ruth, in this haunting and uplifting masterpiece of redemption. The simplicity and symbolism of Gerhard Marx’s award-winning scenography and design creates a visual and evocative backdrop for the story. The play has garnered several awards and accolades and has been translated into isiZulu, Afrikaans and Croatian. The production has played in New York, London, Brisbane, Stockholm and Amsterdam, and toured Germany and Switzerland. The Sunday Independent
Tshepang is ultimately a story of love, forgiveness and coming to terms with a devastation of this magnitude.
TEAM WRITER & DIRECTOR Lara Foot SCENOGRAPHY Gerhard Marx LIGHTING DESIGN Wesley France CAST NARRATOR AND SCULPTOR, SIMON Mncedisi Shabangu RUTH Nonceba Constance Didi
GRAEME COLLEGE WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 20:00 THURSDAY 7 JULY 12:00 & 18:00 DURATION 1hr 20min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 15+ TICKETS Full price R75 Concessions
R70
A moderated post-performance discussion with the director and cast will take place after the 12:00 performance on 6 July.
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE BAXTER THEATRE CENTRE PRESENTS
KAROO MOOSE
WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY LARA FOOT
N
early a decade since its premiere and 15 top South African awards later, Lara Foot’s Karoo Moose returns to the stage with the original cast, who reprise their respective roles, having earned respect and acclaim in their own right over the years. Performed in English with isiXhosa translations, the story takes place in a remote and impoverished village in the Karoo, where the inhabitants are struggling to survive. A young girl, called Thozama, ends up killing a moose. But what is the moose doing there, and how did it get there? Writer and director Lara Foot tackles the disintegration of the family unit and the violation of innocence endured by so many South African children. The play cleverly and creatively combines African story-telling and magical realism. Lara explains, “The themes
of the story were bound up in the idea that the children in the village needed some kind of magical event to free them from abuse, neglect and poverty. Something magical was needed to break the cycle of violence.”
A moderated post-performance discussion with the director and cast will take place after the 20:00 performance on 30 June. .
Herman van der Westhuizen, chairman of the Aardklop panel of judges described it best, “the theatre-style is fresh – African storytelling, song, music, visual theatre, rituals and healing theatre. It shifts the boundaries of traditional South African drama to a palette of magical realism, folk tale, story-telling and musical theatre.” Originally commissioned by ABSA Aardklop Festival and first performed at the ABSA Aardklop Festival in October 2007.
TEAM MUSICAL DIRECTION AND LYRICS Bongile Mantsai CHOREOGRAPHY Mdu Kweyama SET AND LIGHTING DESIGN Patrick Curtis VOCAL COACH Lesley Nott Manim MUSICAL ADVISOR Dizu Plaatjies COSTUMES AND PROPS Koos Marais PROPS ASSISTANT Henning Lüdeke
CAST ZOLEKA HELESI MDU KWEYAMA BONGILE MANTSAI THAMI MBONGO APOLLO NTSHOKO CHUMA SOPOTELA
GRAEME COLLEGE THURSDAY 30 JUNE 20:00 FRIDAY 1 JULY 14:00 & 18:00 SATURDAY 2 JULY 14:00 DURATION 1hr 25min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 13+ (L V) TICKETS Full price R75 Concessions
R70
26
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE ARTSCAPE THEATRE CENTRE PRESENTS THE SOUTH AFRICAN PREMIERE OF
OOMASISULU ADAPTED FROM THE BIOGRAPHICAL NOVEL BY ELINOR SISULU DEVISED & WORKSHOPPED BY THE COMPANY
A
lbertina Sisulu, a veteran of the antiapartheid movement, was present at many of the landmark moments of the struggle for liberation including the launch, in 1955, of the Freedom Charter, which proclaims: “South Africa belongs to all who live in it, black and white.” Albertina Sisulu lived through some of the darkest days of the struggle against apartheid. Her husband, Walter Sisulu, was detained on Robben Island for 25 years. She too had spent months in jail herself and had her movements restricted. All five of her children were detained too. Despite
all of this, the apartheid government never succeeded in breaking her spirit. OoMaSiSulu is an adaptation of vignettes from Elinor Sisulu’s biography. It provides intimate insights about this feisty leader and it explores the basic concept of political activism: what gives birth to such an undertaking? As the National Arts Festival reflects on the historic 1956 Women’s March to Pretoria, OoMaSiSulu as she affectionately remembered, represents that generation of women who turned the country on its
A moderated post-performance discussion with the director and cast will take place after the 16:00 performance on Thursday 30 June. See the Think!Fest programme for more details.
RHODES BOX THEATRE THURSDAY 30 JUNE 16:00 FRIDAY 1 JULY 10:00 & 21:00 SATURDAY 2 JULY 10:00 & 18:00 DURATION 1hr 30min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 14+ TICKETS Full Price R75 Concessions
CAST THEMBI MTSHALI-JONES INDALO STOFILE CHUMA SOPOTELA
head in 1976, marching out on the streets; stones in their fists, to face the Saracens, police and soldiers wearing bullet-proof vests, armed to the teeth. The inter-generational angle of narrating the story of the women’s involvement in the fight for liberation, celebrates the women who were on the frontlines of the battle against apartheid. The 1976 generation came about, consciously or unconsciously, because of what had gone on before them. The 1956 Women’s March is an important part of the herstory of South Africa.
TEAM CONCEPTUALISATION ORIGINAL PLAYSCRIPT DIRECTOR ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR LIGHTING DESIGN SET DESIGN COSTUME DESIGN SOUND DESIGN
R70
MULTIMEDIA DESIGN
Thembi Mtshali-Jones & Dr Sindiwe Magona Dr Sindiwe Magona Warona Seane Chuma Sopotela Faheem Bardien Alfred Rietmann Artscape Wardrobe Department Artscape Sound Department Sanjin Muftic
27 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH SIBIKWA THEATRE PRESENTS
“Ilembe eleqa amanye amalembe ngokukhalipha” (the axe that surpasses all other axes in sharpness)
WRITTEN BY SMAL NDABA AND PHYLLIS KLOTZ IN COOPERATION WITH BALUNGILE DLAMINI, BHOYI NGEMA, ANDRIES MBALI AND JEREMY RICHARD Most of Fynn’s dialogue is taken directly from the Diary of Henry Fynn “Ilembe is a journey into convolutions” Liane Loots (Artistic Director: Jomba Festival)
i
Lembe depicts the last few months of the life of Shaka kaSenzangakhona, better known as Shaka Zulu, whose statesmanship and vigour marked him as one of the most prominent Zulu kings. Shaka Zulu has been called a military genius for his reforms and innovations and has been condemned for the brutality of his reign.
TEAM CONCEPT & DIRECTION Phyllis Klotz & Smal Ndaba CHOREOGRAPHY Oscar Buthelezi MUSIC COMPOSITION & SOUND DESIGN Themba Mkhize COSTUME & SET DESIGN Sarah Roberts LIGHTING DESIGN Stan Knight SOUND Gladman Balintulo TRANSLATION Smal Ndaba & Bongani Mahlangu VOCALS ON SOUNDTRACK Mbuso Khoza SURTITLES Janneke Strijdonk
Drawing on profound storytelling iLembe offers the audience four very different and divergent interspliced narratives around Shaka; his clever, cunning, multilingual Xhosa interpreter Jackot Msimbithi, the adventurous, young controversial English trader Henry Fynn, Shaka’s vengeful attendant Mbopha (who eventually murders him) and his sister Nomcoba who fondly remembers the kindness
shown to her by her brother. iLembe juxtaposes the received earliest writings of white traders with the oral tradition and contests these two perspectives around the famous warrior. Two musicians form the chorus playing traditional Zulu instruments while warriors hold the narrative together with their dancing. The evocative music creates a dream-like atmosphere as the storytellers and warriors move across the stage. iLembe offers its narrative in isiZulu, isiXhosa and English. English translations are offered through surtitles. iLembe is a post-modern theatrical encounter that welcomes questions around authentic history. iLembe was first performed at The Playhouse Durban in 2014
This production is dedicated to the memory of Bhoyi Ngema, who died tragically in a motor accident in December 2013. A moderated post-performance discussion with the director and cast will take place after the 18:00 performance on Thursday 30 June. See the Think!Fest programme for more details.
RHODES THEATRE THURSDAY 30 JUNE 18:00 FRIDAY 1 JULY 12:00 & 18:00 DURATION 1hr 30min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 12+ TICKETS Full price R75 Concessions R70
28 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS GRAHAM WEIR IN
DEAD YELLOW SANDS WINNER OF THE FLEUR DU CAP AWARD FOR BEST PERFORMANCE IN A ONE PERSON SHOW AND WINNER OF THE FLEUR DU CAP AWARD FOR BEST LIGHTING DESIGN “A tour de force not to be missed...Weir has not graced the stage for a while, but this latest drama devised and performed by him reaffirms his brilliance; whether in narrating or singing, his performance is worthy of 5 stars abetted by Bo Petersen’s skilful directing.” Beverley Brommert (The Argus)
“Weir’s writing has touches of Barney Simon’s ‘People’, of Fugard, of Slabolepszy, of Bosman – but still remains essentially Weir.” Nigel Vermaas (Bush Radio)
“Graham has an unerring ability to be undramatic… Between blinks he can shift between a man on a stage and the equivalent of Homer in Ionia. There is a beautiful tension in this, a marvellous complicity and agreement to hand him the oars as we cast off from the jetty of everyday life rather than having them wrested from us by a surfeit of pageantry…The production’s simplicity and transparency holds greater power than grand false spectacle.” Steve Kretzmann (Critter)
Dead Yellow Sands is a return to minimalism: an actor lit with sophisticatedly simple lighting; his speaking the stories he has lived. The production is the combination of a haunting original South African script and the consummate skills of a veteran production team. Other productions that Petersen and Weir have mounted together include Weir’s self-penned works Tales from a Dark Corner, Letters from Patient Essop, and Petersen’s direction of Weir’s legendary a cappella group Not The Midnight Mass. Dead Yellow Sands premiered at the Alexander Bar Theatre, Cape Town, and played to sold out houses, critical acclaim and the highest online audience rating in the history of that theatre, which hosted 80 new productions in 2015 alone. In August, after a short successful season at the 969 Festival in Johannesburg, the production returned to the Alexander Bar Theatre for another sold out season.
Photo: Darron Araujo
THE HANGAR THURSDAY 30 JUNE 12:00 FRIDAY 1 JULY 10:00 & 16:00 SATURDAY 2 JULY 19:00 DURATION 1hr (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION PG 16+ TICKETS Full Price R75 Concessions R70
TEAM WRITER Graham Weir DIRECTOR Bo Petersen LIGHTING CONCEPTUALISATION Guy de Lancey LIGHTS CONSTRUCTION Nicholas Dallas LIGHTING DESIGN Darron Araujo STAGE MANAGER Darron Araujo
29 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THAMBO THEATRE PRODUCTIONS, TWIST THEATRE PROJECTS AND WUSHWINI ARTS AND HERITAGE CENTRE PRESENTS THE SOUTH AFRICAN PREMIERE OF
SLEEPWALKINGLAND
ADAPTED FROM THE NOVEL BY MIA COUTO “Beyond our borders, in other African countries and in other war zones in the world, people are confronted with the violence and oppression of civil wars and other conflicts. Without ever picking up a weapon, ordinary people become pawns in these wars that are not of their making. These people go through the same humiliating process that many South Africans did under apartheid. Behind the monuments and the national days and the list of heroic freedom fighters, who remembers the nameless people, who were displaced, dehumanised, exiled, killed, tortured and forgotten? What does the process of war do to people and their identities?” Roel Twijnstra Sleepwalkingland reflects on this thought.
A
burned out bus, a ruin and a wasteland create the site-specific location for this show. Sleepwalkingland is set in war-torn Mozambique at the end of the civil war when the tension between rival political parties was at its highest point. An older man and a boy meet at a refugee camp and flee. Together, they travel down a road that had been abandoned and encounter many signs of the war, including a burned out bus where they decide to rest. The South African premiere of Sleepwalkingland at the National Arts Festival is made possible through a partnership with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, TWIST Theatre Projects, Wushwini Arts and Heritage Centre, Pro Helvetia and the Arts & Culture Trust.
CAST DADIVO JOSE COMBANE BHEKANI SHABALALA NKANYISO SHEZI AND 20 ACTORS FROM KWAZULU NATAL COMMUNITY THEATRE COMPANIES WORKING WITH TWIST THEATRE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT TEAM ADAPTATION Kobus Moolman DIRECTION Roel Twijnstra and Jerry Pooe DRAMATURGE Emma Durden SET & LIGHTING DESIGN Roel Twijnstra MUSIC Michel Banabila COSTUMES Philisiwe Twijnstra LIGHTING & SOUND TECHNICIAN Mxo Ngbane STAGE MANAGEMENT Nosipho Bophela COMPANY MANAGER Bhekani Shabalala
CNR FROUDE & STANLEY STREETS WEDNESDAY 6 TO SATURDAY 9 JULY 18:20 Bus departs from Drostdy Arch at 18:00 20:20 Bus departs from Drostdy Arch at 20:00 DURATION 1hr (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 16+ TICKETS Full price R75 Concessions R70
30 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH KABOSH (BELFAST, IRELAND) PRESENTS THE SOUTH AFRICAN PREMIERE OF
THOSE YOU PASS ON THE STREET T
hose You Pass on the Street is a hard hitting play that explores the legacy of the 30-year conflict in the north of Ireland.
CAST VINCENT HIGGINS GERARD JORDAN PAULA MCFETRIDGE CAROL MOORE TEAM WRITER Laurence McKeown DIRECTOR Paula McFetridge PRODUCTION & TECHNICAL MANAGER James Kennedy PRODUCERS Zoe Fox and Dominic Montague
RHODES BOX THEATRE MONDAY 4 JULY 18:00 12:00 & 18:00 TUESDAY 5 JULY WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 12:00 18:00 DURATION 1hr 30min (incl. interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 14+ TICKETS Full price R75 Concessions R70
When Elizabeth, the widow of a murdered Royal Ulster Constabulary policeman, walks into a Sinn Fein office seeking assistance with anti-social behaviour in her area, she begins a friendship with the community officer, Frank. The developing friendship challenges their personal preconceptions and beliefs as well as their family and political loyalties. In approaching the perceived enemy, her life is changed forever. Having toured to audiences throughout Ireland this play successfully contrasts political positioning with individual’s needs. It challenges the view that any mechanism for dealing with the past is simply about ‘whose side gets what’. This powerful production examines universal issues of loss and love. It asks difficult questions for a post-conflict society – when is the right time to move forward? Can an individual take that step? Are there too many restraining factors from community, church and family to forgive, forget and reach reconciliation? When is the right time and will the time ever be right? “I would have described myself, before this play as someone who wasn’t affected by the Troubles, but now I realise I was, thank you” (audience member) ‘Important we pass on truth – a truth that doesn’t breed bitterness – we have to stop passing on the legacy of our contested past to young people’ (audience member) Each performance will be followed by a facilitated discussion with the playwright Laurence McKeown, a Republican ex-prisoner, and Kabosh artistic director Paula McFetridge.
Kabosh is a multi-award winning company from Belfast that commissions original dramas to explore conflict resolution through theatre. The play is performed by four respected Irish actors.
31
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH NOBULALI PRODUCTIONS AND SHAKEXPERIENCE PRESENTS
ANIMAL FARM ADAPTED, DIRECTED & DESIGNED BY NEIL COPPEN FROM GEORGE ORWELL’S NOVEL
S
even decades have passed since the first publication of Orwell’s Animal Farm, yet the plight of Manor Farm and its animal denizens is ever relevant in contemporary South Africa. The story persistently transports the audience into the complex realities of not only the rise of the Soviet Union, and the power, propaganda and political corruption that was embodied in Stalin and Trotsky; but, as the world has changed, Animal Farm continues to “clairvoyantly” predict the emergence and decline of corrupt and
oppressive leaders around the world. In our daily lives we continue to see the clash of Napoleon and Snowball repeated. We cringe at the ‘Squealer’ spin-doctors, the oppressed ‘suffragette’ chickens, the gallant goats and sigh at the demise of loyal earnest citizens embodied by the exploitation of the hard working horse ‘Boxer’. The fiery energy that exists between the all women cast is palpable, and offers a fresh approach to critically examining patriarchal and deeply masculine political systems, and
TEAM PRODUCERS Lali Dangazele and Lalu Mokuku CHOREOGRAPHY Daniel Buckland LIGHTING DESIGN Tina Le Roux COSTUMES DESIGN Thando Lobese and Neil Coppen PROPS / SET CONSTRUCTION Courtney Watts SOUND DESIGN Tristan Horton SOUND MIX Gil Hockman STAGE MANAGER Sonè Theron POSTER DESIGN Vaughn Sadie and Neil Coppen PRODUCTION MANAGER Nobulali Dangazele PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR Tiffani Cornwall
forms of storytelling. The entire production – save for Coppen and choreographer Daniel Buckland – is run by women, including the producers, stage manager and lighting designer. Animal Farm reflects histories that are inherently patriarchal and oppressive, yet this version is no longer told by men, but fully embodied by women. After several five star reviews, sold out shows and standing ovations and two Naledi Theatre Awards, Animal Farm is a not to be missed show.
RHODES THEATRE THURSDAY 7 JULY 16:00 FRIDAY 8 JULY 10:00 & 16:00 SATURDAY 9 JULY 10:00 & 16:00 DURATION 1h 30min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 14+ TICKETS Full price R75 Concessions
R70
32
PHOTO: RIDE HAMILTON
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH ABRAHAMSE & MEYER PRODUCTIONS AND THE PROVINCETOWN TENNESSEE WILLIAMS THEATRE FESTIVAL, USA, AND WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE US EMBASSY PRESENTS THE SOUTH AFRICAN PREMIERE OF
TENNESSEE WILLIAMS’
THE DAY ON WHICH A MAN DIES A
n epic lover’s quarrel roars between adjoining hotel rooms in 1959 Tokyo. The Man, an acclaimed painter now mocked for his new technique of applying paint with spray-guns, confronts The Woman, his sharp-tongued companion of 11 years. She has lost faith in him and his work. They argue violently, make up, make love, and betray each other.
Noh plays are Japanese 14th century ghost plays, and the ghost evoked is the paintsplattering Jackson Pollock, a friend of Williams in 1940s Provincetown. Pollock’s pursuit of new forms beyond the safety of convention offered Williams a stageworthy model of a romantic artist – writer or painter – pursuing his visions beyond public acceptance.
The text was rediscovered in 1991 and received its world premiere in 2008 in this production directed and designed by David Kaplan. In September 2015 this production was presented by Abrahamse and Meyer Productions in repertory with The Milk Train Doesn’t Stop Here Anymore as part of the 10th Anniversary Provincetown Tennessee Williams Theatre Festival.
Written by Tennessee Williams at the height of his public acclaim, the play was kept by the author in reserve, filed and then forgotten in a Los Angeles library. The Day on Which A Man Dies powerfully blends Japanese Gutai Performance Art with some of Williams’ most beautiful lyric writing in a play Williams subtitled “An Occidental Noh Play.”
Williams dedicated the play to Yukio Mishima, the Japanese author of voluptuous excess and verbal precision. Mishima’s “modern Noh plays” lent Williams a dramatic form with which to embody wilful self-destruction. A wry Mishima stand-in, a role called The Oriental, reflects on sex as power while explaining how Japanese and Western suicides differ.
The Day on Which A Man Dies is presented at the National Arts Festival through special arrangement with the University of the South, Sewanee, Tennessee
TRANSNET GREAT HALL THURSDAY 7 JULY 20:00 FRIDAY 8 JULY 12:00 & 18:00 SATURDAY 9 JULY 12:00 & 18:00 DURATION 1hr 30min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 16 + (strong language & nudity) TICKETS Full Price R75 Concessions R70
A moderated post-performance discussion with the director and cast will take place after the 20:00 performance on Thursday 7 July. See the Think!Fest programme for more details.
CAST THE MAN Marcel Meyer THE WOMAN Jennifer Steyn THE ORIENTAL Daniel Richards SECOND STAGE ASSISTANT Matthew Baldwin TEAM DIRECTOR & DESIGNER PRODUCER
David Kaplan Fred Abrahamse
33
PHOTOS BY ZÉWANDE BK. BHENGU
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE DRAMA FOR LIFE AFRICA PROJECT PRESENTS
AFRIQUEER A
friQueer is an evocative site-specific journey through multiple solo performances from across Africa; an intimate evocation into the lives of men living on a continent that violently rejects the ‘other’; a dreamscape into a world that embraces queer in Africa. AfriQueer is directed by Warren Nebe with a team of performance artists from five countries, namely Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. The Drama for Life Africa Project is a multi-media, interdisciplinary project that aims to enhance a deeper understanding about sex, sexualities and sexual health with a human rights perspective across the Southern African Development Community region (SADC). AfriQueer is but one of its performance projects. Drama for Life, based at the University of the Witwatersrand, is a global centre dedicated to social transformation and healing. The Drama for Life Africa Project is a Southern African Development Community (SADC) Project funded by the Swiss Development Corporation (SDC). A moderated post-performance discussion with the director and cast will take place after the 16:00 performance on Thursday 30 June. See the Think!Fest programme for more details. CAST AND TEAM: CO-CREATED AND DIRECTED BY Warren Nebe CO-CREATED & PERFORMED BY Tefo Paya, Thembile Tshuma, Hamish Neill, Dadivo Jose, Jacques Mushaandja, Moses Rasekele, Bonginkosi Mnisi, and Sithembiso Khalishwayo
BOTANICAL GARDENS THURSDAY 30 JUNE 16:00 & 20:00 FRIDAY 1 JULY 16:00 & 20:00 SATURDAY 2 JULY 16:00 & 20:00 SUNDAY 3 JULY 16:00 & 20:00 DURATION 1hr 15min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 15+ TICKETS Full price R75 Concessions
R70
34 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH ARTSCAPE, GARAGE DANCE, JOBURG CITY THEATRES AND VIA PRESENTS
THE KEEPER OF THE KUMM
EXORCISING APARTHEID
A FICTIONAL ADAPTATION INSPIRED BY THE BOOK THE KEEPER OF THE KUMM BY SYLVIA VOLLENHOVEN
S
he’s a battle-hardened, 21st-Century journalist. A sceptic, but no cynic. For years she used journalism to expose the evil that was apartheid. Now, in The Keeper of the Kumm, Elizabeth ‘Betjie’ Petersen responds to an ‘Ancestral Calling’ to explore the almost forgotten world of her ancestors. Likely, the ancestors of us all. In 1870 //Kabbo /Uhi-ddorro Jantjie Tooren, a revolutionary Bushman hunter of the /Xam people, fears that the fragile culture of his people – their very existence – is threatened. Their stories are being lost. And without their stories, he knows, his people will die. //Kabbo goes on a quest. To find someone who can write down Bushman stories while there are still people to tell them. The result is an archive recorded over a thousand days and nights. Today, more than a century later, the archive is entered into UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register. Now across the centuries, //Kabbo reaches out to a modern writer to take up his quest. Betjie becomes seriously ill and has to learn to come to terms with the demands of an ‘Ancestral Calling’. Has to learn of the appalling wrongs done over the centuries to the bodies and souls of her ancestors. If one group has title deeds written on their hearts and the other claims ownership with pieces of paper, who owns the land? Each generation raises only the questions it is ready to answer. A modern exploration of our common ancestry. The action of the play crosses time and space with ease. It weaves the threads of our connections with each other into a solid tapestry of performance, music and dance. ‘Kumm’ is the word for story or account, anything told and retold, in the now extinct /Xam Bushman language.
GRAEME COLLEGE SUNDAY 3 JULY 20:00 MONDAY 4 JULY 14:00 & 20:00 14:00 TUESDAY 5 JULY DURATION 1hr 30min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 16 + TICKETS Full price R75 Concessions R70 A moderated post-performance discussion with the director and cast will take place after the 20:00 performance on Sunday 3 July. See the Think!Fest programme for more details.
TEAM CONCEPT & DIRECTION CHOREOGRAPHY GARAGE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR ORIGINAL MUSIC SCORE ASSOCIATE PRODUCER & SCRIPT CONSULTANT
Basil Appollis Alfred Hinkel John Linden Hilton Schilder Tim Knight
35 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH GOPALA DAVIES AND SUPPORTED BY THE FRENCH INSTITUTE OF SOUTH AFRICA (IFAS) PRESENTS
LES CENCI
L
es Cenci is an intermedial performance that explores mental illness, violence and theatrical cruelty through a semi-biographical dramatisation of the life of French poet, essayist, actor and theatre director, Antoine Marie Joseph Artaud, better known as Antonin Artaud. Through the combination of new media technology and the theoretical underpinnings of Artaud, the audience is taken on a horrific, and at times, lighthearted journey inspired by his lifelong struggle with mental illness. The integration of technology in Les Cenci provides an alternative mode of representation to the dominant Western engagement with Theatrical Realism. Simultaneously this production reflects changing trends in South African performance practices and also the way that intermedial performances have the potential to appeal to a new generation of audiences. The performance is physically driven and deviates from the primacy of the spoken word. It also does not follow a linear narrative progression, but rather provides the audience with multiple entry points, from which they can create their own meaning. Les Cenci stimulates non-verbal communication, sensory engagement and active participation in order to construct numerous unique performance experiences. Gopala Davies’ Les Cenci will include new media footage projected on a cyclorama together with a simultaneous live engagement by the performers. At this intersection of live and recorded, where the live actor performs with their recorded bodies, the audience physically engage with the tenets of Antonin Artaud’s fundamental performance text Theatre and Its Double (1938).
TEAM: DIRECTOR Gopala Davies STAGE MANAGER Daniella Brews
CAST: FIONA RAMSAY CASSIUS DAVIDS CHARLIE BOUGUENON MACMILLAN MABALEKA MARTIN VAN HEERDEN
VICTORIA THEATRE MONDAY 4 JULY 20:00 TUESDAY 5 JULY 10:00 & 20:00 WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 10:00 & 16:00 DURATION 1hr (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 16+ TICKETS: Full price R75 Concessions
R70
36 THE ARTSCAPE THEATRE CENTRE IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS THE
ARTSCAPE THEATRE SHOWCASE Each year the National Arts Festival sharpens the spotlight on a South African theatre by presenting a Showcase Season featuring at least one production by the Theatre on the Main programme and four other productions presented on the Fringe programme. Previous Showcase Seasons have featured the Market Theatre (Johannesburg), State Theatre (Pretoria) and the Port Elizabeth Opera House. The 2016 Showcase throws the spotlight on the Artscape Theatre (Cape Town). Artscape’s production on the Main programme is OoMaSisulu (page 26). The four productions on the Fringe represent the diversity of productions developed and presented by the Artscape Theatre. Situated in the heart of Cape Town, the Artscape Theatre is strongly committed to being a vehicle for growth and transformation in the performing arts in ways that advance nation building and business partnerships which involve a broad range of stakeholders.
DIE GLAS ENNIE DRAAD
B
ased on a true story from one of South Africa’s most notorious ganglands, Marlin is an active gang leader of over 3000 men and has recently survived an assassination.
We journey into the mind of violence and abuse as Marlin reveals his life-story to ‘die kopdoktor’, Rob. From the offset it is evident to Rob that Marlin is suffering from mental and emotional instability. CAST & TEAM: DIRECTED BY WRITTEN BY MUSIC COMPOSED BY FEATURING
As the situation becomes increasingly more volatile our grasp of the monster and the man becomes blurred. Will Rob be able to leave unchanged or will he pay with his life?
Sandra Temmingh Daniel Mpilo Richards & Gantane Kusch Phillip Glass Daniel Mpilo Richards
GYMNASIUM TUESDAY 5 JULY 18:00 FRIDAY 8 JULY 20:30 WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 20:30 SATURDAY 9 JULY 20:30 THURSDAY 7 JULY 20:30 DURATION 1hr 10min AGE RECOMMENDATION 14+L LANGUAGES Afrikaans & English TICKETS Full price R80 Concessions R72 Block R68 NO admission charge for the first performance but booking essential
HENRIETTA WITH LOVE W
ife to Charlie, mother to Mercia, sister to Rosie, friend to Freda, neighbour to big Mrs Castens, Henrietta speaks of her life with love. She shares her traditions, her “swear by’s” and her culture. Henrietta explores the meaning of things, troubles of
the mind, ginger squares, Protea Village they now call Bishops Court, nerve pills, the war in North Africa, her favourite cerise pill box hat with matching petals and a veil that Mrs Castens said made her look like a pond lilly, upright and beautiful...
GYMNASIUM THURSDAY 30 JUNE TO WEDNESDAY 5 JULY 16:00 daily DURATION 1hr 15min AGE RECOMMENDATION 12+ L LANGUAGES English & Afrikaans TICKETS: Full price R80 Concessions R72 Block R68 NO admission charge for the first performance but booking essential
And one day, everything changed...
CAST & TEAM DIRECTED BY Sandra Temmingh WRITTEN BY Peter Voges FEATURING Lee-Ann van Rooi
37
MORWA THE RISING SON M
orwa: The Rising Son is a one-man play and it is a combination of story-telling, presentational theatre and ritual. The play follows the story of ‘Morwa’ a young Motswana man and his journey of discovering what it means to be a man. The play is based on personal narrative and looks to evoke dialogue and a better understanding of the challenges faced by young men in Africa and African Youth on the whole. Through an individuals personal story the play, intimately, explores issues of Masculine Identity.
CAST & TEAM: DIRECTED BY Warren Nebe WRITTEN BY Tefo Paya MUSIC COMPOSED BY Volley Nchabeleng FEATURING Tefo Paya, Volley Nchabeleng
VENUE: GYMNASIUM SUNDAY 3 JULY TO TUESDAY 5 JULY THURSDAY 7 JULY TO SATURDAY 9 JULY DURATION 55min AGE RECOMMENDATION 14+ L
TICKETS:
14:00 daily 14:00 daily
Full price R80 Concessions Block bookings R68
R72
No admission charge for first performance but booking essential
ITYALA LA MAWELE
S
et in the time of the historical King Hintsa kaKhawuta, a dispute takes place between the fictional twins Wele and Babini over their deceased father’s estate as to who should take their father’s place. This is resolved via a traditional Xhosa legal trial and various people give testimony, with Xhosa traditions being practiced. DIRECTED BY WRITTEN BY ADAPTED BY MUSIC DIRECTION BY FEATURING
Thando Doni and Mandla Mbothwe Samuel Edward Krune Mqwhayi Thando Doni Bongile Mantsai Faniswa Yisa, Bongile Mantsai, Chuma Sopotela, Lamla Ntsaluba
VENUE: CITY HALL MONDAY 4 JULY 10:00 THURSDAY 7 JULY 18:30 TUESDAY 5 JULY 14:00 FRIDAY 8 JULY 16:30 WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 18:30 SATURDAY 9 JULY 20:30 DURATION 1h 30min AGE RECOMMENDATION PG TICKETS: Full price R80 Concessions R72 Block bookings No admission charge for the first performance but booking essential
R68
38 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS PIETER-DIRK UYS IN A RETURN SEASON OF
THE ECHO OF A NOISE “This picture was taken on Blouberg beach on 11 February 1990, the day Nelson Mandela was freed from jail. Neither I nor South Africa look the same today.” Pieter-Dirk Uys
“The packed auditorium rose as one with a ‘Bravo Pieter!’ and the standing ovation was thunderous. This was arguably the 7 000th solo performance and yet it felt like his very first … An artist who can still cause a major traffic jam outside the theatre!” Laetitia Pople – Die Burger
P
ieter-Dirk Uys presented the world premiere of his new memoir The Echo of a Noise at the National Arts Festival in 2015. Having performed alone on the stages of the world for well over seven thousand times, he has learnt that every show is the first and the last performance – because each audience demands and gets a different energy, topicality and excitement. Pieter-Dirk Uys doesn’t glance back at the successes and failures that have strengthened his belief in a constant improvement of his work, but at those small signposts that throughout his life subconsciously have pointed him in a right and original direction – from his father Hannes Uys, his mother Helga Bassel, his grandmothers, his teachers, his passions; Sophia Loren, censorship, false eyelashes and making a noise when everyone demanded silence.
VICTORIA THEATRE FRIDAY 1 JULY 18:00 SATURDAY 2 JULY 14:00 & 18:00 DURATION 1h 15min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 14+ TICKETS Full price R110 Concessions R100
In The Echo of a Noise, South Africa’s foremost satirist sits on a barstool, opens his heart and talks about his private and public life leading the audience into his innersanctuary with stories that can evoke surprise, laughter and tears. “He remains a master storyteller.” Die Burger Pieter-Dirk Uys’s two memoirs Elections & Erections and Between the Devil and the Deep are available on Amazon Kindle
39 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS
ALAN COMMITTIE IN
Fr star o om the f D The C efending come aveman s a hilario nother u at th s look e bat tle of th e sexe s!
… MORE TALES FROM A CAVEMAN HE’S BACK! … in the perfect “date-comedy” for 2016 One performance only! The star of the hit show, Defending the Caveman, has decided that, after 947 performances of the record-breaking comedy, it’s time to take a fresh look at relationships in 2016 and brings us a brand-new, hilarious exploration of the battle of the sexes (and the exes!). With a comic, honest and sometimes even touching look at couples, our Caveman, Alan Committie, will continue to explore the mad differences between men and women, the quirks and foibles of marriage and dating and will even try to finally provide the right answers to those loaded questions, “Do you think I look fat?”, “Are you listening to me?” and “Would you prefer to go to the cricket or spend the day with me and my mom!?!” In Love Factually our every-man hero also investigates everything from Tinder and text breakups, online attractions and detractions, surviving as a post-modern, metro-quasi-dexi-semi-multi-mano-sexual, to exploring single vs. mingle, the apparent gift of having children and the supposed burden of family … If you enjoyed Defending the Caveman you’re going to love this fresh take on why it’s ok for men and women to be so different. “A fighting fit Alan Committie continues the battle of the sexes in this gloriously funny look at the differences between men and women. It’s an old story, which he first brought to our attention in ‘Defending the Caveman’ eight years ago, but in this new version he brings into play a fresh dimension on the subject and once again demonstrates his sheer genius.” Peter Feldman – 48 Hours “Committie is, as always, razor sharp. Easy listening and good fun, it’s a sure hit!” Jennifer de Klerk – Artslink.co.za “Committe is on fire and deserves an Oscar for Sustained Comedy” Lesley Stones - Daily Maverick
GUY BUTLER THEATRE THURSDAY 7 JULY 19:00 DURATION 1hr 30min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION PG TICKETS Full price R120 Concessions R110
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH ROB VAN VUUREN PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS
41 GUY BUTLER TH
EATRE
WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 19:30 DURATION 1h r 20min (no interv al) AGE RECOMMEN DATION PG 16 +L TICKETS Full price R95 Concessions R8 5
liver
O Dalin
ate who T gradu C s U ld o udience earis a 27-y ed to capture a nd ra b g c a ti n e has ma ut energ hows at clean-c s with his . With sold-out eis fast b dy of come and NAF, Dalin th u o S e ter ce on th the Bax miliar fa . Last chance fa a g comin scene comedy , I Taught, I Left African m a IC e n on this to catch amstow ge. in Grah rin year’s F
Alan Committie
ic who is an award-winning com nd-up, sta of rld wo traverses the producing. and g ctin dire , ting wri ding the He was the star of Defen mances and for per 943 for an vem Ca has produced 16 stand rs up shows over the yea including Stressed to Kill, Titanic on Ice, The Sound of Laughter and No, Seriously? In Grahamstown for a once-off performance of his brand new show, Love Factually, we are glad to have hijacked him (and his alter ego, Johan van der Walt) for this gig.
Marc Lott er
ing hails fr om Ca pe Town, a South nd is one of Africa’s comed top ia been in ns. He has busine the funny s than th s for longer e and co Gupta’s, n keep a tinues to u stitche diences in s perfor wherever h ms. Se e e him in Grah Hasht amstown in ag Lot tering ! gubeni Tyson N o’s only
y Sowet is quite likel ian king comed ing ea p -s Dutch rm fo er prefers p though he e former call Th med in English. t, often presu centre agen African thanks h as non-Sout mplexion, takes co to his dark bic s at xenopho bing regular jab pro ng ki as le hi ictable attitudes w our unpred questions of is in The Dark on country. Tys inge. e Fr Ages on th
Thenx are Kitty Moepang (27), Tumy Motsoatsoe (28), MoMo Matsunyane (27), and Zethu Dlomo (27). They are known for their use of satire and parody to capture the tensions and struggles of everyday life in a comical way. This year, Thenx debut at NAF with their comedic sketch show, AZA-NYA is Five-To, produced by ExploSiv Productions.
Carl Weber
nal atio N e o th very ng t is life. E ath. i m fh em n co bee n half o u do th ank s a a h . Yo rd B e th ren vuu for mor s 40 now f Standa ery Big s n a V v i l ig o Rob Festiva fail. He bunch nd The vorite g a t s a n e t l f r u y Ar itho n a who comed e of his to retu s W . r yea has wo rds for ome on for him dience He on Awa as bec rtunity own au des by o t ti h a Ova y Show an opp rahams wo dec of his s t G ’ d r t t I e e . a me and Com he year love th m for ov n of so d new . an hi dy ctio of t the e of n giving r a sele ablished everybo m o e s t bee h es y for geth have ging to ans bot gh part brin omedi old lau big rite c favo owing a thr Morake
boy’ has been honing a self-confessed ‘farm the Cape Town comedy on lls he’s comedic ski is quickly becoming and circuit since 2010, with in the SA ed a force to be reckon promises to tickle rl Ca ry. ust ind edy com ts and then hur it till ne bo ny your fun forming at per s he’ – re tickle some mo ries. Dia e yki -Bo NAF in The Bloem
Tumi
Tumi Morake continues to be a rated formidable force in the male satu g comedy industry. Since beginnin she , 2006 in s club ky smo in her career h has steadily grown into one of Sout ns, Africa’s most sought after comedia earning the title of South Africa’s a First Lady of Comedy – not bad for Tumi mother of three and wife of one. year. is performing in Tease! at NAF this
TWENTY YEARS AND GETTING STRONGER… SLEEPWALKINGLAND
WATCHING
T
he Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands has a long and stimulating partnership with the National Arts Festival. Over the past two decades, the Embassy has supported the presentation of a crosssection of arts genres in Grahamstown. Highlights such as the Nederlands Dan Teater (1997) and Intro Dans (1999) which were presented in Grahamstown have played a dynamic role in stimulating trends amongst South African choreographers. An exhibition of World Press Photographs supported by the Embassy in 1999 still remains one of the strongest highlights of the Festival’s visual arts programme. The Embassy’s support for Dutch artists to perform their own jazz sets and in collaboration with South African jazz musicians remains a strong favourite with Festival attendees. The Embassy’s investment in the Festival’s development programmes has enabled Dutch artists to participate in innovative skills transfer programmes with South African emerging and established artists. In 2015 a programme headlined by the Embassy’s #CoCreateSA strategy was a striking and visible partnership with the Festival. In 2016, the National Arts Festival is delighted to present an array of productions that reinforce twenty years of a glorious collaboration with artists from the Netherlands. These are as follows:
SLEEPWALKINGLAND Page29
WATCHING Page 44
BARRERA BARRERA
THE FUTURISTS
Page 49
THE FUTURISTS Page 90
SOLO THEATRE SEASON Pages 43 – 47
JAZZ FESTIVAL Page 91 JAZZ FESTIVAL
THINK! FEST Page 124
REMIX LABORATORY Arts development programme for emerging artists
ADELAIDE TAMBO AWARD Award for Celebrating Human Rights Through the Arts
43 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE EMBASSY OF THE NETHERLANDS PRESENTS
THE 4TH SOLO THEATRE FESTIVAL
S
olo Theatre Festivals that celebrate the uniqueness of the solo performer are part of a growing global movement. Solo productions that draw on intimately personal narratives allow both the artist and the audience to reflect on contemporary society in a way that is feisty, compassionate, riveting and thought-provoking. The 4th Solo Theatre Festival at the National Arts Festival brings together eight awe-inspiring solo productions performed by women from South Africa and abroad to explore and share
the resilience of the human spirit that binds us all together. The personal narratives in each of the productions reflect on the tenacity of women in political and personal struggles. It celebrates their victories and it pays homage to their courage. The 4th Solo Theatre Festival at the National Arts Festival is presented in association with the Embassy of the Netherlands. The National Arts Festival also expresses gratitude to the British Council, Arts Council England, US Embassy and the MidAtlantic Arts Foundation for their support.
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH ABRAHAMSE & MEYER PRODUCTIONS AND WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE EMBASSY OF THE NETHERLANDS PRESENTS JACKIE RENS AS RUTH FIRST IN THE WORLD PREMIERE OF
RUTH FIRST: 117 DAYS BASED ON THE BOOK BY RUTH FIRST
A
n unforgettable account of defiance against political terror by one of South Africa’s pioneering anti-apartheid activists, Ruth First: 117 Days is an invaluable testimonial to the excesses of the apartheid system. Ruth First was a journalist, academic and political activist during the height of the apartheid era. She was detained, persecuted, exiled and eventually assassinated for her activism and beliefs. Married to fellow communist and anti-apartheid activist, Joe Slovo, she served on the Drafting Committee of the Freedom Charter. On 9 August 1963, she was arrested and kept in solitary confinement under the notorious 90-day clause becoming the first white woman in South Africa to be arrested under this Act. Her account of her period
in detention was published in her 1965 book 117 Days. This production dramatises the harrowing, real-life chronicle of First’s isolation and abuse at the hands of South African interrogators and is an intense portrayal of the psychology of solitary confinement and interrogation – as well as the human interactions and relationships established with one’s captors. The humiliation of being locked away, the slow winding of the days, the effects of loneliness and sensory deprivation that almost drives one to the brink. Ruth First: 117 Days is a classic portrait of oppression and the dignity of the human spirit.
ADAPTATION Fred Abrahamse & Marcel Meyer DIRECTOR & DESIGNER Marcel Meyer PRODUCER & LIGHTING DESIGNER Fred Abrahamse
THE HANGAR SATURDAY 2 JULY SUNDAY 3 JULY MONDAY 4 JULY TICKETS
JACKIE RENS AS RUTH FIRST PHOTO BY GARTH COLLINS
10:00 16:00 19:00 Full Price
TUESDAY 5 JULY 16:00 DURATION 1hr 15min AGE RECOMMENDATION 16+ R65 Concessions R60
44 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH VOYAGE THEATER COMPANY (USA) AND WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE EMBASSY OF THE NETHERLANDS AND THE US EMBASSY PRESENTS GULSHAN MIA IN THE SOUTH AFRICAN PREMIERE OF
UNVEILED
P
laywright Rohina Malik wrote Unveiled in response to the anti-Muslim sentiment that swept across the United States in the wake of September 11, 2001. This timely solo show brings to life the heartfelt and often humorous stories of five courageous Muslim women facing Islamophobia following that fateful day. Unveiled premiered at Chicago’s 16th Street Theatre in 2009 and has since been performed across the U.S., where its message of tolerance and understanding has been embraced by people of all
LOVE, HATE, CULTURE, LANGUAGE, AND LIFE religions, races, and cultures. Voyage Theatre Company presented the New York premiere in 2015 at Fourth Street Theatre, where it was hailed as “often fierce, always deeply intelligent” (Front Row Center).
Fishers at the Metropolitan Opera House. Drawn to work that creates awareness and promotes dialogue, Mia is proud to return to the South African stage with this powerful and poignant piece of theatre.
Unveiled will feature South African activist and actor Gulshan Mia, who studied acting at Durban’s Technikon Natal (now DUT) and graduated top of her class with the “Best Actor” and “Best Director” awards. Now a permanent U.S. resident based in Brooklyn, she has been in several Off-Broadway plays and was recently featured in Bizet’s Pearl
Unveiled is supported by Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation through USArtists International in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.
THE HANGAR WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 10:00 THURSDAY 7 JULY 19:00 16:00 FRIDAY 8 JULY SATURDAY 9 JULY 17:30 DURATION 1hr 10min AGE RECOMMENDATION 14+ TICKETS Full price R65 Concessions R60
WRITER Rohina Malik DIRECTOR Wayne Maugans SET & COSTUME Peri Grabin Leong Paul Bartlett LIGHTING VIDEO & SOUND Dan Henry Bøhler PRODUCER Charles C. Bales
GULSHAN MIA IN VOYAGE THEATER COMPANY’S UNVEILED PHOTO BY MUSTAFA ÖNDER
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE EMBASSY OF THE NETHERLANDS PRESENTS ESTER NATZIJL IN THE SOUTH AFRICAN PREMIERE OF
WATCHING, CECI N’EST PAS DE DEUX
W
ho is ‘the other’? A woman, looking for peace is disturbed by something that is constantly watching over her. What is it? It wants to manifest itself in a life of flesh and blood. It cannot live without her co-operation. This solo-duet with a life-size foam puppet created and performed by dancer and puppeteer, Ester Natzijl (formerly with Netherlands Dance Theatre, and puppeteer with the Duda Paiva Company and the Ulrike Quade Company) is a fascinating mix of puppetry, theatre, and dance. The performance is about a woman faced with her fears and desires, carving out a tender, entrancing performance of
horror and humour, with an animated and sometimes extremely evil avatar. “[A] mesmerizing, beautifully produced performance that provides different views of what a relationship can be, that shifts perspectives by shifting our view on what is alive and what is not, who is charge of whom? Some called it sublime, some called it surreal, some called it superb.” – Amsterdam Fringe Festival Jury, 2015
Supported by AFK (Amsterdam Fonds Kunsten), Rightaboutnow.Inc, Flying Solo Festival, Stichting Muzenis and Contact Theatre (Manchester).
THE HANGAR SUNDAY 3 JULY 10:00 MONDAY 4 JULY 16:00 TUESDAY 5 JULY 19:00 TICKETS Full price R70
WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 16:00 DURATION 40min AGE RECOMMENDATION 12+ Concessions R65
CONCEPT/IDEA AND PERFORMANCE Ester Natzijl COACHING AND DRAMATURGY Mike van Alfen CHOREOGRAPHICAL ADVICE Nicole Beutler PUPPETRY COACHING Duda Paiva, Neville Tranter DRAMATURGICAL ADVICE Floor van Lissa PUPPET CREATION Evandro Serodio DESIGN, ADAPTATIONS & ADVICE Anne Dronkers Watch a trailer of the performance at https://youtu.be/z_k9zsYx6Z0
45 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH WITS THEATRE AND THE SO SOLO FESTIVAL AND WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE EMBASSY OF THE NETHERLANDS PRESENTS ZETHU DHLOMO IN
P
PENNY
enny is in her mid-20’s, a graduate with an honours degree in Drama from a prestigious university in SA but struggling to find work as a performer – she lives in a state of constant financial insecurity. Talented, beautiful, with loving parents, Penny’s gay friend is her confidante and pillar of strength. Follow Penny’s journey as she is finally forced to make a choice about what she wants to do with her life. With an overwhelming love for her craft and an uncompromising
IN BOCCA AL LUPO
passion for storytelling and acting, Penny realises that the only person who can help her change her life, is herself. Penny tackles the issues of South Africa’s theatre industry in a funny, thought provoking manner. It is meta-theatre making serious statements about the arts in South Africa 21 years into our democracy. The director has used all the accoutrements of theatre, radio and film to create a performance that is highly theatrical and entertaining.
Penny was commissioned and produced by Gita Pather and the Wits Theatre for the 2015 So Solo Festival PERFORMED BY WRITER & DIRECTOR STAGE MANAGER
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH POPART PRODUCTIONS AND WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE EMBASSY OF THE NETHERLANDS PRESENTS JEMMA KAHN IN
Zethu Dhlomo MoMo Matsunyane Lebogang Mpahlele
THE HANGAR THURSDAY 30 JUNE 16:00 SATURDAY 2 JULY 16:00 FRIDAY 1 JULY 19:00 SUNDAY 3 JULY 13:00 DURATION 1h AGE RECOMMENDATION PG13 TICKETS Full price R65 Concessions R60
I
n collaboration with some of South Africa’s most dynamic young writers and illustrators, Jemma Kahn has carved a niche for herself on the international fringe circuit with her productions The Epicene Butcher and We Didn’t Come to Hell for the Croissants. Telling tales that are firmly for adults and run the gamut from the silly to the sublime, from pornography to epic poetry, from cannibalism to cat dreams, Jemma brings us the final instalment of her kamishibai trilogy with In Boca al Lupo. Kamishibai, translated as ‘paper drama’ is an ancient Japanese form of street theatre. A method used for centuries by monks and itinerant storytellers traveling from village to village to tell morality tales to a largely illiterate audience, kamishibai is simplicity itself. Illustrated panels are revealed one at a time from a wooden box, accompanied by narration. Using simple but beautifully drawn images displayed on cardboard story panels, Jemma Kahn has spent the last four years captivating audiences from Grahamstown to Edinburgh to Amsterdam with her unique take on this 12th century art form. The effect is like watching a sort of live Manga cartoon, her sheer verve in combination with all the elements at play create an utterly original and sometimes bizarre theatre experience, a joyous tribute to visual and verbal storytelling. In bocca al lupo!** Crepi il lupo!**
JANE TAYLOR
Into the mouth of the wolf! May the wolf die!
JEMMA KAHN
TERTIUS KAPP
WRITERS Jemma Kahn & Tertius Kapp DIRECTOR Jane Taylor ILLUSTRATIONS Jemma Kahn COSTUMES Ella Buter SOUND Charl-Johan Lingenfelder PRODUCER POPArt Productions
THE HANGAR FRIDAY 8 JULY 10:00 & 19:00 SATURDAY 9 JULY 15:00 & 20:00 SUNDAY 10 JULY 10:00 DURATION 1hr 10min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 16+ TICKETS Full R65 Concessions
R60
46 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH PETER TERRY AND WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE EMBASSY OF THE NETHERLANDS PRESENTS JENNA DUNSTER IN
IMMORTAL O
n the 22nd of April 1911, the Port Alfred to Grahamstown train was carrying stone for the building of the Cathedral of St Michael & St George, as well as about 50 passengers. As the train went across the Blaauwkrantz Bridge, disaster happened. The bridge was a soaring triumph of colonial engineering, a fine symbol of the British Empire’s conquest of the volatile Eastern Cape – but, hundreds of feet below the bridge, the Blaauwkrantz gorge was a place sacred to the Xhosa people of the area; this fact had not been a consideration for the men who built the bridge. One of the all-too-few survivors was a little girl of 7 years old, Hazel Smith. In its own way, the disaster was, and still is, a microcosmic moment in the history of the Eastern Cape; while the fact that the disaster was caused by a truck carrying stone quarried in Bathurst and destined for the Cathedral gives Hazel (played by acclaimed stage and television actress and
A DRAMA BASED ON THE EVENTS OF THE BLAAUWKRANTZ BRIDGE DISASTER OF 22 APRIL 1911
Naledi nominee Jenna Dunster) cause to ponder the presence of God on that terrible day. Immortal has been meticulously researched, using contemporary documents, and is historically accurate in every detail. Special thanks to Ben Bezuidenhout for generously making available his collected documentary material . WRITER DIRECTOR PERFORMER DESIGNER LIGHTING DESIGNER
Peter Terry Chris Weare Jenna Dunster Andrew Botha Kieran McGregor
2016 marks the 50th anniversary of Hazel’s death, here in Grahamstown, and this production is respectfully dedicated to her memory.
THE HANGAR THURSDAY 7 JULY 10:00 SUNDAY 10 JULY 12:30 & 17:30 FRIDAY 8 JULY 13:00 DURATION 1hr (no interval) SATURDAY 9 JULY 12:30 AGE RECOMMENDATION 14+ TICKETS Full price R65 Concessions R60
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH AFRIQUE PERFORMS AND MICHAELA WALDRAM-JONES AND WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE EMBASSY OF THE NETHERLANDS PRESENTS CHANJE KUNDA IN
AMSTERDAM A
msterdam is a high powered, super-modern 21st century story of love and lust. Everyone has times in their life which are pivotal… moments when your heart takes you on a journey that shocks you into an intense ‘other’ way of being. This is what Amsterdam is about. Chanje Kunda did what many people dream of but can’t quite bring themselves to do – she left her office, packed her suitcase and set off for a new life in Amsterdam. She moved from England to the Dutch city with her son after falling in love whilst on holiday in 2012. She has since turned the experience into a captivating stage
show named after the city. The tale is a story of love, risk and liberation. Developed with the support of Contact and STUN in Manchester and Podium Mozaiek Theater in Amsterdam, this piece fuses poetic language, performance art, movement and a cinematic soundscape. They combine to tell an epic narrative, full of humour, passion, adventure and undiluted truths. Enjoy the ride.
“Chanje Kunda’s show Amsterdam is a tour de force of storytelling – a tale that has it all.” - Russell Thompson, Apples and Snakes London
The South African tour of Amsterdam is made possible with the support of Arts Council England and the British Council.
WRITER Chanje Kunda DIRECTOR Juliet Ellis DESIGN Giulia Scrimieri LIGHTING DESIGN Kelli Zezulka CHOREOGRAPHY Darren Pritchard MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN Dan Steele DRAMATURG Roger Robinson PRODUCER Michaela Waldram-Jones
THE HANGAR TUESDAY 5 JULY 10:00 SATURDAY 9 JULY 10:00 WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 13:00 SUNDAY 10 JULY 15:00 THURSDAY 7 JULY 16:00 DURATION 1hr 10min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION TICKETS Full price R65 Concessions R60
16 +
47 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE EMBASSY OF THE NETHERLANDS PRESENTS FIONA RAMSAY IN THE SOUTH AFRICAN PREMIERE OF
BLONDE POISON B
londe Poison reunites the exciting creative talents of actress Fiona Ramsay and director Janna Ramos-Violante, in a play about beauty, treachery and the high price of survival in an environment beset with mistrust, espionage and duplicity. Fiona Ramsay plays Stella Goldschlag, living illegally in war torn Berlin where she was betrayed, beaten and tortured. When offered the chance of saving herself and her parents from the death camps, she became a “greifer” or ‘catcher’ for the Gestapo giving information and ‘ratting’ on Jews in hiding. Stella’s character ranges from a tortured and pitiful victim to a callous cruel agent of death, from a beloved and loving daughter to the pitiless betrayer of friends, and from gentle and tender lover to a woman of depraved and decadent promiscuity. She was dubbed the Marilyn Monroe of Berlin and awarded the alias Blonde Poison by the Gestapo, who embroiled her in the murky world of espionage and treachery. Decades after the war Stella agrees to an interview with a childhood friend, now a respected journalist – which offers her a last chance at redemption. Can she ever be released from her past? Despite the choices Stella made she is not necessarily a villain, and Stella forces the audience to confront our own humanity, raising questions of ethical and moral choice and acknowledging the cruelty that resides within us all. Blonde Poison was the first play written by South African playwright Gail Louw now living in the UK. Her play Miss Dietrich Regrets, based on the life of Marlene Dietrich and her daughter Maria Riva – was produced last year at the Theatre on the Square in Sandton – with Fiona inhabiting the role of the aging star and icon Marlene and Janna playing her concerned daughter Maria. WRITER Gail Louw DIRECTOR Janna Ramos-Violante PRODUCTION & LIGHTING DESIGN Wilhelm Disbergen
THE HANGAR MONDAY 4 JULY 10:00 & 13:00 TUESDAY 5 JULY 13:00 WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 19:00 THURSDAY 7 JULY 13:00 DURATION 1h (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 15+ TICKETS Full R65 Concessions R60
48 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL AND BUSINESS AND ARTS SOUTH AFRICA (BASA) PRESENT DENISE NEWMAN’S PRODUCTION OF
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL AND THE BUSINESS AND ARTS SOUTH AFRICA (BASA) ARENA PRESENT KIRI PINK NOB’S PRODUCTION OF
SECRET BALLOT
AS EVER, BESSIE
WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY BOBBIE FITCHEN FEATURING DENISE NEWMAN & NTOMBI MAKHUTSHI PHOTO: GEORGE HALLETT
S
ecret Ballot – ‘Protest Theatre, Political Satire, Farce' – the play follows the exploits of five members of 'The Brotherhood' – an organisation designed for “the most elite Tender_prenuers and Busy_ness men”. Set during the period of post 2014 South African elections campaigns, this narrative follows the rallies during the week after all the results from all the votes are counted. It is at these gatherings where we are introduced to Nkunzi Emnyama (The Commander in Chief), the IT Cadre and the EAT Comrade (the CIC’s right hand men). We also meet Mayhem (A Lone Revolutionary), who takes Genocide (The People’s Hope) under his wing. Secret Ballot is an exploration of how political influence may be used to further, or to foil, the ends of personal affluence. No period in the young history of South Africa’s democracy has sparked as much widespread discourse about the country’s political landscape as much as the time leading up to, during, and post the 2014 National Elections. Secret Ballot is a work that distils this time in a unique theatrical fashion and speaks poignantly to various facets of how it manifested and the myriad of methods to navigate it.
"I was born on the 6th July, 1937 in the Pietermaritzburg Mental Hospital in South Africa. The reason for my peculiar birthplace was that my mother was white, and she had acquired me from a black man. She was judged insane, and committed to the mental hospital while pregnant." - Bessie Head Denise Newman stars in an exciting new South African production, written and directed by Bobbie Fitchen. The play is not a critique of Bessie Head's writing but a nuanced and insightful understanding of "the demons and scars" that drove her to write so profoundly. The year is 1977 and Bessie is waiting to catch her first international flight from Nairobi airport. She has been invited to represent Botswana at a prestigious international writing programme at the University of Iowa. She is anxious and deeply distressed at the thought of having to leave the African Continent. As her neurosis spirals into a series of emotional outbursts, a stranger tries to assist her. This chance meeting unravels the emotional turmoil that Bessie lives with. She herself said her life had been made up of 'shattered little pieces'. Through this transient encounter, Bessie shares her fears, her desires, and her delights, which is emotionally taxing but transformative.
For: Cold Case: Revisiting
Dulcie September
GLENNIE HALL TUESDAY 5 JULY 11:00 & 19:30 WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 15:00 & 20:30 THURSDAY 7 JULY 15:00 DURATION 1hr LANGUAGE English AGE RECOMMENDATION 14+ (NFC) TICKETS Full price R65 Concessions R55
WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY FEATURING
J. Bobs Tshabalala Tony Miyambo, Tsietsi Morobi, Michael Mazibuko and Lereko Mfono PHOTO BY SANMARI MARAIS
GLENNIE HALL FRIDAY 1 JULY 11:00 & 18:00 SATURDAY 3 JULY 15:00 & 20:00 SUNDAY 4 JULY 14:00 DURATION 1hr 15min LANGUAGE English AGE RECOMMENDATION PG (M) TICKETS Full price R65 Concessions: R55
For: Kafka’s Ape
49 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL AND BUSINESS AND ARTS SOUTH AFRICA (BASA) PRESENT A CONSPIRACY OF CLOWNS’ PRODUCTION OF
HEART’S HOTEL DIRECTED BY JAMES CUNINGHAM PERFORMED BY TONI MORKEL AND LIESL DE KOCK WRITTEN BY KHUTJO GREEN, TONI MORKEL, JAMES CUNNINGHAM, LIEZL DE KOCK AND BINNIE CHRISTIE
F
ar from home a mother and daughter discover a town as harsh as its weather. A story of displacement, desire and a deadly scorpion. Bleak, comic and visually thrilling. Performed by Toni Morkel (Tobacco and the Harmful Effects Thereof, Roach) and Liezl de Kock (Piet se Optelgoed, Crazy in Love), Directed by James Cunningham (Doubt, Black and Blue), Assistant Directed and Stage Managed by Binnie Christie (Just Antigone, You Take My Breath Away) and Creative collaborator Khutjo Bakunzi-Green (Animal Farm, Roach).
GLENNIE HALL THURSDAY 7 JULY 11:00 & 19:30 FRIDAY 8 JULY 14:00 & 20:30 SATURDAY 9 JULY 15:00 DURATION 45min LANGUAGE Afrikaans & English AGE RECOMMENDATION PG TICKETS Full price R65 Concessions
For: Piet se Optelgoed
R55
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL AND BUSINESS AND ARTS SOUTH AFRICA (BASA), IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE WORLD FRINGE ALLIANCE AND WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE EMBASSY OF THE NETHERLANDS AND THE FONDS PODIUM KUNSTEN NETHERLANDS, PRESENT Q&A’S
BARRERA
W
hat do you do when you’re a clown, your job is to make people joyful, and suddenly your best friend dies? How do you survive this? Even if your best friend was a…well, you’ll have to watch to find that out. Barrera is the story of two clowns in mourning. After the death of their best friend, the clowns try to continue on living, but what is the point? They still do their performance with card tricks and balloons, but all the glitter and glamour seems far gone. It’s a tough job, but the best they can do is blunder on, through drunken dancing and buckets full of tears, each mishap plunging the audience further into mirth, memory, and pathos. Q&A are classic clowns: red noses, small hats, the whole kit and kaboodle. These Laurel and Hardy type of actors use all their physical and mental contradictions to create a timeless pairing: the fat and the thin, the beauty and the beast, comedy and tragedy.
Quintijn Relouw (25) & Aleksej Ovsiannikov (26) are two Masters students of Theatre School Selma Susanna (THOPSS) where they met three years ago. Each year there is an opportunity for students of THOPSS to go on exchange to Bilbao and take lessons at the BAI theater school. Q&A convinced their teachers that they were the ones who needed this adventurous trip in the learning process of their artistic development. And so Barrera was born: www.qnapresents.com “Mixing slapstick and woe interjected with filmed recordings in the vein of pre-digital home movies...Quintijn and Alësha had an ability to reach through the farcical facepaint and whacky wigs and, ridiculous as it sounds, got me to sympathise with their loss, however ludicrous, which is exactly what they had me amused at: myself.” Steve Kretzman, CRITTER
DIRECTED BY Fried Mertens & Felipe Cuétara Linares CONCEIVED AND PERFORMED BY ‘Q&A’ – Quintijn Relouw and Aleksej Ovsiannikov
OATLANDS SCHOOL HALL 30 JUNE TO 9 JULY 20:00 daily DURATION 30min AGE RECOMMENDATION PG (From 6 – 95) TICKETS Full price R50 Concessions R40
50
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS THE
FIGS University of Cape Town DIRECTED BY DARA BETH CHOREOGRAPHED BY SHOKO YOSHIMURA, TANA KYHLE KAHR & EMILIE BADENHORST WRITTEN BY NAMISA MDLALOSE & PULENG STEWART MUSIC PERFORMED BY FEAST COLLECTIVE FEATURING LESEGO CHAUKE, NAMISA MDLALOSE, EMILIE BADENHORST, SHOKO YOSHIMURA, TANA KYHLE-KAHR Friction. First times. Cheeky. Chaffing. Clotting. Ripe. Juice. Everything on the floor.
REHEARSAL ROOM THURSDAY 7 JULY FRIDAY 8 JULY DURATION LANGUAGE AGE RECOMMENDATION
11:00 19:00 1hr English 14+ M LNSPR
NYANGA Rhodes University DIRECTED BY THEMBELA MADLIKI FEATURING MPUMELELO MALUMO, TIISETSO MASHIFANE, MMATUMISANG MOTSISI, MASIXOLE HESHU, MICHELLE MOSALAKAE, DANIELLE O’NEILL, UPILE BONGCO, NTHATISI MASHIKE, GEOFFREY SMUTS. Nyanga weaves ideas of desire, betrayal and the dynamics of mob hysteria into a tapestry of the human condition. The rumour of witchcraft infects the rural landscape, contaminating the fictional village of ‘KwaNyanga’. Inspired by themes reminiscent of Arthur Miller’s The Crucible, Nyanga journeys into the realm of the often unknown and excavates Southern African ritual and traditions to tell the story of a community in need of healing.
REHEARSAL ROOM THURSDAY 30 JUNE FRIDAY 1 JULY DURATION LANGUAGE AGE RECOMMENDATION
17:00 19:30 45min English, Xhosa, Sotho, Tswana 14+ M
#SIRENSROCK University of Kwazulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY ERIN FOURIE Like Odysseus clinging to the mast of his ship, The Sirens are clinging to their ancient ways, but if they want to stay afloat they’re going to have to change their tune. After the centennial audit reveals that their numbers
REHEARSAL ROOM MONDAY 4 JULY TUESDAY 5 JULY DURATION LANGUAGE AGE RECOMMENDATION
11:00 19:00 50min English 14+ NFC
are down, The Sirens jobs are on the line and closing down. The Sirens Rock will land them in Hades for eternity. When downon-her-luck Image consultant Cassandra washes up on their shore it seems like a
blessing from the Gods! With Cassandra’s help, The Sirens have a shot at getting their department back on track… but how much are they willing to sacrifice for success?
51
A TINY HUM: HUMANITY AFDA Johannesburg DIRECTED BY NINA LUCY WYLDE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR PAREBO GEORGE FEATURING ANNELIZE ERASMUS, PEREBO GEORGE, TEMOHELO MOHALE, THABO THEJANE The condition of being human – we all bear the weight equally and yet somehow in this world today we are not equal. You can feel a vibration before you can hear it, long before you see it. A sensory experience of the world. It is what you knew at first. How did you respond to your vibrations? How do you continue to respond to vibrations around you today? The sounds of others, reaching to the other side, to you. Come and listen to the storytellers of four stories asking the same thing of each other – I want you to look me in the eyes and tell me your condition is the same as mine – that we are both human.
REHEARSAL ROOM WEDNESDAY 6 JULY THURSDAY 7 JULY DURATION LANGUAGE AGE RECOMMENDATION
11:00 19:00 1hr English 12+ M
UMJUXUZO ALIVE Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University DIRECTED BY NICKI-ANN RAYEPEN CHOREOGRAPHED BY NICKI-ANN RAYEPEN AND AARTI NAROTAM WRITTEN BY AARTI NAROTAM FEATURING KUDA MAJONGA, SHAREEZ KLAASEN, ROCHELLE VELKERS, COURTNEY MATTHEUS Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) has a fully-fledged department whose work is to facilitate and co-ordinate the Arts and Culture needs of the University and its stakeholder communities. NMMU has committed itself fully to developing this area as a major institutional imperative. Embracing the theme of ‘moving forward,’ this production depicts students embarking on their graduation, the celebrations and joy is not without fear for what the future holds. This dance drama serves to explore some of the challenges students encounter while journeying towards their own inner truth. Whilst playing with stereotypes this work delves into how fears overcome us and at those times, dance as a medium provides the exact outlet needed. Explorative contradictory and stark, join us as we embark on an exploration of the diversity through which our youth are expected to flourish. The NMMU is ecstatic to be a part of this year’s festival, and looks forward to sustainability in this regard.
REHEARSAL ROOM SUNDAY 3 JULY MONDAY 4 JULY DURATION LANGUAGE AGE RECOMMENDATION
#WHATSLEFTOUT University of the Western Cape DIRECTED BY LIMPHO MAKAPELA FEATURING UWC WOMEN’S STUDENT COLLECTIVE This student production asks crucial questions about what was left out during the recent student protests especially the critical issues that affect women in society, health, and culture amongst others. On the surface it looked as if every aspect possible on the social justice and human rights continuum was covered and yet there were many concerns that were made invisible. These young women performers highlight those seemingly invisible oppressions and through interactive theatre they probe for solutions. They demand that their bodies receive the rightful acknowledgment and respect in the higher education environment and elsewhere. This is an original performance piece that is especially workshopped by women students that dare the audiences to engage with concerns that really matter.
REHEARSAL ROOM FRIDAY 8 JULY SATURDAY 9 JULY DURATION LANGUAGE AGE RECOMMENDATION
11:00 19:00 50min English All ages
11:00 19:00 50min English 12+ M
52
WE CityVarsity School of Media and Creative Arts WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY JUNI HOWARD & JESSE FRANKSON We is CityVarsity Cape Town’s first anthology production. It is made up of two 25-minute segments, both written, directed and performed by final year acting students. These two short plays are connected by their investigation of power, land, ownership and community. In the first part, performed as a realist drama, the issue of gentrification in contemporary South Africa is considered. A family in Woodstock receives an offer to sell their business to a big corporation, but initially refuse to do so because of their history and sense of belonging in the community. Soon, the up-scaling of nearby properties begins and the price of living increases exponentially. Slowly, the family finds themselves being torn away from their home. With the use of symbolism and physical theatre, the second section of We comments on discord in South Africa. This story follows a community of animals many years after a great battle threatened their collective existence. The importance of remembering the past, not repeating the same mistakes, and listening to each other is explored here. We uses two engaging theatrical styles to ask difficult questions about South Africa today: how are we different? How are we similar? And where do we belong?
REHEARSAL ROOM WEDNESDAY 6 JULY THURSDAY 7 JULY DURATION LANGUAGE AGE RECOMMENDATION
13:00 21:00 50min English, Afrikaans 12+ L
CONFESSION SESSIONS AFDA Cape Town DIRECTED BY MEGAN FURNISS FEATURING MELANIE AIFF, MOTHEO MADISA, RENDANI MUFAMANDI, TRENT ROWE Four C-Class superheroes are put in an event that may or may not change their lives forever. How will they survive this life-changing event while trying to save South Africa?
REHEARSAL ROOM THURSDAY 30 JUNE FRIDAY 1 JULY DURATION LANGUAGE AGE RECOMMENDATION
19:00 15:15 1hr English, Tswana 16+ L
OF SPELLS AND MONKEYS The Market Theatre Laboratory DIRECTED BY PUSETSO “GOOSE” THIBEDI Of Spells and Monkeys is a story echoing the voices that are fuelling the volcano that is bubbling beneath the surface of modern day South Africa. A world where everyone has a protest but they are quick to forget what it is they’re fighting for or against. A world that is struggling to find its own identity. A hungry world refusing to feed itself because of its own paranoia. An active world where silence can
REHEARSAL ROOM SUNDAY 3 JULY MONDAY 4 JULY DURATION LANGUAGE AGE RECOMMENDATION
13:00 21:00 1hr 5min English, Zulu and Sotho 10+ NFC
be very loud. Where sounds are both familiar and peculiar. The world is a little absurd, a little topsy turvy but humour is the bandage that covers the festering wounds that we refuse to heal. Does love have a space to breath in this world? Or is love the missing link that ran away when our internal truths were revealed? Of Spells and Monkeys is a reflection of our everyday reality in a world of jazz, spells and poetry.
53
PHARMAKON University of the Free State DIRECTED BY BERLIE SWART AND ADRIAAN DE RIDDER WORKSHOPPED BY THE CAST Imagine your mother is combing your hair. With every stroke of the brush, a lesson is learned, a truth is told, an idea is rooted. As she pulls the comb through your locks, she shapes your thoughts, she doctors your beliefs and she nurtures your values. Be calm, and still your impressionable young mind. Allow the warm flow of the rake to organise your perception of the world. Permit her to pour a sweet medicine into thine ear. For, after all, “Pharmakon” is the Greek word for both cure and poison. After a volatile year of university life, seven students battle with issues of indoctrination, identity and equality. Pharmakon is a workshopped production inspired by the tragic tale of a fanatical mother who killed her children to save them from a world without certainty. In various vignettes they explore the contemporary South Africa of a new generation. A generation who have inherited broken ideals, blind values, impotent power-struggles, and a protest culture where young minds, trapped and silenced, see public demonstrations as the only way to have their voices heard.
REHEARSAL ROOM SATURDAY 2 JULY 11:00 SUNDAY 3 JULY 17:30 DURATION 1hr 10min LANGUAGE English, Afrikaans, Zulu AGE RECOMMENDATION 14+ M L
THE VILLAGE University of the Witwatersrand DIRECTED BY SARAH NANSUBUGA DEVISED BY THE CAST Destiny writes different stories for us all, but somewhere along the line, these paths are bound to meet. They intertwine in a tapestry of love, hate, dreams and reality, and we all emerge from each journey changed. Embarking on each new one with a sense of purpose and potential. What started out as an exam piece has found itself on one such needlepoint. Fresh threads are pulling from exciting new directions, and weaving a pattern simultaneously alien and endearing. The challenge now lies in the purpose; The Village metamorphosing from a fixed point to a wide array of rich possibilities. In a sleepy village, somewhere in an alternate universe [that strangely resembles our own], something immense is brewing. The winds of change blow a hearty band of pirates to its humdrum shores; and an accident occurs that changes their lives for the better. Or for the worse... Sarah Nansubuga is in the final year of her Bachelor of Dramatic Arts Degree. She majors in Performing Arts, Play-Writing, Musical Theatre and ‘Text and Performance’, which is her Research Project. This is her directing debut.
REHEARSAL ROOM FRIDAY 1 JULY 11:00 SATURDAY 2 JULY 19:15 DURATION 1 hr LANGUAGE English AGE RECOMMENDATION All ages
SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD University of Oklahoma & Oakfields College DIRECTED BY HAROLD R. MORTIMER ASSOCIATE MUSIC DIRECTOR: WESSEL ODENDAAL CHOREOGRAPHY BY WESLEE LAUDER STUDENT CHOREOGRAPHER: TAYLOR BRYANT COMPOSITION & SCRIPT BY JASON ROBERT BROWN ACCOMPANIST: DAVID COUSINS STAGE MANAGER: AMBER BURNHAMS TECH: BEULAH SIKHOSANA & TAYLOR SALGADO CAST: DANELLE CRONJE, WILLIAM HARRIS, ALYSSA HARRISON, BONGINKOSI (JAY) HLATSHWAYO, SONGEZO KHUMALO, SPENCER LABODA, BRANDON LOELLY, MADISON PUGH, HIZLE RIFFEL, KATJA YANK “A new world calls for me to follow, holds me to a promise. A new world crashes down like thunder! A new world charging through the air and louder every moment...Come to me!” These words (from Jason Robert Brown’s Songs for a New World) speak to all people but perhaps strongest to our youth. How will they respond when presented with that “one moment, that moment before it all becomes clear?” Come see and hear musical theatre majors from The University of Oklahoma and South Africa’s Oakfields College in this collaborative project as they discover that new world through acting, song, and dance.
REHEARSAL ROOM FRIDAY 1 JULY 13:00 Tickets R45 / R35 SATURDAY 2 JULY 17:00 Tickets R45 / R35 SATURDAY 2 JULY (Fringe) 21:30 Tickets R60 / R54 / R51 SUNDAY 3 JULY (Fringe) 15:00 & 21:30 Tickets R60 / R54 / R51 DURATION 1hr 15min LANGUAGE English & SA languages AGE RECOMMENDATION PG NFC
54
NEFELIBATA Oakfields College DIRECTED BY IGNATIUS VAN HEERDEN CHOREOGRAPHY BY IGNATIUS VAN HEERDEN & JAQUES VAN JAARSVELD CAST: STUDENTS FROM THE OAKFIELDS COLLEGE FACULTY OF DANCE AND MUSICAL THEATRE He is mute. She is blind. Together they embark on a whimsical journey of discovery, connection and self-expression as they learn how the world of movement transcends the restriction of language and personal inhibition. Nefelibata explores the various aspects of movement through a dreamlike, cross-disciplinary collaboration of traditional mime and contemporary dance.
CENTENARY HALL FRIDAY 1 JULY SATURDAY 2 JULY (Fringe) (Fringe) MONDAY 3 JULY DURATION LANGUAGE AGE RECOMMENDATION
17:00 Tockets: R45 / R35 14:00 Tickets: R60 / R54 / R51 10:00 Tickets: R60 / R54 / R51 50min Dance – non-verbal All ages
MAMA, THE STORM IS OUTSIDE NO EXIT Tshwane University of Technology DIRECTED BY SITHANDILE GUGU NKOSI WRITTEN BY JEAN PAUL SARTE No Exit is a contemporary theatrical expression of man’s suffering with reference to Dante’s Inferno. Seen through the play’s four characters who are trapped in a room with no way out, which is arguably evident of what happens in reality, the play’s conceptual approach seeks to make artistic commentary on mankind’s psychological reaction to the unknown and apparent preference for familiar suffering. The referred-to commentary is intended to be presented through an interplay of the abstract and literal with reference to staging. Ultimately, the play’s chosen setting, a dining room, is a universal symbol for families. Therefore, its stylistic character is aesthetically minimal and driven by the director’s dealings with a textual representation of mankind’s evidently challenged psyche.
REHEARSAL ROOM THURSDAY 30 JUNE 13:00 FRIDAY 1 JULY 17:30 DURATION 1hr 10min LANGUAGE English AGE RECOMMENDATION 16+ M
University of Pretoria WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY NAPO MASHEANE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR MICIA DE WET FEATURING CHENGETAI ZVOMUYA, SESETHU NTOMBELA, TAYLA SCOTT, PALESA MATABANE, MICIA DE WET Mama, the Storm is Outside was inspired by different testimonies of young people in the Free State, who were asked to put down in their own voices ‘a day in their lives’. Napo Masheane’s monologue formed part of the four works that were performed by an all star-cast directed by Danny Boyle celebrating five years of The Children’s Monologues. These performances were presented in a lifetime event at The Royal Court Theatre in London last year, where Masheane’s monologue was performed by Oscar-nominated actor Chiwetel Ejiofor – 12 Years A Slave. The overwhelming success of this venture pushed Masheane to start writing more monologues and narrative poems for her MA in Creative Writing, exploring difficult subjects from a women’s perspective. She brings together a series of works that look at family structures and dynamics, using everyday household items as metaphors. Often, taking on deep family narratives of generational curses, births, deaths and love. At times her poetic voice gives a twist of some more political views about community outrage, the exploitation caused by outmoded culture and tradition, and about the nightmare that constantly wants surface from the feminine body. Masheane’s play explores the intersections of race, gender and class that limits the cultural legibility of women. Her play adds gender to the nationalist and racial revisions of South African histories. The mode of presentation combined elements of movement, storytelling, poetry, song, and dramatic monologue to form a narrative and visual collage – presenting snapshots of experiences and understandings from multiple perspectives in multiple languages, to be considered simultaneously within the temporal limits of the production.
REHEARSAL ROOM TUESDAY 5 JULY WEDNESDAY 6 JULY DURATION LANGUAGE AGE RECOMMENDATION
11:00 17:00 1hr English, Sepedi, Afrikaans 14+ M
55 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE UNMUTE DANCE COMPANY AND WITH THE SUPPORT OF ARTSCAPE THEATRE PRESENTS THE STANDARD BANK YOUNG ARTIST THEMBA MBULI
SOLD “20 human skulls of colonial victims who died after an uprising against German colonial rulers more than 100 years ago, were returned back from Germany after a decade since the first genocide of the 20th century took place in Namibia, 1904. They were amongst hundreds who starved to death after being rounded up in camps. They were murdered, beheaded, defaced and yet still exploited after death as their skulls were used by German scientists who took them to perform experiments seeking to prove the racial superiority of white Europeans over
T
hemba Mbuli’s SOLD! is a theatrical reincarnation of the four women whose skulls were part of the 20 skulls of Herero/Nama people that were returned to Namibia. These four women embark on a journey to rediscover/uncover unnamed women in African History and in present times; interrogating the state of how women are perceived in Africa today. A conversation with the skulls of the four women occurs through movement, sound and spoken text exploring metaphors and meanings to re-claim and reface some of the women who were defaced and buried namelessly in history. Growing up in Soweto, surrounded by families with absent fathers, Themba Mbuli was one of many young boys who were raised by a grandmother. Looking back, It wasn’t an easy upbringing but he pulled through because of his grandmother. He is conscious that communities are carried by strong and inspirational women like her who often go without being acknowledged or celebrated. By re-imagining and celebrating the lives of the four Herero women, Themba Mbuli will also celebrate his grandmother’s life.
CHOREOGRAPHER & DIRECTOR CO-CREATORS/PERFORMERS
Themba Mbuli Sonia Radebe Teresa Mojela Nadine Mckenzie Koleka Putuma
black Africans, and later they were used in Germany’s private museum. Eleven of those were people from the Nama ethic and 9 from Herero (FOUR women, fifteen men and a boy).”
For full biographical details on Themba Mbuli, please refer to the Standard Bank Young Artist pages at the front of the Programme. A moderated post-performance discussion with the choreographer and dancers will take place after the 20:00 performance on Sunday 3 July. See the Think!Fest programme for more details.
ALEC MULLINS SUNDAY 3 JULY 20:00 MONDAY 4 JULY 14:00 & 20:00 TUESDAY 5 JULY 14:00 DURATION 1h (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 13+ TICKETS Full price R75 Concessions R70
56 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH JANNI YOUNGE PRODUCTIONS AND IMG ARTISTS PRESENTS
THE FIREBIRD A LIVE PERFORMANCE TO THE ORIGINAL COMPOSITION BY IGOR STRAVINSKY DESIGNED AND DIRECTED BY JANNI YOUNGE CHOREOGRAPHED BY JAY PATHER
J
anni Younge’s production of The Firebird is a re-imagining of the original ballet, set to the original Stravinsky score. With South African, contemporary choreographic style and giant puppets, Janni Younge’s The Firebird will be a visually extraordinary production. Stravinsky’s The Firebird is marked for its elaborate orchestration, provocative uneven rhythmic writing and pungent harmonies, and is an exciting and dynamic musical work.
Set to this music, the performance of The Firebird is designed and directed by Janni Younge (previously of Handspring Puppet Company) and choreographed by Jay Pather, one of South Africa’s leading contemporary choreographers.
PERFORMERS: JACQUELINE MANYAAPELO BEREN BELKNAP NKOSINATHI MNGOMEZULU CRAIG LEO MONGI MTHOMBENI
DUNTY LA TROBE ELVIS SIBEKO OLEKSII ISHCHENKO MXOLISI NKOMONDE ANDILE VELLEM
Working with the thematic and narrative structure of the original ballet, Younge’s The Firebird will be centred on a journey towards finding free and powerful expression. The attraction of inspiration, ideal and accumulation creates an illusion of freedom. However unacknowledged pain and suppressed fear destabilise fragile dreams and it is only with critical insight that balance between the forces can manifest and true vision and freedom be found. The Firebird will use the evocative medium of puppetry and draw on contemporary and traditional South African dance forms. Set in the context of an emerging national and personal identity, Janni Younge’s The Firebird is a journey towards courage and ultimately, freedom.
ZANDILE CONSTABLE NKANYISO KUNENE SHAUN OELF THULISILE BINDA
57 DIRECTION
Janni Younge
CHOREOGRAPHY
Jay Pather
PUPPET DESIGN Janni Younge with Jonah Delange and Andy Jones and assisted by Peter Collard LIGHTING DESIGN COSTUMES
Mannie Manim
Birrie Le Roux
SOUND & ADDITIONAL MUSIC DESIGN Daniel Eppel of Eppelsource ANIMATION
Michael Clark of Maan Creative
PRODUCER IMG Artists International and Janni Younge Productions PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT Pieter Jan-Kapp Company: PJK Project Management STAGE MANAGER
Robyn Sacks
PRODUCTION ASSISTANT
Jzadir Belknap
ASM AND PUPPET TECHNICIAN
Jonah DeLange
PUPPET CONSTRUCTION Janni Younge Jonah Delange Andy Jones Peter Collard Kyle Daniels Zweliyashacuma Ncombela ASSISTED BY Philani Xhaga Thokozani Dickson Nandolo Sivuyile Gaji TECHNICAL CONSULTANTS Alan Serritslev (Structural Engineer) RW & BH Eng CC (Aluminum component engineer) Gravitron Special Effects (Fire) Louis Christie (3D and engineering design) Presentation of The Firebird at the National Arts Festival is supported by the US Embassy.
GUY BUTLER THEATRE THURSDAY 30 JUNE 20:00 FRIDAY 1 JULY 15:00 & 20:00 DURATION 50 min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION All TICKETS Evening Performances R110 / R100 / R90 Matinee Performance R100 / R90 / R80
The Firebird is made possible thanks to its Commissioning Partners: Mann Center for the Performing Arts; Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts featuring the National Symphony Orchestra; Ravinia Festival; Sun Valley Summer Symphony; Los Angeles Philharmonic Association; Saratoga Performing Arts Center.
58 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE FLATFOOT DANCE COMPANY PRESENTS
CHOREOGRAPHER’S STATEMENT:
I
began this choreographic investigation by responding to the words of Nigerian author Ben Okri, quoted below. “days like these” works with multiple projections and light, and as the images, the voices and the dancing bodies begin – in truth and vulnerability – to layer the stage space, so the remarkable magic of dance theatre starts to happen. I am hoping, as you watch “days like these”, that you as the audience are reminded of the need for art and dance, to urge us, as audience – as humanity – to unbury our own stories. I am always looking for new challenges and with “days like these” I have begun to delve into the theatre making methodologies of Verbatim Theatre. Sometimes referred to as documentary theatre, Verbatim Theatre asks the playwright to gather live testimony and the spoken word of real people to construct the dialogue of a drama. With a history going back to the 60s, verbatim theatre has a long trajectory in creating edgy political theatre where these methodologies help create social dialogue.
DAYS LIKE THESE CHOREOGRAPHY Lliane Loots (in collaboration with the dancers) FILM Karen Logan LIGHTING/TECHNICAL MANAGEMENT Wesley Maherry COMPANY MANAGER Clare Craighead
My fascination with Verbatim Theatre sparked an interest to see if there could be cross-over into contemporary dance. The way that I work is essentially verbatim in that I am constantly asking the dancers to bring their own life experience – through their bodies – into the work we make. As a choreographer I have always thought of myself as a type of ‘collector of stories’; some of them are my own but others come from the dancers who I am working with.
DANCERS: Jabu Siphika Julia Wilson Zinhle Nzama Sifiso Khumalo Sifiso Majola Tshediso Kabulu Sanele Maphumulo
“There is not a single person who is not touched by the silent presence of stories. A nation is as healthy and confident as the stories they tell themselves. Without fighting, stories have won over more people than all the great wars put together. Only those who have lived, suffered, thought deeply, loved profoundly, know joy and the pain of life, tell truly wonderful stories. Africa breathes stories”. Ben Okri
In “days like these”, I have asked the six resident FLATFOOT dancers and co-collaborators on this dance work to go even deeper into this physical and spoken word storytelling. We have taken what seem like everyday memories, to celebrate the sacred of what we all might feel is the commonplace of our lives. For me, what has resulted is an incredibly tender and beautiful interior dancescape that will (I hope) poignantly remind an audience of what it means to be human; and to be an African.
A moderated post-performance discussion with the choreographer and dancers will take place after the 20:00 performance on Thursday 30 June. See the Think!Fest programme for more details.
In “days like these”, I also return to a long-time artistic partnership with award-winning Durban theatre and filmmaker, Karen Logan. Logan’s videoscape sits at the heart of the work as it was her task to capture, verbatim, the final memories and stories collected. To this end, this work is as much hers as it is mine and the dancers.
Flatfoot Dance Company’s work is supported by SIBAYA, Nedbank Arts and Culture Trust, and the National Arts Council of South Africa.
To be honest, this is probably the most difficult dance work I have made to date, mostly because all of us involved have risked more than usual in letting you into our lives and our deeply personal stories. I hope that you are “touched by the silent presence of our stories” in a way that allows you to remember the sacred in the every day.
PHOTO CREDIT: VAL ADAMSON DANCER: ZINHLE NZAMA
ALEC MULLINS THEATRE THURSDAY 30 JUNE 18:00 FRIDAY 1 JULY 14:00 & 18:00 1hr 10 min (no interval) DURATION AGE RECOMMENDATION 12+ TICKETS Full price R75 Concessions R70
59 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL WITH SUPPORT FROM UJ ARTS & CULTURE (FADA) PRESENTS
LOOKING/SEEING/ BEING/DISAPPEARING… CHOREOGRAPHY MUSIC SCORE COSTUME & SET DESIGN LIGHTING DESIGN PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT
PERFORMED BY: Craig Morris Thulani Chauke Nadine Joseph
Nadine Joseph Daniel Nubian Jenni-lee Crewe Guy Nelson Matthews Phala
Fana Tshabalala Daniel Nubian
CHOREOGRAPHER’S STATEMENT: “The woman … knows that when people look at her they do not distinguish her from her appearance: she is judged, respected or desired in relation to how she looks” Simone De Beauvoir (The Second Sex)
L
ooking/Seeing/Being/Disappearing… is a new dance piece choreographed and performed by Nadine Joseph. The piece will be an exploration into the identity and/or representation of the disappearing woman/women/feminine other in contemporary South Africa. The woman/women/feminine other is always in relation to another/other, this other is always man. Woman/Women/feminine other only exist in relation to. Much like performance woman/women/ feminine other exist only in the disappearance of self in the disappearance of the act/performance of womanhood regardless of the role that is chosen. Much like performance the woman/women/feminine other is continuously performing the representation of her/their representation, consequently the woman/women/feminine other is always appearing, disappearing and reappearing.
A moderated postperformance discussion with the choreographer and dancers will take place after the 20:00 performance on Wednesday 6 July.
ALEC MULLINS WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 20:00 THURSDAY 7 JULY 14:00 & 20:00 DURATION 1h (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 18+ (no children) TICKETS Full price R75 Concessions R70
60 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS THE
CAPE DANCE COMPANY A DOUBLE BILL INTERSPERSED BY A SHORT SOLO PERFORMANCE BY KANNA NOMINEE, MTHUTHUZELI NOVEMBER
A THOUSAND SHEPHERDS A
Thousand Shepherds is an energetic celebration of discipline and dedication; a pilgrimage inspired by spiritual traditions and rituals. This 30-minute piece was inspired by a two month sabbatical spent in an ashram in India. Choreographer Jose Agudo started his career in Andalusia where he began performing as a Flamenco dancer. Slowly the world of contemporary dance became more visible and he went to study at Centro Andaluz de Danza in Seville and at the Choreographic Center of Valencia. During this time Jose created work for Certamen Coreografico de Madrid and Certamen Coreografico de Andalucia, receiving awards both as a dancer and as a choreographer. Since his departure from Spain, Jose has performed with Charleroi/ Danses, Ballet de Marseille, T.R.A.S.H, Shobana Jeyasingh Dance and Akram Khan Company. In 2008/9 Jose was Artist in Residence at Deda, UK, where he created the piece 4m2, a duet with Claire Cunningham and composer Scanner. The piece toured internationally and was selected by the National Dance Network (NDN) to tour with Dance3, as one of the ‘next generation of dance makers’ in the UK. Recent choreographic commissions include; Selah for Zfin Malta Dance Ensemble (National Company of Malta); the restaging of Ki for 16 male dancers at English National Ballet School; A Thousand Shepherds for ACE Dance and Music; Arctic for LCDS; Ki as a solo for Phoenix Dance Theatre; and Time/Dropper, with the support of Deda and gDA. Jose is interested in the collaborative process, working with composers such as Scanner, Vincenzo Lamagna and Giuliano Modarelli; costume designers Kimie Nakano and Elisabeth Kinn Svensson; and dramaturge Lou Cope. Jose has worked for Akram Khan Company for the last 4 years collaborating as a rehearsal director and shadow for DESH; movement assistant and dancer for the 2012 London Olympic Games opening ceremony; assistant choreographer and dancer
Photo by Helena Fagan. Dancer: Nathan Bartman
for iTMOi; and rehearsal director for TOROBAKA, Khan’s duet collaboration with Flamenco pioneer Israel Galvan. Roles for 2015 include rehearsal director of Khan’s solo for Sylvie Guillem’s farewell tour Life in Progress; assistant choreographer for Until the Lions; and the adaptation of Khan’s. (www.joseagudo.co.uk) A Thousand Shepherds premiered at THE PLACE in London in November 2014. Originally produced by ACE Dance and Music, one of the UK’s premier African Contemporary dance companies – www. acedanceandmusic.com. The staging of A Thousand Shepherds is dedicated to the memory of Carolyn Holden, the founder and Artistic Director of the La Rosa Dance Company. A THOUSAND SHEPHERDS CHOREOGRAPHY (2014) COMPOSER ORIGINAL DRAMATURGY DRAMATURGE FOR CAPE DANCE COMPANY ORIGINAL COSTUME DESIGNER DANCERS LOUISA TALBOT JAMES BRADLEY IPELENG MERAFE ELZANNE CRAUSE MARLIN ZOUTMAN MBULELO JONAS CARMEN LOTZ LONDIWE KHOZA NATHAN BARTMAN
Jose Agudo Vinz “the Artist” Lou Cope Nathalie Vijver Kimie Nakano
CIARA BALDWIN GEMMA TREHEARN ODWA MAKANDA
The Cape Dance Company is grateful for the support they receive from the National Lotteries Commission.
61 Photo by Patrick Bromilow-Downing
They look like you… they act like you… they live like you but, they are not one of you…The Gate is not invincible but it is yours to secure.
ENEMY BEHIND THE GATES E
nemy Behind the Gates was inspired by the enemies that live within our midst. It premiered on 7 September 2011, four days before 9/11. Since his departure from the renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Christopher Huggins has worked as a freelance artist for the past 25 years. As a dancer, teacher and choreographer he works in seven European countries, Asia, and throughout the Caribbean and the USA. Born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, he trained under Andrea Herbert Major, Martha Gray and the late Danny Sloan. He attended the State University of New York at Purchase and the Juilliard School at Lincoln Center. He is the 2002 and 2008 recipient of the “Alvin Ailey Award” for “Best Choreography” from the Black Theater Alliance in Chicago for his works Enemy Behind the Gates and Pyrokinesis, and most recently a Critic Choice Award for his choreography of the musical The Wiz in Dallas, Texas. Christopher Huggins is also a silver medalist winner of the 2007 fourth Annual Contemporary Dance Competition in Seoul, Korea. He has taught countless workshops and master classes for dance companies, high schools and universities throughout the USA. He has also choreographed for many dance companies including Philadanco, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble, Dallas Black Dance Theater, Lula Washington Dance Theater, Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, Ailey II, Louisiana Delta Ballet, Louisiana Dance Theater, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and most recently has written a further two ballets for the Cape Dance Company, making five in total. Enemy Behind the Gates is being performed by courtesy of PHILADANCO.
ENEMY BEHIND THE GATES CHOREOGRAPHY (2001) Christopher L Huggins COMPOSER Steve Reich COSTUME DESIGN Christopher L Huggins ORIGINAL LIGHTING William Grant STAGING ASSISTANTS Carmen Lotz, James Bradley, Louisa Talbot
DANCERS: MEMBERS OF THE CAPE DANCE COMPANY
The performances of A Thousand Shepherds and Enemy behind the Gates will be interspersed by a short solo performance by KANNA nominee, Mthuthuzeli November, Convivencia danced to music composed by Vladimir Martynov. A moderated post-performance discussion with the choreographer and dancers will take place after the 10:00 performance on Saturday 2 July. See the Think!Fest programme for more details.
TRANSNET GREAT HALL SATURDAY 2 JULY 10:00, 15:00 & 20:00 SUNDAY 3 JULY 15:00 & 19:00 DURATION 1h 10min AGE RECOMMENDATION All TICKETS Full price R75 Concessions R70
62 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL AND BUSINESS AND ARTS SOUTH AFRICA (BASA) PRESENT MASIDLALE PRODUCTIONS’
KOCHIRA こちら A man with a box, a cupboard, a collection of...; a student without a teacher, a boy without his friend, a body without its feet... A lost thing, a losing thing – who attempts to tell a story... maybe three.
K
ochira (こちら) is inspired by the traditional Rakugo performances of Japan: taking a solo performer, a sensu and zabuton to spin imaginative tales, often humorous. This inspiration is as artistically stretched as one might imagine. There is obviously the addition of a giant, wooden medicine-box (the same used by traditional, roaming doctors in rural Japan) to this approximation of Rakugo. But there is also a sordid lack of Japanese people in the production of the piece. South Africans Khutjo Green
and Tristan Jacobs collaborated across performative styles, and played through dreamscapes and vocal lacerations to locate the lost clown. こちら is an attempt to ask after the implications of a ‘foreign-ness’, a dialogue with intercultural performance and transcultural curiosity. There is a unity, it seems, in memory and forgetting. Sam Munro’s gripping animation, manipulating form and message, then speaks to the quizzical score composed by Vid Gobac to accompany the physical theatre performance.
DIRECTED BY MUSIC COMPOSED BY FEATURING ANIMATION BY COSTUMING BY
Khutjo Green Vid Gobac Tristan Jacobs Sam Munro Joanna Glanville
GLENNIE HALL WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 11:00 & 18:30 THURSDAY 7 JULY 17:00 FRIDAY 8 JULY 12:00 & 18:30 45 mins DURATION LANGUAGE Japanese & English AGE RECOMMENDATION 12+ (NFC) TICKETS Full price R65 Concessions R55
For: Have You Seen Zandile?
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL AND BUSINESS AND ARTS SOUTH AFRICA (BASA) PRESENT THE CHAELI CAMAPIGN’S
NO FUN CTION ALL ANGUAGE N
o fun ction alL anguage, aimed at audiences of 14 years and older, produced by the Chaeli Campaign and funded by the National Lottery Commission (NLC), takes a microscopic look at the inbetween spaces where words fail us – where we desperately search for meaning – between vowels, consonants and silences.
happens if we don’t have the right words (or any words) to share our thoughts?” Underscoring the performance with dynamic soundscapes through the art of live looping is Dave Knowles, a musician known for his strong vocal style and complex guitar work. Finally, Jayne Batzofin is at the helm, weaving it altogether.
A diverse group of collaborators – Andile Vellem (Unmute), Christelle Dreyer (Unmute, Project Remix), Iman Isaacs (Warrior on Wheels, Full Stops On Your Face) Daniel Richards (Salt, West Side Story) – come together to challenge mainstream narratives around communication, ability, access, inclusivity and the question: “What
The Chaeli Campaign believes in the importance of diversity, inclusion and how society can benefit by opening its eyes and ears to the lessons that can be taught by our differently-abled members. Join us as we strive towards creating a more inclusive theatrical landscape in South Africa – both off-stage, as well as on.
For: In the Wings
DIRECTED BY Jayne Batzofin MUSIC COMPOSED & PERFORMED BY Dave Knowles Andile Vellem, Iman Isaacs, FEATURING Daniel Richards & Christelle Dreyer
TRANSNET GREAT HALL MONDAY 4 JULY 11:00 & 19:00 TUESDAY 5 JULY 14:00 & 20:00 DURATION 55min LANGUAGE English, SA Sign, Xhosa, Afrikaans AGE RECOMMENDATION 14+ (NFC) TICKETS Full price R65 Concessions R55
63 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS THE 2016 STANDARD BANK YOUNG ARTIST FOR MUSIC
AVIGAIL BUSHAKEVITZ IN CONCERT AVIGAIL BUSHAKEVITZ Violin AMMIEL BUSHAKEVITZ Piano
T
wo of the brightest stars that have ever shone from the constellation of George is without question the brother and sister artists, Avigail and Ammiel Bushakevitz. Originally born in Jerusalem, they had most of their upbringing in George. From early on it was clear that their singularly exceptional music talent was destined to take them far in life. Having both studied internationally, they have by now earned a long list of rare achievements, and have performed extensively around the world with many great names and famous orchestras.
PROGRAMME Fritz Kreisler (1875-1962)
Set of short pieces
Camille Saint-Saëns (1835-1921)
Violin Sonata No. 1 D Minor, Op.75
INTERVAL Witold Lutoslawski (1913-1994)
Subito for violin and piano (1992)
While they each pursue independent musical careers, the siblings have developed a long-standing custom of making time to perform concerts together from time to time. Ammiel explained that their roots are still so strongly tied to the region of George that they go to great effort to make sure that they perform in their home town once a year.
Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827)
Violin Sonata No.9 in A Major, Op. 47 (“Kreutzer”)
During the past seven years Avigail has lived in Cape Town, New York, Tel Aviv and most recently Berlin. She is pursuing further studies in Berlin at the Academy of Music Hanns Eisler with Ulf Wallin. Currently she is a member of the 1st violins of the Konzerthausorchester in Berlin.
For more biographical detail on Avigail, please see the Standard Bank Young Artist pages at the front of the Programme. For biographical detail on Ammiel, please refer to page 70.
In New York, Avigail participated in the Juilliard Chamberfest from 2008 to 2012, and attended the Aspen Music Festival in Colorado for the third time in the summer of 2010. She was concertmistress of the BrittenPears Orchestra in Aldeburgh, England, in August 2011. In July 2012 she was concertmistress of the Aldeburgh World Orchestra, performing in the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam and the Royal Albert Hall at the BBC Proms in London under Sir Mark Elder. In 2012 she performed in Tel Aviv as soloist with the Buchmann-Mehta Orchestra. Early in 2014 she toured as a member of Daniel Barenboim’s WestEastern Divan Orchestra in Spain and Abu Dhabi.
BEETHOVEN ROOM FRIDAY 1 JULY 19:00 MONDAY 4 JULY 15:00 DURATION 1hr 30min (incl. interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 12+ TICKETS Full Price R70 Concessions R65
64 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL AND THE EASTERN CAPE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA PRESENT
THE FESTIVAL GALA CONCERT CONDUCTED BY RICHARD COCK
R
ICHARD COCK was born in Port Elizabeth and educated at Woodridge Preparatory School and the Diocesan College, Cape Town. He pursued his musical studies at the Cape Town College of Music, where he graduated in 1971. In 1972, he won a scholarship to the Royal School of Church Music (RSCM), where he was awarded several prizes and diplomas. In 1978 he became Director of Music at the Cathedral Choir School and assistant organist at Chichester Cathedral. During his years in England he became a Fellow of the Royal College of Organists.
After his return to South Africa in 1980, Richard breathed new life into the National Symphony Orchestra as Music Director from 1991. However, it is as a choral trainer and conductor that he is best known. He was organist and director of music at St Mary’s Cathedral for 12 years and was elected a Fellow of the Royal School of Church Music for his services to church music in South Africa. He founded the Symphony Choir of Johannesburg and the internationally recognised Chanticleer Singers 35 years ago. In 1999, Richard left the orchestra to pursue a freelance career and to stimulate music activities throughout South Africa. As a conductor, he is in much demand
countrywide. In May 2000, he received an Honorary Doctorate in music from Rhodes University. In 2012 he received a Parnasus Award from Stellenbosch University and in 2013 a special award from the ATKV for his 30 years’ dedication to spreading the love of music in South Africa. In November 2014 he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Arts & Culture Trust. He is chairman of the Apollo Music Trust. He also serves as a Board member of Business Arts South Africa, the Ingoma Trust and the Johannesburg Festival Orchestra, and he is on the Music Committee of the National Arts Festival. With Florian Uhlig, he directs the Johannesburg International Mozart Festival which is held every January. The EASTERN CAPE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA (ECPO) was formed in 1998 as a Section 21 Company. Relying initially on volunteers and music lecturers, teachers, students and scholars, together with a core of talented players from other professions; the ECPO has grown from strength to strength, embracing the changes in the Arts in South Africa and especially in the Eastern Cape, which have significantly changed the profile of the Orchestra’s players, audience and management. The ECPO’s artistic programme has included EASTERN CAPE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
numerous firsts and ground-breaking performances – working with noted South African and international conductors; and performing works by composers including Todd Matshikiza, Vevek Ram, Péter Louis van Dijk, Allan Stephensen, Isak Roux and Stanley Glasser.
65
WITH
THE EASTERN CAPE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA THE ODEION STRING QUARTET AVIGAIL BUSHAKEVITZ 2016 STANDARD BANK YOUNG ARTIST FOR MUSIC
ODEION STRING QUARTERT AVIGAIL BUSHAKEVITZ
ODEION STRING QUARTET See page 66 SAMSON DIAMOND (1st violin) SHARON DE KOCK (2nd violin) JEANNE-LOUISE MOOLMAN (viola) ANMARI VAN DER WESTHUIZEN (cello) AVIGAIL BUSHAKEVITZ (violin) See page 63 STANDARD BANK YOUNG ARTIST FOR MUSIC PROGRAMME Overture – Merry Wives of Windsor Otto Nicolai (1810-1849) Rondo in A for Violin and Orchestra
Franz Schubert (1797-1828)
Annen – Polka, Op. 117
Johann Strauss II (1825-1899)
Largo – concerto for two violins
Johan Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
Gold and Silver Waltz
Franz Lehár (1870-1948)
INTERVAL Olympic Spirit
John Williams (b 1932)
Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso
Camille Saint Saëns (1835-1921)
Broadway Tonight
arr Custer
Bawo Thixo Somandla Lord why must we suffer so
arr JSM Khumalo (b 1932) orch PL van Dijk (b 1953)
Chariots of Fire
Vangelis (b 1943)
Mambozart
Klazz Brothers arr S Cock
Amathunda
Antonio Vivaldi (1678-1741) arr W Haubrich
A percentage of proceeds from this concert will be donated to the Theatre Benevolent Fund, a registered South African charity founded and administered by caring arts professionals to provide a reasonable standard of care and comfort to those performers who find themselves incapacitated and destitute by virtue of their illness.
GUY BUTLER THEATRE SUNDAY 3 JULY 15:00 DURATION 2hrs (incl. interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 8 years + TICKETS Full Price R100, R90, R80 Concessions R90, R80, R70
66 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS
GUY BUTTERY &
THE ODEION STRING QUARTET S
ince 2011, GUY BUTTERY has been working on a project that combines his virtuosic solo guitar playing and distinctly South African musical voice with contemporary compositional techniques and textures combined with a string quartet. Working closely together with arranger and composer Chris Letcher they have taken Buttery’s intricate guitar-based compositions out of their solo guitar environment and re-contextualised them in a contemporary African symphonic setting. Having now worked together on numerous scores, this unique pairing creates a world of opportunity for the strings and guitar to operate as musical equals (and even at times as rivals) rather than simply as soloist and accompanying ensemble. The instrumentation focuses largely on the acoustic guitar utilising the full breadth of the string quartet (two violins, viola and cello) alongside mbira’s, sitar, and prepared guitar, posing a huge palette to draw from with only five musicians. The guitar and other instruments are treated as independent musical voices, creating unique string textures, polyphonic melodic lines and polyrhythms, rooted in Buttery’s adventurous yet accessible musical style. The string quartet serves as the ultimate
GUY BUTTERY Acoustic guitar, sitar and mbira CHRIS LETCHER String arrangements
ODEION STRING QUARTET SAMSON DIAMOND 1st Violin SHARON DE KOCK 2nd Violin JEANNE-LOUISE MOOLMAN Viola ANMARI VAN DER WESTHUIZEN Cello
THOMAS PRINGLE HALL, MONUMENT MONDAY 4 JULY 21:30 TUESDAY 5 JULY 15:00 DURATION 1hr 10min AGE RECOMMENDATION 12+ TICKETS Full Price R70 Concessions R65
“mini-orchestra” creating a myriad of textures and colours stretching the possibilities of its known format and instrumentation. Performing a “best-of” his collective works from the last 15 years along with brand new compositions unique to this project, Buttery intends to relook at the guitar and string quartet presentation and catapult it to new heights. At the age of 18, Buttery’s debut album was nominated for ‘Best Newcomer’ and ‘Best Instrumental’ at the South African Music Awards (SAMA’s) making him the youngest nominee in the history of the event. He then went on to collect two SAMA’s in 2010 and again in 2014. He has also received numerous other major National accolades. Guy has performed his own compositions with the 52-piece KZN Philharmonic Orchestra. His distinct unification of South African guitar music is the musical advocate for everything positive and beautiful about the place he calls home. As an internationally recognised musician, this multi-instrumentalist enjoys invitations to perform all over the globe.
THE ODEION STRING QUARTET was established as a fulltime resident string quartet at the University of the Free State (UFS) in 1991. It is the only resident string quartet at a South African university and is a flagship of the UFS symbolising the university’s commitment to the arts. The quartet’s configuration has changed considerably since 1999. In 2013 Samson Diamond, 2010 Standard Bank Young Artist for Music, was appointed as first violin and leader of the quartet. The members of the quartet play an important role as teachers at the Odeion School of Music (OSM) at the UFS attracting students from all over the country. CHRIS LETCHER is a composer and songwriter currently completing his Doctorate in Music Composition at the Royal College of Music, London, as well as lecturing in film music composition at the Wits School of Arts. Recent projects include a score for Ntshavheni wa Luruli’s film Elelwani; a two-part adaptation of DH Lawrence’s novel, Women in Love, for the BBC; and a full orchestral score for a six-part drama series for Sky Atlantic, The Runaway. He is published internationally by Warner Chappell.
67 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS
CINEMA EXTRAVAGANZA Samson Diamond and Grethe Nöthling present a flamboyant selection of some of the most breath-taking film scores of the last century and recent years, setting both film and music lovers on a voyage of cinematic soundtrack extravaganza. This showcase serenade will include hauntingly beautiful themes from film soundtracks that largely feature the violin or piano: the duo will share interesting and amusing stories about some of their favourite films and film scores. SAMSON DIAMOND Violin GRETHE NÖTHLING Piano
S
amson Diamond is the leader of the Odeion String Quartet and is a lecturer in the music department of the University of the Free State. A graduate of the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, UK, where he obtained both a Bachelor of Music Honours degree First Class (2006) and his Master of Music Performance degree (2007) with distinction. Samson got his first taste of music in Soweto, where he studied with the founding director of Buskaid, Rosemary Nalden. Samson has won many prizes, including the 2010 Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Music. He has played in the Hallé Orchestra, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, Manchester Camerata, Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra and the Academy of St Martin in the Fields conducted by Sir Neville Marriner. Samson has appeared as a soloist with L’Orchestre Nationale d’ France, the Buskaid Ensemble and prominent orchestras in South Africa, including the Cape Town and Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestras. Samson plays on a fine 1803 Wagner violin.
G
rethe Nöthling started her musical career at the age of five and has won several national music competitions. She is also the recipient of numerous awards and bursaries, including receiving the UNISA overseas scholarship for teachers in 2003. From 1989 to 2005, Grethe concertized as a soloist with all major South African Symphony Orchestras. She obtained a Bachelor of Music Degree, specialising in Performance (magna summa cum laude) from the University of Pretoria. She furthered her studies in the USA at the Cleveland Institute of Music where she received a Master’s Degree in 2008. Grethe obtained her Doctorate Degree in 2014 from the University of Iowa. During her ten-year residency in the USA, she performed extensively as a soloist and chamber musician. She was recently appointed as principal piano lecturer at the Odeion School of Music at the University of the Free State.
PROGRAMME (Not in order of performance) Ennio Morricone (1928-)
Cinema Paradiso
John Williams (1932-) Schindler’s List Javier Navarette (1956-) Pan’s Labyrinth John Corigliano (1938-) The Red Violin Hans Zimmer (1957-) Angels and Demons The Pianist
Frédéric Chopin / Wojciech Kilar (1810-1849) / (1932-2013)
Jerry Bock (1928-2010) Fiddler on the Roof Dmitri Shostakovich (1906-1975)
The Gadfly
Luis Bacalov (1933-) Il Postino Nigel Hess (1953-)
Ladies in Lavender
Aaron Zigman (1963-) For Colored Girls
BEETHOVEN ROOM TUESDAY 5 JULY 19:00 THURSDAY 7 JULY 15:00 DURATION 1hr (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 12+ TICKETS Full Price R70 Concessions R65
68 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS
THE WITS TRIO PLAYS BRAHMS Piano Violin Cello
Malcolm Nay Zanta Hofmeyr Maciej Lacny
Producer
Andre Stolz
The Wits Trio started their chamber music circuit in 2012 playing Brahms and now, four years later, it is fitting that they premiere at the 2016 National Arts Festival with a complete Brahms programme.
PROGRAMME A Johannes Brahms (1833-1897) Piano Trio No. 3 in C minor Op. 101 This piano trio was written in the summer of 1886 while Brahms was on vacation in Hofstetten, Switzerland. It was premiered on 20 December of that year with Brahms at the piano, violinist Jenő Hubay and cellist David Popper. Piano Trio No. 1 in B major, Op. 8 Brahms composed this work in 1854 and produced a revised version in 1889. It is among the few multi-movement works to begin in a major key and end in the tonic minor.
PROGRAMME B Johannes Brahms (1833-1897) Violin Sonata No. 3 in D minor, Op. 108 This sonata is the last of Brahms’ three sonatas for violin and piano. Unlike the two previous violin sonatas, it is in four movements (the others are in three movements). Cello Sonata No. 1 in E minor, Op. 38 Brahms wrote two sonatas for cello. This sonata, written as “a homage to J.S. Bach” is actually entitled “Sonate für Klavier und Violoncello” and the piano “should be a partner and should under no circumstances assume a purely accompanying role”. Piano Trio No. 2 in C major, Op. 87 This piece was first performed at a chamber music evening in Frankfurt-on-Main on 29 December 1882.
BEETHOVEN ROOM PROGRAMME A MONDAY 4 JULY DURATION
19:00 1hr 10min (no interval)
PROGRAMME B WEDNESDAY 6 JULY DURATION
15:00 1hr 30min (no interval)
AGE RECOMMENDATION 12+ TICKETS Full price R70 Concessions R65
ZANTA HOFMEYR graduated from the Juilliard School of Music where she was a student of Dorothy Delay and Hyo Kang. After her New York début at Carnegie Recital Hall (now Weil Recital Hall), she returned to South Africa in 1985. A recipient of numerous awards and scholarships, her most recent awards include a nomination as best female artist at the KKNK Arts Festival as well as a SAMA nomination for her CD Cantilena. She has featured as soloist with South African orchestras in performances including concertos by Britten, Beethoven, Bruch, Mendelssohn and Hofmeyr. MALCOLM NAY is widely regarded as one of the finest chamber pianists and accompanists in South Africa. After graduating with a BMus from Wits University he travelled on scholarships to America, where he studied with Bela Siki. As a soloist, he has appeared with most of South Africa’s major orchestras: he is remembered especially for performances, in Gauteng, of the Mozart concertos, which he conducted from the keyboard. He is currently Associate Professor of Music at the Wits School of Arts. MACIEJ LACNY was born in Cracow (Poland) and graduated from the F. Chopin High School (1995) and the Cracow Conservatory of Music (2001). He also obtained a pedagogical diploma from the Cracow Conservatory of Music. Between 1995 and 1999 he played in concerts around Europe with the Cracow Quartet. From 1996 to 2007 he was principal cellist of the Cracow Radio Symphony Orchestra. He is married to a South African flautist and lives in Johannesburg.
69 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL WITH SUPPORT FROM THE US EMBASSY PRESENTS
KATHLEEN TAGG AFRICAN PIANO T
his new solo programme by New York-based South African pianist Kathleen Tagg explores the sounds of the African continent by using every sound capability of a grand piano. The journey takes the audience through works for piano by African classical composers and those deeply influenced by the music of central Africa to arrangements of music as diverse as Zimbabwean mbira musica, Malian kora songs and original compositions. Kathleen has spent more than a decade living and working as a musician in New York City, tapping all the time into the constant spirit of adventure and exploration found in music-making there. For this show she combines this spirit of exploration with her very deep interest in the music of southern Africa which led to the creation of a five-part South African Music Festival, held in New York in 2007, and her doctoral thesis: A Catalogue of South African Piano Music. “For African Piano, I get to perform works by some of my favourite African composers and juxtapose them with new arrangements of works not originally written for piano. Many of the arrangements are my own, and include both literal transcriptions of music from across the continent and extended compositions where I create my own new sound world. I use the piano as a vehicle for sound production, and apart from playing the instrument in the traditional way, I also pluck the strings, play the piano strings with multiple bows and use mallets in the manner of a hammer-dulcimer player. In the past few years I have started to experiment more and more with extended techniques found in contemporary classical compositional practices, but putting them into various music frameworks, both structured and improvised.” – Kathleen Tagg
Pianist, composer and producer KATHLEEN TAGG, praised for her combining of “outstanding technique with deep musicality”, has been based in New York since 2001. She has performed on four continents in leading venues such as Carnegie Hall, had her original music performed in venues
such as New York’s Lincoln Center, appeared on a host of classical, world music and multi-genre recordings, and produced numerous CDs and interdisciplinary programmes from South Africa to Los Angeles. Her work has been released on record labels NAXOS, Universal, Table Pounding Records and Gallo Africa. A 2014 SAMA nominee for best classical album, she has performed in recital with some of the world’s leading musicians, and the remarkable breadth of her collaborations defines her multi-faceted career. Kathleen is a 2014/15 fellow of the Dramatist Guild of America; her work has been heard on film and television. Kathleen completed her studies at the University of Cape Town, Mannes College of Music and the Manhattan School of Music in New York, which awarded her the Helen Cohn Award as the outstanding Doctoral graduate, and where she taught for four years. In South Africa, Kathleen received awards from the Ernst Oppenheimer Memorial Trust, National Arts Council and the Jules Kramer and Harry Crossley Awards, the Oude Meeste Prize, and top prizes at the SAMRO, Adcock Ingram and Hennie Joubert Piano Competitions. In New York she garnered awards from the Andrew W Mellon Foundation and the New York Performing Arts Foundation. In 2014 she was appointed to the faculty of SongFest at Colburn in Los Angeles. With her great interest in new music, Kathleen has premiered countless works, many written for her. In 2012 she released the SAMA-nominated album Soul of Fire with singer Zanne Stapelberg, featuring her work as pianist, arranger, producer and music director. They launched a new Afrikaans show, Spieël Speel, in 2013, featuring all-new original songs with lyrics by leading South African luminaries. Music from Soul of Fire was also used in Deon Meyer’s new film, Die Laaste Tango, and Kathleen’s arrangement and performance were featured on the soundtrack, released on Gallo Africa in 2013. She recorded the music of Pulitzer prize-winner Tom Kitt for the Broadway Lullabies Project, and performed on Broadway at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre at the launch in 2012.
PROGRAMME The programme will include works by Steve Reich, Peter Klatzow and Dizu Plaatjies arranged by Kathleen. Works composed by Kathleen as well as arrangements of traditional tunes and a new world premiere by 2013 Standard Bank Young Artist Awardwinner for Jazz, Shane-Cooper, commissioned by SAMRO. (A detailed programme and order of works performed will be available at the venue.)
BEETHOVEN ROOM WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 19:00 FRIDAY 8 JULY 15:00 DURATION 1hr 10min AGE RECOMMENDATION 12 + TICKETS Full Price R70 Concessions R65
70 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE FRENCH INSTITUTE OF SOUTH AFRICA (IFAS) PRESENT
AMMIEL BUSHAKEVITZ
PIANO RECITAL SONGS WITHOUT WORDS FROM THREE GENERATIONS
F
rom lullabies and battle horns to the songs of birds and whales, the melody is the aspect of music which most pierces the human heart. The pianoforte of the 18th century was not an instrument that could sustain a melody for long, but technological improvements allowed the piano to blossom into its full lyrical potential during the Romantic Age. Felix Mendelssohn was the composer who instigated this fruition with his famous sets of Songs without Words. He was followed not only by numerous composers who were inspired by the instrumental melody, but also by expert transcribers such as Liszt and Godowsky, who rewrote the works of earlier masters for the solo piano. This piano recital pays homage to them all and to their songs: songs which, without words, depict the music of the spheres, the vibrations of nature and the fragile light which is human life.
PROGRAMME Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847) Lieder ohne Worte 1. Andante con moto ‘Duetto’, Op. 38 No. 6 2. Agitato ‘Appassionata’, Op. 38 No. 5 3. Allegretto non troppo, Op. 67 No. 6 4. Andante con moto ‘Venetian Gondola’, Op. 62 No. 5 5. Andante grazioso ‘Spring Song’, Op. 62 No. 6 6. Andante grazioso ‘Spinning Song’, Op. 67 No. 4 Franz Liszt (1811-1886) Les Jeux d’eaux à la villa d’Este Soirées de Vienne XIII, d’après Franz Schubert, S427 INTERVAL Jean-Philippe Rameau (1683-1764) (trans. Godowsky) Rigaudon from “Dardanus” Georges Bizet (1838-1875) Chansons-mélodies: Extase Gabriel Fauré (1845-1924) Romance sans paroles, Op. 17 No. 3 Charles-Valentin Alkan (1813-1888) Recueil de chants, Op. 38 No. 1
Raised in George, South Africa, AMMIEL BUSHAKEVITZ studied at the University of Stellenbosch and the University of Pretoria. After winning the UNISA Overseas Scholarship for Performers, an Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Award and a DAAD International Award for Artists, he furthered his studies at the Hochschule für Musik und Theater “Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy” in Leipzig. Thereafter he completed his studies at the Conservatoire Nationale Supérieur de Musique in Paris. Ammiel is in demand both as a soloist and as a chamber musician. He performs at notable venues across Europe, North America, Africa and Asia. Festival appearances include the Bayreuth and Salzburg Festivals, the Festival d’automne à Paris, the Jerusalem Schubertiade, the Festival Pontino di Latina (Italy), the Holland International Music Sessions, the Heidelberger Frühling Festival, the Festival d’Aix-enProvence and the Vancouver Chamber Music Series.
Franz Schubert (1797-1828) Ungarische Melodie, D817 Clara Schumann (1819-1896) (trans. Liszt) Geheimes flüstern, Op. 23 No. 3 Richard Strauss (1864-1949) (trans. Bushakevitz) Wiegenlied, Op. 41 No. 1 Christoph Willibald Gluck (1714-1787) (trans. Sgambati) Mélodie from “Orfeo ed Euridice”
BEETHOVEN ROOM SUNDAY 3 JULY 19:00 DURATION AGE RESTRICTION TICKETS Full price R70
TUESDAY 5 JULY 15:00 1hr 30min (Incl. interval) 12+ Concessions R65
71 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS
HOMAGE TO ARNOLD VAN WYK PROGRAMME
PIANO RECITAL BY PIETER VAN ZYL
Bach-Klatzow Erbarme Dich Arnold van Wyk (1916-1983) Four Piano Pieces: Dumka; Scherzino; Romanza; Tokkata Mozart Sonata in B flat major, K 333 Arnold van Wyk Ricordanza Schubert-Solomon Schubertiade
T
his year marks the centenary of the birth of ARNOLD VAN WYK, a composer who said that his reason for composing was simply because he wanted to create ‘beautiful things’. Despite many acknowledgments during his lifetime, Van Wyk remained self-critical, often withdrawing or revising works after their first performance. Today he is recognised for the special contribution he made to South African art music, yet his works are rarely performed. After Van Wyk’s death in 1983, the musicologist, Pierre Malan, hailed Van Wyk as ‘the prophet of South African music’. In this recital Van Wyk’s works are presented alongside music by J.S. Bach, Mozart and Schubert, three of several composers for whom he had a strong affinity. Van Wyk’s Four Piano Pieces date from 1965 and earlier, while Ricordanza represents his very mature, late style of composing. The programme also features contributions by Peter Klatzow and Neil Solomon with whom Van Wyk had close associations as teacher, mentor and friend.
PIETER VAN ZYL currently lives in the Western Cape where he makes a living as a musician and actor. He has a B.MUS degree (US), a M.MUS degree (NMMU) and Performer’s Licentiates from UNISA and the Royal Schools of Music. As a solo pianist Pieter has performed throughout South Africa, as well as in the UK and America. In 2011 he presented a concert in Cape Town in celebration of the South African composer/pianist/teacher Neil Solomon’s 80th birthday. Recent concerts at the Academy of St. Andrews in Cape Town were especially meaningful to him, as well as three afternoon recitals at St. Martin-in-theFields, London. Pieter has participated in several recording projects, most notably a CD of solo piano music by César Franck and a CD of sonatas for cello and piano by Brahms and Rachmaninoff (with cellist Jacques-Pierre Malan). Pieter has a strong passion for acting. After completing a licentiate in drama at
the Akademie vir Dramakuns, he studied Etienne Decroux’s mime corporel technique at the International School of Corporeal Mime, London, as well as the Hoppocampe, Paris and Pomona College, California. In 2014 Pieter gave his first performance of The woman with a Baby on her Back (Fugard), at the Pomona College (Claremont, California). In 2015 he received the Patrick Mynhardt Award for this production at the Richmond Book Festival prior to presenting it on the National Arts Festival Fringe. A film on Arnold van Wyk will also be screened. Please refer to the Main Film Programme (page 139).
BEETHOVEN ROOM THURSDAY 30 JUNE 19:00 SATURDAY 2 JULY 15:00 DURATION 1hr 10min AGE RECOMMENDATION 12 + TICKETS Full price R70 Concessions R65
72
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE US EMBASSY PRESENT
DAVID KRAKAUER & KATHLEEN TAGG IN
BREATH AND HAMMER B
reath and Hammer furthers Grammynominated clarinettist David Krakauer and pianist Kathleen Tagg’s constant quest to redefine the sounds and roles of their instruments. This project is an innovative re-imagining of the traditional clarinet and piano recital that integrates folk and improvisationbased music with classical masterworks. Via their own lush and adventurous new arrangements, the duo are able to fully exploit Krakauer’s use of extended techniques, improvisation and circular breathing on the clarinet, and Tagg’s tremendous prowess inside the piano to use it as a harp, a zither, a drum and a cello. In addition to utilising the full range of timbres that can be imagined from both instruments, they also work with a sound designer to even further expand the scope of sonic possibilities by incorporating electronic effects and layers.
BEETHOVEN ROOM THURSDAY 7 JULY 19:00 SATURDAY 9 JULY 15:00 DURATION 1hr 15min AGE RECOMMENDATION 12+ TICKETS Full Price R70 Concessions R65
DAVID KRAKAUER redefines the notion of a concert artist. He occupies the unique position of being one of the world’s leading exponents of Eastern European Jewish klezmer music, and at the same time is a major voice in classical music. He has appeared with the Tokyo, Kronos, and Emerson quartets, plus as soloist with the Dresden, Seattle, New Jersey and Detroit symphony orchestras, among many others. Consistently defying categorisation, as well as leading his own explosive genre-defying band, “Ancestral Groove”, Krakauer has enjoyed major on-going artistic collaborations with a tremendously diverse group of performers and composers including Dawn Upshaw, Itzhak Perlman, John Zorn, Fred Wesley, A Far Cry, Music from Marlboro, Abraham Inc, Osvaldo Golijov, the Klezmatics, John Cage, Danny Elfman, the WDR Big Band and Socalled. His discography includes major recordings with most of the above named artists plus seven ground-breaking CDs under his own name. For biographical details on KATHLEEN TAGG, please see African Piano on page 69.
Photograph by Tasja Keetman
PROGRAMME November 22nd (Kinan Azmeh arr. Kathleen Tagg) Ebuhuel (John Zorn arr. David Krakauer and Kathleen Tagg) Parzial (John Zorn arr. Kathleen Tagg) Shron (Roberto Rodriguez arr. Kathleen Tagg) Berimbau (Kathleen Tagg) Rattlin’ Down the Road (David Krakauer) Forró-Grass (Rob Curto arr. Kathleen Tagg) Moldavian Journey (Emil Kroitor arr. David Krakauer and Kathleen Tagg) Synagogue Wail (David Krakauer) Der Heyser Bulgar (Trad, arr. David Krakauer and Kathleen Tagg)
A PARTNERSHIP BASED ON SHARED VISION W
hen the International Cultural Boycott against South Africa was lifted in 1992 the US Embassy was amongst the first international diplomatic missions in South Africa to partner with the National Arts Festival to present international work on the Festival’s Main stage.
UNVEILED (PAGE 44)
BREATH AND HAMMER
August Wilson’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, directed by Richard Schechner, played to full house capacity. Its powerful themes and message about the devastation of racial discrimination resonated strongly with South African audiences. Staged just before the dawn of the ending of apartheid the play enabled audiences to engage with issues of race, history, heritage, identity and self-reliance.
(Page 72)
THE DAY ON WHICH A MAN DIES (PAGE 32)
In the same year, the National Theatre for the Deaf presented a double-bill, In a Grove & Farewell, My Lovely. After wide-scale auditions held in South Africa, a deaf South African actor was cast in the production. Following that memorable opening of Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom in 1992, other highlights have included performances by choreographer / dancer Bill T Jones (1999), clarinettist Marcus Eley accompanied by pianist Lucerne deSa (2009), writer/actor/gender activist Rhodessa Jones in her solo play Big Butt, Hard Headed Women (2010) and the Chicago Children’s Choir (2014) AFRICAN PIANO
JAZZ FESTIVAL
(Page 97)
(Page 69)
Over the years, the participation of US jazz musicians has been strongly supported by the Festival’s enthusiastic audiences, stakeholders and media. Among some of the recent jazz musicians who performed on the Festival’s stages are Morris Goldberg Quartet (2012), Steve Turre (2013) and Maria Schneider (2014). In 2015 the US Embassy had a strong and visible presence at the National Arts Festival with the Embassy’s logo spread across a bouquet of productions: Leslie Lewis in her solo play Miracle in Rwanda, the classical music concert Romantic Songs of Love with Fulbright scholar Bronwen Forbay and associates from Baylor University and Georgia College, a jazz concert featuring jazz musician Lionel Louke and a showcase concert by the International Library of African Music who were beneficiaries of the US Ambassador’s Cultural Preservation Grant. The partnership relationship between the National Arts Festival and the US Diplomatic Mission in South Africa is based on a shared vision that aims to create opportunities for South African and artists from the US to engage each other creatively, intellectually and personally; and to bring to the Festival’s audiences the opportunities to experience and enjoy the fruits of these artistic and cultural collaborations. In 2016, the US Embassy’s support enables collaborations across the theatre, music and jazz programmes.
74 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE EMBASSY OF COLOMBIA PRESENT
ÁLVARO MEZA COLOMBIA’S VALLENATO KING
M
aestro Álvaro Meza is a highly skilled awardwinning musician in the traditional Colombian vallenato genre. This music, with its long history, has become the most representative example of authentic grassroots Colombian music. It is so widelyrecognised that an award is given out every year in this category at the Latin Grammy Awards. Vallenato music is a combination of Colombian and AfroEuropean rhythms that emanates from the Caribbean villages of Valle de Upar (Valledupar) Colombia, South America. According to a legend it is believed that the music was a medium of communication, a way of sending messages when people used to travel on animals from one village to another. Vallenato is commonly-referred to as a form of popular folk music from Colombia and has four types of rhythm styles, namely puya (pronounced “pooja”), merengue, son and paseo. It is played with three key instruments: the accordion which comes from Europe; a caja (pronounced “kaha”) which is a drum made of hollow wood and goat skin which has African roots; and a guacharaca which is typically made of a piece of ribbed sugarcane or bamboo, scraped with a fork made of hard wire, fixed to a handle which is original to South American indigenous cultures. Of the four rhythms puya and merengue are such that you can’t help yourself from dancing but son and paseo are designed for listening. In earlier years this music was played in open spaces, on the patios of Colombian households and under the mango trees. Álvaro Meza has been invited by numerous festivals worldwide to present the vallenato culture and music. Meza together with his ensemble will have the Thomas Pringle Hall ringing and vibrating with their powerful and dynamic rhythmic music and voices which will soon have you on your feet calling for more.
ÁLVARO MEZA ORLANDO ROJAS JORGE MONTANO HÉCTOR OCHOA
ACCORDION CAJA GUACHARACA ELECTRIC BASS
THOMAS PRINGLE HALL, MONUMENT FRIDAY 8 JULY 12:30 SUNDAY 10 JULY 15:00 DURATION 1hr 10min AGE RECOMMENDATION All TICKETS Full Price R70 Concessions
R65
75 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH NIKKI FRONEMAN ARTS MANAGEMENT AND WITH SUPPORT FROM THE EMBASSY OF URUGUAY IN SOUTH AFRICA PRESENT
MATEO MERA URUGUAYAN MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST
M
ateo Mera has played to sold-out theatres across his home country of Uruguay, and festivalgoers are about to find out why. He is a talented (and almost completely self-taught) multi-instrumentalist. Mera, who often plays solo, is joined on stage by his band members as they present songs from Mera’s first album, Sobre los Puentes y Las Alturas (Over the Bridges and Heights), and from his soon to be released second album. Singing in his native Spanish, Mera’s songs traverse moods and experiences in a modern world, from love to loss, and sometimes with a cheeky dash of humour. Mera recorded the first album independently with top producer Daniel Anselmi, and played more than 20 instruments. It was presented in Los Angeles at the Great Producers from Latin America congress, particularly for the unusual guitar solo in the song Tuturututu. Mera embraces experimentation and his music is an eclectic mix with influences from rock, folk, classical, Indian through to indie and country. A distinct thread runs through it all though, in the excellent quality of musicianship and Mera’s voice, the original compositions and inspired arrangements, taking the listener on a very enjoyable journey with a contemporary young South American artist. Take a listen to the music on www.mateomera.com Mateo Mera’s tour to South Africa has been declared as being of cultural interest by the Uruguayan Ministry of Foreign Affairs & the Ministry of Education and Culture.
Vocals, guitar, keyboards, bass suitcase: Mateo Mera Vocals, bass guitar: Gonzalo Diaz Drums: Rogelio Lago Vocals, guitar, sax: Rodrigo Baeza
Embassy of Uruguay THOMAS PRINGLE HALL, MONUMENT MONDAY 4 JULY 19:00 WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 15:00 DURATION 1hr (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION All TICKETS Full price R70 Concessions R65 PHOTOGRAPHY: PAOLA SCAGLIOTTI
76 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE SWALLOWS PARTNERSHIP/ SIHLANGANISWA ZIINKONJANE PRESENT
LADIES OF MIDNIGHT BLUE HANNABIELL SANDERS & YILIS DEL CARMEN SURIEL
“The power to unite humanity and make peace rests with art forms that break stereotypes” Hannabiell Sanders Ladies of Midnight Blue are an Afro-Latin percussion and brass duet who have performed all over the world for various festivals, charity benefits, peace rallies and protest marches. They facilitate music workshops that focus on community building and raising awareness concerning issues of inequality on all levels. Their
music consists of powerful and upbeat combinations of percussion, brass, vocal chants, and mbira arrangements that inspires dancing and calls for audience participation. Today, the duet is comprised of Hannabiell Sanders – percussion, bass trombone, mbira, and voice, and Yilis del Carmen Suriel – percussion and mbira. Award-winning Ladies of Midnight Blue, have created a buzz in the North East of England performing at venues such as the
BEETHOVEN ROOM THURSDAY 30 JUNE 15:00 SATURDAY 2 JULY 19:00 DURATION 1h (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION All TICKETS Full Price R75 Concessions
R70
Sage Gateshead, The Journal Tyne Theatre, The Cluny, Live Theatre and many more. They are committed to using music as a tool for breaking down personal and cultural barriers. Their performances never fail to convey the duo’s passion for social change and equality.
www.hannabiell.com www.yilisdelcarmensuriel.com
77
PHOTOGRAPHER: JAN POTGIETER
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH UJ ARTS & CULTURE PRESENT
UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG CHOIR CONDUCTED BY RENETTE BOUWER AND SIDUMO NYAMEZELE
O
ut of the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg, the UJ Choir has bloomed into a musical hybrid that reflects the struggles of the country’s past and hope for its future. Over the past eleven years, the Choir’s programme has evolved to represent the exciting colours and sounds of the City of Gold; fine Western repertoire combined with full blooded African music. In 2010 the choir performed Karl Jenkins’ Sabat Mater with Jenkins conducting. Their electric performance resulted in them being invited to perform this work again in New York in the famous Carnegie Hall four months later. Last year, the UJ Choir toured to Germany, Poland, Slovakia and Austria taking part in various festivals and competitions. They received two Gold Awards and the Overall Grand Prix Prize at the Slovakia Folk Music Competition held in Bratislava.
RENETTE BOUWER received a Special Award in 2012 from the ATKV for her outstanding contribution to choral music. Apart from her involvement with choirs, she has performed as a soloist in numerous oratorios both locally and abroad. Her choral arrangements are sung all over the world and she has released more than 16 CDs with choirs, ensembles and as a soloist. SIDUMO NYAMEZELE has been invited to Europe and Norway on several occasions for choral summer schools and to conduct workshops in African traditional music. He is currently a part-time conductor for African music at UJ and a full-time teacher at St John’s College. He is the founder member of CHORISA (Choral Institute of South Africa).
PROGRAMME I will praise thee, O Lord I will lift up mine eyes Lofsang van Maria * A Spotless Rose Stetit Angelus
Knut Nystedt (1915-2014) Jake Runestad (1986-) Renette Bouwer (1958-) Paul Mealor (1975-) Rihards Dubra (1964-)
‘n Regte ou Kaapse Reen Tequila Samba Short People Fever
Marie Tredoux, arr. Dirkie de Villiers Guy Turner Randy Newman, arr. Simon Carrington Davenport and Cooley arr. Deke Sharon
A medley of African songs
Songs depicting the many cultures of our diverse African vocal treasures
* Piano Accompaniment: Renette Bouwer
GUY BUTLER THEATRE, MONUMENT SATURDAY 2 JULY 15:00 SUNDAY 3 JULY 20:30 DURATION 1hr 10min AGE RECOMMENDATION All TICKETS Full Price R70 Concessions R65
78 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE JOBURG CITY THEATRES AND HANNIE HEFER PROMOTIONS AND WITH SUPPORT FROM CONSTITUTION HILL AND THE EMBASSY OF AUSTRIA PRESENT
MY JOHANNESBURG A
city with almost half of the population under the age of 35 is a city to focus on. The book, My Johannesburg, has done just that. A collection of interviews of people living in “Joburg” by Margit Niederhuber and Albie Sachs is a collection of inspiring, true stories of South Africans on their journey from oppression to freedom. Eleven of these stories from artists, musicians, entrepreneurs, teachers, psychologists and domestic workers, have been set to music by Christian Radovan (an Austrian, who grew up in Pretoria) in collaboration with the musicians that play them. Art changes you; it engages you and makes you question yourself and your environment, your attitudes and your involvement. Here we have a mirror of memoirs and music, reflecting to South Africans their inspiration and inventiveness; their overwhelming hope and creativity.
PROGRAMME Music for all songs has been composed and arranged by Christian Radavan. The story-tellers and their occupations are listed alongside the title of each song below. Opener City
Jeffrey Mulaudzi, founder Alexandra Bicycle Tours
African Moods
Marcus Neustetter, Artist and co-founder of Trinity Session
Pauli’s Song
Hillary & Tony Hamburger, Psychologists Ububele
C.H. Signation
Albie Sachs, Retired Constitutional Court Judge
Jozi Energy
Dahlia Maubane, Photographer
Transcending Tireshen Govender, Architect Compassion
Hazel Masike, Kindergarten Teacher
African Spirit
Lerato Phage, Administrator Cape Gate Miagi Centre of Music
Clouds
Mario Viagem, Tour Guide
Timeless
Ali Khangela Hlongwane, Curator
Moonlight on the Lake
Mandla Langa, Writer
Producer & Liaison Officer
Hannie Hefer
Concept; Composition & Trombone Double Bass Alto Saxophone Drums Piano Spoken Word Artist
Christian Radovan Benjamin Jephta Justin Bellairs Lukas Ligeti Nduduzo Makhathini Vuyelwa Maluleke
Production Manager & Script Editor
Kerryn Coulter
THOMAS PRINGLE HALL, MONUMENT FRIDAY 8 JULY 18:30 SATURDAY 9 JULY 15:00 DURATION 1hr 30min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 12 + TICKETS Full Price R70 Concessions R65
79
THE EASTERN CAPE DEPARTMENT OF SPORTS, RECREATION, ARTS & CULTURE IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS
WE SALUTE MADIBA (PART 2) A SHOWCASE OF EASTERN CAPE INDIGENOUS DANCE AND MUSIC “During my lifetime I have dedicated myself to this struggle of the African people. I have fought against White domination, and I have fought against Black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die”. Nelson Mandela
W
e Salute Madiba (Part 1) presented at the National Arts Festival in 2015 and which featured the talented Eastern Cape Dance and Music Ensemble resonated strongly with the hearts and minds of audiences who have embraced Nelson Mandela as the greatest leader of this century. The production evoked memories about the life of a warrior – a son of the soil – through what he has always wanted to be known before he was called a politician. The 2015 production embarked on a successful provincial tour and We Salute Madiba (Part 2) is a response to the overwhelming enthusiasm of a nation that believes that the story of Nelson Mandela needs to be told continuously from one generation to the next. It is a story of hope and inspiration. It is a story about leadership. We Salute Madiba (Part 2), based on personal narratives drawn from the Eastern Cape, honours Madiba’s ‘royal’ upbringing in the Transkei. It is here where his values and attitudes about his selfdiscipline, guarded privacy and quite early sense of his own historic destiny were shaped by traditional and royal prerogatives. A fine cast of men and women commemorate the spirit of a giant of the universe. Filled with splashes of colour and steaming with rhythm and spirituality, the production draws on piercing rituals and
factual narratives to continue the journey to honour the immense leadership with which Madiba introduced the concepts of unity, democracy and selfless struggle to the South African political landscape. We Salute Madiba (Part 2) tells the story of the man behind the myth. It probes his character. It celebrates his leadership. It offers us intimate insights to his rural roots. It affirms why Nelson Mandela is more than just the Son of the Abathembu but that his spirit belongs to universe.
TRANSNET GREAT HALL THURSDAY 30 JUNE 19:00 FRIDAY 1 JULY 11:00 DURATION 1 hr 30 min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION All TICKETS Full Price R70 Concessions R65
Province of the
EASTERN CAPE
REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
DEPARTMENT OF SPORT, RECREATION, ARTS AND CULTURE Private Bag/Ingxowa Eyodwa/Privaatsak X0020, BHISHO 5605
The Department
The Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture gives due regard to provincial priorities by ensuring that its mission caters sufficiently for youth, women, the disadvantaged and the disabled. The guiding principles for programme development are based on the 10year Provincial Growth and Development Plan.
Our Vision
A united, active, and winning province through sport, recreation, arts and culture
Our Mission
To develop and promote Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture for spiritual, intellectual, physical and material upliftment of the people of the Eastern Cape
Our Values
; Unity of purpose ; Respect for self and others ; Commitment to service delivery ; Loyalty to the organisation and the people we serve ; Work ethics ; Honesty ; Communication ; Equity
Our Programmes
The programmes of the Department are designed to render services in the following areas: ; Sport and Recreation ; Arts and Culture ; Libraries and Information Services ; Museums and Heritage
Contact details:
MEC Dr Pemmy Majodina
Member of the Executive Council: Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Tel: 043 – 604 4101 Fax: 043 – 604 4093
Mr Mzolisi Matutu
Head of Department: Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Tel: 043 – 604 4019/20 Fax: 043 – 642 5309
Mrs Bongiwe Nobongoza Gen Manager: Cultural Affairs Tel. 043 – 492 0209 Fax. 043 – 642 2012
SISONKE SINAKHO
81 THE EASTERN CAPE DEPARTMENT OF SPORTS, RECREATION, ARTS & CULTURE IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS
DAKAWA JAZZ SERIES Feya-Faku
T
he Dakawa Jazz Series is an annual showcase of Eastern Cape jazz musicians featured in a programme that aims to create opportunities for emerging jazz musicians to be billed alongside established jazz musicians.
Nomfundo Xaluva
Well-known names such as Feya Faku, Andile Yenana, Lulile Gegana and Skade will headline this year’s Dakawa Jazz Series programme. In a partnership between the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture and the Eastern Cape Audio Visual Centre, the Dakawa Jazz Series will create debut opportunities for rising stars Sive, Anam and Ludwe. The Dakawa Jazz Series will also celebrate the music of Msaki Nomfundo Xhaluva and Thandokazi whose roots are in the Eastern Cape but who have gone on to attain bigger fame. Music legends from the Nelson Mandela Metro will share the stage with the emerging star, Thembelani Batala. Guest artists from KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State will also be featured along with Eastern Cape musicians. The Dakawa Jazz Series demonstrates the Eastern Cape Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts & Culture’s commitment to celebrate the Province’s rich jazz legacy. It also highlights the Department’s support of initiatives to stimulate a vibrant jazz development initiative in the Province.
DAKAWA COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE TUESDAY 5 JULY 19:00 UNIVERSITY OF FORT HARE JAZZ BAND, CAN OF WORMS and THANDOKAZI WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 19:00 RHYTHM QUEEN, THEMBELANI BATALA and SLIQ ANGEL THURSDAY 7 JULY 19:00 UNAM AND LUDWE, MANO SMITH and NOMFUNDO XALUXA FRIDAY 8 JULY 19:00 SIVE DUMBISA, LILITHA And MSAKI SATURDAY 9 JULY 19:00 SINETHEMBA, KZN AND FREE STATE ENSEMBLES and EASTERN CAPE JAZZ LEGENDS DURATION FOR ALL CONCERTS: TICKETS R20
1 hour (no interval)
82 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS
AKA
A
KA, the man who calls himself “The African Hip Hop Prince”, was born in Cape Town on January 28, 1988. He formed a band (Entity) with some school friends in his early teens and, after they went their separate ways, he worked as a record producer and engineer. Not content to stay behind the mixing desk, AKA debuted an album that was to firmly entrench him on the local hip hop scene – earning him the award for Male Artist of the Year at the 2015 South African Music Awards (SAMA). AKA has opened for Kanye West, Big Sean, Snoop Dogg, and Kendrick Lamar, and headlined most major music festivals in South Africa. His second album (titled #Levels) is a world-class slice of contemporary hip hop, produced to perfection by AKA himself and a crew of collaborators from across Africa. Now living in Johannesburg, the rapper’s second album represents a brave
step forward in African music. #Levels incorporates up-to-the-minute production and oozes authentic South African lyrical references but still retains its hip-hop credibility. “I’m trying to bridge the gap between fans of different genres and cultures through a new style of African hip-hop music,” says the artist through his newly minted grill. A sign of how AKA has embraced collaboration is that respected poet/MC Tumi Molekane rhymes solo on the albumopening title track. Other vocal features include Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie, Nigerian dancehall singer Burna Boy, J’Something from Mi Casa, K.O. from Teargas, Reason, Da Les and JR. New musical and beat-making partnerships have been forged with artists like KG, Master A Flat, Tweezy and Sticky, leaving him
perfectly poised to take his music to new, well, #Levels! Today AKA has built a personal brand that everyone seems to want a piece of. He has endorsements, he’s hosted awards shows, presented sport on TV, he pervades social media and he performs almost nightly at clubs and festivals across Africa. “Channel O, Trace TV, MTV Base and Soundcity TV have opened the continent up to us,” he says.
GUY BUTLER THEATRE FRIDAY 8 JULY 22:00 DURATION 1h 10min AGE RECOMMENDATION PG TICKETS Full price R130 Concessions R120
83 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS
THE MUFFINZ “Changing the world one ear at a time”
T
he Muffinz have unleashed their mysteriously beautiful world of eclectic soul to the South African public and they are now set for world domination. The music of The Muffinz is so new, yet so soulful, so accessible, so honest and so innocent, that it appeals to all age groups, races, classes and genders. The five young musicians make a refreshing change from the usual run of the mill rappers and house DJs in that they play real instruments, and they play them well. Plus all five musicians are great singers in their different genres of expertise. Electric guitarist and vocalist, Atomza’s voice is best described as a young Michael Jackson meets Usher with a twist of rock. Drummer Keke then enters with his Senegalese meets rumba vocals. The band switch from a groovy R&B rhythm led by acoustic guitarist Mthae and bassist Skabz, to a classy jazz guitar sound
introduced by electric guitarist and a capella singer, Simz. And that is just on one song! The group began in 2010 when Mthae, Simz and Atomza met while singing in the UJ (University of Johannesburg) Choir. In August 2011, the independent label, Just Music, were invited to see the band perform an impromptu private performance in a tiny rehearsal room at the University of Johannesburg. They were so blown away with The Muffinz that they immediately offered them a recording deal. In 2012 the band made their Festival debut, winning a Silver Standard Bank Ovation Award on the Fringe and, in 2013, they returned to the Arena, growing a new fan base along the way. 2016 is going to be a big year for The Muffinz – not only are they embarking on a tour of the USA, but they have been nominated for a South African Music Award (Best R&B/Soul/ Reggae Album) and they are making their debut on the Festival’s Main stage….catch them while you still can, these guys are going global!
THE BAND LEAD ELECTRIC GUITAR/ VOCALS Simphiwe ‘Simz’ Kulla ACOUSTIC GUITAR AND VOCALS Mthabisi ‘Mthae’ Sibanda DRUMS AND VOCALS Mabusela BASS AND VOCALS Moeketsi
Gregory ‘Keke’ Karabo ‘Skabz’
LEAD ELECTRIC GUITAR AND VOCALS Sifiso ‘Atomza’ Buthelezi
GUY BUTLER THEATRE SATURDAY 9 JULY 22:00 DURATION 1hr 10min AGE RECOMMENDATION PG TICKETS Full price R110 Concessions R100
84 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS
PRIME CIRCLE J
ohannesburg rockers Prime Circle have released six studio albums and achieved multi-platinum-selling status in South Africa since their formation in December 2000. Ross Learmonth, Marco Gomes, Dirk Bisschoff and Gerhard Venter launched onto the Mpumalanga music scene in Witbank and Middleburg, honing their skills and building their repertoire in their parent’s garages while holding down day jobs. In July 2007 Neil Breytenbach came on board, and in 2008 Dale Schnettler joined the band, replacing drummer Gerhard Venter.
Prime Circle has played at most major local concerts including nine times on the 94.7 Highveld Stereo Jo’burg Day stage, Nelson Mandela 46664 Concerts, Oppikoppi, Splashy Fen, My Coke Fest, Synergy and Rocking the Daisies. Since 2009, the band has garnered 16 South African Music Award nominations and two awards – including best Rock Album and Best Video. This is their debut appearance on the National Arts Festival main stage, and coincides with their first official European album release – a Deluxe version of their 2014 smash Let the Night In
They come to Grahamstown fresh from a tour of Europe, and with a determination to blow their audience away! Website: www.primecircleband.com
GUY BUTLER THEATRE WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 22:00 DURATION 1hr 10min AGE RECOMMENDATION All TICKETS Full price R130 Concessions R120
85 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE STANDARD BANK JAZZ FESTIVAL PRESENTS
CAIPHUS SEMENYA SOUTH AFRICAN MUSIC LEGEND
S
elf-exiled from South Africa in the 1960s, South African music legend Caiphus Semenya has built a solid reputation as a musical director and composer, working with his wife, vocalist Letta Mbulu, as well as with Hugh Masekela and Miriam Makeba. After moving to Los Angeles, Semenya found himself working with and composing for a broad range of jazz and pop artists, including Nina Simone and Cannonball Adderley and he established a long-time collaboration with Quincy Jones. This resulted in Semenya providing compositions for the scores to Roots and The Color Purple, for which he was nominated for an Oscar.
He later worked on the score to Disney’s The Lion King.
variety of capacities, including with Letta Mbulu as Caiphus and Letta.
In 1989, he was the musical director for the South African component of the Wembley Stadium Nelson Mandela Tribute Concert. He returned from exile in 1990, and in 1991 headlined the Unity Concert at FNB Stadium.
He is an executive producer for Quincy Jones’ Qradio website, for which he also writes a regular column.
Since his return to South Africa in 1990, he has re-established himself as a central pillar of our music, composing scores for Molo Fish, Vicious Circle and Gaba Mootho, three series broadcast by the SABC. He continues to work in America, Europe and Africa in a
19:00 FRIDAY 8 JULY DURATION 1h 10min AGE RECOMMENDATION PG TICKETS Full price R130 Concessions R120
GUY BUTLER THEATRE
86 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE STANDARD BANK JAZZ FESTIVAL PRESENT
RINGO MADLINGOZI KING OF AFRICAN LOVE SONGS
R
ingo Madlingozi, whose roots lie in the Eastern Cape, is a legendary, awardwinning South African musician who has won several SAMA and Kora Music Awards; produced and released 10 albums and 2 live DVD’s; and toured extensively locally and internationally.
another much-anticipated performance. He has had a long and illustrious music career starting in the dusty streets of Gugulethu, showing off his musical talent from the tender age of three, to winning the Shell Road to Fame music competition with his band, Peto.
Having last performed at the National Arts Festival in the 1990’s Ringo is back for
Ringo’s first album, Vukani (Wake Up!) was released in 1996, during which year he also served as a support act when Papa Wemba toured South Africa. The addition of a contemporary sound while still being grounded in the tradition of the Xhosa guitar, cemented what has now become known as the “Ringo” sound. “It took 12 years to release an album that expresses the real me,” Ringo says.
GUY BUTLER THEATRE SATURDAY 9 JULY 19:00 DURATION 1h 10min AGE RECOMMENDATION PG TICKETS Full price R130 Concessions R120
The sound has found its expression in several other releases, each one building on the success of the last. Among these are Sondelani (1997), Mamelani (1998), Into Yam’ (1999), Buyisa (2000), Ntumba (2002) and Baleka (2004). They’ve earned Ringo several awards, including Best Male Vocalist in 1998 and 1999 at the South African Music Awards as well as Best Male Artist (Southern Africa), Best Male Artist (South Africa) and Best Male Vocalist (African Continent) at the 1998 and 1999 Kora awards respectively. Ringo is well loved and has a fan-base of millions, many of whom have affectionately crowned him the ‘King of Love Songs’. He remains a sought after act on the performing circuit of South Africa.
88 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL AND BUSINESS AND ARTS SOUTH AFRICA (BASA) PRESENT
TIGERLILY: JOSIE FIELD AND LAURIE LEVINE MUSIC COMPOSED AND PERFORMED BY JOSIE FIELD AND LAURIE LEVINE
T
he blues infused vocal-rock of Josie Field connects with the intimate folk and country style of Laurie Levine to create a unique musical experience. The first of its kind for two female South African singer-songwriters, Tigerlily is a rare collaboration. The show is a rich blend of Josie Field’s deep, soulful blues tones with Laurie Levine’s velvet honey country inflections, with a strong focus on their elegant harmonies. Tigerlily was created to complement Levine and Field’s first co-written album of the same title, consisting of a collection of brand new, original material. After sixteen years experience,
nine albums and a dozen SAMA nominations between them, the songwriters have honed their craft with catchy and beautifully constructed songs, ranging from heartfelt folk to sassy, soulful and blues textured melodies. The show features a dynamic and sublime blend of organic acoustic instruments such as ukulele and harmonica with the driven sounds of electric guitar and kick drum to solidify the duos new signature sound. Tigerlily is a spellbinding show with a depth of emotion and a rich musicality that takes contemporary folk to a new level.
GRAHAM HOTEL THURSDAY 30 JUNE 19:00 13:00 & 17:00 FRIDAY 1 JULY SATURDAY 2 JULY 13:00 & 19:00 SUNDAY 3 JULY 17:00 DURATION 1hr 10min English LANGUAGE AGE RECOMMENDATION All ages TICKETS Full price R80 Concessions
For: Side by Side: Laurie Levine & Josie Field
R75
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL AND BUSINESS AND ARTS SOUTH AFRICA (BASA) PRESENT
ASANDA MQIKI – THE BALLADEER DIRECTED BY Thoba Goba & Qaqambile Qingana MUSIC COMPOSED AND PERFORMED BY Asanda Mqiki WITH BAND MEMBERS: Thoba Goba Qaqambile Qingana Grant Allison Kamva Goba
T
his production is a collection of soulful ballads interpreted in a style unique to Asanda Mqiki. It features well-known classics and captivating original pieces that bring out an emotional surge that will touch the hearts and souls of those present. The production will show case Asanda Mqiki’s vocal techniques and versatility, her unique ability to switch effortlessly between from soulful R&B ballads to African ballads.
For: Jazz with Asanda Mqiki
“With a personality as big as her voice, this young musician and singer who has shared the stage with Sibongile Khumalo, captivated the audience with her rendition of familiar jazz standards. Both her and her band exhibited such immense pleasure in performing that their infectious joy filled the space.” 2015 Cape Town Fringe – Tracey Saunders
THOMAS PRINGLE HALL WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 12:00 & 19:30 THOMAS PRINGLE HALL FRIDAY 8 JULY 20:30 WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 12:00 SATURDAY 9 JULY 21:30 WEDNESDAY 21:00 DURATION 6 JULY 1hr FRIDAY 8 JULY 21:00 LANGUAGE English & IsiXhosa SATURDAY 9 JULY 22:00 AGE RECOMMENDATION All ages DURATION TICKETS Full price R65 1hr Concessions R55 LANGUAGE English & IsiXhosa AGE RECOMMENDATION All agesat door) THE FRINGE CLUB – (Cover charge TICKETS Full price R65 Concessions R55 Thursday 7 July 14:00 Saturday 9 July 15:00
89 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL AND BUSINESS AND ARTS SOUTH AFRICA (BASA) PRESENT ABANTWANA BELANGA’S
UMLE: AMAKHOBOKA ANOMSINDO
(ANGRY SLAVES) FEATURING SIYABONGA RADU & SIPHAMANDLA FETE
MUSIC COMPOSED AND PERFORMED BY UMLE
A
makhoboka Anomsindo is an ode to workers in line jobs, who, for most of their lives have learnt the art of giving up on their dreams. Translated as ‘angry slaves’, Amakhoboka Anomsindo pays homage to all who have fought, and are fighting, for their freedom. The band speaks unapologetically of the plight of black people that have been marginalised with jobs, instead of career opportunities and other means to enslave them (sheebeens and taverns). Of men who plough land and mine for riches they do not own. Of the uprising
of students fighting for their rights. Of shift workers, gardeners, domestic men and women, and even those stuck in academia. And of the artists, who are also breadwinners, that struggle against the odds to realise their dreams. This is a tale of fighting back to win against the odds. A call out to all who push for their dreams, to continue the fight and realise their potential. This story of redemption sees the band winning their first ever award after years of struggle, the 2015 Standard Bank Standing Ovation Award, at last year’s National Arts Festival.
THOMAS PRINGLE HALL THURSDAY 7 JULY 12:00 & 20:00 FRIDAY 8 JULY SATURDAY 9 JULY Time TBC 18:00 SATURDAY SUNDAY 109JULY JULY 21:00 12:00 SUNDAY 10 JULY DURATION 12:00 45 min AGE DURATION RECOMMENDATION 45 PGmin LANGUAGEFull TICKETS price R65 IsiXhosa, Concessions: EnglishR55 AGE THE FRINGE RECOMMENDATION CLUB (CoverPG charge at door) Friday TICKETS 8 July Full17:00 price R65 Saturday Concessions: 9 July 14:00 R55
For Umle
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL AND BUSINESS AND ARTS SOUTH AFRICA (BASA) PRESENT OTTOMAN SLAP’S
SPICE ROOTS S
pice Roots explores themes of restlessness and rootlessness in a succession of pieces featuring vocal and instrumental music and Tribal Fusion belly dance. As well as a set repertoire, the troupe explores free-form improvised arrangements, allowing every performance to be a unique expression. Besides performing original pieces, Ottoman Slap draws from a range of traditional music, including Andalusian, Romanian, Kletzmer and Arabic folk songs. They
OTTOMAN SLAP IS: SIMONÉ CHIARA, RAOUL SPIEGEL, DOUGLAS ARMSTRONG, MARISSA CUÉNOUD, CALLAN WOLFF AND JAMES VAN MINNEN
strike a resonance between local and global music by weaving together Middle Eastern and Cape rhythms, along with vocals in Spanish, Roma and Afrikaans. Some instruments include the saxophone, trumpet, saw, hulusi, mandolin, guitar, accordion, double bass, darbuka, daf, riq, cajón, zils, and castanets. This unique blend of music and dance is a feast for the senses, simultaneously shedding new light on traditional culture and finding common roots.
“Ottoman Slap has taken music from the world of Kletzmer and other celebratory folk music and made it their own. They haven’t climbed on any bandwagon they are the bandwagon” Nigel Vermaas, Cue, 4 July 2015
THOMAS PRINGLE HALL THOMAS PRINGLE HALL
FRIDAY 1 JULY 20:00 FRIDAY 1 JULY Time tbc SATURDAY 2 JULY 20:00 SATURDAY 2 JULY Time tbc SUNDAY 3 JULY 18:00 SUNDAY 3 JULY Time tbc TUESDAY 5 JULY 20:00 TUESDAY 4 JULY Time tbc DURATION 50 mins DURATION 50 mins AGE RECOMMENDATION All ages LANGUAGE English, Spanish, Afrikaans TICKETS Full price R65 Concessions R55 AGE RECOMMENDATION All ages THE FRINGE CLUB Thursday 30 June 20:00 TICKETS Full price R65 Concessions R55 Monday 4 July 13:00 (Cover charge at door)
For: Ottoman Slap - An Itinerant Tale through Music & Dance
90 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL AND BUSINESS AND ARTS SOUTH AFRICA, IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE WORLD FRINGE ALLIANCE AND WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE EMBASSY OF THE NETHERLANDS AND THE FONDS PODIUM KUNSTEN OF THE NETHERLANDS PRESENT
NOT THE FUTURISTS I
nterdisciplinary music theatre based on speed, technology, experiment and the rebellious attitude of the early 20th century Italian, Russian and Polish Futurists’ avant-garde (in their manifestos, poems and recordings ‘transplanted’ into our contemporary context). 8 performers, live electronics, visuals and… MACHINES Spoken, shouted, whispered, hissed, murmured and transformed in any possible way, voices of four musicians/actors/dancers are caught in a neck-breaking, fast-paced action with a never ending flow of sudden changes and unexpected turns. Along with the (“prepared”) pianist, using electronics, the jazz drummer and the two live electronics players (playing on their, specifically constructed for this occasion stage machines and other self-built instruments), they are all entangled in a stream of events, contrasting explorations of the limits of
BEST AMST OF ERD FRING AM E
sound and space, stretching the form of the whole to the maximum. “Technology is an art the same way as painting, sculpture or architecture are!” A complete roller coaster experience for the audience, with the ‘Futurism’ being only a starting point and a kind of a prism, through which the viewers can have a much closer look at our contemporary times and the issues, just beginning to be noticed a 100 years later, of the effect of standardisation of life, technological progress and globalisation. “Courage, audacity and revolt will be the essential elements of our poetry.” The topics and the way they are presented, quite rarely seen in concert halls and theatres, are served in a grotesque, entertaining/horrifying, deadly serious, completely not serious and slightly crazy sauce…
THE FUTURISTS: Live electronics / synths Akim Moiseenkov (NL) Live electronics Felix Bousies (UK/BE) Live electronics / piano / synths Panos Iliopoulos (GR) Drums / percussion Tristan Renfrow (USA) Voice Laura Jakschas (DE), Marko Ivic (HR/YV), Kirstine Lindemann (DK) & Jerzy Bielski (PL) DIRECTED BY WRITER & COMPOSER
Laura Jakschas Jerzy Bielski
KINGSWOOD MUSIC SCHOOL KINGSWOOD MUSIC SCHOOL
THURSDAY 30 JUNE 19:00 DATES TBC FRIDAY 1 JULY 18:00 & 21:00 DURATION 1h SATURDAY 2 JULY 18:00 LANGUAGE English SUNDAY 3 JULY 18:00 AGE RECOMMENDATION 16+ NFC – M 1h DURATION TICKETS Full price R65 Concessions R55 LANGUAGE English AGE RECOMMENDATION 16+ NFC – M TICKETS Full price R65 Concessions R55
91
(Incorporating the Standard Bank National Youth Jazz Festival)
Grahamstown 2016
THURSDAY 30 JUNE SOUL HOUSING PROJECT CONTEMPORARY SOUTH AFRICAN JAZZ/HIP-HOP/HOUSE
S
oul Housing Project is the contemporary project of 2011 Standard Bank Young Artist for Jazz Bokani Dyer and vocalist Sakhile Moleshe, “the voice of Goldfish”. Their music reflects their international, southern African and urban Cape Town influences: rich, warm vocals, layered with a touch of that classic soul sound, topped with accents of hip-hop, jazz, house and drum ‘n bass. On stage they are dynamic and energetic, getting the crowds to their feet and dropping beats which no doubt “keep the fires burning“ - just like the refrain of one of their most popular songs, “Furnace of the Mind”. BOKANI DYER (KEYBOARDS) SAKHILE MOLESHE (VOCALS) AL DIRT DU TOIT (GUITAR) EUGENE ACKERMAN (BASS) LARNELLE GORDON (DRUMS)
DSG HALL THURSDAY 30 JUNE R80
17:00
TRIO CORRENTE
TWO LATIN GRAMMYS – BRAZILIAN MUSIC AT ITS BEST
T
rio Corrente draws from the highest ranks of Brazil’s jazz scene and has garnered two Grammys. The band has worked with the likes of Mike Stern and Stacey Kent, and in 2014 they won the Grammy for Best Latin Jazz Album, Maura, featuring Paquito D’Rivera. Their sound boasts a funky edge whilst remaining extremely agile, the arrangements often breathtaking as they move across the rich rhythmic terrain of bossa, samba and choro. As a trio of gifted Brazilian musicians their music balances equal parts lightness of touch and heavy compelling groove. FABIO TORRES (PIANO - BR) PAULO PAULELLI (BASS - BR) EDU RIBEIRO (DRUMS - BR)
DSG HALL THURSDAY 30 JUNE R80
19:30
SUPPORT FUNDING FROM: The Austrian Embassy Concerts Norway Concerts South Africa The French Institute of South Africa
London Centre of Contemporary Music Paul Bothner Music ProHelvetia Johannesburg The Royal Netherlands Embassy SAMRO
Swedish Arts Council Swedish Jazz Federation Mary Lou Meese Youth Jazz Fund Swiss Arts Council US Embassy
THURSDAY 30 JUNE CLAUDE COZENS TRIO
92
FRESH CONVERSATIONS ROOTED IN CAPE JAZZ
D
escribed by Down Beat Magazine (USA) as a “generous leader, with a perpetual groove and engaging compositional narratives”, Claude Cozens is establishing himself as an exciting young drummer and band leader, renowned for his distinctive, open-style percussive drumming technique. His music naturally reflects the rich and diverse sounds and rhythms of his home town, Cape Town, but is a fresh perspective on Jazz that incorporates the broader African continent and other modern musical genres. His trio features two other young jazz lions – Standard Bank Young Artist for Jazz 2014 Kyle Shepherd on piano and keyboards and Benjamin Jephta on bass. CLAUDE COZENS (DRUMS) KYLE SHEPHERD (PIANO) BENJAMIN JEPHTA (BASS)
DSG HALL CLAUDE COZENS
THURSDAY 30 JUNE R80
LATE NIGHT JAZZ CAFÉ
Sit back and relax to collaborations between musicians performing at this year’s Standard Bank Jazz Festival. The Café has a chilled vibe to go along with the great food and drink, and is the place where musicians go to meet and possibly jam. Jazz in the Cafe tonight is focussed largely on South African jazz standards, hosted by Sydney Mavundla (trumpet), who is joined by Mark Ginsburg (sax – AU), Thandi Ntuli (piano), Ildo Nanja (bass – MZ) and Kevin Gibson (drums).
SB JAZZ & BLUES CAFÉ THURSDAY 30 JUNE R80
22:30 SYDNEY MAVUNDLA
22:00
FRIDAY 1 JULY DAVID KONTRA TRIO
93
EXCELLENT SWEDISH YOUTH JAZZ
F
or nearly ten years, we have hosted the cream of Swedish youth jazz, with the winners of the Swedish Jazz Federation Youth Competition joining us in Grahamstown each year to interact with young South Africans. This year’s band – from Sundsvall – is unusually good and represents the future of Swedish Jazz. DAVID KONTRA (GUITAR - SE) JONATHAN ERICSSON (BASS - SE) JAKOB BYLUND (DRUMS - SE)
DSG AUDITORIUM FRIDAY 1 JULY R40
12:00
TRIO CORRENTE SEE THURSDAY 30 JUNE
19:30
FABIO TORRES (PIANO - BR) PAULO PAULELLI (BASS - BR) EDU RIBEIRO (DRUMS - BR)
DSG HALL FRIDAY 1 JULY R80
CAPE TO CALAIS
STÉPHANE CHAUSSE
SENSITIVE, EVOCATIVE COLLABORATION
T
he established French duo of Daniel Mille and Stéphane Chausse is joined by Dutch master bassist Hein van de Geyn, whose sonorous strength has been the dependable basis for musicians from Chet Baker to Toots Tielemans to Dee Dee Bridgewater. South African guitarist Dave Ledbetter has played in virtually every context imaginable - TV, Radio, Cabaret, Live Theatre, International Jazz Festivals, Folk Festivals, Rock Festivals, Big Band, orchestral work, soundtracks – and adds a subtle beauty to the ensemble. Expect a sensitive, evocative and very beautiful collaboration. DANIEL MILLE (ACCORDION - FR) STÉPHANE CHAUSSE (CLARINET- FR) DAVID LEDBETTER (GUITAR) HEIN VAN DE GEYN (BASS - NL/SA)
DSG AUDITORIUM FRIDAY 1 JULY R80
17:00
19:00 DANIEL MILLE
FRIDAY 1 JULY
94
SIYA MAKUZENI
Standard Bank Young Artist for Jazz:
SIYA MAKUZENI 1
RABITSCH & PAWLIK QUARTET
EXPERIMENTAL AND CREATIVE VOCALIST WITH UNIQUE TIMBRE
T
his year’s Standard Bank Young Artist Award winner for Jazz, Siya Makuzeni, has been honing her vocal and trombone artistry for years with A-list South African musicians such as Marcus Wyatt, McCoy Mrubata, Carlo Mombelli, Feya Faku, Khaya Mahlangu, Sibongile Khumalo and many more, as well as establishing her own project, Ippyfüz. She is known for her experimental and creative approach and unique timbre, using electronics to enhance and manipulate her voice. She has performed in most South African music festivals and from the Stockholm Jazz Festival to Paris and Vienna. She has been featured on many recordings, such as in her work in Germany with Themba Mkhize and the SWR Big Band, and in Italy where she contributed to the soundtrack of Forse Dio è Malato with the Oscar-winning company CAM Scores. Catch her here leading a stellar ensemble of young South African musicians. SIYA MAKUZENI (VOCALS, TROMBONE) SISONKE XONTI (SAX) SAKHILE SIMANI (TRUMPET) THANDI NTULI (PIANO) BENJAMIN JEPHTA (BASS) AYANDA SIKADE (DRUMS)
DSG HALL FRIDAY 1 JULY R80
POWERFUL POTION OF JAZZ MULTICULTURALISM
M
ichaela Rabitsch – Austrian singer, composer and trumpeter – has been called a modern-day female Chet Baker by the US magazine Jazzscene. She and her ingenious partner – fluid guitarist Robert Pawlik - present music inspired by their numerous tours through Europe, Asia, the Americas and Africa. African rhythms, Flamenco touch, Cuban fire and Balkan grooves have all made their mark on their music and recent tours to Morocco, Senegal, India and Malaysia have exposed them to West African, Arab and Berber musical cultures. Tonight they are joined by guest pianist Nduduzo Makhathini. MICHAELA RABITSCH (TRUMPET - AT) ROBERT PAWLIK (GUITAR - AT) STEFAN BARTUS (BASS - SK) DUSAN NOVAKOV (DRUMS - AT) GUEST: NDUDUZO MAKHATHINI (PIANO)
DSG AUDITORIUM FRIDAY 1 JULY R80
19:30
21:30
TOUGH TENORS HARD BOP WITH A MODERN APPROACH
T PER THORNBERG
he powerhouse tenor sax duo of Dave O’Higgins (Britain) and Per Thornberg (Sweden) presents a modern update of the classic 1960 Johnny Griffin/Eddie Lockjaw Davis collaboration, mixing hard bop with some funkier arrangements – in the tradition but with a modern approach. O’Higgins is one of the most accomplished jazz musicians in Britain with an enviable reputation for technique and variety and has regularly partnered Darius Brubeck in recent years. Thornberg is not only an excellent and lucid player, but has received the award for “Best Jazz Teacher” in Sweden! They are joined by a solid Cape Town rhythm section. DAVE O’HIGGINS (SAX - UK) ANDREW LILLEY (PIANO) KEVIN GIBSON (DRUMS)
DAVE O’HIGGINS
Sit back and relax to collaborations between musicians performing at this year’s Standard Bank Jazz Festival. The Cafe has a chilled vibe to go along with the great food and drink, and is the place where musicians go to meet and jam. Jazz in the Café tonight is hosted by Bokani Dyer and Sakhile Moleshe’s Soul Housing Project (see Thursday 30 June 17:00).
SB JAZZ & BLUES CAFÉ
DSG HALL FRIDAY 1 JULY R80
PER THORNBERG (SAX - SE) ROMY BRAUTESETH (BASS)
LATE NIGHT JAZZ CAFÉ
22:00
FRIDAY 1 JULY R80
22:30
SATURDAY 2 JULY SCHOOL/YOUTH BANDS I
95
Sharing the bill are two of the leading school jazz bands in the country - the Rondebosch Big Band (Cape Town) and Stirling Big Band (East London) – showing clearly that Big Band jazz is thriving in high schools around South Africa.
DSG AUDITORIUM SATURDAY 2 JULY R40
12:00
TOON ROOS
DANIEL MILLE
TOON ROOS QUARTET
MILLE/CHAUSSE
LYRICAL FUNKY JAZZ, GROOVY AND SPONTANEOUS
STUNNING MUSICAL CHEMISTRY AND BEAUTIFUL
M
LYRICISM
aster Dutch saxophonist Toon Roos has collaborated with greats such as Joe Zawinul, John Scofield, Toots Thielemans, Steely Dan, Ravi Coltrane, Art Blakey and Bob Brookmeyer and has played in leading bands such as the Metropole Orchestra and the Dutch Jazz Orchestra, with over 30 recordings, six under his leadership. He has performed all over Europe, as well as in the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean and China and is principal teacher at the jazz departments of the Royal Conservatoire of The Hague and of the Utrecht School of the Arts. With his intuitive, lyrical and well-balanced style, he is considered to be one of the finest tenor and soprano saxophonists in today’s contemporary Eureopan jazz scene. His quartet plays lyrical, funky jazz with world music that is groovy, in the moment, open and spacious, spontaneous and highly expressive. TOON ROOS (SAX - NL) KAREL BOEHLEE (PIANO - NL) HEIN VAN DE GEYN (BASS – NL/SA) JOOST VAN SCHAIK (DRUMS - NL)
DSG HALL SATURDAY 2 JULY R80
17:00
F
rench accordionist Daniel Mille’s masterful playing has earned him awards and international acclaim, including the prestigious Django d’Or Prize. As a young musician he started his career on the streets of Paris until legendary French music producer Pierre Barouh took notice and offered him a record contract. Mille is joined on stage by French clarinetist Stéphane Chausse who has appeared with artists such as Quincy Jones, Clark Terry, Diana Krall, Natalie Cole and Ray Charles. The duo has performed regularly around the world, producing stunning musical chemistry and beautiful lyricism. DANIEL MILLE (ACCORDION - FR) STÉPHANE CHAUSSE (CLARINET- FR)
DSG AUDITORIUM SATURDAY 2 JULY R80
19:00
SATURDAY 2 JULY
96
SCHOOL/ YOUTH BANDS II
AFRIKA MKHIZE
AFRIKA MKHIZE BIG BAND TRIBUTE TO BHEKI MSELEKU
D
urban-born 2012 Standard Bank Young Artist Award winner for Jazz, pianist Afrika Mkhize, will be honouring the late jazz legend Bheki Mseleku with a powerful big band tribute, presenting music from Bheki’s various albums. “Taking the Bheki Mseleku Big Band Tribute to audiences around South Africa allows the spirit of Bheki’s music to live on,” says Mkhize. The aim is to inspire a new generation of young artists and musicians, who in turn will be able to carve their own path in defining the role of the African artist. The big band reflects a national potpourri of jazz talent with the addition of visiting artists from the UK, USA and Switzerland. SAX: MARC DE KOCK, MTHUNZI MVUBU, DAVE O’HIGGINS (UK), SISONKE XONTI , JUSTIN BELLAIRS TRUMPET: SYDNEY MAVUNDLA, SAKHILE SIMANI, EDDIE LEWIS (US), LWANDA GOGWANA TROMBONE: ANDREAS TSCHOPP (CH), KYLE DU PREEZ, MURRAY BUITENDAG, JUSTIN SASMAN PIANO/CONDUCTOR: AFRIKA MKHIZE BASS: BENJAMIN JEPHTA DRUMS: AYANDA SIKADE VOCALS: SIYA MAKUZENI
DSG AUDITORIUM
JAZZY, GROOVY HOUSE MUSIC
C
ape Town duo The Kiffness has rapidly become one of South Africa’s favourite live electronic acts, producing jazzy, groovy house music. The duo produces an exciting live show with a mix of uninhibited dancing, skilled live instrumentation and deep grooving house beats. Founder member Dave Scott first attended the Jazz Festival as a 13-year-old trumpeter and his musical partner, Clem Carr, was in the Standard Bank National Schools Jazz Band in 2003. The Kiffness has managed to make their way from bedroom producers to becoming an international outfit garnering numerous awards, nominations, and songs topping local radio charts. DAVID SCOTT (PRODUCTION, KEYBOARD, TRUMPET) CLEMENT CARR (SAXOPHONE, KEYBOARD, SYNTHS)
DSG HALL
SATURDAY 2 JULY 21:30 R40
SATURDAY 2 JULY R80
22:00
LATE NIGHT JAZZ CAFÉ
Sit back and relax to collaborations between musicians performing at this year’s Standard Bank Jazz Festival. The Cafe has a chilled vibe to go along with the great food and drink, and is the place where musicians go to meet and jam. Jazz in the Café tonight is hosted by pianist Nduduzo Makhathini, joined by Sakhile Moleshe (vocals), Mthunzi Mvubu (sax), Sakhile Simani (trumpet), Benjamin Jephta (bass) and Ayanda Sikade (drums).
SB JAZZ & BLUES CAFÉ
DSG HALL SATURDAY 2 JULY R100
Catch a glimpse of the jazz being nurtured in our university Music departments with two bands that are gigging in our two urban centres and were envisioned and led by students. Trumpeter Marco Maritz brings his quartet of UCT classmates – A Level Collective – and Nhlanhla Ngqaqu leads his Wits contemporaries in the Iphupho L’ka Biko Afrocentric Band.
THE KIFFNESS
SATURDAY 2 JULY R80
19:30
22:30
YOUNG GUNS:
THE NEW GENERATION
G ROMY BRAUTESETH
THANDI NTULI
rahamstown is South Africa’s prime space for collaboration and a litmus test of the nation’s jazz future. We proudly present five of the most burning young musicians from around the country, playing each other’s music and pushing the boundaries. They have been members of the Standard Bank National Schools and Youth Bands and are increasingly the first-call sidemen for South Africa’s established jazz musicians, now on the cusp of being established band leaders themselves. Come and watch the future! SISONKE XONTI (SAX) THANDI NTULI (PIANO) CLAUDE COZENS (DRUMS)
DSG AUDITORIUM SISONKE XONTI
JUSTIN BELLAIRS
SATURDAY 2 JULY R80
23:30
JUSTIN BELLAIRS (SAX) ROMY BRAUTESETH (BASS)
SUNDAY 3 JULY
97
SCHOOL/YOUTH BANDS III
We feature the youth band from CAFCA Matlosana, a jazz development programme in Klerksdorp, and then the UKZN Jazz Band, who will be performing in Norway later this year.
DSG AUDITORIUM SUNDAY 3 JULY R40
12:00
AFRIKA MKHIZE
JUSTIN BINEK
JUSTIN BINEK FRESH TAKE ON THE CLASSIC VOCAL JAZZ COMBO
S
inger and pianist Justin Binek draws from a wide range of musical influences - jazz and pop styles, French Impressionist art songs, contemporary musical theatre – and fuses them in a modern jazz setting that serves as a fresh take on the jazz combo while still paying homage to the roots of the jazz art form. Binek is a Doctoral Teaching Fellow at the University of North Texas. He earned a Master of Music in Voice Performance from Western Michigan University and has been very successful as Head of Vocal Jazz Studies at The University of the Arts in Philadelphia and as Director of Choral and Jazz Ensembles at the University of Mary in Bismarck, ND.
AFRIKA MKHIZE BIG BAND SEE SATURDAY 2 JULY
19:30
DSG AUDITORIUM
DSG HALL SUNDAY 3 JULY R100
JUSTIN BINEK (VOCALS, PIANO - US) PER THORNBERG (SAX) DAVID LEDBETTER (GUITAR) ROMY BRAUTESETH (BASS) KEVIN GIBSON (DRUMS)
SUNDAY 3 JULY R80
17:00
19:00
TSCHOPP/MOMBELLI EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED!
“D ANDREAS TSCHOPP CARLO MOMBELLI
isconcertingly beautiful” was the comment on Carlo Mombelli’s playing from The Jazz Times – the world’s leading jazz periodical. The US Bass Player Magazine’s view was that “Once in a while an artist comes along who produces music unlike anything you’ve heard.” This year Mombelli joins forces with three young Swiss musicians, led by trombonist Andreas Tschopp, who studied trombone at the Music Academy in Basel under Adrian Mears, a long-time collaborator with Mombelli. Tschopp has played with, among others, Bob Brookmeyer’s New Art Orchestra and in the big band of Quincy Jones’ 75th Birthday party (special guests Herbie Hancock, Chaka Khan, Al Jarreau) and has performed at the North Sea Jazz Festival, the Willisau Jazz Festival, and the Montreux Jazz Festival. Expect the unexpected! CARLO MOMBELLI (BASS) ANDREAS TSCHOPP (TROMBONE - CH) FLORIAN EGLI (SAX - CH) FLORIAN FAVRE (PIANO - CH) SPHELELO MAZIBUKO (DRUMS)
DSG HALL SUNDAY 3 JULY R80
19:30
SUNDAY 3 JULY
98
TOON ROOS QUARTET
HEIN VAN DE GEYN
SEE FRIDAY 1 JULY
17:00
DSG AUDITORIUM SUNDAY 3 JULY R80
LATE NIGHT JAZZ CAFÉ
21:30
Sit back and relax to collaborations between musicians performing at this year’s Standard Bank Jazz Festival. The Cafe has a chilled vibe to go along with the great food and drink, and is the place where musicians go to meet and jam. Jazz in the Café tonight is hosted by Dan Shout (sax), joined by Dave Ledbetter (guitar), Andrew Lilley (piano), Ildo Nanja (bass – MZ) and Claude Cozens (drums).
SB JAZZ & BLUES CAFÉ SUNDAY 3 JULY R80
22:30
MARK GINSBURG
VITTORIO MEZZA
RABITSCH GINSBURG/MEZZA CONVERGENCE BAND & PAWLIK QUARTET
TANTALISING BLEND OF CULTURAL SOUNDS
‘C
onvergence’ is a cross-cultural meeting of like-minded musicians sharing their individual musical experiences to weave a tapestry of sounds and styles, bringing together a multitude of influences with jazz at the core. Mark Ginsburg is a formidable force in the Australian jazz scene with strong influences from his South African upbringing. He is joined by Vittorio Mezza – performer, composer, educator, author and serial award winner – from Italy. They join a potent South African rhythm section with the addition of a group of inspiring young South African vocalists led by Australian vocal coach Judy Campbell. The music reflects retro and contemporary themes and a tantalizing blend of varied cultural sounds. MARK GINSBURG (SAX – AU) VITTORIO MEZZA (PIANO - IT) ROMY BRAUTESETH (BASS) KEVIN GIBSON (DRUMS) SPECIAL HIGHLIGHT JUDY CAMPBELL (VOCAL ENSEMBLE - AU)
DSG HALL SUNDAY 3 JULY R80
POWERFUL POTION OF JAZZ MULTICULTURALISM
A
ustrians Michaela Rabitsch and Robert Pawlik have toured the world, collaborating with musicians of all nationalities and imbibing the various music nationalities to brew a powerful potion of jazz multiculturalism. Tonight they collaborate with Swedish saxophonist Per Thornberg. MICHAELA RABITSCH (TRUMPET, VOCALS - AT) ROBERT PAWLIK (GUITAR - AT) STEFAN BARTUS (BASS - SK) DUSAN NOVAKOV (DRUMS - AT) GUEST PER THORNBERG (SAX – SE)
DSG AUDITORIUM 22:00
SUNDAY 3 JULY R80
23:30
MONDAY 4 JULY
99
PETTER WETTRE QUARTET VIRTUOSO NORWEGIAN SAXOPHONIST
YOUTH JAZZ VOCALS
A celebration of school and university jazz choirs and vocal soloists from around the country, supported by professional jazz musicians.
DSG AUDITORIUM MONDAY 4 JULY R40
12:00
Petter Wettre has, since the early 90s, made his mark as one of the most important musicians on the Norwegian jazz scene, and is arguably one of the most virtuoso saxophonists in the world today. Wettre is known for playing contemporary jazz and has 2 Grammys and 4 Grammy nominations spread over his illustriously-decorated career. A graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he studied with Dave Liebman and George Garzone, he has 18 recordings as a band leader and has featured as a sideman or guest soloist on 50 albums in all styles, ranging through jazz, gospel, pop and world music and has performed the world over with the likes of Shirley Bassey, Jason Rebello, Kenny Wheeler and Manu Katche. PETTER WETTRE (SAX – NO) ERLEND SLETTEVOLL (PIANO - NO) JULIAN HAUGLAND (BASS -NO) KARL HENRIK OUSBÄCK (DRUMS –SE)
DSG HALL MONDAY 4 JULY R80
19:30
PETTER WETTRE
STANDARD BANK NATIONAL SCHOOLS’ BIG BAND T
he Standard Bank National Schools’ Big Band consists of the top young school jazz musicians in the country. Under the musical direction of Dan Shout – experienced jazz saxophonist and big band player from Cape Town – the band performs material worked on over the five days of the Standard Bank National Youth Jazz Festival.
DSG HALL MONDAY 4 JULY R40
STANDARD BANK NATIONAL YOUTH JAZZ BAND T he Standard Bank National Youth Jazz Band presents a selection of the top young jazz musicians in the country between the ages of 19 and 25 years. This year the band is under the musical direction of legendary South African bassist, Carlo Mombelli.
DSG HALL 17:00
MONDAY 4 JULY R40
22:00
TUESDAY 5 JULY TSCHOPP/ MOMBELLI
100
PETTER WETTRE QUARTET SEE MONDAY 4 JULY
19:30
ANDREAS TSCHOPP
DSG HALL
DSG HALL TUESDAY 5 JULY R80
SEE SUNDAY 3 JULY 19:30 TUESDAY 5 JULY R80
17:00
PETTER WETTRE
19:30
CARLO MOMBELLI
WEDNESDAY 6 JULY
Standard Bank Young Artist for Jazz:
SIYA MAKUZENI 2 V
ocalist and trombonist Siya Makuzeni shows off the jazz skills, creativity and variety that brought her this year’s Standard Bank Young Artist Award. This time she performs in standard jazz quartet format. SIYA MAKUZENI (VOCALS, TROMBONE) MAKESON BROWNE/MARK FRANSMAN (PIANO) KEENAN AHRENDE (GUITAR) BENJAMIN JEPHTA (BASS) SPHELELO MAZIBUKO (DRUMS)
PHUMLANI MTITI
HEART-WARMING COLLABORATION
J
azz pianist Paul Hanmer and indie/rock/world songwriter and singer Wendy Oldfield team up in a unique collaboration that fuses jazz, folk, pop and African styles to bridge a path between genres. There’s something for old fans and new as these consummate performers revive a nostalgia for what was, but also create a sense of moving forward, learning, adapting, and changing. Hanmer’s keyboard skill and Oldfield’s arrestingly edgy voice fuse beautifully, complemented by two old campaigners, guitarist Soyaphi Louis Mhlanga and tabla player Ashish Joshi. PAUL HANMER (PIANO) SOYAPHI LOUIS MHLANGA (GUITAR)
DSG HALL WEDNESDAY 6 JULY R80
PAUL HANMER & WENDY OLDFIELD
WENDY OLDFIELD (VOCALS) ASHISH JOSHI (PERCUSSION)
DSG HALL WEDNESDAY 6 JULY R80
17:00
19:30
PHUMLANI MTITI
YOUNG CONTEMPORARY JAZZ SAXOPHONIST
S
axophonist Phumlani Mtiti grew up in Port Elizabeth and studied at UCT and in Norway. He won a SAMA for Best Contemporary Jazz in 2011 for his duo Ological Studies, as well as three subsequent SAMA nominations. He plays in a wide range of music styles and is passionate about developing South African music. He is now teaching and performing in Durban and tonight presents a powerful combination of young KZN musicians. PHUMLANI MTITI (SAX) ZIBUSISO MAKHATHINI (PIANO) BUCCO XABA (DRUMS)
SB JAZZ & BLUES CAFÉ WEDNESDAY 6 JULY R80
22:30
LEON SCHARNICK (SAX) DALISU NDLAZI (BASS)
THURSDAY 7 JULY
101
FRANK PACO
FRANK PACO ART ENSEMBLE HIGH-ENERGY PULSES AND ENCHANTING MELODIES BUDDY WELLS
W
ith high-energy rhythmic pulses and enchanting melodies, the Frank Paco Art ensemble paints a musical landscape that offers an explosive live experience. The music can be described as Nu-World Jazz – an amalgamation of Jazz tones with its African roots from East to West. Frank Paco – a maestro on drums and percussion – started playing drums at a tender age in Mozambique and recalls making his own drums and guitars out of oil canisters as a child, as it was hard to find musical instruments in a Mozambique oppressed by a raging civil war. Despite the challenges he went on to achieve musical greatness, garnering numerous awards for his various collaborative projects and ensembles. No stranger to Grahamstown, he returns with his latest captivating outfit. FRANK PACO (DRUMS - MZ) ZOË MODIGA (VOCALS) BLAKE HELLABY (PIANO)
JONNO SWEETMAN
BUDDY WELLS (SAX) KEENAN AHRENDS (GUITAR) PETER DLALA (BASS)
DSG HALL
OFFSHORE
THURSDAY 7 JULY R80
19:30
JAZZ WITH FUSIONS OF WORLD MUSIC, FUNK AND REGGAE
O
ffshore’s sound is eclectic and sophisticated, deeply based in the jazz tradition with fusions of world music, funk and reggae. The band began with a core of three Knysna-based musicians, led by pianist Martin Wolfaardt, and has evolved over the years with several musicians added to Offshore’s flexible line-up - the extraordinary, iconoclastic Buddy Wells; the powerfully emotive, modern sound of Reza Khota; Lee Thomson’s beautiful tone; and Romy Brauteseth’s youthful intensity, authenticity and musicality that has made her one of the most sought-after bass players in the country. The Offshore live experience has little to do with any particular musical trend or artistic narrative; each performance is, essentially, an act of complete immersion in the profound mystery that is the moment of creation. MARTIN WOLFAARDT (PIANO) LEE THOMSON (TRUMPET) ROMY BRAUTESETH(BASS)
DSG HALL THURSDAY 7 JULY R80
17:00
BUDDY WELLS (SAX) REZA KHOTA (GUITAR) JONNO SWEETMAN (DRUMS)
PAUL HANMER
PAUL HANMER & WENDY OLDFIELD SEE WEDNESDAY 6 JULY SB JAZZ & BLUES CAFÉ THURSDAY 7 JULY R80
22:30
19:30.
FRIDAY 8 JULY SWING CITY
102
THREE OF SA’S BEST LOVED SINGERS PAY TRIBUTE TO THE SWING TRADITION
S
wing City features three of South Africa’s best-loved singers backed by a thrilling and thunderous jazz band. Their sound is hip and fresh, yet masterfully pays due respect to the jazz traditions of old. Swing City consists of Lonehill Estate’s Nathan Ro, whose love for swing music has always been deeply entrenched; Graeme Watkins, whose background in music and theatre started as a swing singer long before his success on Idols or in his indie rock band “The Graeme Watkins Project”; and Lloyd Cele of SA Idols fame, who has climbed the radio charts as a singer-songwriter. GRAEME WATKINS (VOCALS) NATHAN RO (VOCALS) LLOYD CELE (VOCALS) DAVID COUSINS (PIANO) RUDO PIETERSE (BASS)
JUSTIN HOLCROFT (SAX) NEIL ENGEL (TRUMPET) BEZ ROBERTS (TROMBONE) MICHAEL BESTER (GUITAR) JUSTIN BADENHORST (DRUMS)
DSG HALL FRIDAY 8 JULY R130
17:00
CAIPHUS SEMENYA
SIMPHIWE DANA
SIMPHIWE DANA
CAIPHUS SEMENYA SOUTH AFRICAN MUSIC LEGEND
S
elf-exiled from South Africa in the 1960s, South African music legend Caiphus Semenya has built a solid reputation as a musical director and composer, working with his wife, vocalist Letta Mbulu, as well as with Hugh Masekela and Miriam Makeba. After moving to Los Angeles, Semenya found himself working with and composing for a broad range of jazz and pop artists, including Nina Simone and Cannonball Adderley and he established a long-time collaboration with Quincy Jones, resulting in Semenya providing compositions for the scores to ‘Roots’ and ‘The Color Purple’, for which he was nominated for an Oscar. He later worked on the score to Disney’s ‘The Lion King’. Since his return to South Africa in 1990, he has re-established himself as a central pillar of our music. BAND TBC
TRADITIONAL AFRICAN WITH CONTEMPORARY SOUL
S
imphiwe Dana is one of South Africa’s most soulful singers as well as being a leading socio-political musical activist, asserting a powerful African identity through her art form. She burst onto the South African scene in 2004 with her debut album, earning her a South African Music Award for “Best Jazz Vocal Album” and “Best Newcomer” and two years later she was named the “Best Female Artist”, with the song “The One Love Movement on Bantu Biko Street”, at the SAMAs. Dana blends traditional African music with contemporary soul and shows hints of Gospel and Blues. She is also increasingly a singing sensation in the World Music scene in Europe. BAND TBC
GUY BUTLER THEATRE, MONUMENT
DSG HALL
FRIDAY 8 JULY R130
FRIDAY 8 JULY R130
19:00
21:00
FRANK PACO ART ENSEMBLE SEE THURSDAY 7 JULY SB JAZZ & BLUES CAFÉ FRANK PACO
FRIDAY 8 JULY R80
22:30
19:30
SATURDAY 9 JULY SWING CITY SEE FRIDAY 8 JULY
103
17:00
DSG HALL SATURDAY 9 JULY R130
12:00
NOKUKHANYA DLAMINI STRAIGHT-AHEAD JAZZ TO AFRO-JAZZ, TRADITIONAL MUSIC AND SOUL
N
okukhanya Dlamini – ‘the one who brings light’ – has been building her solo career parallel to backing and working with some of South Africa’s most revered artists, including Sibongile Khumalo, Judith Sephuma and Yvonne Chaka Chaka. Dlamini’s first musical break was in popular Gospel choirs like Family Factory, but time spent with Gloria Bosman and Themba Mkhize has turned her into the complete jazz product. Her approach sparkles with a power that allows her beautiful voice to travel effortlessly across a musical landscape featuring everything from straight-ahead jazz to Afro-Jazz, traditional music and Soul.
NOKUKHANYA DLAMINI
NOKUKHANYA DLAMINI (VOCALS) THOBEKILE MASINGA (VOCALS) FRANCINA MNCUBE (VOCALS)
SIFISO MAKALISA (PIANO) THEMBINKOSI BANDA (BASS) BERNICE BOIKANYO (DRUMS)
DSG HALL SATURDAY 9 JULY R100
17:00
RINGO MADLINGOZI KING OF AFRICAN LOVE SONGS
R
ingo Madlingozi, whose roots lie in the Eastern Cape, is a legendary, award-winning South African musician who has won several SAMA and Kora Music Awards; produced and released 10 albums and 2 live DVDs; and has toured extensively locally and internationally. Having last performed at the National Arts Festival in the 1990s Ringo is back for another much-anticipated performance. He has had a long and illustrious music career starting in the dusty streets of Gugulethu, showing off his musical talent from the tender age of 3, to winning the Shell Road to Fame music competition with his band, Peto. Ringo is well loved and has a fan-base of millions, many of whom have affectionately crowned him the King of Love Songs.
GUY BUTLER THEATRE, MONUMENT SATURDAY 9 JULY R130 RINGO MADLINGOZI
19:00
SATURDAY 9 JULY
104
SIMPHIWE DANA SEE FRIDAY 8 JULY
21:00
DSG HALL 21:00
SIMPHIWE DANA
SATURDAY 9 JULY R130
MSAKI SOUTH AFRICA’S TRACY CHAPMAN
E
ast London-born Asanda ‘Msaki’ Mvana is an independent singer/songwriter who has performed around the country, committing herself to music after a stint in both Law and Art. She sings effortlessly with a natural resonance and depth, strongly reminiscent of the throaty power and social activism of Tracy Chapman. ‘Zaneliza: How the Water Moves’ is her debut album, released to critical acclaim and addresses loss, hope and the wave-like rhythms in between those two states of being. MSAKI (VOCALS, GUITAR) TIMOTHY HUTCHINSON (GUITAR, SAX) SOPHIE RIEBSTEIN (HARP ) TSEPO POOE (CELLO) ELEANORE ROSELT (VIOLIN, EUKELELE) ILKE LEAH ALEXANDRA (FLUTE) JOEL KARABO ELLIOTT (TROMBONE, GUITAR) NDUDUZO MAKHATHINI (PIANO) THEMBINKOSI MAVIMBELA (BASS) GONTSE MAKHENE (PERCUSSION)
SB JAZZ & BLUES CAFÉ SATURDAY 9 JULY R80
22:30
MSAKI
For more information check www.youthjazz.co.za and www.standardbank.com/sponsorships Produced by Eastern Cape Jazz Promotions Festival Director Festival Manager Production Manager Chief Sound Engineer Administration
Alan Webster Donné Dowlman Matthew Boon Les van der Veen Janet Webster, Dean Flanagan, Donovan Abrey
105 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS
PIG HEADED CREATED, PERFORMED AND DESIGNED BY GAVIN KRASTIN SPACE MANAGED BY ALAN PARKER “What are you doing out here all alone? Aren’t you afraid of me? There isn’t anyone to help you. Only me. And I’m the Beast. Fancy thinking the Beast was something you could hunt and kill! You knew, didn’t you? I’m part of you. Close, close, close! I’m the reason why it’s no go. Why things are what they are.” The pig head in William Golding’s Lord of the Flies
P
ig Headed is a performative statement that provokes current political terrains with regards to power dynamics, the placement of power and acts of external and self-censorship. The work is inspired by the speaking severed pig head in Golding’s novel Lord of the Flies as well as the demonstrativeness of our highly mediatised local ‘politricks’, particularly regarding the current critiques of the reach and implementation of the South African Constitution and Freedom Charter. In the performance the artist speaks back to the orating abject pig head. Both a window and a mirror, the pig head is not only a symbol of the state and its autonomy, but of the self too. As the performance unfolds ambiguous images and gestures of self-censorship and external oppressions engage in a delicate balancing act as the action speaks back to the state, corrupt and rotting, but also to a complicit self and apathetic citizenry. As Simon pondered after his experience with the swine in Golding’s novel, “Maybe there is a beast – What I mean is maybe it’s only us.” Straddling the worlds of theatre, contemporary performance and live art, Gavin Krastin is an award-winning artist with an interest in the body’s representation, limitation and operation in alternative, layered spaces. His work is inspired by his immediate South African environment and the history embedded in its shifting socio-political climate. The social underpinnings and philosophies of space intrigue him and inspire a questioning of operational systems, thresholds, proximities and transgressions in his work. Pig Headed enjoyed its world premiere at Rapid Pulse International Performance Festival at Defibrillator Performance Art Gallery in Chicago, USA, in June 2016.
B2 ARENA
PHOTO BY ALAN PARKER
THURSDAY 7 JULY 18:00 FRIDAY 8 JULY 18:00 SATURDAY 9 JULY 18:00 DURATION 40min (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION 16+ (Nudity) TICKETS Full price R70 Concessions R65
107
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH WHATIFTHEWORLD GALLERY PRESENT THE 2016 STANDAD BANK YOUNG ARTIST, MOHAU MODISAKENG’S EXHIBITION
LEFA LA NTATE In Modisakeng’s work the personal is political. Informed by his experience as a young boy in Soweto at the cross roads of a violent political transition, Modisakeng uses memory as a portal between past and present to explore themes of history, body and place within the post –apartheid context. His photography, films, performance and installation grapple with the conflicting politics of leadership and nationhood, whilst also attempting to unpack the legacy of inequality, capital, labour and extraction of mineral wealth in contemporary South Africa. LEFA LA NTATE represents a poignant moment of grieving, catharsis and critical response to the historical legacy of exploitation and current lived experience of many black South Africans. Through his work Modisakeng critically engages with the complex mechanisms of violence, power and subjugation as propagated and to some extent internalized through the course of the successive colonial, apartheid and post apartheid regimes. Hauntingly evoked through Modisakeng’s signature crystalline imagery, impressions of memory and experience are exhaled like a breath captured in film and photography.
Modisakeng uses a personal lexicon of ritual and symbolism in which his physical form becomes both a vessel and a signifier. His use of his own body is a significant shift away from the problematic depiction of the other and is a gesture of self-actualization and acknowledgment of subjective experience. Mohau Modisakeng uses his body to explore the influence of South Africa’s violent history on how we understand our cultural, political and social roles as human beings. Represented through film, large-scale photographic prints, installations and performance, Modisakeng’s work responds to the history of the black body within the (South) African context, which is inseparably intertwined with the violence of the Apartheid era and South Africa in the early 1990’s. His images are not direct representations of violence, but powerful yet poetic invocations where the body is transformed into a poignant marker of collective memory.
For biographical details on Mohau Modisakeng, please refer to the Standard Bank Young Artist pages at the front of the Programme.
MONUMENT GALLERY AND GALLERY IN THE ROUND, MONUMENT SATURDAY 2 JULY TO SUNDAY 10 JULY
09:00 – 17:00
108 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH STEVENSON PRESENTS ZANELE MUHOLI’S EXHIBITION
SOMNYAMA NGONYAMA CURATOR–LERATO BERENG
I
n contrast to her life-long project of documenting members of the black LGBTI community of South Africa, for Somnyama Ngonyama, Muholi turns the camera on herself. As she presents black and white selfportraits taken while travelling in South Africa, America and Europe, Somnyama Ngonyama (meaning ‘Hail, the Dark Lioness’) confronts the politics of race and pigment in the photographic archive, while commenting on specific events in South Africa’s political history, such as the Marikana massacre. The series, which was shown at Stevenson in Johannesburg and Yancey Richardson in New York in 2015, references black and white portraiture and fashion photography, with Muholi dressed in different outfits as she takes on various personas. She writes: ‘Experimenting with different characters and archetypes, I have portrayed myself in highly stylised fashion using the performative and expressive language of theatre. The black face and its details become the focal point, forcing the viewer to question their desire to gaze at images of my black figure. By exaggerating the darkness of my skin tone, I’m reclaiming my blackness, which I feel is continuously performed by the privileged other.’
Along with these self-portraits, the exhibition features a series of photographs from Muholi’s ongoing essay titled Brave Beauties. Continuing her renowned practice of photographing the LGBTI community, this collection of black and white images is a celebratory look at the body and the politics of expression. In this collection, Muholi recalls her own second-place win at a Ms Sappho contest in Johannesburg in 1997. Brave Beauties was taken in 2014, South Africa’s 20th anniversary of democracy, and acknowledges the radical transformation of South African society even though many shadows remain, especially in terms of crimes against the LGBTI community. About Brave Beauties, Muholi says: ‘Each person is striking their own confident pose, expressing and claiming their femininity and affirming their existence and love for looking beautiful. Most of the participants have won Miss Gay beauty pageants in their communities. The contest takes place in various locations around South Africa, especially in the townships, as a way of creating awareness through cultural activities – drag performance, music and dance.’
STANDARD BANK ART GALLERY, ALBANY MUSEUM 09:00 – 17:00
Somnyama I, Paris, 2014 ©Zanele Muholi
109 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS LERATO SHADI’S SOLO EXHIBITION
NOKA YA BOKAMOSO
CURATOR Joan Legalamitlwa PRODUCTION MANAGER Erik Dettwiler
ARTIST STATEMENT
LERATO SHADI
JOAN LEGALAMITLWA
N
Lerato Shadi lives and works in Berlin. She completed a BFA in Fine Art from the University of Johannesburg. She was included in the The Generational: ‘Younger Than Jesus artists directory’ published by the New Museum, New York. In 2010 she was awarded a Pro Helvetia residency in Bern. In the same year she had her solo exhibition ‘Mosako Wa Seipone’ at Goethe on Main in Johannesburg. From 2010 to 2012 she was a member of the Bag Factory artist studios in Johannesburg. In 2012 her work was featured at the Dak’art Biennale in Dakar, Senegal and in the III Moscow International Biennale. She is a fellow of Sommerakademie 2013 (Zentrum Paul Klee) and completed in the same year a residency program by invitation of INIVA at Hospitalfield (supported by ROSL). In 2014 she was awarded with the mart stam studio grant. Currently she is completing her MFA at the Kunsthochschule Berlin Weissensee.
Joan Legalamitlwa is a Mahikeng based curator who is a UCT BA (Cultural & Literary Studies) graduate and former director of the Encounters South African International Documentary Festival. She curated South African film programmes at Proximo Futuro in Lisbon, Portugal in 2013 and at Museum of Art Rio in Rio de Janeiro, Brasil in 2014. Joan has been involved in organising various South African film events including the North West Film Festival; International Public Television Conference; the TriContinental Film Festival and the Cape Town World Cinema Festival. She served on juries at the Apollo Film Festival 2006; the International Documentary Festival of Amsterdam 2009, the Oberhausen Short Film Festival 2011 and the 2011 Cape Winelands Film Festival. Joan was a curator at Stevenson and project manager at the Children’s Radio Foundation. She curated Noble Existence, a solo art exhibition on Sol Plaatje by Mahikeng artist Giorgie Bhunu in October 2014. Joan was selected for the SYNAPSE 2015 Curators programme at Haus de Kulturen de Welt, Berlin, Germany. She is currently working towards building an artist residency in Mahikeng and is a member of the Mahikeng arts collective, Legae La Botaki.
OKA YA BOKAMOSO is the artist’s way of placing herself in the world; as a woman, as a Black woman, as a South African. The artist feels acute responsibility for how she portrays the Black female body, reflecting on the ways it has been presented in the past, from Saartjie Baartman (Hottentot Venus) to endless other examples of exploitation and humiliation. The juxtaposition between past and present becomes a leitmotif in her work. Although it is South Africa that is imbued in her work the artist explores the politics of transformation through the locations that she finds herself in. In thinking about her own history and creating images that are re-imagining a new future. In comprehension that it is a writing within a pre-existing context, she wants to re-imagine the present as the future. NOKA YA BOKAMOSO is an exhibition that fosters and encourages national dialogue about where we are as a nation and our ability to re-imagine a collective future. The exhibition puts forward questions of how is it possible to reimagine a future when our history and multiple forms of resistance have been systematically erased through various effective ways. We aim to foster dialogue around issues of historical representation and how that influences current narratives.
Makhubu, performance and installation, Lerato Shadi Photo by Erik Dettwiler
Lerato Shadi explores assumptions about the Black female body and how performance, video and installation creates a space to make the body both visible and invisible. Using time, repetitive actions as well as stillness, she questions ‘How does one create oneself?’
ALUMNI GALLERY, ALBANY HISTORY MUSEUM DAILY
10:00 – 16:00
110 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE IZIKO MUSEUMS OF SOUTH AFRICA PRESENTS
MOSES TLADI UNEARTHED
CURATOR Andrea Lewis CURATORIAL ADVISOR Hayden Proud CURATORIAL ASSISTANTS Charis de Kock, Philiswe Lila, Nala Xaba DESIGN AND DOCUMENTARY FILM Dirk Meerkotter
CURATORIAL STATEMENT
M
oses Tladi Unearthed is a testament to a man who pursued his love for painting despite the limiting socio-economic conditions and hardships of his time, and re-introduces the public to this enigmatic painter. Moses Tladi is considered one of South Africa’s first black artists to have his work exhibited around the country. Tladi’s self-taught talent as a landscape painter flourished in the 1920s and 1930s. His paintings are as colourful and peaceful as they are rough and emotive, and through his landscapes we come to understand a man whose life was tied up with the political landscape of the time. Swept from his home in Sekhukhuneland with the wave of migrant labour to the city of Johannesburg, having his works exhibited at ‘whites-only’ galleries that he often could not enter by law, and victim to the forced removals of 1956, his talent as an artist did not exempt him from the inequalities facing black South Africans at the time. Other than the publication of Angela Read Lloyd’s book The Artist in the Garden: The Quest for Moses Tladi (Print Matters, Noordhoek, 2009), there has been no serious assessment of the modest but precious body of work that Tladi left behind. This exhibition provides an exceptional opportunity to view that legacy. No major exhibition of his work has ever been mounted before. Bringing together approximately 30 artworks, the exhibition endeavours to remind the general public of Tladi’s work and to re-examine his place in South African art history. It further contextualizes Tladi by presenting his work alongside other practising South African artists of the time. It is hoped that this will give some insight into
Moses Tladi, Highveld Summer Rainstorm, undated Oil on canvas, Private Collection
the tastes and politics of the South African art world of the 1930s and 40s. This was a time when figurative landscape was the dominant genre and modernism was not yet in the ascendant. At the Grahamstown Arts and Craft Festival Exhibition in March 1932, Tladi won the first and second prizes in the open section for landscape and seascape painting. Thus the exhibition being presented in Grahamstown can be regarded as his second homecoming.
GRAHAMSTOWN GALLERY, ALBANY HISTORY MUSEUM DAILY
09:00 – 17:00
THE CURATOR Andrea Lewis was born and raised in Johannesburg. In 2004, she obtained an undergraduate degree (BA) in History of Art at the University College of London. After that, she acquired a Master’s degree from the Courtauld Institute of Art in London. From 2006 to 2007 she worked at the South African Jewish Museum in Cape Town as a researcher and assistant curator, assisting with their art exhibitions, which included Irma Stern: Journey to the Interior and When Cape Art was Coffee with Joe. Andrea became an Assistant Curator of Modern Painting and Sculpture at the Iziko South African National Gallery (ISANG), a position that she held from 2008 to 2013. Since then, she has worked as the Curator of Prints and Drawings at ISANG. Her recent exhibitions include Brave New World: 20 Years of Democracy (2014) and Brushing up on Stern (2015).
111 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE BAG FACTORY PRESENTS
CONTINUUM 5 YEARS OF REINHOLD CASSIRER AWARD WINNERS CURATOR AYSHA WAJA BAG FACTORY DIRECTOR SARA HALLATT ARTISTS TSHEPO MOSOPA BLESSING NGOBENI ASANDA KUPA THATO NHLAPO KENEILWE MOKOENA
CURATORIAL STATEMENT
T
he Reinhold Cassirer Award is a visual art award dedicated to the development of young South African artists working in the medium of drawing or painting; and was founded in 2011 by the late Nobel Laureate Nadine Gordimer in celebration of her husband Reinhold Cassirer’s love of the arts. The Award is given as a three month residency at the Bag Factory Artists’ Studios in Johannesburg, with mentorship and guidance from established studio artists, academics and curators. Over the last four years the Award has become known for locating amazing local, emerging talent in South Africa, in a similar way as to what Reinhold Cassirer did in his lifetime. R einhold Cassirer established Sotheby’s in South Africa in 1969 and ran it for 11 years before starting his own gallery, Cassirer’s Fine Art in Rosebank, Johannesburg. He identified, nurtured and exhibited some of South Africa’s best artists long before they became famous. Major talents like William Kentridge, David Koloane, Sam Nhlengethwa, Deborah Bell and Karel Nel were introduced to the world in his gallery. Cassirer also mounted Gerard Sekoto’s first one-man exhibition in South Africa. Reinhold’s legacy lives on through this award. In celebration of the first five years of the Award and the contribution Reinhold Cassirer has made to South African art, The Bag Factory Artists’ Studios presents Continuum, an exhibition showcasing excellent new work by the Award winners: Tshepo Mosopa (2011), Blessing Ngobeni (2012), Asanda Kupa (2013), Thato Nhlapo (2014) and Keneilwe Mokoena (2015).
CURATOR BIOGRAPHY Aysha Waja graduated from WITS with her BAFA in 2010. Since her graduation she has worked as an office manager at Art Logic. She joined the Bag Factory at the beginning of February 2012 as project assistant. During 2013 and 2014 Aysha worked as a project manager on the Turbine Art Fair and is now the curator at the Bag Factory.
BACKGROUND TO THE BAG FACTORY The Bag Factory Artists’ Studios has been at the forefront of the visual arts in South Africa for 25 years. The organisation has provided studio space and opportunities for both local and international visual artists to create, network, learn from and guide each other. Artists such as David Koloane, Penny Siopis, Helen Sebidi, Sam Nhlengethwa, Benon Lutaaya, Deborah Bell and Usha Seejarim have all benefited from their programmes. As part of the international Triangle Network ,the Bag Factory is one of almost 50 similar spaces around the world, this allows it to keep a finger on the pulse of international contemporary art.
NTSIKANA GALLERY, MONUMENT DAILY
09:00 – 17:00
The Bag Factory Artists’ Studios credits the following funders: Strauss & Co., William Kentridge, Benon Lutaaya and Business Arts South Africa (BASA)
112 THE EASTERN CAPE DEPARTMENT OF SPORTS, RECREATION, ARTS & CULTURE IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS
#THE VOICES AN EXHIBITION OF ARTWORKS BY ARTISTS FROM THE EASTERN CAPE
N
on-racial democracy is a value that is entrenched in the South African Constitution. South Africans have made many sacrifices and have fought many struggles to ensure that all South African citizens and all foreign nationalities living in South Africa can enjoy the rights that are enshrined in the Constitution. As South Africans commemorate the 40th anniversary of the rise of the youth in their quest for a non-racial South Africa, the Eastern Cape Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts & Culture takes pride in presenting this exhibition that will portray the voices of the youth. The exhibition showcases how they use their artistic expressions to contribute to achieving unity and social cohesion. While the immense beauty of the Eastern Cape landscape is celebrated by the artists in the exhibition they have the courage to reflect on some of the social ills that still need to be addressed. The artists also use their creativity to remember the South African icon, uNkosi uDalibhunga Rholihlahla Mandela as a visionary youth leader who grew up to become a unifying figure for all South Africans. Sonwabiso Ngcai is a young artist from the Eastern Cape whose work is prominently featured in the exhibition. His work depicts his life’s journey living as a twin. #THE VOICES is an opportunity for young artists like him in the Eastern Cape to participate in a platform that offers hope and inspiration to the present generation of youth. #The VOICES creates pathways that can strengthen the Eastern Cape Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts & Culture’s strategy for growth.
FOYER, ALBANY HISTORY MUSEUM DAILY
09:00 – 17:00
113 THE EASTERN CAPE DEPARTMENT OF SPORTS, RECREATION, ARTS & CULTURE IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS
THE EASTERN CAPE HANDMADE COLLECTION T
he ability to be creative has always been an integral part of human nature. From early drawings on cave walls to the adornment of the self, people have continuously adapted their passion to create in order to survive. In African cultures, creativity is also an essential part of self-adornment. It includes various types of dress, grasswork, wirework, claywork, beadwork, leyo ke yimisebenzi yezandla. The Eastern Cape Handmade Collection highlights the uniqueness and the creativity of each of the eight districts in the Province. This craft exhibition unravels the intricately woven grasswork of the Alfred Nzo District, the superb contemporary beadwork of the Amathole District, the amazing wool weaving of the Sarah Baartman District, the finest wirework of the Chris Hani District, the decorative décor of the Nelson Mandela Metro, the painstaking carving of wood in the O R Tambo District, and the delicate handmade clay pots of the Joe Gqabi District.
In a world of extreme commercialism, artificial raw materials and mass production, there is an ever-increasing quest for speed and convenience. The Eastern Cape Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture is a passionate and committed custodian of traditional arts and cultural expressions. Together with the Eastern Cape Development Corporation, Small Enterprise Development, Eastern Cape Arts and Culture Council, Amathole Municipality, Buffalo City Municipality, Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform and the O R Tambo District Municipality, the Eastern Cape Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts & Culture cherishes the handwork crafts that take artists and crafters back to the basics. Festival visitors are invited to view the Eastern Cape Handmade Collection and to support our local crafters. This initiative contributes to the Province’s growth strategy.
VILLAGE GREEN DAILY
09:00 - 17:00
114 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL OFFERS ART ENTHUSIASTS THE OPPORTUNITY TO ATTEND A SERIES OF ART WALKABOUTS IN THE COMPANY OF ARTISTS OR VISUAL ARTS EXPERTS
ART WALKABOUTS * DENOTES THAT THE ARTIST / CURATOR WILL BE IN ATTENDANCE
LEFA LA NTATE STANDARD BANK YOUNG ARTIST MOHAU MODISAKENG MONUMENT GALLERY, MONUMENT SATURDAY 2 JUNE THURSDAY 7 JULY
10:00* 14:00
NOKA YA BOKAMOSO ARTIST: CURATOR:
LERATO SHADI JOAN LEGALAMITLWA
ALUMNI GALLERY, ALBANY HISTORY MUSEUM SUNDAY 3 JULY WEDNESDAY 6 JULY FRIDAY 8 JULY
14:00* 12:00* 14:00*
CONTINUUM
REINHOLD CASSIRER AWARD WINNERS EXHIBITION CURATOR:
AYESHA WAJA
NTSIKANA GALLERY, MONUMENT FRIDAY 1 JULY SUNDAY 3 JULY TUESDAY 5 JULY
10:00* 14:00 12:00
MOSES TLADI: UNEARTHED
CURATOR:
ANDREA LEWIS
GRAHAMSTOWN GALLERY, ALBANY HISTORY MUSEUM SATURDAY 2 JULY SUNDAY 3 JULY THURSDAY 7 JULY
#THE VOICES EASTERN CAPE DEPARTMENT OF
SONMNYAMA NGONYAMA ARTIST: CURATOR:
SPORTS, RECREATION, ARTS & CULTURE FOYER, ALBANY HISTORY MUSEUM SUNDAY 3 JULY TUESDAY 5 JULY FRIDAY 8 JULY
ZANELE MUHOLI LERATO BERENG
STANDARD BANK GALLERY, ALBANY HISTORY MUSEUM FRIDAY 1 JULY SATURDAY 2 JULY THURSDAY 7 JULY
14:00 12:00 12:00
14:00* 12:00 16:00
WALKABOUT SCHEDULE DURATION MEETING POINT TICKETS
50 MINUTES EXHIBITION VENUE R40
14:00* 10:00* 12:00*
115 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS
THE ARENA ART EXHIBITIONS OF EXHIBITIONS F
ringe visual art is given centre stage in the Arena Exhibition of Exhibitions, which features a selection of artworks from the more than 40 Fringe exhibitions. Designed to give Festival goers a sense of what is on offer in the many rooms, halls and make-shift galleries all over Grahamstown, the Arena Exhibition is a visual art appetiser – a space where visitors can see samples of work and design their own personal visual art meander.
DONVÉ BRANCH - ART ON TARGET
Installed in the Festival Gallery, with a coffee shop (selling Gawie’s infamous handmade coffees and the best fairy cakes this side of the equator) and next door to Tori Stowe’s Corner Shop, the Arena Exhibition will feature a range of work in different mediums. Some highlights for the Fringe exhibitions are listed here - refer to the Fringe Visual Art pages for full details. Monique Wiffen Rorke takes viewers on a journey of impressions and experiences where photography is both the medium and the subject – she captures moments of beauty found in forgotten and overlooked places. Charmaine Haines uses abstract and stylised symbols to embellish sculptural forms that add both a narrative and mythical presence to her exquisite sculptural ceramics. Mattias Chirombo creatively explores the theme of crossing over – from living to dead, from human to spirit form in his paintings, and creates a space for the viewer to personalise their interpretation through the contemplation of their personal experiences of loss. Anthony Harris’ landscapes explore the concept of ‘Deep Time’: a geological time that places the age of the earth at approximately 4.6 billion years; and, Anton Brink, explores themes of alienation and the sense of being overwhelmed by ‘the system’ in a new series of paintings. Laura-Kate Barnes explores, through photographs and paintings, the journey of unwinding – of the stories quietly spoken to us through derelict scenes so long forgotten; Violet Booi, Daniwe Gongqa and Vukile Teyise create hand-printed textiles that evoke everyday, community life in Grahamstown; and Sthenjwa Luthuli, Wonder Mbambo, Mthobisi Maphumulo re-look at the many different ways of living and surviving in a contemporary society through lino prints and paintings. Susan Alexander and Lorinda Pretorius both showcase glass art as the sculptural tool of the age; Donvé Branch blends classical ceramic forms with traditional African firing; and Bruce Little sculpts to capture the spirit of the African wildlife in a variety of materials. Fabric art, graphics, ceramics, glass art, textile printing, etching, paintings, drawings, photographs, sculpture and more make the Arena Exhibition a neat capsule of all that is good on the Fringe Visual Art Programme. Make sure you put aside some time to browse through it before heading off to find the exhibitions that caught your fancy.
LORINDA PRETORIUS - GLASS AND PAINTINGS
CHARMAINE HAINES - CERAMICS
THE FESTIVAL GALLERY, SOMERSET STREET OPEN 09:00 TO 17:00 DAILY
MATTIAS CHIROMBO - CROSSING OVER
VIOLET BOOI, DANIWE GONQA AND VUKILE TEVISE - EGAZINI EXPRESSIONS
116 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL PRESENTS
SEMI-GLOSS CREATED AND CURATED BY FRANCOIS KNOETZE WITH PERFORMERS FROM THE VIA KASI MOVERS AND THE PHEZULU STILT WALKERS
E
ach year, Grahamstown is enveloped by a coat of festival posters, banners and bunting. This coat, held together by bits of prestik and sticky-tape, forms a tenuous mask for structures (such as the university currently known as Rhodes and the 1820 Settlers Monument) which saw their foundations laid in commemoration of colonial exploits.
by Grahamstownians, about Grahamstown, in Grahamstown.
While the National Arts Festival provides an 11-day platform for South African and international artists to present their work to large enthusiastic audiences, the Festival is also significant in terms of the lens it offers for exploring the structures of privilege and oppression that have been so comprehensively woven into the fabric of South African society.
Knoetze presents the work in collaboration with Grahamstown-based performers Ayanda Nondlwana and Siyabonga Bawuti (Via Kasi Movers), and Monwabisi Dondashe and Athenkosi Nyikilana (Phezulu Stilt Walkers). Semi-Gloss transforms the discarded posters of yesteryear into living, breathing ‘sculptures-with-a-heartbeat’. It will also feature a short film documenting local artists’ experiences of making art in a violently segregated cultural capital.
Out the mound of the obsolete and discarded posters, Semi-Gloss emerges from the heap, interrupting Grahamstown’s public spaces, disrupting conventional narratives and telling real and raw local stories:
VENUE: SEE CUE FOR DETAILS FRIDAY 1 JULY TO TUESDAY 5 JULY DURATION 1hr RECOMMENDED AGE All TICKETS Free
15:00 daily
FILM INSTALLATION - THE HANGAR FOYER FRIDAY 1 JULY TO TUESDAY 5 JULY
10:00 to 18:00 daily
Semi-Gloss is a public performance work developed by Francois Knoetze (Cape Mongo), whose work has been exhibited in Cologne, Barcelona, Lagos, London among others.
The work reimagines a shifting notion of the town and the structures which underpin it. Semi-Gloss picks away at the peeling lamination on the ‘glossy brochure’ of Grahamstown and its festival.
117
RAT
ED
&P
#E V
L L A F T S U ERYTHINGM
t ity. I real ing e of s stur er u ion a ge c – rath xpress but e ri e is true heto “Mim from r on as a s ti l ac shie sica phy self” robus e t of th ard An h Ric
X O B N O I SUGGEST
CU
IATION AL IN ASSOC IV T S E F S T R AL A ESENTS THE NATION THEATRE PR Y D O B D D O WITH THE
OR
ME
F
ERF
and the Cape l Arts Festival na io at s box N e th pped in a glas t Saying at teface mime tra tion Box #Jus hi es l. w al gg ic tF Su on us ic ul e sf gM #Everythin gely succes s to feature th ggestion Box trobus return ollowing his hu Su , An rm d fo ar at ch pl Ri , in 2015 ive public Town Fringe clown finds other interact the whiteface real – in yet an is ch x hi w bo e in th be s – and ye (2010), the political cu Strange Place? current sociois e th th in to e se liv I on ative resp r, “How do n is a perform roversial pape The installatio tha Vice’s cont an flection. m re le Sa r. pa D n d by reality: his ow ng tli himself. Inspire ar st a is faced with nique trapped mute virtuosic tech t, the mime’s en es pr w no aginary barrier cacy now But with the im s role and advo hi d an t nc fu eless comes a voic and style is de silent mime be e lous, Th vo e. fri bl n, na questio forms from fu ns tra t bi hi us ex e rob spection for performer. Th mirror of intro Ant ith a to in d t ar r ic as a w iconic publ audience-self, Rich uated n rmer-self and d cial so ai a d both the perfo an r al m ic g lit Dra porary gates the po rro te in A as l el w M ves. tem e in we find oursel Con rmanc o holds fabric in which o s f r e al the Pe 0. H a from of and with the x bo 1 s as gl 0 s hi 2 in l d m e pe o th ap o e, Tr voic pl ho and no stylistic a Di on Sc atre d an k illusion gone uc st d e is ing to do. He Lon ical Th ed are mime has noth s rk ce. Spectators en di au Phy as wo ical e tiv h t, writing s needs an ac bi hi y d ex e th h n ith a ge w into rst P mpany i em th invited to enga g F in st r po o fo d ideas and tre C comments an hea ngLow (UK). T f. el the box its Slu any and Comp ndard , ape sh d an e e id r Sta at 011 tions help gu The ent of a rd in 2 d determine These sugges an e nc rie i a pe ance ex cip e” Aw 2012, each perform r the mime and 0 e re s th “Enco CT) in op 20 for and how both s a en pp ha w t T U wha n ( e s ’ o i H e at ct d hip ian or reacts. audience acts k Ov ellows Guard 13, sele tabase n a F B 0 da l& ng ries of PCA ustFall is a se Mai icans 2 former Inspiri e a GI red in r #EverythingM t x f r s ar Bo ’ st n j .H e to A tio s e es e pe p h u it l Sugg simply ho feat g Sout u Solei art Ass gramm the flections that f o n p r d momentary re o … You irque d was 015 p ector orks …or hashtags 2 ir n C conversations the 014) a ration r and d t and w t e ! 2 de e ( ci n e de j c d e den u to A G e foun ulu Pro depen d d? That’s for yo h z de n t What’s change si i er e is n r an Ph ellofromtheoth as a rforme under #justsaying. #h r e p cato y edu dBod re. Od heat T
DB
YR
ICH
ARD
AN
TRO
BUS
DROSTDY LAWNS TUESDAY 5 JULY
12:00 & 14:00
VILLAGE GREEN WEDNESDAY 6 JULY
12:00 & 14:00
MONUMENT THURSDAY 7 JULY 12:00 &14:00 DURATION 1hr RECOMMENDED AGE All TICKETS Free
118 THE NATIONAL ATS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH JUNGLE THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS
BUTTERFLY
DIRECTED BY VINCENT MEYBURGH AND ASSISTED BY RICHARD ANTROBUS
“ DREAMS
“More than freshly home-grown street performance, Butterfly Dreams is larger than life theatre both literally (evocative drumming, tall stilted actors, huge billowing ‘wings’ of material) & symbolically (for its breathtaking visual & metaphorical impact). I just love the multi-layered symbols as the play unfolds. We could all do with a lot more change in our lives & to be so warmly reminded that while metamorphoses are not necessarily easy, what is birthed on the other side is a richer me & that we don’t make our transformations alone.” Rob McLeod
D
ancing on stilts with powerful drumming and spectacular costumes Butterfly Dreams is a surreal and larger than life celebration of a girl experiencing the transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly. Hiding in a tree house she dreams, as the sounds of her garden turn into music, of two giant butterflies dancing. The male catches the female’s eggs and hangs them on a leaf where they hatch and grow into giant caterpillars. Can she challenge the predator and protect the miracle of life for her own big transformation? Butterfly Dreams speaks to the beginnings of Jungle Theatre Company, which grew out of performances at street festivals and events back in 1995, when Artistic Director, Vincent Meyburgh, began his career developing the unique performance style and artistic principles of the Jungle Theatre Company. As a non-verbal and hugely visual piece the theme of Butterfly Dreams links to the actor’s personal stories of big transformation. All the shows are open to the public at no cost, but the National Arts Festival encourages audiences to make a donation to the Company. The performers gather donations after the show in a fun and uplifting manner to promote public support for quality theatre and responsible busking.
CAST: CEBISA FUBESI SIYAWANDISA BADI JOCE ENGELBRECHT ATHENKOSI DYANTYI NTOMBIFUTHI MKHASIBE SEISO QHOLA VINCENT MEYBURGH
DROSTDY LAWNS
MARYATTA WEGERIFPHOTOGRAPHY
THURSDAY 7 JULY 13:00 FRIDAY 8 JULY 13:00 SATURDAY 9 JULY 3:00 DURATION 35 min RECOMMENDED AGE All TICKETS Free (Donations encouraged)
119 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE SARAH BAARTMAN DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY AND THE EASTERN CAPE DEPARTMENT OF SPORTS, RECREATION , ARTS AND CULTURE PRESENTS
STREETS OF FREEDOM 7TH ANNUAL STREET PARADE
I
n June 1976, South African youth across the country took to the streets with their clenched fists in the air defiantly crying out for freedom. This year’s Street Parade will honour the 40th anniversary of that historic moment when the world turned its gaze on South Africa’s youth. Celebrating the commitment of the 1976 generation, Grahamstown’s streets will be filled with vibrant colours, entrancing sounds, captivating sights and moving textures to create a broad-based community-driven street parade with giant puppets, stilt-walkers, marching bands and street dancers who will honour the 40th anniversary of this historic event. The long and colourful procession that will wind through the streets of Grahamstown will also provide a platform for the youth of 2016 to celebrate the freedoms that are now enshrined in the South African Constitution. Streets of Freedom promises to be a joyous community celebration. It will echo the freedoms that have given more people access to the arts. See the Festival newspaper Cue for routes. Take up the your place along the route and witness how the various skills-development initiatives such as giant puppetry, stilt-walking and costume-making offered by the National Arts Festival and the Creative City Project to community-based artists enables them to become a central part of the creative economies. Routes and the times for Streets of Freedom will be published in Cue. SATURDAY 9 JULY 11:00 SUNDAY 10 JULY 12:00
120 THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN ASSOCIATION WITH MICHAEL BRODERICK DESIGN AND IN COLLABORATION WITH DWR DISTRIBUTION PRESENTS
ONE MAN ONE LIGHT PERFORMED BY MPILO STRAW NZIMANDE CONCEPT Michael Taylor-Broderick DIRECTION & CHOREOGRAPHY David Gouldie LIGHTING DESIGN Michael Taylor-Broderick SOUND DESIGN Liam (Veranda Panda) Magner PROGRAMMING Nick Britz SOUND ENGINEERING Colin Peddie “In the right light at the right time, everything is extraordinary.” Aaron Rose
O
ne Man One Light is a playful romp between the medium of light and man. Inspired by the Italian La Linea cartoon series, One Man One Light explores and showcases the versatility of a single light source through its interaction with a solitary performer. If we allow our imagination the freedom and licence to run wild we can give anything a ‘voice’ and venture into exciting and unexplored territory.
One Man One Light is a short performance piece suitable for all ages. The production was developed for the Frankfurt Industry Trade Show and was then invited for a subsequent tour to London. The production was presented at the Hilton Arts Festival in 2015 as a 12-minute performance. It has since been developed for the National Arts Festival into a 20-minute performance.
TRANSNET GREAT HALL TUESDAY 5 JULY 14:30, 15:30 & 16:30 WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 17:30 & 18:30 DURATION 20min AGE RECOMMENDATION All TICKETS Adults R20 Children R10
121
122
THE NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE EMBASSY OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA AND IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE CHINA THEATRE ASSOCIATION PRESENTS THE
GUANGZHOU SONG AND DANCE COMPANY T
he Guangzhou Song and Dance Theatre Company, formerly known as Guangzhou Song and Dance Troupe, was founded in 1965 and had been praised by the Guangming Daily as “a bunch of flowers of the Guangzhou City”. The Company is a municipally-funded professional arts troupe. It brings together outstanding talents to create excellent works that have travelled both in China and abroad. The Company contributes significantly to the promotion of Chinese national
dance and the Lingnan culture which is predominant in the southern part of China. The Company is sought after for performances at major Chinese occasions and has on several occasions represented their country in diplomatic and cultural exchange programmes. The Company has won the Award for Best Work in the Guanghzou municipal city, National Wenhua Prize of Ministry of Culture, first prize of national excellent repertory performance as well as the Lotus
GUY BUTLER THEATRE, MONUMENT MONDAY 4 JULY 19:00 TUESDAY 5 19:00 DURATION 1hr (no interval) AGE RECOMMENDATION All TICKETS Full price R40 Concessions
R35
Award of national dance drama. Their large-scale original music drama Miss Xiguan that was launched in 2012 won extensive attention and a good reputation for the Company in China. Audiences attending their South African premiere at the National Arts Festival can be assured of a colourful production that will provide a taste of the Lingnan culture. Each of the dance pieces will be briefly introduced by a narrator.
THINK!FEST DAILY SCHEDULE
125
Full details of the programme, speaker biographies and topic descriptions will be available in the Think!Fest brochure, freely available at Festival info desks and Think!Fest venues. All lectures and discussions take place in the Blue Lecture Theatre in the Eden Grove Complex, unless otherwise stated Tickets are R40 (concessions R30), unless otherwise stated Duration: Talks: 1 hour; Panel discussions: 1hr 30 min, unless otherwise stated 2016 Think!Fest Convenor: Anthea Garman Administraton: Kate Davies and Emma Chippendale
Friday 1 July
Tuesday 5 July
Mapping the Cultural Industries in South Africa – Jen Snowball 11:00* Native Footprints – Author in Conversation 14:00 Decolonising the Arts: Perspectives from the African Continent [PANEL] 17:30 Traditional Fishing Methods of Africa – Book launch [Board Room, Albany Museum]
09:30
10:00
Saturday 2 July 10:00 Gender Politics [PANEL] 10:00* Enemies & Friends -James Oatway - Walkabout 11:00 Not Only Futurists: Workshop [Kingswood Music School] 12:00 Writing SA Theatre [PANEL] 14:00 Sophia Williams-De Bruyn Reminisces – Film talk 14:30**Dalro Theatricals 15:00* The Keeper of the Kumm – Author in Conversation 16:00 Henri Matisse: Rhythm & Meaning – Wilhelm van Rensburg 17:00**The Listening Lounge with Richard Haslop
Sunday 3 July Reconciliation In and Through Performance [PANEL] 11:00* Magnet Theatre: Three Decades of Making Space – Authors in Conversation 12:00 Women In Theatre [PANEL] 14:00 Theatre as a Tool for Activism and Healing [PANEL] 14:00 Not Only Futurists - Lecture-Demonstration [Kingswood Music School] 15:00* The Methuen Drama Guide to Contemporary South African Theatre – Author in Conversation 16:00 20 Years of Third World Bunfight – Brett Bailey 17:00**The Listening Lounge with Richard Haslop 10:00
THE 2016 NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL THINK!FEST PROGRAMME IS PRESENTED WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE EMBASSY OF THE NETHERLANDS
Monday 4 July The Hashtag Protests and Student Politics In South Africa [PANEL] 12:00 Disrupt Film Screening and Discussion 11:00* Novel Script Reading – We Need New Names 14:00 University Fees: Is Free Higher Education Possible in South Africa? [PANEL] 15:00* Theatre Production in South Africa: Skills and Inspirations – Book launch 16:00 119 Lives Unlived – Paula Slier – Film talk 17:00**The Listening Lounge with Richard Haslop 10:00
* = Seminar Room 1, Eden Grove ** = Monument Restaurant, Monument
Shakespeare: Religion, Psychology, Anthropology – Peter Marx [Barratt Conference Centre] 10:00 Conveying Stories of Human Suffering [PANEL] 11:00* Florence and Watson and the Sugarbush Mouse – Authors in Conversation 12:00 Contemporary Migration and the Plight of Refugees [PANEL] 14:00 Medical Care for People on the Move Across the Mediterranean Sea: Doctors Without Borders (MSF) 14:00* Enemies & Friends -James Oatway - Walkabout 14:30**The Role of a National Art Festival in SA Today: A Public Think Tank (2hrs) 15:00* Sweet Paradise – Author in Conversation 16:00 Identity, Dislocation & Belonging [PANEL] 17:00**The Listening Lounge with Richard Haslop
Wednesday 6 July Understanding Learning Challenges – Therapy S.M.A.R.T. 11:00* Short.sharp.stories: Die Laughing – Book launch 12:00 Why Everyone in Southern Africa should be Concerned about Human Rights – Deprose Muchena 14:00 Ways Of Knowing – Janet Hayward 14:00**Empowering Women as Cultural Leaders in Africa - Arterial Network Roundtable 14:30* Pansa Directors’ Indaba 16:00 Weeding Out Legislative Hypocrisy – Paul-Michael Keichel 10:00
Thursday 7 July What Should White People be Doing, Thinking, Feeling and Saying Now? [PANEL] 10:00* Enemies & Friends -James Oatway - Walkabout 11:00 Monumental Dilemmas Part One & Two – Brenda Schmamann (2hrs) [Red Lecture Theatre] 12:00 Lifting the Veil on Islam, Women & Islamaphobia – Hassnae Bovazza 14:00 Decriminalising Dagga [PANEL] 15:00* Picturing Change – Author in Conversation 16:00 The Voice of Russia Today Parts One & Two 10:00
Friday 8 July Unsettling, Unlearning And Undoing Gender-Based Violence [PANEL] 11:00* My Johannesburg – Authors in Conversation 12:00 Frontline Reporting – Paula Slier 14:00 RT Presentation – Karina Melikyan 14:30* Pansa Director’s Indaba 16:00 Words that Inspire & Conspire – Albie Sachs and Margit Niederhuber 10:00
BURNING ISSUES
126
THE HASHTAG PROTESTS AND STUDENT POLITICS IN SOUTH AFRICA: ROUNDTABLE
MONDAY 4 JULY
10.00
Last year’s student protests – which started at UCT with a demand for the removal of the Rhodes statue and culminated in a nation-wide shutdown of campuses and a freeze on fee increases – shook South Africa. We hadn’t seen quite that degree of student action and Carl Collison organisation since the apartheid era. The protests had several interesting features: they were about the symbolic as much as the material, they had ritual and performance dimensions and they were mostly organised via social media. In addition they’ve highlighted the slow pace of transformation particularly in the formerly white, liberal higher education institutions. Shose Kessi This discussion, facilitated by Think!Fest convenor Anthea Garman, includes academics and students from Rhodes University who were involved in the protest last year, as well as Thierry Luescher (Assistant Director of Institutional Research at the University of the Free State, who focuses on matters of international and Thierry Luescher comparative higher education), Shose Kessi (Senior Lecturer in the Department of Psychology at the University of Cape Town whose research centres on community-based empowerment, social change and identity), and Carl Collison (a journalist and photographer who has observed the #RhodesMustFall movement and collected a portfolio of pictorial artefacts on the #MustFall movements).
UNIVERSITY FEES: IS FREE HIGHER EDUCATION POSSIBLE IN SOUTH AFRICA?: PANEL DISCUSSION
MONDAY 4 JULY
Presented by Legal Resources Centre A study from the South African Institute of Race Relations suggests that only 5% of South African families can comfortably afford to pay university fees for their children. Currently, the levels of public spending on universities sits at Judge Dennis Davis around 0.8% of gross domestic product (GDP), which is low by global standards. A more appropriate number would be 2.5% of GDP, the same research suggests. Could government spending priorities be adjusted to ensure access to higher education for young people Enver Motala David Fryer from less privileged backgrounds? What is the role of individual university administrators in ensuring access for those less privileged? What are some of the best practices and models from around the world for higher education funding? What is the role of student Sizwe Mabizela activism in bringing such issues to the fore? The discussion, presented by the Legal Resources Centre, is moderated by Judge Dennis Davis and panellists include Enver Motala (researcher at the Nelson Mandela Institute at the Lindsay Maasdorp University of Fort Hare, associated with the Education Policy Consortium); Sizwe Mabizela (Vice Chancellor of Rhodes University); David Fryer (Economics and Economic History Department of Rhodes University); and activist Lindsay Maasdorp.
UNSETTLING, UNLEARNING AND UNDOING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE: PANEL DISCUSSION
FRIDAY 8 JULY
14:00
10:00
How is it that half of South Africa’s population spends every waking day thinking about how to keep safe from rape and attack while the other half doesn’t? How did we come to have a democracy full of promises of freedom, but very little surety of bodily integrity? How are South African homes and schools sometimes the most dangerous places to be? Gender-based violence in this country is Catriona Macleod endemic and perplexing. Despite many years of activism and change to laws we still have the kind of statistics on rape and sexual assault that are truly shocking. Choreographer Nadine Joseph, activist Lisa Vetten and researcher Catriona Macleod open up a discussion to help us think through why rape is so intractable a problem in South African social life. Nadine Joseph uses personal trauma and memory to create choreographic language and score with the primary focus on issues of sexual violence and Nadine Joseph abuse. Her new production LOOKING/ SEEING/ BEING/ DISAPPEARING is on the Festival’s Main programme. Lisa Vetten’s work examines rape and the criminal justice system and she frequently provides expert testimony on violence against women. She is the specialist on violence against women on the Commission for Gender Equality’s Section Six Committee. Catriona Macleod is Professor of Psychology at Rhodes University, editor-in-chief of the international journal Feminism & Psychology, and SARChI Chair of the Critical Studies in Sexualities and Reproduction research programme.
DISRUPT – FILM SCREENING AND DISCUSSION
MONDAY 4 JULY
12:00
With the national statistics of sexual violence being a shocking indictment on the way in which South Africa has been dealing with rape culture, it is clear that one of the spaces not exempt from such destructive hegemonies is the South African university. Having followed the #RUReferenceList and #RUInterdict, Activate has put together a feature-length documentary about the silencing of students and staff at Rhodes University. DISRUPT aims to continue the conversation surrounding the mistreatment of survivors and the ways in which the university management and police have failed students. Featuring interviews with members of the student and staff body, footage from the two weeks of protest and the use of police force on students and workers, DISRUPT serves as both a chronological documentation of the events of the protests and as the window of the #RUReferenceList protests to shine a light on the institutional issue that is rape culture. The screening will be followed by a Q&A session with members of Activate.
BURNING ISSUES
127
WHAT SHOULD WHITE PEOPLE BE DOING, THINKING, FEELING AND SAYING NOW (ESPECIALLY ON TWITTER)?: DISCUSSION
THURSDAY 7 JULY 10.00
Anthea Garman
Recent events have put race firmly on the agenda again for South Africans. And many black commentators have urged white South Africans to ‘do their own work’ to sort out their responsibilities and responses to the challenges made to whiteness in behaviour and institutions. Think!Fest convenor Anthea Garman opens a discussion in which questions from the audience are invited, to help us formulate a response to these challenges and to think through what it means to be white right now in South Africa.
AWASH IN THE WORLD: PEOPLE, PLACE AND POLITICS CONVEYING STORIES OF HUMAN SUFFERING: PANEL DISCUSSION
TUESDAY 5 JULY
10:00
CONTEMPORARY MIGRATION AND THE PLIGHT OF REFUGEES: PANEL DISCUSSION
TUESDAY 5 JULY
Brett Bailey
James Oatway
This discussion focuses on how messages around migration, displacement and xenophobia are created and conveyed through art and the media; what experiences, themes, and associations are reflected in the creative and reporting processes, and why. Brett Bailey will explain his creative process for his new work, Sanctuary, based on his experiences in migrant camps in Calais. Bailey directs and designs socially conscious operas, theatre works and installations. His works have appeared in over 30 cities around the world over the past 3 years. James Oatway discusses his photographs of the 18 April 2015 fatal attack by South African men on Mozambican migrant Emmanuel Sithole that sparked outrage and made international headlines. Oatway is an independent South African photojournalist whose work has been recognised with awards, locally and internationally. Oatway was recently named the Vodacom Journalist of the Year 2015. A news correspondent will also participate in this discussion, providing some background on the decisions they make regarding what is and what isn’t made public and why.
Deprose Muchena
Naveed Anjum
14:00
Ray Hartle
WHY EVERYONE IN SOUTHERN AFRICA SHOULD BE CONCERNED ABOUT HUMAN RIGHTS
WEDNESDAY 6 JULY Presented by Doctors Without Borders (MSF) In 2015, Europe and the world woke up to the impacts of a man-made refugee and migrant crisis. Today, worldwide, more than 59 million people are displaced from their own homes – the largest global displacement ever recorded in the past 50 years. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) will speak about the medical and humanitarian consequences of displacement, their search and rescue operations in the Emilie Venables Mediterranean Sea and their work in conflict hotspots. Experienced MSF fieldworkers, Emilie Venables, an anthropologist, and Dan Sermand, interim General Director MSF Southern Africa, will share personal perspectives from the frontlines and the stories of people facing crisis in order to change the narrative on people being forced to flee. Dan Sermand
Paula Slier
The story of human migration is as old as mankind; the challenges facing modern states in terms of accommodating diverse groups of people within fixed legal boundaries are, however, relatively new and complex. This multi-disciplinary discussion offers diverse and nuanced perspectives on contemporary migration, displacement and the plight of refugees in South Africa and globally. Paula Slier is a South African war correspondent and television, radio and print journalist. She is the Middle East Bureau Chief and correspondent for RT. Ray Hartle is a journalist with the Daily Dispatch newspaper in East London. His masters research examines media representations of foreign nationals, using the 2013 outbreak of violence against Somali shopkeepers in Nelson Mandela Bay townships as a case study. Moroccan-born Naveed Anjum, Chairman of the Grahamstown, Alice and Fort Beaufort Muslim Associations, is in charge of the humanitarian aid and literature departments of the Islamic Circle of Southern Africa. He worked with displaced Ethiopian, Somali and Pakistani shopkeepers in Grahamstown last year. Deprose Muchena is Regional Director of Amnesty International’s Southern Africa regional office. Hassnae Bouazza is a Dutch journalist, columnist, translator and producer.
MEDICAL CARE FOR PEOPLE ON THE MOVE ACROSS THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA: DOCTORS WITHOUT BORDERS (MSF)
TUESDAY 5 JULY
12:00
12:00
Presented by Amnesty International Deprose Muchena, Regional Director of Amnesty International’s Southern Africa regional office, will share the organisation’s perspectives and experiences on migration, refugees and the responsibility of states. This presentation will spotlight Amnesty International’s global Deprose Muchena campaign on ‘People on the Move’ and ‘Human Rights Defenders’, with reference to the Southern Africa region.
128
BRIDGING THE BOUNDARIES OF IDENTITY
GENDER POLITICS: PANEL DISCUSSION
SATURDAY 2 JULY
10:00
A panel discussion by arts industry practitioners on why and how gender and sexuality advocacy programmes remain vital in their work and social spaces to ensure the safety and protection of vulnerable populations in the post-apartheid reconstruction of South Africa. Tracey Saunders is a gender and arts activist. When she isn’t fighting patriarchy and gender violence, Saunders works as a Gertrude Fester freelance journalist, theatre critic and project manager. Feminist activist Gertrude Fester was involved in anti-apartheid politics from an early age. She was held in solitary confinement as a political prisoner where she composed a one-woman play The Spirit shall not be Caged which was subsequently performed in several countries. Fester has served as ANC MP and as a Commissioner for Gender Equality. She holds a PhD in Gender Studies. Warren Nebe is Director of AfriQueer: a featured production on the Main Festival programme that presents an intimate evocation into the lives of men living on a continent that violently rejects the ‘other’.
WAYS OF KNOWING: THE HISTORY, BIOLOGY AND ETHNOGRAPHY OF CONTEMPORARY AMAMPONDO AND AMABOMVANA CLANS DESCENDED FROM FOREIGN FOREBEARS
WEDNESDAY 6 JULY
14:00
In 1782, the Grosvenor, a British sailing ship returning to England from India, wrecked at Lambasi Bay on the Wild Coast of the Transkei. Eight years later, an expedition was sent out to search for survivors rumoured to still be alive. Although none were discovered, the search party did come across an old English woman who had survived an earlier shipwreck: the infamous Bessie of Janet Hayward author Hazel Crampton’s Sunburnt Queen. Having been rescued by amaBomvana in Pondoland, she grew up to marry the chief of the amaThezi clan, and was now mother and grandmother many times over. The expedition also came across amaMpondo clansmen descended from foreigners. Their story is recounted from the perspective of oral tradition and the contemporary relevance of such foreign ancestry as indicated through the performance of ancestor rituals. The analysis of Y-chromosome DNA provides yet another strand to this incredible story. Janet Hayward is in the final stages of completing her PhD in anthropology at Rhodes University. Her research has traced amaMpondo and amaBomvana clans living along the eastern shore of the former Transkei who are descended from foreign entrants into the culture at various stages of South Africa’s history.
MULTIPLE IDENTITIES, DISLOCATION AND BELONGING: PANEL DISCUSSION
TUESDAY 5 JULY
Gulshan Mia
Chanje Kunda
Sylvia Vollenhoven
Hassnae Bouazza
16:00
How is selfhood created, challenged, grappled with and reflected? This panel discussion explores questions around multiple identities, dislocation and belonging. Gulshan Mia is a South African Muslim actor and activist from KwaZulu-Natal – she is performing in Unveiled on the Festival’s Solo Theatre Programme. Mia is based in New York and is drawn to work that speaks to people, creates awareness and promotes dialogue. Chanje Kunda is a poet, playwright and performance artist based in the UK. Her collection of poetry Amsterdam has been adapted into a full-length show fusing spoken word, live art and physical theatre and is featured on the Main Festival programme this year. Sylvia Vollenhoven is an awardwinning journalist, filmmaker and writer. A nominee at the SA Film & TV Awards 2016 for Best Director and Best Documentary, her film in development The Keeper of the Kumm was part of the National Film & Video Foundation (NFVF) showcase at the Cannes Film Festival. Vollenhoven’s play of the same name opens at the 2016 National Arts Festival before embarking on a national tour. Hassnae Bouazza is a Dutch journalist, columnist, translator and producer. She directed and edited the acclaimed six-part documentary series Sex and Sin and received the Arouwad Award in Beirut in 2015 for her work on the Arab world.
CHALLENGING PERCEPTIONS UNDERSTANDING LEARNING CHALLENGES
WEDNESDAY 6 JULY
10:00
DECRIMINALISING DAGGA: PANEL DISCUSSION
THURSDAY 7 JULY 14:00
Presented by Therapy S.M.A.R.T.
Asha Dullabh
Elaine Verster
Children and adolescents with learning and attention issues often have trouble academically and sometimes outside of school. That does not mean that they are lazy or that they cannot learn. With early identification and intervention along with a co-operative attitude between school and parents, the prognosis for a child with a learning disability is positive in a significant percentage of cases. Early identification can prevent or limit frustration and failure in school, as well as associated emotional, social or behavioural problems. Intervention usually includes a multidisciplinary team of professionals offering specialised treatments. Therapy S.M.A.R.T (Supportive Multidisciplinary Assessments Remediation and Therapy) shares their views on the various therapies, special accommodations and support measures that can be put in place to assist children to work around these problems and reach their potential despite these learning problems. Asha Dullabh is a registered clinical psychologist with experience in individual, group and couple psychotherapy, psycho-educational assessments and learning challenges. Elaine Verster holds a masters degree in counselling psychology and has a special interest in neuro-feedback and hypnosis, concentrating on the physiology of the brain as part of the healing process.
129
Paul-Michael Keichel
Celia Jameson
The benefits and detriments of cannabis use are known to South Africans mainly through television and movies. We’re aware that recreational use in The Netherlands is legal and that the United States has made cannabis available for medical use in several states. The conversation in South Africa has begun about whether this drug’s legal status should be changed so that it can be used for a range of purposes. Pros and cons will be aired at this open platform debate – panellists include PaulMichael Keichel, a Senior Associate Attorney at Schindlers Attorneys and a member of the defence team for the ‘Dagga Couple’; medical physician Celia Jameson, who has specialised in internal medicine, holds a MPhil in palliative care, and is particularly interested in symptom management in terminal illness; and a representative from a rehabilitation centre that provides treatment for cannabis addiction, who will provide their perspective on the status of marijuana as a ‘gateway’ drug, its effects on young, teenage brains and its association with depression. Local author, Hazel Crampton’s book Dagga: A Short History will be on sale at this debate.
LIFTING THE VEIL ON ISLAM, WOMEN AND ISLAMOPHOBIA
THURSDAY 7 JULY 12:00
WEEDING OUT LEGISLATIVE HYPOCRISY
WEDNESDAY 6 JULY
Paul-Michael Keichel
16:00
Paul-Michael Keichel, Senior Associate at Schindlers Attorneys in Johannesburg, will present an overview of his involvement with the ‘Dagga Couple’ and their push for the ‘relegalisation’ of cannabis in South Africa. The talk covers how he became involved with the Dagga Couple, who the Dagga Couple are, and what they stand for and why. He will provide a layman’s explanation of the legal justification for the re-legalisation of cannabis and in so doing, explain where the Dagga Couple matter stands, and what is yet to be achieved prior to the 19-day trial anticipated to run in August 2017. A libertarian at heart, Keichel would like to see South Africa’s Courts used more to achieve positive social change.
Hassnae Bouazza Pic by Annelies Verhelst
Moroccan-Dutch journalist, writer and documentary maker Hassnae Bouazza explores the position of women in the Islamic world. Drawing from her experience in editing and directing the acclaimed six-part documentary series Seks en de Zonde (Sex and Sin), Bouazza offers a critical perspective on Islam, feminism and Islamophobia in The Netherlands. Bouazza received the Arouwad Award in Beirut in 2015 for her work on the Arab world.
THEATRE IN CONTEXT
130
RECONCILIATION IN AND THROUGH PERFORMANCE: PANEL DISCUSSION
SUNDAY 3 JULY
Andrew Buckland
10:00
Thembi Mtshali-Jones
Paula McFetridge
Gertrude Fester
Marcia Blumberg
In the spirit of the 20-year anniversary of South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), this panel explores the theatrical representation of truth commissions and the theme of reconciliation in South Africa and other post-conflict societies. Andrew Buckland is Associate Professor at the Rhodes University Drama Department and has earned multiple national and international theatre awards in the course of his career. He can be seen on the Main Festival programme this year in Lara Foot’s The Inconvenience of Wings. Thembi Mtshali-Jones is one of South Africa’s most celebrated artists. Along with Andrew Buckland, Mtshali-Jones was involved with the international production of American director Michael Lessac’s Truth in Translation which opened in Rwanda and has performed in the US, Europe and Africa. Paula McFetridge is Artistic Director of Kabosh (Those you pass on the street), a company from Northern Ireland committed to challenging the notion of what theatre is, where it takes place and who it is for. Feminist activist Gertrude Fester was involved in anti-apartheid politics from an early age. She was held in solitary confinement where she composed a one-woman play The Spirit shall not be Caged which she subsequently performed in several countries. Marcia Blumberg is an Associate Professor in the English Department at York University in Toronto. She is crossappointed to the Department of Theatre and Performance and co-edited the book, South African Theatre As/And Intervention.
WOMEN IN THEATRE: PANEL DISCUSSION
SUNDAY 3 JULY
12:00
Phyllis Klotz
Jackie Rens
Warona Seane
Jade Bowers
In celebration of the 60th anniversary of the 1956 Women’s March, the National Arts Festival is proud to showcase a Main Programme dominated by women in the arts industries. Here, some of these dynamic women share their thoughts and experiences as female arts practitioners in South Africa. Phyllis Klotz is Artistic Director and co-founder of the Sibikwa Arts Centre. Recipient of a Naledi Lifetime Achievement award, Klotz directed and co-wrote the seminal South African theatre piece You Strike a Woman, You Strike a Rock. Jackie Rens is Head of the Department of the Oakfields College Faculty of Dance and Musical Theatre and stars in the premiere of Ruth First: 117 Days, the stage adaptation of anti-apartheid activist Ruth First’s autobiography, on this year’s Solo Theatre programme. Warona Seane taught at the Wits School of the Arts and the Market Theatre Laboratory and was the first Artistic Manager at the Soweto Theatre. She directs the Festival production, OoMaSisulu. Jade Bowers, 2016 Standard Bank Young Artist for Theatre and one of AfriPOP’s Top Five Female Theatre Makers in South Africa, works for UJ Arts & Culture and runs her own production company: Jade Bowers Design & Management. Her production, Scorched, premieres at this year’s Festival.
THEATRE AS A TOOL FOR ACTIVISM AND HEALING: PANEL DISCUSSION
SUNDAY 3 JULY
Chris Thurman
14:00
Mike van Graan
Gita Pather
Alex Sutherland
Emma Durden
Peter Marx
Symbolic representation of social conflict is what theatre presents but how effective has it been as an activism tool for redress or for advocating for collective healing? This panel, chaired by freelance arts writer and Associate Professor in the Department of English Literature at Wits University, Chris Thurman, responds to this question. Mike van Graan has served in leadership positions in numerous arts and culture NGOs. He received the Standing Ovation Award at the 2012 NAF for sustained contribution to the Festival, and was appointed inaugural Festival Playwright in 2013. His plays interrogate the post-apartheid South African condition. Gita Pather is a newspaper columnist, published author and poet. Her appointment as Director of Wits Theatre brings together two longstanding passions: the theatre and education. Alex Sutherland is an Associate Professor in Drama Studies at Rhodes University. Her teaching and research focus on the creation of play and performance spaces within institutional settings, and the uses of performance to interrogate race and class within higher education. Emma Durden is a specialist in the field of theatre for development, focusing on the use of theatre and participatory techniques for addressing public health and other social issues. She has co-authored two books on South African theatre with Roel Twijnstra. Peter Marx is the Chair of the Institute of Media Culture and Theatre at the University of Cologne, and Director of the university’s Theatre Studies Collection. Marx is a highly respected scholar in fields ranging from theatre history to popular culture and media studies.
TALKING ARTS THE ROLE OF A NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL IN SOUTH AFRICA TODAY: A PUBLIC THINK TANK
TUESDAY 5 JULY 14:30 (2HRS) MONUMENT RESTAURANT – FREE
131
DECOLONISING THE ARTS: PERSPECTIVES FROM THE AFRICAN CONTINENT: PANEL DISCUSSION
FRIDAY 1 JULY “The festival reflects the class, language and other divisions that impact both directly and indirectly on the extent to which artists may in fact enjoy and exercise this right, with some being in a much better position to exercise and benefit from this right.” – Mike van Graan, Litnet, 2014 “festival for the rich” – graffiti on a Grahamstown wall, 2014 In many countries around the world, arts festivals have relatively uncomplicated agendas: to present cutting edge and/or entertaining work, and to give audiences access to regional or international work that they probably wouldn’t otherwise see. In South Africa we have the added responsibilities of nation-building; correcting historical imbalances; spanning widely diverse cultural demographics; and nurturing and supporting artists who, in an economically depressed context, struggle to find platforms. As part of an on-going process of critical introspection and in the spirit of deep engagement with the arts sector, members of the Festival’s Artistic Committee are joined by leading cultural thinkers in a public forum to discuss where to take the Festival in the coming years. Questions around the Festival’s structure and processes, its role in the national cultural landscape, its impact on the Grahamstown community and local economy, its shortcomings, challenges and future are all up for discussion in this wide-ranging exchange of ideas. The Festival’s CEO Tony Lankester and Artistic Committee Chair Brett Bailey will co-ordinate the session.
Ruth Simbao
Angelo Kakande
Pauline Bullen
MAPPING THE CULTURAL INDUSTRIES IN SOUTH AFRICA
FRIDAY 1 JULY
10:00
Presented by Cultural Observatory There is growing interest worldwide in the social and economic impacts of the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs). A better understanding of the CCIs in South Africa is important to develop policies that support sector development and to raise awareness about their importance in both economic and social spheres. Mapping studies of the Jen Snowball cultural industries have been produced by a number of countries as a way of gaining a bird’s eye view of the sector, raising its profile, identifying potential areas of growth and policy intervention. This presentation presents the DAC (2014) Mapping Study, which was the first national mapping study of the cultural industries in South Africa and reviews methods used through a comparison with international best practice and in relation to the results of a previous regional mapping study of Gauteng (2008). Jen Snowball is a professor of economics at Rhodes University and a research strategist at the South African Cultural Observatory. Her research interests are focused on cultural economics. With Geoff Antrobus she has produced a number of consulting reports for South African arts festivals on their economic and social impact.
Aidah Nalubowa
14:00
Presented by the NRF SARChI research team, Geopolitics and the Arts of Africa and the Arts and Culture: Writers in Africa (ACWA) network What does ‘decolonising the arts’ mean and why is it important? What role can artists, writers and art institutions in Africa play in this complex process, and in what ways do South African arts institutions need to catch up with the rest of the continent? Panellists from across the continent debate the role of African arts institutions in the process of ‘unlearning’ as an important form of decolonisation. Ruth Simbao is the National Research Foundation SARChI Chair in Geopolitics and the Arts of Africa, founder of ACWA and a professor at Rhodes University. Angelo Kakande is an artist, a human rights lawyer and a lecturer at the Margaret Trowell School of Industrial and Fine Art at Makerere University, Uganda. Pauline Bullen lectures in the Women and Gender Development Studies Programme at the Women’s University in Africa, Zimbabwe. Aidah Nalubowa is a member of artivists 4 life in Kampala, Uganda. Peju Layiwola is an artist and art history professor in the Department of Creative Arts at the University of Lagos, Nigeria.
Peju Layiwola
WORDS THAT INSPIRE AND CONSPIRE
FRIDAY 8 JULY
16:00
The National Arts Festival’s 2016 programme features an unprecedented number of works created by artists and production companies that have drawn inspiration from novels and biographies for their work, or that have adapted novels as the basis for their productions. These include Lara Foot’s The Inconvenience of Wings, Sylvia Vollenhoven’s The Keeper of the Kumm, Abrahamse & Meyer’s: Ruth First 117 Days, Roel Twjinstra’s Sleepwalkingland, Christiaan Radovan’s My Johannesburg, Neil Coppen’s Animal Farm, Khayelihle Dom Gumede’s Crepuscule, and Artscape’s OoMaSisulu. Artists and authors get together with Albie Sachs and Margit Niederhuber, co-editors of My Johannesburg to discuss how artists and authors inspire each other; and the successes and challenges involved with adapting novels and biographies for the stage.
TALKING ARTS
132
MONUMENTAL DILEMMAS: RECONSIDERING NAMES AND ART IN THE PUBLIC DOMAIN
THURSDAY 7 JULY 11:00 (2HRS) EDEN GROVE RED LECTURE THEATRE
PART ONE:
EMPOWERING WOMEN AS CULTURAL LEADERS IN AFRICA: ARTERIAL NETWORK ROUNDTABLE
WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 14:00 MONUMENT RESTAURANT – FREE Presented by Arterial Network
TROUBLING INHERITANCES: MONUMENTS TO BRITISH IMPERIALISM AND AFRIKANER NATIONALISM AT POST-APARTHEID UNIVERSITIES Shaped by an agenda to enable reconciliation, the post-apartheid government’s approach to public art was to enable different cultural groupings to retain monuments and sculptures pertinent to their histories and identities. Universities, in keeping with currents in the national Brenda Schmahmann arena, mostly left alone large sculptures and monuments. A notable departure occurred in April last year when the University of Cape Town permanently removed from campus Marion Walgate’s imposing sculpture of Cecil John Rhodes. In this talk, a selection of creative interventions for engaging with objects associated with British imperialism or Afrikaner nationalism is discussed. Brenda Schmahmann is professor and the South African Research Chair in South African Art and Visual Culture at the University of Johannesburg. In addition to work focused on gender, she has a specialist interest in the politics of public art.
PART TWO: THE 1820 SETTLERS MONUMENT: A DISCUSSION Closer to our current time and place, Grahamstown is home to the imposing 1820 Settlers Monument. Since its opening in the mid-1970s, the Monument has hosted countless festivals, conferences, graduation ceremonies and prize-givings. The Grahamstown Foundation, custodian of the building, has launched several cultural and educational projects over the years, including the National Arts Festival, which serve to enrich the cultural life of the nation. But how relevant – and, indeed, how problematic – is the name of the building, which honours those whose descendants gave life to the building four decades ago? And how appropriate and relevant is the design of the grounds and choices that have been made around who to honour with statues in the Monument precinct? Following her talk in Part 1, Brenda Schmahmann and Think!Fest convenor, Anthea Garman, will host a panel of local experts and commentators to discuss these issues and grapple with a way forward for the Monument. The Grahamstown community is encouraged to participate in this lively session, and to play a role in crafting a positive future positioning of this iconic building.
Marie Sachet
This roundtable, led by Marie Sachet, is part of Arterial Network’s African Women Cultural Leadership (AWCL) programme to explore challenges, strategies and solutions to capacitate and empower women for leadership roles in the African creative sector. Marie Sachet is Project Manager at Arterial Network for Capacity Building and Market Access. Formerly, she was Theatre Production Manager at ShakeXperience and Arts Coordinator at the South African Education Project. She holds a Masters from SciencesPo and has a dancing background.
DALRO THEATRICALS
SATURDAY 2 JULY 14:30 MONUMENT RESTAURANT – FREE Presented by DALRO
Desiree Luthuli
DALRO is a multi-purpose copyright society established in 1967 that administers (or licenses) various aspects of copyright on behalf of authors, artists and publishers. They provide the link between them and the licensees who use their works in their businesses or educational institutions. This talk educates audiences on the process and importance of licensing festival plays. Desireé Luthuli is Theatrical Rights Administrator at DALRO.
PANSA DIRECTORS’ INDABA WEDNESDAY 6 JULY FRIDAY 8 JULY 14:30 – 16:30 SEMINAR ROOM 1 - FREE
14:30 – 16:30
Are you a director-in-waiting or an established director looking for the opportunity to express your artistic voice? Does this wait feel like forever? To engage with the difficult conundrum of not getting an opportunity without experience, or not getting experience without an opportunity, PANSA will host an Indaba/Talkshop to discuss and analyse the rate at which the creative industry is producing theatre directors to service the growing diversity of artistic expression in the South African arts and culture sector. Across the board, members have been requesting information and opportunities to create entry-level participation, but the answers often seem too evasive to offer those opportunities. Come and participate and add your perspective to the solutions we might find together. Kurt Egelhof, National Co-ordinator at PANSA, will co-ordinate the indaba.
EXHIBITIONS, ART TALKS & WALKABOUTS
133
HENRI MATISSE: RHYTHM & MEANING IT’S A FINE LINE – A HISTORIC 16:00 MULTIMEDIA EXPERIENCE
SATURDAY 2 JULY
Presented by Standard Bank The Standard Bank Gallery (Johannesburg) will be hosting an exhibition of works by the French modern master, Henri Matisse (18691954) from 13 July to 17 September 2016. The exhibition will include a number of paintings, drawings, collages and prints covering all the dominant themes in the artist’s body of work. The core work in the exhibition will be the full Wilhelm van Rensburg suite of 20 impressions for the prints in the artist’s book Jazz – some of the best known and most celebrated of the artist’s works. Henri Matisse: Rhythm and Meaning will be the first wide-ranging exhibition of Matisse’s work to be held in South Africa, and the fourth exhibition of important twentieth-century modernists to be held at the Standard Bank Gallery. Wilhelm van Rensburg, curator of education for the exhibition, is a Research Fellow at the Visual Identities in Art & Design (VIAD) research centre in the Faculty of Art, Design & Architecture (FADA) at the University of Johannesburg. He is curator of education for the Henri Matisse: Rhythm & Meaning exhibition at the Standard Bank Gallery.
20 YEARS OF THIRD WORLD BUNFIGHT SUNDAY 3 JULY
16:00
Zombie Photo by Elsabe van Tonder
On the 20th anniversary of the first presentation of Third World Bunfight at the National Arts Festival – Zombie – artistic director Brett Bailey charts the journey of the company through works like iMumbo Jumbo, Big Dada, Ipi Zombi?, Orfeus and Exhibit A. Bailey directs and designs socially conscious operas, theatre works and installations. His works have appeared in over 30 cities around the world over the past 3 years. He is the Chair of National Arts Festival’s Artistic Committee.
ENEMIES AND FRIENDS: JAMES OATWAY
EDEN GROVE GALLERY – UPSTAIRS DAILY 09:00 TO 17:00
James Oatway
This photographic exhibition reveals the tragedy and absurdity of conflict in Africa. Bringing together images from South Africa, the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Central African Republic, the exhibition depicts the relationship between victim and aggressor and the terrible effects of conflict on both. The images will inform, provoke and leave a lasting impression on the viewer. James Oatway, an independent South African photojournalist, photographed the fatal attack by South African men on Mozambican migrant Emmanuel Sithole on 18 April 2015. The images sparked outrage and made international headlines. Oatway’s work has been recognised with awards, locally and internationally. Most recently he was named the Vodacom Journalist of the Year 2015.
SEMINAR ROOM 2 DAILY 09:00 TO 17:00
Presented by The Ichikowitz Family Foundation in partnership with Constitution Hill South Africa A historic multimedia experience of world-renowned artist Dean Simon’s extraordinary pencil drawings evoking different interpretations of events, places and people who contributed towards the country’s renowned Constitution. Using art as a tool for dialogue, the exhibition offers the nation a distinct opportunity to engage our heritage, and to learn from the history makers that came together to draw up one of the most progressive Constitutions in the world. The exhibition launched at Constitution Hill will kick start the national campaign #IAMCONSTITUTION which encourages all South Africans to read, embrace and live the Constitution; and to celebrate the achievements of South Africa and constructively confront the challenges the country faces. The nationwide #IAMCONSTITUTION Campaign travels across the country to a diverse spectrum of people and places where South Africans will have the opportunity to make their voices heard by submitting recorded and written messages about the Constitution and what it means to them. The messages, images and videos captured throughout this year-long campaign will form part of a new exhibition at Constitution Hill opening 10 December, the day in which the Constitution was signed 20 years ago. An e-curriculum toolkit for high school learners and teachers based on the IT’S A FINE LINE exhibition will be released later this year. The Ichikowitz Family Foundation ‘s partnership with Constitution Hill South Africa enables interactive experiences to chart Africa’s vivid history, magnificent heritage and collective memory. Follow the campaign on: http://ichikowitzfoundation.com and https://www.constitutionhill.org.za/site/iamconstitution/
CAN THEMBA DISPLAY
EDEN GROVE GALLERY – UPSTAIRS DAILY 09:00 TO 17:00
Presented by the National English Literary Museum The display celebrates the original publication of one of South Africa’s best-known short stories. 2013 marked the 50th anniversary of The Suit by teacher, journalist and author Daniel Canadoise (Can) Themba (19241968). After winning first prize in the 1953 Drum Magazine short story competition for Mob Passion, Themba joined the staff of Drum and quickly made a name for himself with his hard-hitting exposés of living conditions under apartheid. Can Themba’s life is celebrated in two productions on the Main Festival Programme, Creuscule (page 22) and The House of Truth (page 23).
ENEMIES AND FRIENDS – WALKABOUTS Join James Oatway on a personalised tour of the exhibition where he will provide the back-story to his photographs. Audience number limited, so book early. SATURDAY 2 JULY 10:00 TUESDAY 5 JULY 14:00 THURSDAY 7 JULY 10:00 Eden Grove Gallery – meet at Seminar Room One, upstairs at Eden Grove.
134
EXHIBITIONS, ART TALKS & WALKABOUTS
NOT ONLY FUTURISTS
KINGSWOOD MUSIC SCHOOL
Not only Futurists, winners of the Amsterdam Fringe Festival 2015, add to their Arena performances by providing some insight into what they do. not only FUTURISTS was started in 2014 by composer Jerzy Bielski as a music theatre project with the aim of staging the poetry, manifestos and the other writings of the Italian, Russian and Polish Futurists from the early 20th century. The performance at the Amsterdam Fringe was described as ‘A group of fearless thinkers who expose our common madness, our willingness to rush headlong into the fray without heeding the outcome. This exceptional concert combines (non) music and theatrical performance to provide an hour-long immersion that takes us through the initial manifesto of an ‘ism’ and drives it to its natural conclusion.’ www.futurists.nl
LECTURE-DEMONSTRATION
WORKSHOP
SUNDAY 3 JULY 14:00 (1 HR) TICKETS: R40 / R30
SATURDAY 2 JULY 11:00 (2HRS) TICKETS: R60 / R50
Speed, technology, experiment, revolt! Join the international creators for a lecturedemonstration of their process and the creation of their work, as they outline the technology, experiment and the rebellious attitude of the early 20th century Italian, Russian and Polish Futurists’ avant-garde approach that acts as a “kind of a prism, through which the viewers can have a much closer look at our contemporary times.”
Join the international crew of this acclaimed work (winner of Amsterdam Fringe Festival 2015) for a workshop into the madness, the mayhem, and magic of live performance, visuals, electronics, and MACHINES…”Technology is an art the same way as painting, sculpture or architecture are!”
WRITING, READING AND REGALING WRITING SOUTH AFRICAN THEATRE: PANEL DISCUSSION
SATURDAY 2 JULY
Anton Krueger
Megan Lewis
Greg Homann
Roel Twijnstra
12:00
Writing about South African theatre requires courage! This panel brings together arts writers, directors and historians to discuss writing about and for the South African arts industry. Anton Krueger is an Associate Professor at the Department of Drama, Rhodes University. He is an NRF-rated researcher and has published numerous articles and book chapters on subjects ranging from indigenous dance to Zef. Megan Lewis, Assistant Professor of Theatre at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, is a South African-American theatre historian and performance scholar and author of Performing Whitely in the Postcolony, due out in 2016. Greg Homann is a multi-award winning theatre director across a broad range of styles and forms, but he is also an academic, actor, and playwright. He was the Standard Bank Young Artist Winner for Theatre in 2014. Roel Twijnstra is a Dutch theatre director, drama lecturer, mentor and writer currently based in Durban. He co-authored, with Emma Durden, Theatre Directing in South Africa: Skills and Inspirations in 2014, followed by Theatre Production in South Africa: Skills and Inspirations, which will be launched at this year’s Festival.
NOVEL SCRIPT READING – WE NEED NEW NAMES
MONDAY 4 JULY 11:00 (1HR 15MIN) SEMINAR ROOM 1 – FREE AGE: 14+ Initiated in 2009 as a partnership between the National Arts Festival and Twist Theatre Projects, the Novel-Script Project brings together selected writers from South Africa and the neighbouring African states to participate in a dynamic residency at the Festival. The 2016 edition brings together six selected writers from South Africa, Mozambique, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Each year a novel is selected and the participants work on developing short scripts based on the novel. Past residencies have included Zakes Mda’s The Madonna of Excelsior and Mia Cuouto’s Sleepwalkingland. Together with Thambo Productions, The Madonna of Excelsior was presented on the Festival’s Main programme in 2014. Thambo Productions will present Sleepwalkingland on the Main programme this year. (See page 29) The residency’s 2016 focus is the novel, We Need New Names by NoViolet Bulawayo. Participants in the residency will be mentored by award-winning playwright and poet Kobus Moolman. The short scripts will be brought to life by directors from The Netherlands, South Africa and Zimbabwe. Members of the public are invited to attend the readings of the short scripts. Twist Theatre Projects is funded by the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) and the Novel-Script Project is supported by Pro Helvetia and the Swiss Development Council.
SHAKESPEARE: RELIGION, PSYCHOLOGY, ANTHROPOLOGY
SHAKESPEARE CONFERENCE KEYNOTE ADDRESS BY PETER MARX TUESDAY 5 JULY 09:30 BARRATT CONFERENCE CENTRE – FREE
Peter Marx, Chair of the Institute of Media Culture and Theatre at the University of Cologne, and Director of the university’s Theatre Studies Collection, will be delivering the keynote address at the 9th triennial congress of the Shakespeare Society of Southern Africa. The theme of the conference is ‘Shakespeare: Religion, Psychology, Anthropology’, and under this broad aegis delegates will be discussing various aspects of Shakespeare’s work on the stage, the screen and the page. Marx will bring his expertise as theatre scholar, historian and critic of contemporary media and popular culture to bear on the always-interesting, often-controversial phenomenon of global Shakespeare in this milestone year.
BOOK LAUNCHES
135
SHORT.SHARP.STORIES: DIE LAUGHING – STORIES OF SATIRE, WIT AND HUMOUR
WEDNESDAY 6 JULY SEMINAR ROOM 1
11:00
THEATRE PRODUCTION IN SOUTH AFRICA: SKILLS AND INSPIRATIONS
MONDAY 4 JULY SEMINAR ROOM 1
The latest Short.Sharp.Stories collection, Die Laughing, will be launched at the National Arts Festival. The previous anthologies have been reviewed to acclaim. They include Bloody Satisfied – stories of crime fiction, Adults Only – stories of love, lust, sex and sensuality, and Incredible Journey – stories that move you. Adults Only recently received the National Institute for Social Science and Humanities Award for excellence, for Best Edited Fiction Collection. The NIFSS praised Short.Sharp.Stories for playing ‘an exceptional role in redefining our humanities landscape.’ Lidudumalingani and Bongani Kona are two out of the five shortlisted candidates for this year’s Caine Prize - and both had their nominated stories published in last year’s Short.Sharp.Stories anthology, Incredible Journey. DIE LAUGHING: stories of satire, wit and humour, is a varied and challenging collection with a foreword by Pieter-Dirk Uys. The writers include established names such as Fred Khumalo, Gail Schimmel and Diane Awerbuck, and a host of emerging writers. The project aims to create a platform for South Africa writers, and to add to a South African ‘voice’ by encouraging writers to get to grips with the world we live in and all this offers. With cash prizes of R35 000, the Short.Sharp.Stories Awards is South Africa’s premier short story competition, which annually sees hundreds of entries sent in for consideration. Please join us for the launch where Joanne Hichens will be in conversation with the winners, chatting about their stories, but also about the future of writing in South Africa. DIE LAUGHING, edited by Joanne Hichens, and published by TATTOO, will be on sale at the event.
15:00
Roel Twijnstra and Emma Durden
Based on the popularity of the authors’ first book, Theatre Directing in South Africa, this follow-up includes all of the practical steps that one needs to know when embarking on the journey to bring a creative idea to an audience. Theatre Production in South Africa: Skills and Inspirations is published by Jacana Media and made possible by generous grants from the KZN Performing Arts Trust, The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, ANFASA, and Twist Projects (funded by the National Lotteries Commission). Emma Durden is a specialist in the field of theatre for development, focusing on the use of theatre and participatory techniques for addressing public health and other social issues. Roel Twijnstra is a Dutch theatre director, drama lecturer, mentor and writer currently based in Durban. He will co-direct Sleepwalkingland: a site-specific project at NAF 2016.
TRADITIONAL FISHING METHODS OF AFRICA
FRIDAY 1 JULY 17:30 BOARD ROOM, ALBANY MUSEUM
An illustrated overview is presented of an aspect of Africa’s cultural heritage that has largely been ignored – its traditional fishing methods. An astonishing variety of innovative fishing techniques has been developed by African fishermen using their intimate knowledge of the distribution and behaviour of fishes and the dynamic properties of aquatic environments. Many of these methods harvest fishes sustainably but they have been replaced by ruthlessly efficient ‘modern’ gear, devastating fish stocks. An appeal is made for the recognition of the value of traditional fishing methods whose extinction would represent a loss of valuable indigenous knowledge. Mike Bruton studied zoology and social anthropology at Rhodes University and has had a lifelong interest in indigenous knowledge systems. He took a keen interest in the traditional fishing methods of the rural people of Zululand, Mozambique and Botswana while studying fishes there and has continued to pursue this passion during his travels in Africa and adjacent islands.
AUTHORS IN CONVERSATION
136
SEMINAR ROOM 1 NATIVE FOOTPRINTS FRIDAY 1 JULY
11:00
R30 / R20 FLORENCE AND WATSON AND THE SUGARBUSH MOUSE TUESDAY 5 JULY
Native Footprints is a collection of thoughtprovoking socio-political essays by Fezile Sonkwane, an author, columnist, educator, essayist, former student leader, life-long learner, writer, and opinionated critical thinker. Sonkwane has been a columnist for The Weekly Newspaper in the Free State and Northern Cape provinces since March 2013 and has served as spokesperson for the Young Communist League of South Africa (YCLSA), and on the Media Research Sub-committee of the African National Congress (ANC), both in Free State. Native Footprints is his debut book.
A whimsical South African tale narrated by two honey badgers who use rhythm and rhyme to tell the story of the sugar bush mouse who saves her village with her unique talents. Authors Rob van Vuuren and Danielle Bischoff tell the behind-thescenes story of Florence, Watson and Petal as well as reading and book signing. A little dab of magic and laughter are the order of the day – bring the whole family!
THE KEEPER OF THE KUMM SATURDAY 2 JULY
15:00 Too much of South Africa’s history has been lost and suppressed, leaving a void for many South Africans. Sylvia Vollenhoven brings together her life and that of a long-ago ancestor, //Kabbo, a respected Khoisan storyteller. She writes of her experience as being ‘too black’ for her coloured schoolmates, working as one of the early female journalists in the misogynistic environment of the 70s, and of the constant impact on her life of her background – including her ancestors. The Keeper of the Kumm was shortlisted for the City Press inaugural non-fiction award. Sylvia Vollenhoven is an award-winning journalist, filmmaker and writer.
MAGNET THEATRE: THREE DECADES OF MAKING SPACE SUNDAY 3 JULY
SWEET PARADISE TUESDAY 5 JULY
15:00 Rae Valentine is back in a new thriller. Compelling, stylish and underscored with the same pitch-perfect dark humour of Divine Justice, Sweet Paradise, a taut psychological mystery, builds up to an unexpected and thrilling climax. Joanne Hichens is a writer and editor. She is the curator of the SHORT.SHARP. STORIES Awards. Sweet Paradise is her fourth novel.
PICTURING CHANGE
11:00
THURSDAY 7 JULY
This book presents a collection of essays and interviews about Cape Town-based Magnet Theatre, a force in South African theatre for three decades, and a crucial space for theatre, education, performance, and community throughout a turbulent period in South African history. Anton Krueger is an Associate Professor at the Department of Drama, Rhodes University. Megan Lewis is Assistant Professor of Theatre at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
This book is unique in exploring the transformative ethos evident in the curation of visual culture at South African universities. It will be invaluable to readers interested in public art, the politics of curating and collecting, as well as to those involved in transforming tertiary and other public institutions into spaces that welcome diversity. Brenda Schmahmann is Professor and South African Research Chair in South African Art and Visual Culture at the University of Johannesburg.
THE METHUEN DRAMA GUIDE TO CONTEMPORARY SOUTH AFRICAN THEATRE SUNDAY 3 JULY
11:00
15:00 This volume considers the variety of theatre forms, and the work of the major playwrights and theatre makers producing work in democratic South Africa. Written by a team of over 20 leading international scholars, The Methuen Drama Guide to Contemporary South African Theatre is a unique resource that will be invaluable to students and scholars from a range of different disciplines, as well as theatre practitioners. Greg Homann is a multi-award winning theatre director across a broad range of styles and forms and an academic, actor, and playwright. He was the Standard Bank Young Artist Winner for Theatre in 2014.
15:00
MY JOHANNESBURG FRIDAY 8 JULY
11:00
My Johannesburg, by Albie Sachs and Margit Niederhuber, is a collection of inspiring, true stories of individuals living and working in “Joburg”. The book allows readers to share in the lives of a diverse cross section of the South African population: domestic workers, taxi drivers, artists, preschool teachers, entrepreneurs, psychoanalysts, scientists, businesspeople, IT-specialists, architects and craftspeople.
POST-PERFORMANCE DISCUSSIONS
137
When the applause has subsided and the artists have returned back to the dressing rooms there is always a curiosity about how and from where the artists found their inspiration. The National Arts Festival’s series of post-performance discussions provides an opportunity for audiences who attend the first performance of the following productions on the Main programme to participate in a moderated 30-minute post-performance discussion with the cast and the creative team behind a production. Each post-performance discussion promises to be entertaining, enlightening and thought-provoking.
OOMASISULU (PAGE 26)
SOLD! (PAGE 55)
THURSDAY 30 JUNE AT 16:00 AT RHODES THEATRE
SUNDAY 3 JULY AT 20:00 AT ALEC MULLINS
ILEMBE (PAGE 27)
TSHEPANG (PAGE 25)
THURSDAY 30 JUNE AT 18:00 AT RHODES THEATRE
WEDNESDAY 6 JULY AT 12:00 AT GRAEME COLLEGE
AFRI-QUEER PROJECT (PAGE 33)
LOOKING/SEEING/BELIEVING/DISAPPEARING… (PAGE 59)
THURSDAY 30 JUNE AT 16:00 AT (VENUE TO BE ADVISED)
WEDNESDAY 6 JULY AT 20:00 AT ALEC MULLINS
KAROO MOOSE (PAGE 25)
ANIMAL FARM (PAGE 31)
THURSDAY 30 JUNE AT 20:00 AT GRAEME COLLEGE
THURSDAY 7 JULY AT 16:00 AT RHODES THEATRE
THE ECHO OF A NOISE (PAGE 38)
THE DAY ON WHICH A MAN DIES (PAGE 32)
FRIDAY 1 JULY AT 18:00 AT VICTORIA THEATRE
THURSDAY 7 JULY AT 20:00 AT GREAT HALL
CAPE DANCE COMPANY (PAGE 60)
CREPUSCULE (PAGE 22)
SATURDAY 2 JULY AT 10:00 AT GREAT HALL
FRIDAY 8 JULY AT 18:00 AT VICTORIA THEATRE
THE INCONVENIENCE OF WINGS (PAGE 24)
SCORCHED (PAGE 21)
SUNDAY 3 JULY AT 20:00 AT RHODES THEATRE
FRIDAY 8 JULY AT 20:00 AT RHODES THEATRE
THE KEEPER OF THE KUMM (PAGE 34)
THOSE YOU PASS ON THE STREET (PAGE 30)
SUNDAY 3 JULY AT 20:00 AT GRAEME COLLEGE
DISCUSSION AFTER EACH PERFORMANCE MONDAY 4 JULY –WEDNESDAY 6 JULY AT RHODES THEATRE
FILM FESTIVAL TALKS SOPHIA WILLIAMS-DE BRUYN REMINISCES
FRIDAY 8 JULY
Veteran of the Women’s March on Pretoria 60 years ago, Sophia Williams-De Bruyn will discuss her memories of these historic events with journalist, playwright and activist Sylvia Vollenhoven. The session will be briefly introduced by film director, Cedric Sundström (If This Be Treason). Williams-De Bruyn, a founding member of the South African Congress of Trade Unions, led the march of 20 000 women on the Union Buildings in Pretoria on 9 Sophia Williams-De Bruyn August 1956 along with Lilian Ngoyi, Albertina Sisulu, and Helen Joseph to protest the requirement that women carry pass books. She is the last living leader of the march and is Provincial Legislator in Gauteng for the ANC.
Journalism has become a deadly business – too often the targets are the messengers tasked with telling the story. Never before have there been such deliberate attempts to silence journalists and the very important work they do. Paula Slier will share a personal behind-the-scenes journey on what it’s like to report from some of the world’s major conflict zones and how to keep safe from ISIS, military and even social Paula Slier media trolls while doing so! Paula Slier is a South African war correspondent and television, radio and print journalist. She is the Middle East Bureau Chief and correspondent for TV network, RT, and heads up her own company in the Middle East called Newshound. In 2012, Paula launched Newshound Africa, based in Johannesburg.
SATURDAY 2 JULY
14:00
FRONTLINE REPORTING 12:00
119 LIVES UNLIVED MONDAY 4 JULY
16:00
Paula Slier is a South African war correspondent and television, radio and print journalist. Her Dutch grandparents and many other family members were victims of the Holocaust. She will discuss the making of the RT film 119 Lives Unlived, about her relatives killed during the Holocaust. In the documentary, she travels to Amsterdam where letters from a relative Philip ‘Flip’ Slier were discovered in the 1990s during a renovation at the former home of her grandparents. The letters were written after Flip was sent to a work camp in the Netherlands at age 18. Slier interviews Constant Kusters, president of the Dutch Far-Right Dutch Peoples Union, as well as the grandson of Auschwitz commander Rudolf Hoess.
FILM FESTIVAL TALKS
138
THE VOICE OF RUSSIA TODAY
THURSDAY 7 JULY
16:00 (2HRS 30MIN)
PART ONE: AN ANTIDOTE TO THE MAINSTREAM MEDIA
Karina Melikyan
With its first channel launching in December 2005, the RT network now consists of three global news channels broadcasting in English, Arabic and Spanish. The network encompasses RT America, which airs from a Washington, DC studio; RT UK broadcasting from London; documentary channel RTDoc broadcasting in English and Russian; online platforms in German and French; and video news agency RUPTLY. Today, RT is available to over 700 million people in 100+ countries. RT news covers the major issues of our time and delivers stories overlooked by the mainstream media to create news with an edge. RT provides an alternative perspective on major global events, and acquaints an international audience with the Russian viewpoint. Karina Melikyan, Head of RT Content Distribution Services in the Moscow Office will introduce the channel to a South African audience.
PART TWO: RUSSIA TODAY MEETS SOUTH AFRICA TODAY In the second part of this session, Karina Melikyan and journalist, Paula Slier, meet with representatives of South African television channels – Samora Sekhukhune, Jimi Matthews and Anton Harber – to exchange experiences and discuss mass media interaction.
THE
LISTENING LOUNGE WITH RICHARD HASLOP
Richard Haslop is a practising labour lawyer who has been involved with music for most of his life. He is best known for the wildly-eclectic radio shows he presented for over 14 years on Radio South Africa and its successor SAfm, and for the thousands of pieces he has written about music for the past 30 years for a number of national and international publications. He has also lectured history of music courses on African-American popular music, the music business, world music, the blues and even country music at UKZN and other institutions. He may be the only person ever to have lectured strike law and the history of Cajun music on the same day.
I WRITE THE SONGS… THEN AGAIN, MAYBE I DON’T: PLAGIARISM, PLUNDER AND PIRACY IN POP The members of Led Zeppelin are currently being sued, not for the first time, for making a lot of money off someone else’s musical idea. You may not have heard of Kansas Joe McCoy, the Dundee Wandering Singers or Governor Jimmie Davis of Louisiana, but you have almost certainly heard their songs. SATURDAY 2 JULY 17:00
MONUMENT RESTAURANT
WITH A BANJO ON MY KNEE? OR DELUSIONS OF BANJER? Apparently King Edward VII learned the banjo even though Mark Twain once claimed that a gentleman is a man who knows how to play one, but doesn’t. They died within about two weeks of each other and now, a century or so later, a particular corner of pop music is thick with the racket of Mumford-wannabes thrashing the living daylights out of a much misunderstood instrument that has been responsible for a good deal of fantastic music in between. SUNDAY 3 JULY 17:00
MONUMENT RESTAURANT
AFRICAN GUITAR HEROES Guitar heroisim comes in an astonishing variety of shapes and sizes here, from John Bhengu and Jean Bosco to Guy Buttery and Bombino, from D’Gary and Diamond Fingers to Derek Gripper, and from Barthélémy Attisso to Ibrahim Ag Alhabib, are a few of this continent’s leading exponents. MONDAY 4 JULY 17:00
MONUMENT RESTAURANT
15 FANTASTIC SONGS FROM 2015 THAT YOU NOT SO MUCH PROBABLY BUT ACTUALLY ALMOST CERTAINLY DIDN’T HEAR This is the music, from a variety of genres and locations, which parted the clouds for Richard Haslop last year. It will very possibly do the same for you. TUESDAY 5 JULY 17:00 MONUMENT RESTAURANT
NATIONAL ARTS
Presented with the support of The National Film and Video Foundation
Grahamstown 2016
THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED THEIR NAMES:
AN APPRECIATION OF
ACTIVIST WOMEN
MAIN VENUE: Olive Schreiner Hall, Monument OTHER GALLERY: ATHERSTONE ROOM, MONUMENT THINK!FEST VENUE: Eden Grove Complex TICKETS: FULL PRICE R35 (unless otherwise stated) CONCESSIONS R30 (unless otherwise stated)
CURATOR: Trevor Steele Taylor CO-ORDINATOR: Cedric Sundström TECHNICAL/PROJECTIONIST: Janadien Cupido PROJECTIONIST: Zanexolo Mbazah Klaas IMPAC: Pluto Panoussis
AN APPRECIATION OF ACTIVIST WOMEN
141
IF THIS BE TREASON SOUTH AFRICA 1996 DIRECTOR CEDRIC SUNDSTRÖM CAST GILLIAN GARLICK, NANDI NYEMBE, CARL BEUKES, SANDRA PRINSLOO COURTESY OF The National Film & Video Foundation, Gauteng Film Commission, Department of Arts & Culture
T
wo roads diverged in a wood and I took the one less travelled and that made all the difference. Inspired by these lines of Robert Frost, activist Helen Joseph, one of the prime leaders of the Women’s March of 22,000 women on the Union Buildings in Pretoria in 1956, a signatory of the Freedom Charter, Black Sash member and a founder member of the ANC’s white ally the Congress of Democrats defined her history. In December 1956 she was arrested on the charge of High Treason and spent nine years under house arrest becoming the first woman to be banned. In the film, re-mastered on the occasion of the 60-year anniversary of the Woman’s March, Gillian Garlick features in a superb performance as Helen Joseph. On Sunday 3 July the screening will be introduced by Sophie Williams-De Bruyn (surviving veteran of the march) and Cedric Sundström and on Saturday 9 July by Gillian Garlick and Cedric Sundström.
SUNDAY 3 JULY 15:00 SATURDAY 9 JULY 15:00 DURATION 1hr 42mins AGE RESTRICTION PG
DIETRICH BONHOEFFER:
MEMORIES & PERSPECTIVES USA 1982 DIRECTOR BAIN BOEHLKE COURTESY OF The Cape Provincial Film Library
SUNDAY 3 JULY SATURDAY 9 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
12:30 12:30 1hr 32mins PG
The task of the Church is not simply to bind the wounds of the victim beneath the wheel, but also to put a spoke in the wheel itself. The Lutheran theologian, Dietrich Bonhoeffer had a profound effect on the thinking of Helen Joseph. He actively opposed Hitler’s regime. Arrested as part of the plot to assassinate the Führer he was hanged in 1944 at the age of 39. Bonhoeffer worked for what he termed a religionless Christianity where we view from below, from the perspective of the outcast, the suspects, the maltreated, the powerless, the oppressed, the reviled – in short, from the perspective of those who suffer.
142
AN APPRECIATION OF ACTIVIST WOMEN
SUFFRAGETTE T
he film opened last year’s London Film Festival as a red carpet event and got its come-uppance when a feminist group, Sisters Uncut occupied the carpet. If a trifle literal and BBC-ish, the film inspired by true events is a moving drama exploring the passion and heartbreak of those who risked all they had for women’s right to vote – their jobs, their homes, their children, and even their lives. Maud, a working wife and mother, galvanised by the outlaw fugitive Emmeline Pankhurst becomes an activist and joins the UK’s suffragette movement.
UK 2015 SARAH GAVRON CAREY MULLIGAN, ANNE-MARIE DUFF, HELENA BONHAM CARTER, MERYL STREEP VIDEO VISION ENTERTAINMENT
DIRECTOR CAST COURTESY OF
SATURDAY 2 JULY TUESDAY 5 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
17:30 17:30 1hr 46mins PG 13+
SOPHIE SCHOLL:
THE FINAL DAYS
SOPHIE SCHOLL – DIE LETZTEN TAGE GERMANY 2005 DIRECTOR CAST COURTESY OF
MARC ROTHERMUND JULIA JENTSCH, FABIAN HINRICHS, ALEXANDER HELD THE GOETHE INSTITUT
Somebody, after all, had to make a start. What we wrote and said is also believed by many others. They just don’t dare express themselves as we did. Sophie Scholl, her brother Hans and a friend Christoph Probst were beheaded by the Nazis in 1942. The 21-year old Sophie and her friends were committed Christians and students at Munich University. Following their pacifist convictions towards activism, they distributed antiNazi pamphlets under the name of the White Rose. To quote one of their pamphlets: We must attack evil wherever it is strongest. We will not be silent. We are your bad conscience. We will not leave you in peace. FRIDAY 1 JULY TUESDAY 5 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
15:00 15:00 2hrs PG 13+
143
HANNAH ARENDT
GERMANY 2012 DIRECTOR CAST COURTESY OF
MARGARETHE VON TROTTA BARBARA SUKOWA, AXEL MILBERG, JANET MCTEER THE GOETHE INSTITUT
A
look at the life of philosopher and political theorist, Hannah Arendt who, while reporting for The New Yorker, covered the war-crimes trial of Adolf Eichmann. A student and lover of German philosopher Martin Heidegger (whose affiliation with the Nazis he later termed the greatest stupidity of my life), Arendt, a Jew, had fled Germany for the States. Her book The Origins of Totalitarianism is a major work on the roots of Soviet Communism and Nazism in collusion with anti-Semitism and Imperialism. It was her Report on the Banality of Evil, a very critical analysis of the Eichmann trial that catapulted her to fame and, amongst many Jewish public figures, infamy.
SATURDAY 2 JULY FRIDAY 8 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
15:00 13:00 1hr 53mins PG 13+
THE GERMAN SISTERS DER BLEIRNE ZEIT
GERMANY 1981
DIRECTOR CAST COURTESY OF
MARGARETHE VON TROTTA JUTTA LAMPE, BARBARA SUKOWA, RUDIGER VOGLER THE GOETHE INSTITUT
Wonderful, I like cars too; I like all the great things you can buy in department stores. But when you have to buy them to stay unaware, comatose, then the price you pay is too high. A fictional reworking of the true story of the Ensslin sisters – one of whom was a successful social democratic feminist writer and the other a revolutionary member of the Baader-Meinhof group. While Gudrun
is incarcerated in Stammheim High Security Prison, her sister visits her and they discuss, dialectically the position of resistance in the 20th century. Gudrun is later to commit suicide in mysterious circumstances, along with her three co-conspirators. The daughters of a theologian, they both carried their political commitments with a fierce evangelical fervour.
MONDAY 4 JULY WEDNESDAY 6 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
15:00 15:00 1hr 46mins 16 (V)
DISCUSSING 90 DAYS UK 2012 Director Jack Gold together with academics Prof Philip Murphy, Leo Zeilig and Dr Gavin Williams discuss Gold’s extremely rare experiment in a documentary made in 1966 which reconstructed anti-apartheid activist Ruth First’s detention and interrogation by South Africa authorities. Based on her book 117 Days Ruth First bravely played herself in the film. The discussion takes place at London’s School for Advanced Study.
ATHERSTONE ROOM, MONUMENT FRIDAY 1 JULY 10:00 SUNDAY 3 JULY 20:00 DURATION 2hrs 5mins AGE RESTRICTION PG
FOCUS ON RUSSIA
144
MEMOIRS OF A SURVIVOR UK 1981
DIRECTOR CAST
DAVID GLADWELL JULIE CHRISTIE, CHRISTOPHER GUARD, LEONIE MELLINGER
D
oris Lessing’s remarkable dystopian world view is intensely disturbing in this film adaptation of her novel of the same name. Christie’s D is a chronicler of a society in chaos, who looks down on the marauding gangs and rubbish-strewn streets from the fortress prison of her flat. Buffeted by inner dreams and longings, D finds an alternative world by stepping through the wall of her flat, like Alice through the Looking Glass. Here it is Victorian England, the bosom of an unsettled family, harbingers, perhaps, of the decay to come. She flits between the two sides of her double life, always observing, never participating, and watches as her protégé, Emily, becomes involved with vagrants’ leader Gerald.
FRIDAY 1 JULY THURSDAY 7 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
20:00 13:00 1hr 55mins 16 (SV)
HILDEGARD VON BINGEN GERMANY 2005 A visionary in every sense of the word Hildegard von Bingen, a 12th-century Benedictine nun was a Christian mystic, composer, philosopher, playwright, poet, naturalist, scientist, physician, herbalist and ecological activist. This is a profoundly inspirational portrait of a woman who emerged from the shadows of history as a forward-thinking and iconoclastic pioneer of faith, change and enlightenment. Her composition A Feather on the Breath of God is one of the finest pieces of religious music ever written.
TUESDAY 5 JULY SUNDAY 10 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
12:30 12:30 1hr 50mins PG 13+
FREE ANGELA DAVIS AND ALL POLITICAL PRISONERS USA 2012 DIRECTOR COURTESY OF
SHOLA LYNCH VIDEO VISION ENTERTAINMENT
MONDAY 4 JULY WEDNESDAY 6 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
12:30 13:00 1hr 51mins PG -13 (L)
This remarkable and gripping documentary examines the exceptional life of activist and academic, Angela Davis. The film revisits the experiences of Davis, beginning with her career in the philosophy department of UCLA and her simultaneous life as a member of the Communist Party and the Black Panthers. Drawing fire for her political allegiances she soon became a victim of a campaign to disallow her from teaching, catapulting her into the international limelight for her subversive beliefs. Following a series of death threats, she bought her first firearm – the first step in a path that involved kidnapping and shootouts, seeing her appearing on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list. The film through a series of intimate interviews lays freedom on the line as a line to be drawn between being liberated and being a slave.
145
STALKER RUSSIA 1979
T
his allegorical science fiction film is set in an unnamed country at an unspecified time where there is a fiercely protected postapocalyptic wasteland known as The Zone. A man rises in the early morning and leaves his wife with their disabled daughter to meet two men. He’s the Stalker, one of a handful who have the mental gifts (and who risk imprisonment) to lead people into the Zone to the Room, a place where one’s secret hopes come true. His clients are a burned out popular writer, cynical, and questioning his talent; and a quiet scientist more concerned about his knapsack than the journey. In the deserted Zone, the approach to the Room must be indirect. As they draw near, the rules seem to change and the Stalker faces a crisis.
THE TERRITORY TERRITORIYA RUSSIA 2015 DIRECTOR CAST
ALEKSANDR MELNIK VLADISLAV ABASHIN, KONSTANTIN BALAKIREV, EGOR BEREOV
DIRECTOR ANDREY TARKOVSKIY CAST ALISA FREYNDLIKH, ALEKSANDR KAYDANOVSKIY, ANATOLIY SOLONITSYN COURTESY OF MOSFILM
During the political thaw in the sixties, a group of geologists journey to the coldest terrain of the country in the Siberian outback. Epic and shot in awesome landscapes the film has elements of Jack London mixed with Akira Kurosawa and Tolstoy. Just as in War and Peace, the lives of an array of people are fleshed out in detail and followed through tragedy and triumph.
WEDNESDAY 6 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
TUESDAY 5 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
10:00 2hrs 37mins 16
WHITE TIGER BELVY TIGR RUSSIA 2012 DIRECTOR KAREN SHAKHNAZAROV CAST ALEKSEY VERTKOV VITALIY KISHCHENKO VALERIY GRISHKO COURTESY OF MOSFILM
20:00 2hrs 37mins 16
A fascinating war film which is shrouded in mystery and intimations of the supernatural. A Red Army Tank Commander barely survives an encounter with a mysterious ghostly-white Nazi tank. Suffering from amnesia, he believes he can communicate with any tank as if it were human. Obsessed with revenge he returns to his unit where his colleagues are in awe of this monstrous armoured beast that appears out of nowhere. Imbued in tank culture and references to Moby Dick, the film is a nail-biter. THURSDAY 7 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
20:00 1hr 46mins 16
FOCUS ON RUSSIA
146
MAN WITH A MOVIE CAMERA CHELOVEK S KINO-APPARATOM RUSSIA 1929
COME AND SEE IDI I SMOTRI
DIRECTOR COURTESY OF
RUSSIA 1985 DIRECTOR CAST COURTESY OF
The classic experimental silent film of early Russian cinema in which a man travels around a city with a camera slung over his shoulder documenting urban life with dazzling invention. The screenings will be accompanied by live music provided by the talented Pretoriabased collective, Wêreld Records.
ELEM KLIMOV ALEKSEI KRAVCHENKO, OLGA MIRONOVA, LIUBOMIRAS LAUCEVICIUS MOSFILM
T
he film’s title is from the Book of Revelations, referring to the summoning of witnesses to the devastation brought by the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. ‘Come and See’ is an invitation for its youthful protagonist Florya to arm-up and investigate the war, but also one for the audience to tread a similarly terrible path, witnessing with vivid immediacy the Byelorussian (now known as Belarus) holocaust at close hand. In World War II the Nazis burned down 628 Byelorussian villages together with all the people in them. The film is ruthless in its depiction of human evil. After one of the screenings an ex-Wehrmacht soldier who had fought in Russia said: I will testify: everything that is told in this film is the truth. And the most frightening and shameful thing for me is that this film will be seen by my children and grandchildren.
DZIGA VERTOV IMPAC (INITIATIVE FOR MOTION PICTURES WITHIN THE AFRICAN CONTINENT)
SATURDAY 9 JULY SUNDAY 10 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
20:00 15:00 1hr 8mins All Ages
EXHIBITION OF PHOTOGRAPHY BY
THE AMBASSADOR OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION DEDICATED TO THE SPIRIT OF RUSSIA-SOUTH AFRICA FRIENDSHIP
MIKHAIL PETRAKOV is the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to South Africa. He is also a keen photographer in search of a vision. In this exhibition – both digital and wall-mounted – three series are presented. The first and the central one is MOSCOW with an emphasis on the winter period; the second is devoted to ROBBEN ISLAND as the prisoners might’ve seen it; the third shows an unconventional take on the CAPE WHEEL. VENUE: ATHERSTONE ROOM, MONUMENT
FRIDAY 8 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
ENTRANCE: FREE THE EXHIBITION WILL BE OPEN AT THE FOLLOWING TIMES: TIMES: 12:30 – 15:00 (DAILY FROM FRIDAY 1 JULY – SUNDAY 10 JULY)
10:00 2hr 22mins 18 (V)
THE GEOGRAPHER DRANK HIS GLOBE AWAY GEOGRAF GLOBUS PROPIL RUSSIA 2013 DIRECTOR CAST COURTESY OF
ALEKSANDR VELEDINSKIY KONSTANTIN KHABENSKIY, ELENA LYADOVA, ALEKSANDR ROBAK THE RUSSIAN EMBASSY
Victor Sluzhkin signs on as a teacher of geography in a secondary school in his native Perm (in the Urals) and gets lost in a haze of hard vodka, desperate love for a nymphetlike student and the stress of educating teenagers. Geographer, as the students dub Sluzhkin, attempts to escape from the gruelling, dull, stultifying reality of Russia’s provincial life in a rafting tour to the Urals. Accompanied by wild, adventure-seeking adolescents, faced with numerous grim surprises of nature, Geographer is poised to find himself and his own truth. WEDNESDAY 6 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
20:00 2hrs 16
147
SOLARIS SOLYARIS
RUSSIA 1972 Ground control has been receiving mysterious transmissions from the three remaining residents of the Solaris space station. When cosmonaut and psychologist Kris Kelvin is dispatched to investigate, he experiences the same strange phenomena that afflict the Solaris DVE ZHENSHCHINY crew, sending him RUSSIA 2014 on a voyage into the darkest recesses of his DIRECTOR: VERA GLAGOLEVA consciousness. With CAST: RALPH FIENNES, ANNA Solaris, the legendary ASTRAKHANTSEVA, Russian filmmaker Andrei ANNA LEVANOVA Tarkovsky created COURTESY OF THE RUSSIAN EMBASSY a brilliantly original ased on Ivan Turgenev’s A Month in the Country and directed science-fiction epic by actress Vera Glagoleva, the film is primarily a study of its two that challenges our THURSDAY 7 JULY 10:00 female protagonists whose affections are made to represent their conceptions about love, DURATION 2hrs 47mins different predicaments at different phases in their lives. Married truth, and humanity itself. AGE RESTRICTION 16 to a sound and sturdy landowner, Natalya finds herself struggling to contain her fears of losing her desire and ability to be elicit as DIRECTOR ANDREI TARKOVSKY middle-age beckons; it’s a confused mental state which sees her CAST NATALYA BONDARCHUK, DONATAS string along Mikhail (Fiennes), a family friend whose affections she BANIONIS, JURI JARVET toys with while promising nothing in return. The other half of the COURTESY OF MOSFILM titular equation alludes to Natalya’s adopted daughter Vera whose youthful vigour and blooming beauty has proved to be a challenge to the older woman.
TWO WOMEN
B
SUNDAY 3 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
20:00 1hr 40mins 16
INSIGHT
INSAYT RUSSIA 2015 Pavel Zuev has to start his life over from darkness after he loses his sight in an accident. The young man has to learn again how to eat, walk, wash himself, do simple housework, and even how to look out of the window without seeing anything. In this new life blind Zuev encounters an exceptional woman capable of seeing more than other people. Her name sounds symbolic Nadezhda (translates as ‘hope’ into English).
EVERYBODY’S GONE VSE USHLI RUSSIA 2013 The first feature by the nephew of the Georgian master filmmaker, Sergei Paradzhanov, draws heavily on the mysticism of his uncle’s work. Childhood memories play on the mind of the central character, Garry. Many years on, he returns to his native town. Everything feels alien and strange. Our hero comes back to recover his memories, the good ones and the bad ones, the pleasant ones and the painful ones. Will the old fortune-teller Nina, a well-known dream gatherer in the city, be able to set an already grownup man free of the chains of the past which had become unbearable by that time? Or will Garry alleviate her life by discovering his freedom?
DIRECTOR: GEORGIY PARADZHANOV CAST: ZURA KIPSHIDZE, NATALYA DIRECTOR: ALEKSANDR KOTT KOLYAKANOVA, AVTANDIL CAST: ANDREY BILZHO, ELENA MAKHOZA, MAKHARADZE AGRIPPINA STEKLOVA COURTESY OF THE RUSSIAN EMBASSY COURTESY OF THE RUSSIAN EMBASSY MONDAY 4 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
20:00 1hr 55mins 16
FRIDAY 8 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
20:00 1hr 29mins 16
RT TODAY began its round-the-clock, English-language news broadcast from Moscow in December 2005. It is the first all-digital Russian TV network. More than 100 journalists report from around the world. At the age of 25, Margarita Simonyan became the youngest ever editor-in-chief of a major TV network. RT news covers the major issues of our time for viewers wishing to question more and delivers stories overlooked by the mainstream media to create news with an edge. RT provides an alternative perspective on major global events. We wish to celebrate 10 years of RT for their brave and challenging reporting on issues swept under the carpet by the mainstream media.
GUEST:
RT JOURNALIST
KARINA MELIKYAN
PAULA SLIER
RT
GUEST:
RUSSIA
RT JOURNALIST
148
Paula Slier (born 26 March 1973) is a South African television, radio and print journalist, and war correspondent, who heads up her own company in the Middle East called Newshound. In 2012 she launched Newshound Africa. She is also the Middle East Bureau Chief and correspondent for RT.
Head of Content Distribution Service at RT TV News Channel, Karina Melikyan holds a Bachelor's degree in Spanish Philology. She joined the RT Channel in 2007 as International Relations Manager focusing on building and maintaining relationships with Russian and foreign organizations. Her career has been shaped by a strong interest in communication and business development in mass media.
119 LIVES UNLIVED
HER WAR: WOMEN VS. ISIS
DIRECTOR ALEKSANDR PANOV
The Kurdish People’s Protection Units were formed after the Syrian Army's attempts to combat the jihadist threat failed. Among its fighters are young women. ISIS fears them, as in that organisation, death by a woman is said to send a militant straight to hell. So these women and girls leave their families and villages to fight for their land and their freedom.
During the renovation of an old house in Amsterdam, a shoebox was found. Inside it were several dozens of old postcards and letters by a young man named Flip Slier a cousin of Paula. On a personal journey to find out more about Flip’s life Paula spent a night in a barrack of the Auschwitz concentration camp and it was here that she had to face the horrific discovery that concentration camps took the lives of 119 members of her family. Paula Slier will introduce and discuss the film.
ATHERSTONE ROOM MONDAY 4 JULY OLIVE SCHREINER HALL TUESDAY 5 JULY WEDNESDAY 6 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
20:00 10:00 17:30 50mins PG 13+
DEAD END: THE CALAIS CRISIS
VICTIMS OF ISIS ISIS is the most brutal terrorist group of our time. Under the guise of religion, they murder, rape, pillage, and enslave, destroying whole cities to achieve power and control over new territory and natural resources. Victims are forced to convert to Islam as the group slavishly follows a perverted version of the teachings of Islam to suit their agenda.
ATHERSTONE ROOM MONDAY 4 JULY TUESDAY 5 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
15:00 10:00 & 17:30 1hr 40mins PG 13+
DIRECTOR ARTYOM SOMOV
BATTLE OF THE KEYS
A touching look at the human side of the headlines as the historic French town of Calais becomes the reluctant host to thousands of refugees fleeing war and terror in Africa and the Middle East. Unable to cross the British border legally, many take extreme risks for a chance to make the crossing as stowaways.
THE INTERNATIONAL TCHAIKOVSKY COMPETITION
SOS: SOLD AS SLAVES KENYA'S GROWING CHILD PROSTITUTION CRISIS AUTHOR VITALY BUZUEV
Held every four years, this prestigious contest can make or break a musician's career. There are just four categories: piano, violin, cello and solo singing. Their different languages may divide the participants but the universal language of music unites them.
CHILDREN OF THE TUNDRA DIRECTOR ALEKSANDR LUTSENKO AUTHOR VITALY BUZUEV
According to a 2006 UNICEF report, one Kenyan child in three is involved in underage prostitution. Despite being illegal, child prostitution is very common, with children as young as eight or nine being paid by adults to perform sex acts. It’s their only way to make a living.
People living in the tundra are accustomed to a nomadic life. Their homes are ascetic, food is basic, and deer are prolific. They don’t watch TV or use the Internet. However, their children do go to boarding schools, but not all parents are in favour of this. Find out more about life and education out on the tundra in this RT Documentary.
ATHERSTONE ROOM, MONUMENT MONDAY 4 JULY 10:00 TUESDAY 5 JULY 20:00 WEDNESDAY 6 20:00 DURATION 1hr 40mins AGE RESTRICTION PG 13+
ATHERSTONE ROOM MONDAY 4 JULY WEDNESDAY 6 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
Tuesday 5 July 17:30 10:00 1hr 40mins All ages
15:00
149
RE-IMAGINING
OTHELLO
CATCH MY SOUL SANTE FE SATAN USA 1972 DIRECTOR CAST
SOUNDS KETTLING OF THE VOICES UK 2015
DIRECTOR CHESTER YANG COURTESY OF CY FILMS
A
lthough not an RT production, Chester Yang’s superb film was picked up by RT for screening. In London in 2010 thousands of students were “kettled” outside Parliament when the proposed reforms to education were to be passed into law. Kettling of the Voices explores the events and aftermath of this movement that defined a generation – from the storming of the Conservative Party HQ to the ‘Battle of Parliament Square’. It features never-before-seen footage of police brutality and follows the court cases of several prominent activists.
THE BATTLE OF TRAFALGAR SQUARE UK 1991
MADE BY DESPITE TV COURTESY OF SPECTACLE PRODUCTIONS On the 31st March 1990, thousands of protesters thronged the streets of London against Margaret Thatcher’s Poll Tax. New shockingly brutal methods of police control were introduced which London-based alternative viewpoint, Despite TV, exposed of Britain descending into Fascism. In-between the films there will be a discussion between Student Activists and the audience.
OLIVE SCHREINER HALL MONDAY 4 JULY ATHERSTONE ROOM WEDNESDAY 6 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
10:00 20:00 2hrs 20mins PG 13+
COURTESY OF
PATRICK MCGOOGHAN RITCHIE HAVENS SEASON HUBLEY LANCE DE GAULT MPLC
A
film of Jack Good’s stage musical of a gospel Othello in which Othello is an evangelist, married to his pure of heart follower Desdemona but beset upon by the black hordes of Iago’s devil worshippers. Beautifully shot around Santa Fe with folk singer Ritchie Havens giving a stirring performance as Othello and the wonderful Season Hubley as his ill-fated bride. Swamp singer (Poke Salad Annie) plays the falsely accused Cassio and gospel singers Delaney and Bonnie put in an appearance for an orgiastic party. SATURDAY 2 JULY FRIDAY 8 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
20:00 17:30 1hr 32mins PG 13+
OTHELLO SOUTH AFRICA 2002 DIRECTOR EUBULUS TIMOTHY CAST SELLO MAAKE KA NCUBE HAKEEM KAE-KAZIM CANDICE HILLEBRAND COURTESY OF EUBULUS TIMOTHY Shot in Cape Town by the world’s only dentist/film director. Othello is South Africa’s first black navy Admiral, who marries the daughter of his white superior. Combining Shakespeare’s examination of racism with the intricacies of the New South Africa, Iago, played by Nigerian actor Hakeem Kae-Kazim is black and an old struggle associate of Othello’s. When Othello promotes a white academic as his deputy, Iago feels racially betrayed and seeks vengeance. FRIDAY 1 JULY FRIDAY 8 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
17:30 15:00 1hr 30mins PG 13+
WORLD CINEMA
150
MOMMY FRANCE 2014 DIRECTOR CAST
COURTESY OF
THURSDAY 30 JUNE WEDNESDAY 6 JULY DURATION: AGE RESTRICTION
OLIVE SCHREINER HALL 20:00 17:30 1HR 19MINS 16
XAVIER DOLAN ANNE DORVAL, ANTOINE-OLIVIER PILON, SUZANNE CLEMENT VIDEO VISION ENTERTAINMENT
A
widowed single mother, raising her violent son alone, finds new hope when a mysterious neighbour inserts herself into their household. Considered white trash by those around her, 46-year old Diane struggles to make ends meet. When she takes her 15-year old son out of an institution she signed him into, unable to deal with his attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) after her husband’s death, she finds a new purpose in dealing with her troubled offspring. The film received a nine minute standing ovation when screened at the Cannes Film Festival.
THE PROPHET FRANCE/CANADA/LEBANON/QATAR 2015 DIRECTOR: VOICES COURTESY OF
WELCOME TO
NEW YORK
ROGER ALLERS LIAM NEESON, SALMA HAYEK VIDEO VISION ENTERTAINMENT
An animated adaptation for children of Kahlil Gibran’s classic novel. Huge liberties are taken with the original but Lion King director Allers makes the whole accessible to young people who then, might wish to read the work on which the film is based. SATURDAY 2 JULY SUNDAY 10 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
10:00 10:00 1hr 26mins PG
USA/FRANCE 2014 DIRECTOR CAST COURTESY OF
ABEL FERRARA GERARD DEPARDIEU, JACQUELINE BISSET, MARIA MOUTE VIDEO VISION ENTERTAINMENT
THE LITTLE PRINCE FRANCE/CANADA 2015 DIRECTOR VOICES
MARK OSBORNE JEFF BRIDGES, RACHEL MCADAMS, PAUL RUDD VIDEO VISION ENTERTAINMENT
Based very obviously on the decadent lifestyle of IMC strongman Strauss-Kahn, Ferrara’s film is a scathing attack on everything rotten in the world of high finance and high living. Mr Devareaux is a powerful French politician who handles billions of dollars every day. He controls the economic fate of nations. He is also a man driven by a frenzied and unbridled sexual hunger. He is brought to trial for sexually assaulting a chambermaid in his Manhattan hotel room and finds that even he cannot get away with everything. This is the director’s cut.
Animated film for children based on Saint-Exupery’s iconic masterpiece. A little girl lives in a very grown-up world with her mother, who tries to prepare her for it. Her neighbour, the Aviator, introduces the girl to an extraordinary world where anything is possible, the world of the Little Prince.
SUNDAY 3 JULY SATURDAY 9 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
SUNDAY 3 JULY SATURDAY 9 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
17:30 17:30 2hrs 5mins 18 (SLVN)
COURTESY OF
10:00 10:00 1hr 48mins PG
WORLD CINEMA
151
WHITE BIRD
IN A BLIZZARD
USA 2014
DIRECTOR GREGG ARAKI CAST SHAILENE WOODLEY, EVA GREEN, CHRISTOPHER MELON COURTESY OF VIDEO VISION ENTERTAINMENT
K
at Connors is 17 years old when her seemingly perfect homemaker mother, Eve, disappears in 1988. Having lived for so long in an emotionally repressed household, she barely registers her mother’s absence and certainly doesn’t blame her doormat of a father, Brock, for the loss. But the strange facts of the disappearance soon begin to haunt her. Concerned more with her own sexuality, Kat is subjected to a series of remarkable dreams which take her further into the mystery of the relationship of her mother and father.
THURSDAY 30 JULY THURSDAY 7 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
12:30 17:30 1hr 31mins 16
REMEMBER CANADA 2015
DIRECTOR ATOM EGOYAN CAST CHRISTOPHER PLUMMER, MARTIN LANDAU, BRUNO GANZ COURTESY OF VIDEO VISION ENTERTAINMENT
With the aid of a fellow Auschwitz survivor and a hand-written letter, an elderly man with dementia goes in search of a Nazi guard who had murdered his family 70 years before. Despite all the challenges, he tracks him down to America and sets out on the mission to deliver long-delayed justice with his own trembling hand. What follows is a remarkable crosscontinent road trip with surprising consequences. The climax leaves one speechless. Christopher Plummer, in the twilight of his years remains an actor of extraordinary power.
WOLF TOTEM
LE DERNIER LOUP
FRANCE/CHINA 2015
OLIVE SCHREINER HALL THURSDAY 30 JUNE THURSDAY 7 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
17:30 15:00 1hr 34mins 16
In 1967, a young Beijing student, Chen Zhen, is sent to live among the nomadic herdsmen of Inner Mongolia. Caught between the advance of civilization from the south and the nomads’ traditional enemies – the marauding wolves – to the north; humans and animals, residents and invaders alike, struggle to find their true place in the world. Wolf Totem manages to bring to the screen the majesty and mystery of wolves. It also invites us into the world of Inner Mongolia and tells a compelling tale of human love and loss. Visually magnificent this is a stirring film from the director of The Name of the Rose.
DIRECTOR JEAN-JACQUES ANNAUD CAST SHAOFENG FENG, THURSDAY 30 JUNE SHAWN DOU, FRIDAY 1 JULY ANKHNYAM RAGCHAA DURATION COURTESY OF VIDEO VISION ENTERTAINMENT AGE RESTRICTION
10:00 12:30 2hrs 1min PG 13+
WORLD CINEMA
152
GABO:
STRANGERLAND
THE MAGIC OF REALITY
AUSTRALIA 2015
GABO: LA MAGICA DE LO REAL
A
COLOMBIA 2015
couple discover that their teenage children have disappeared just before a massive dust storm sweeps through their remote desert town Nathgari. With the town eerily smothered in red dust and darkness, the locals join the search led by local cop David Rae. With temperatures rising, and the chances of survival plummeting with each passing day, the couple find themselves pushed to the brink as they struggle to survive the uncertainty of their children’s fate
DIRECTOR CAST COURTESY OF
DIRECTOR COURTESY OF
JUSTIN WEBSTER THE EMBASSY OF COLOMBIA
How did a boy from a tiny town on the Caribbean coast become a writer who won the hearts of millions? How did he change our perception of reality with his work? The answers lie in the incredible story of Gabriel García Márquez, the 1982 Nobel Prize winner in Literature. Known as “Gabo” to all of Latin America, Márquez’s sensual, “magical” sensibility led him to the forefront of the political struggles of the 70s and 80s – including a pivotal and previously unknown role in negotiations between Cuban leader Fidel Castro and American President Bill Clinton – and into the hearts of readers across the world.
KIM FARRANT NICOLE KIDMAN, JOSEPH FIENNES, HUGO WEAVING VIDEO VISION ENTERTAINMENT
ATHERSTONE ROOM, MONUMENT FRIDAY 1 JULY 17:30 SATURDAY 2 JULY 10:30 DURATION 1hr 30mins AGE RESTRICTION PG 13+
THURSDAY 30 JUNE SUNDAY 10 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
15:00 20:00 1hr 52mins 16
OF LOVE AND OTHER DEMONS
PRIDE
DEL AMOR Y OTROS DEMONIOS
UK 2014
COLOMBIA 2010
DIRECTOR CAST
DIRECTOR CAST COURTESY OF
HILDA HIDALGO PABLO DERQUI, ELIZA TRIANA, JORDI DAUDER THE EMBASSY OF COLOMBIA
This is the unsettling story of 13-year-old Sierva who is bitten by a dog with rabies. The bishop declares she is possessed by demons and entrusts her exorcism to his pupil Father Ceytano. The priest and the girl soon find themselves seduced by carnal passions, a demon more powerful than faith or reason. With an intimate personal narrative and a visual palette reminiscent of Renaissance painting, the film is based on one of Gabriel García Márquez’s highly praised novels. FRIDAY 1 JULY MONDAY 4 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
10:00 17:30 1hr 35mins 16
COURTESY OF
MATTHEW WARCHUS BILL NIGHY, IMELDA STAUNTON, DOMINIC WEST VIDEO VISION ENTERTAINMENT
In 1984 20-year old closet gay Joe arrives hesitantly in London for his first Gay Pride march and is taken under the collective wing of a group of activists who believe in taking protest beyond issues of gender, into full scale activism against Margaret Thatcher’s state. Showing solidarity with the striking miners in Wales, they head out to the working class – and somewhat homophobic – mining heartland and a strange marriage takes place. Although the miners are defeated by Thatcher’s fascist methods, the support of activism across the board became a reality. SATURDAY 2 JULY SUNDAY 10 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
12:30 17:30 1hr 59mins 16
SYLVIA VOLLENHOVEN THE KEEPER OF THE KUMM Longing & Belonging of a Boesmankind A 10-minute pilot for an eventually longer film
153
&
JOURNALIST, FILMMAKER SEARCHER OF THE KUMM In this small focus on the work of Sylvia Vollenhoven, to coincide with the première of the theatre production of THE KEEPER OF THE KUMM and launch of the book of the same name, we present 4 programmes:
For many years they fought apartheid by staging pieces that challenged the regime.
GETTING AWAY WITH MURDER
ATHERSTONE ROOM SATURDAY 2 JULY SUNDAY 3 JULY DURATION
Broadcast in 2008 this is a tough look at the role the apartheid media played in gross human rights abuses.
EMO ADAMS – TALL, DARK & AFRIKAANS
PROJECT SPEAR Controversial exposé of chicanery, shelved by the SABC who have, with undue verve attempted to block any screenings of the film. Our programmed screenings are dependent on the decision of the Johannesburg Supreme Court. ATHERSTONE ROOM SATURDAY 2 JULY SUNDAY 3 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
20:00 15:00 1hr PG 13+
So what is it that’s made Emo Adams cross the deep racial divide and sign up Afrikaner fans in huge numbers? Does music really transcend all boundaries or is there something else at play here? ATHERSTONE ROOM FRIDAY 1 JULY SATURDAY 2 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
20:00 17:30 50mins PG
ATHOL FUGARD – MAKING MUSIC WITH WORDS THEATRE STORIES SPUN LIKE SYMPHONIES
DANCE AS CHANGE After both triumph and disaster, John Linden returns to the town where he was born. The only place he and his life partner Alfred Hinkel can save their souls by fulfilling their mission to liberate people through the magic of dance. South Africans have said Jazzart was the cultural wing of the struggle in the old days. It’s founders who all came from Namaqualand – a white man Alfred Hinkel and his black counterparts, John Linden and Dawn Langdown – are legendary in dance circles.
Part of the mini-series, Striking a Chord, in which artists engage with the music that is intrinsic to their lives and to their art. Athol Fugard, famed playwright is the feature. ATHERSTONE ROOM FRIDAY 1 JULY SUNDAY 3 JULY DURATION AGE RESTRICTION
NFVF RIGHTS OF PASSAGE FILM
SERIES
LOVE AND LOSS IN THE TIME OF MANDELA
15:00 10:00 50mins
SA 2015
15:00 17:30 50mins PG
DIRECTORS NTOMBIZODWA MAGAGULA MAPULA SIBANDA LERATO MOLOI ALENCIA JOSHUA ZANDILE ANGELINE WARDLE TONY MIYAMBO RETHABILE MOTHOBI AND YASHVIR BAGWANDEEN
R
ights of Passage is a fictional feature-film made by first-time young black filmmakers who were born when Nelson Mandela became South Africa’s first democratically elected President and who entered young adulthood during the last years of Mandela’s remarkable life. It is an anthology of eight short films linked by a theme and African proverbs that delicately reflect on and explore the challenges of intimacy and change: the search for love, belonging and healing amidst the rites and turmoil of everyday life. It offers a rare, honest, resilient and creative insight into the concerns and experiences of black youth in contemporary South Africa. DATES TBC DURATION 1hr 38mins AGE RESTRICTION PG 13+
2016 Fringe Contents
Theatre
156
Comedy
189
Physical Theatre Dance
223
Family Fare
233
Illusion
239
Poetry
240
Performance/Public Art
242
Cabaret /Music Theatre
243
Classical/Recital
The Festival organisers have made every effort to ensure that everything printed in this publication is accurate. However, mistakes and changes do occur, and we do not accept any responsibility for them or for any inaccuracies or misinformation within advertisements. Artists provide images, logos, text and advertisements and we accept no responsibility for the quality of reproduction in this publication.
217
249
Contemporary Music Film
Pick up the FESTIVAL POCKET PLANNER for up-to-date info on all Festival events – cancellations, new shows, additional performances, changes and amendments.
251
258
Spiritfest
259
Visual Art
261
Key to Fringe Listings Title of production
Presenting company ~ Age recommendation
AFRICAN RHYTHMS ~ ALL
Thabisong Youth Club
Production image
African Rhythms is a vibrant music and dance show where you explore the beauty and origin of the African beat and African movements through dance and music. Director: Mbali Shezi Choreography: Dumisani Thusi
Show information @Venue # Duration ! Predominant Languages
@City Hall 30
01
# 1h10 02
03 04 10:00 17:00 –50% 2-4-1
05
F
C
B
Description of production
16:00 14:00 60
54
51
Credits
! SA lang 06
07 22:30
08
ALL = All ages PG = Parental guidance 16/13+ etc. = Ages 16/13 & above and reason for recommendation: S = Sex; V = Violence; L = Language; P = Prejudice; M = Mature themes Ad = Adults only NFC = Not for very young children
$ Tickets 09
10
$ Ticket prices
Performance schedule
R60 (Full) / R54 (Concession) / R51 (Block Booking) Concession price includes Learners, Students, and Pensioners
Discounted or Free Fringe Indicates that the performers have signed up for the Discounted Fringe Festival which means that their first performance on the Fringe is discounted by the amount shown or is completely FREE!
2-4-1
50% Fringe
Indicates productions that are offering a Buy-One-Get-One Free discount on certain performances.
All Fringe performances on 10 July are half the full ticket price!
156 (THE) LAST SUPPER Leftfoot Productions
~ 18+ MLNP
Starring Teri Scott and Ignatius van Heerden, (the) Last Supper takes a powerfully graphic, sometimes even horrific, and candid inside look at the journey of Queeny, a victim of sexual abuse, and the ramifications of an abuser’s actions on the town folk and society at large. Based on the book by Pinto Ferreira. Director: Lihan Pretorius Writer: Weslee Swain Lauder Choreography: Ignatius van Heerden Music soundtrack by: Magdalene Minnaar @Glennie Festival Centre 30
01
02
03
# 50m
04
05
! Eng, Afr 06
14:30 14:00
07
08
$ Tickets 09
10
18:30
–50%
F
C
B
75
68
64
#AFTERMARIKANA Anele Penny and Xabiso Zweni ProDaxion
~ 10+ NFC
When all is lost after the Marikana massacre, all eyes are glued on to the Farlam Commission report and its findings. Marvelous was one of the surviving miners about to testify against the Government Police. He dies a mysterious death in his shack at Enkanini. His family now searches for answers, what truth did this man know, who Killed Marvelous? Writer / Director: Xabiso Zweni Choreography: Mandilakhe Gwashu Featuring: Olwethu Mdala, Anele Penny, Khanyisa Sigwanda and Mandilakhe Gwashu @Masonic Front 30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng, Xho 06
07
08
10:00 18:00
$ Tickets 09
10
22:00
–25%
F
C
B
50
45
43
20:00
10 DAYS IN A SHEBEEN Umsindo Theatre projects
~ 14+ MLV NFC
Set in a shebeen somewhere in Umlazi township, a shebeen queen narrates the story, which revolves around a young boy who plans to rob his father together with his friends. A father who left him, a father who never did anything for their family, a rich father. They succeed in breaking into his safe but kill him in the process. In the shebeen they are scared, fear rules them, they drown themselves in alcohol, spending the blood money; conflict and greed make them kill. The story is told through powerful monologue and images play a pivotal role. Wrtten & directed by: Musawenkosi and Bongumusa Shabalala Featuring: Kwenza Ngcobo, Buhle Nkomo, Xolani Simelane, Nomusa Mzobo @Gymnasium 30 18:30 –25%
01
02
# 1h 03
20:00 12:00
04
05
! Eng, Zul 06
07
08
$ Tickets 09
10
12:30 22:30
F
C
B
45
41
38
1976 MUSICAL Wushwini Arts Culture and Heritage Centre ~ PG V A powerful celebration of South African youth, tracing from 1976 to date, a journey told through song, dance, hip hop, poetry and multimedia, a reflection of the past, an interrogation of the present, and hope for the future. This is the story of the young boy who has to go to the mountain in order to be a man, he begins to question the issues and the responsibilities of being a young person in this country. Writer / Director: Jerry Pooe Choreography: Musa Hlatshwayo Music performed by: Sandile’s Band Featuring: Musawenkosi Shabalala, Xolani Henema, Bongumusa Shabalala, and Silverfox Nkomo @Gymnasium 30
01
02
12:00 18:30 22:00
# 1h 03
04 20:30
05
! Eng, Zul 06
07
08
$ Tickets 09
10
F
C
B
50
45
43
157
158 ACTRESSES: AN ADAPTATION OF CHEKOV’S “THE SEAGULL” Black Hole Collective
AGONY Thistle Productions
~ 14+ MVS NFC
Using the classic text of The Seagull, Black Hole Collective explores performance and performing gender. Three actresses pick apart Chekhov’s creative constraints and reimagine his boundaries in an unpredictably intimate, ruthless search of soul and self worth. Lift our curtain, find your light and witness the songs of our soaring starlet. Director: Rachel Shull Writer: Anton Chekov Music composed & performed by: Mathew Bazulka Featuring: Gabriel Meltz, Rachel Shull and Mathew Bazulka @Glennie Hall 30
01
02
03
# 1h
! Eng
04 05 06 10:00 15:00 13:00 16:30
07
08
09 10 F 10:00 12:00 60 17:00
Director: Douglas Thistlewhite Writers: Douglas Thistlewhite & Greg Melvill-Smith Featuring: Greg Melvill-Smith Puppetry: Jenni-lee Crewe @Gymnasium 30
$ Tickets
14:00
C
B
54
51
–25%
01
02
# 1h05 03
The past always has a way to uncover itself, no matter how deep it’s been buried. Mostly it waits till you are most comfortable, then it strikes! This tragedy drama takes you down thoroughfares of secrets, hatred, scheming and conspiracy. With powerful acting and heart-stopping twists that will leave you breath-taken. You won’t even sigh when you realise how evil “sweet revenge” can be. Writer / Director: Phelelani Mzimela Featuring: Velaphi Mthimkhulu, Lindelani Buthelezi, Samkelisiwe Khumalo and Sindisiwe Thwala
30
01
02
03
04
05
10:00 18:30 14:00 22:30 18:00 Free!
! Eng, Zul 06
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
F
C
B
75
68
64
ASAZI Mnqobi LM Arts Company
07
08
09
10
Writer / Director: Mnqobi L Msimanga Music: Hans Zimmer Featuring: Anele Nene & Mnqobi Msimanga @Masonic Back 30
$ Tickets F
C
B
56
50
56
~ ALL
The play takes place in the desert where we see the old man and his grandchild taking a journey to nowhere. The old man got tired of living in a place where every being is corrupted. Because of his deeds, one might say that “he is a typical old man” however, when looking closer at the circumstances of our universe – political, human consciousness, African and humanity – one can understand why an old man has that “typical mind”.
Newcastle Arts Development Organisation ~ ALL
# 1h
04
22:00 10:00 21:00 18:30
AFTER ALL
@NG Kerk Hall
~ ADULTS M
A daring and disturbing play on loneliness. A man who lives on the edge of society, whose solace is with cats and opera. A victim of a male gang rape and about to be evicted from his only place of refuge, he relives his past life whilst facing an uncertain future.
16:00
01
02
# 45m 03
04
20:00 14:00 18:00 20:00 2-4-1 2-4-1
05
! Eng, Zul 06
07
08
$ Tickets 09
10
F
C
B
72
65
61
159 BE A BETTER DOG
BOY NTULIKAZI
African Tree Productions
~ ALL
Kwethu Productions
The play is set in the timeless world of heavenly life. In this world every man, animal or species is given an opportunity to speak about their worlds, their lives and what they experienced. In this case we tell the story of a dog. A story that runs the course of the dog’s life, from the very beginning, through the ups and downs, and how it adapted to the transitions that made up its roller coaster ride. Directed & performed by: Seiphemo Alex Motswiri Written by: Ikaneng Makhubalo
that is what this play is about.
@NG Kerk Hall 30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng, Tsw, Zul 06
10:00 20:30 12:30 2-4-1
07
08
09
F
C
B
Director: Kagiso Tsimakwane Writer: Thobani Nzuza & Kagiso Tsimakwane Music: Thobani Nzuza Performed by: Xolani Khowa Lighting Designer: Nkosingiphile Dlamini Stage Manager: Soyiso Ndaba
50
45
43
@Dicks
$ Tickets 10
14:30 20:30
30
Director: Dipuo Rooi Writer: Morwesi Theledi Choreography: Ashley Mabitsela Featuring: Karabo Nyauza, Dikeledi Motaung, Thoko Sibeko
02
# 1h 03
04
05
10:00 16:00
! Eng, Zul 06
07
20:00
Free!
08
$ Tickets 09
10
16:00 12:00
C
B
25
23
21
@NG Kerk Hall 30
16:00 20:00
02
# 1h 03
04
10:00 18:00
05
! Eng 06
01
02
# 1h 03
12:30 16:30
~ 18+ MLVP NFC
Writer / Director: Blessing Mbonambi Featuring: Junelle Stroh & Blessing Mbonambi
01
07
$ Tickets 08
09
! Eng, SA languages 06
07
08
09
10
10
$ Tickets F
C
B
60
50
40
~ 16+ L
This hilarious comedy tells the story of two cellmates as they dare to escape their fate in prison. A plan, 10 years in the making, is set in motion as they attempt to take back their freedom in this wild and wacky postmodern physical comedy. Elements of slapstick and stand-up are woven into a piece inspired by comedy teams such as Laurel and Hardy, the Three Stooges, Monty Python, the Goons and the Bucklands... And probably what goes on in Trevor Noah’s head.
Free!
This is a journey in two parts; the first follows the lives of two actors as they grapple with the underlying themes of a dramatic play. The second act is a comedic exploration of the teaching profession. This production company has, to date, received a total of 14 Namibian Film and Theatre nominations, winning three.
30
05
Director: Nicolas Hughes Featuring: Francis Mennigke and Musa Shozi
F
BLACK DOG-WHITE CAT
@Masonic Front
04
Nicolas Hughes, Francis Mennigke, Musa Shozi
14:00
The Troupe
03
~ ALL
Shattered Dream is about a young girl (Morwesi) who had a dream of becoming someone in life. But she made friends with bad company, and was introduced to drugs and a life of dating old rich men. Morwesi found herself charged with murder for the killing of her boyfriend. She was sentenced to 10 years in prison – her dream was ‘shattered’.
01
# 45m 02
BREAKING THE WALL
Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation
30
01
20:30 16:00 12:00 14:30 18:30
THE BEST OF GAUTENG: SHATTERED DREAM
@Masonic Back
~ 12+ M V NFC
This play argues the notion of Ubuntu, which is pivotal in justification of socio-behaviours. Boy Ntulikazi delves into challenges that determine the way individuals reflect on the world around them. It also probes issues of crime, which is the biggest challenge worldwide. The play alerts society to the ramifications of indiscretions in life. Just imagine an ideal world with no hunger for power, no crime or any issues, concerns or care for generations to come –
F
C
B
60
60
60
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
20:30 16:00 14:30
F
C
B
50
45
43
BRENT – A MOBILE THRILLER ~ 18+ PLNV VNA Productions (NOT FOR SENSITIVE VIEWERS) From multi award-winning director and designer, Quintin Wils, comes his latest production in the extremely popular Mobile Thriller series. In bRENT – A Mobile Thriller audiences will literally be taken on a journey through the streets of Grahamstown where they will be confronted with characters who believe in conversion therapy for gay people. Get ready to be part of the sold-out award-winning phenomenon which has been described as “...the most thrilling immersive theatre production ever experienced in South Africa!” Directed, designed and conceptualised by: Quintin Wils Writer: Herman Vorster Produced by: Vianney Henry Farmer for VNA Productions Featuring: Vianney Henry Farmer and Herman Vorster @Meet Outside Rhodes Theatre 30 01 02 03 18:30 18:30 18:30 18:30 20:30 20:30 20:30 20:30
# 1h10 04
! Eng
05 06 07 08 18:30 18:30 18:30 18:30 20:30 20:30 20:30 20:30
$ Tickets 09
10
F
C
B
75
75
75
160
161 CALABASH CHILDREN Bethvale Drama Group
~ ALL
A Tanzanian folktale with great, comical inserts. Mulima, a childless widow, prays to the Mountain Spirit for children. One magical morning, she finds her hut spotlessly clean. That night Mulima decides to feign sleep to discover the truth. Magically the 6 empty calabashes at her hearth turn into 6 beautiful children. “Cook, Clean, Sweep...” they chant as they do all the chores. Mulima calls them her Calabash Children but she starts beating them and... Director: Soraya Adams @Memory Hall 30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
! Eng, Tanz, Afr
05
06
07
08
10:00 16:00 19:00
09
$ Tickets 10
12:00
F
C
B
30
27
26
CALLUSSES Sakhisizwe Edutainment Productions ~ 12+ NFC The amount of hatred in our country is the reason behind our lack of development. We still have lots of racism, tribalism and xenophobia, which we keep on denying and it’s killing prosperity. We need to admit that we have a problem. Writer / Director: Sizwe Mcaka Featuring: Samkelo Nkabi, Melta Mthethwa and Lebeko Nketu @Glennie Festival Centre 30 14:00 Free!
01
02
03
# 45m
04
16:00 17:30 12:00
05
! Eng, Zul, Xho 06
07
08
09
$ Tickets 10
10:00 11:30 19:00
19:30
F
C
B
50
45
43
CENOTAPH OF DAN WA MORIRI Wits Theatre
~ ALL
Cenotaph of Dan wa Moriri is a poignant intimate story about a young man attempting to locate and preserve the memory of his father who has died. As he reconstructs his memories of his beloved father, a hairdresser, the audience too travels this road of remembrance that is funny, witty, clever and quintessentially human. Director: Gerard Bester Writer: Tony Miyambo and Gerard Bester in collaboration with William Harding Featuring: Tony Miyambo @St. Andrew’s Hall 30
01
02
03
# 1h 04
! Eng, Sotho
05
06
07
08
$ Tickets 09
10
10:00
12:00 20:30 12:00 22:30 16:00 –50%
F
C
B
70
63
60
CHAPTER 2 SECTION 9 Sibikwa Arts Centre
~ 14+ LSP
Sixty years since the women’s march to Pretoria against pass laws and discrimination and, despite our progressive constitution, women are still not guaranteed protection from bias on the basis of sexual orientation. 5 actors and a musician share real stories unravelling the hidden realities of lesbian women in South Africa. Writer / Director: Phyllis Klotz @Gymnasium 30
01
02
# 1h20 03
04
05
! Eng, SA languages 06
07
08
09
10
10:00 20:30 11:30 18:00 11:30
$ Tickets F
C
B
60
54
51
CHEERS TO SARAJEVO Cheers to Sarajevo
~ 16+ MLVS
On a visit to Johannesburg, British film-maker Pascale Lamche, involved in making a documentary about the siege of Sarajevo, publicly expressed her pleasant surprise at the realism of the individual portrayals and originality of this production in its entirety. This show has just returned from its international premiere in Austria! Director: Lidija Marelic Writers: Aimee Goldsmith & Lidija Marelic Featuring: Charlie Bouguenon, Miles Petzer, Julian Kruger & Aimee Goldsmith @PJ’s 30
# 1h30 01
02
03
04
05 18:00 Free!
! Eng, Bosnian 06
07
08
09
20:00 14:00 22:00 10:00
$ Tickets 10
F
C
B
50
45
43
162
163 CLUES ON THE SAND Galeshewe Theatre Organisation
~ ALL
Clues on the Sand is the story of an old San man (Bushman) of about 74yrs, Oom Andries, who has gone through many tragedies in his life, central of which was the loss of a son, a loss which he blames himself for. As a result, this has caused him to lose faith in himself and the ancient ways of his people. Writer / Director: Moagi Modise Choreography: Monwabisi Bangiwe Music composed & performed by: Joe Ntsako Makhanza Featuring: Sello Motloung, Madge Kola, Katlego Khunou and Fatima Lande @St. Andrew’s Hall 30
01
02
03
# 1h05 04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
10:00 16:30 18:00 Free!
F
C
B
10:00 12:00 50
45
43
09
10
22:30
COAT OF MANY COLOURS Dinaledi Dramatic Arts
~ ALL
Coat of Many Colours is a heart-rending and inspirational story told by four compelling performers. Set against the backdrop of squalor, heartache and Dolly Parton’s hit songs, it tells the story of a teenage girl raised by a single mother amid pain and tribulation. Told with tongue-incheek the play tries to reconnect an absent father with a rebellious but inquisitive daughter. It’s deftly written and directed with precision and promises to be one of the evergreen stories to emerge locally. Director: Martin Koboekae Writers: Martin Koboekae & Daniel Mooi Featuring: Daniel Mooi, Khanyisile Vilakazi, Nontobeko Mavundla & Palesa Kwena @Glennie Festival Centre 30
01
02
03
# 1h
04
! Eng
05
10:00 19:30 19:30
06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
18:30 20:30 16:00 13:30
–50%
F
C
B
80
72
68
10
COCK Matt Newman
~ 16+ ML
Unhappy in his relationship, John wants out. Or maybe just some time out? A break from his boyfriend for a few weeks. Or maybe months? Actually, the whole problem is John doesn’t know what he wants. But the last thing he expects, is to fall in love with a woman. “A theatrical gem” Cape Argus. “Engaging, eloquent and unique” WhatsoninCapeTown. Director: Paul Griffiths Writer: Mike Bartlett Featuring: Francis Chouler, Matt Newman, Melissa Haiden & James Skilton @Vicky’s 30
01
# 1h15 02
03
04
05
! Eng 06
14:00 14:00 16:00 22:30 18:00
07
$ Tickets 08
12:00
09
10
10:00
F
C
B
70
63
70
CONFESSION Lesedi African Theatre Production
~ ALL
Confession is the story of a police detective who is known to be fast and brutal in making hard-core criminals confess. He is married to his second wife who takes care of him. He bent the rules in the past, now it is his time to confess. Director: Shadrack Kgosiagae Writer: Ernest Kali
@Masonic Front 30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng, Tsw 06
07
08 09 10:00 18:00 Free!
16:00
$ Tickets 10
F
C
B
50
45
43
164 CONFESSIONS OF A STUDENT
DEATH POSTPONED
Tshwane University of Technology
~ PG M
Isomer Creative Arts Space NPC
When reality threatens to ruin your dreams, only determination and focus can save the day. A student from a poor family is faced with difficult choices when NSFAS didn’t pay her final year of studies. She vows to complete her qualification by all means necessary, but at what cost?. Writer / Director: Mashupe Phala @B2 Arena 30
01
# 50m 02
03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets
Written & directed by: Sonwabile Mfecane
F
C
B
14:00 20:30 10:00 16:00 40 Free!
36
34
08
09
10
@B2 Arena 30
01
# 1h05 02
03
04
CONVERSATION WITH MYSELF
–75%
30
01
02
03
10:00 14:00
04
05
! Eng 06
07
08
09
10
F
C
B
40
36
34
Tshwane University of Technology
@Dicks
Director: Nelson Motsoeneng # 45m 03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
15:00 17:00 15:00 17:00
F
C
B
40
36
34
CREATURE Man in the Moon Productions
~ PG NFC
Creature is set on a street corner in inner city Johannesburg. Three precocious larval characters emerge from the dirt to face the noise and movement of the city. They must quickly acquaint themselves with the inner workings of the streets or suffer being swallowed by the beastly City of Gold. Director: Feeya Asmal Featuring: Kirsten Stewart & Neo Sibiya @Masonic Front 30
01
02
# 45m 03
04 10:00 –25%
05
! Non-Verbal 06
07
08
$ Tickets 09
10
14:00 22:00 14:00
F
C
B
60
54
51
DANGLED ExploSIV Productions
~ 12+ M L
Rob van Vuuren teams up with a team of multi awardwinning collaborators to bring a brand new one man theatrical tour-de-force to the festival. A howling descent into madness.
30
01
02
03
# 1h 04
05
! Eng 06
20:00 20:30 12:00 20:30 22:30
07
$ Tickets 08
09
12:00 12:00
10
04
22:30 12:00 16:00
B
40
36
40
C
B
100 90
F
85
~ 10+ L
! Eng
05
06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
F
C
B
80
72
68
10
DENUDED THOUGHTS Nkosingiphile Dlamini
~ 14+ M
Denuded Thoughts is a two hander that explores the theme of hypocrisy and how society puts their faith in people who are bound to betray us. People who show the face that they feel is right to have their egos boosted or pockets fed. It follows the story of a man who takes the place of his twin brother who was a therapist. He had killed him for impregnating the love of his life. He counsels a family, which consists of a dirty, cheating pastor; a selfish gay brother; a gangster who is offered a deal to expose the criminal actions of the therapist, and a mother who is naive and scared to live her own life. Director: Nkosingiphile Dlamini Writer: Wanda Zuma & Samantha Tobela Featuring: Wanda Zuma & Sandile Magwaza @Dicks 30
01
# 55m 02
03
04
! Eng, Zul 06
05
12:00 –50%
$ Tickets F
C
B
16:00 14:00 10:00 14:00 50
45
43
07
08
09
10
DIE GLAS ENNIE DRAAD Artscape
~ 14+ L
Based on a true story from one of South Africa’s most notorious ganglands, Marlin is an active gang leader of over 3000 men and has recently survived an assassination. We journey into the mind of violence and abuse as Marlin reveals his life-story to ‘die kopdoktor’, Rob. From the offset it is evident to Rob that Marlin is suffering from mental and emotional instability. As the situation becomes increasingly more volatile our grasp of the monster and the man becomes blurred. Will Rob be able to leave unchanged or will he pay with his life? Director: Sandra Temmingh Writer: Daniel Mpilo Richards and Gantane Kusch Music composition: Phillip Glass Featuring: Daniel Mpilo Richards @Gymnasium 30
01
02
# 1h10 03
04
05
! Afr, Eng 06
18:00 20:30
Written by & featuring: Rob van Vuuren
@St. Andrew’s Hall
# 40m
01
~ PG M
A group of mentally upset people are contesting for a position in human minds, they go through the main problem in human life which is “Female + Male = confusion “ because when states are in confusion there will be faithful servants, relatives fall out with one another, there will be liable duty and love, and when cleverness and knowledge arise, great lies will flourish.
02
C
Director: Oriela van der Walt Writer: Josie Pelzer Featuring: Josie Pelzer, Graham Shirley and Oriela van der Walt
02 03 16:00 12:00 13:30 18:30 20:30 –50%
CREATING MINDS (A JOURNEY TO DISCOVER)
01
F
10
Hazel isn’t very good at living, so she tries something different. Instead of finding the peace she so desperately seeks she is caught in a place between this world and the next, where smart-talking and quick-witted Death, is anything but ordinary. Hazel realises she’s not that good at dying either.
30
30
$ Tickets 09
DEATH’S REJECT
$ Tickets
22:30
@Rehearsal Room
08
Rising Phoenix
Director: Nelsen Mokoena # 1h
07
~ PG
This play is about a struggling writer (Parker, 45 years old) trying to get noticed as an author. He has insomnia and takes medication for it, but it turns out that the aftereffects of the pills cause him to develop a second personality – Ezekiel (50). Ezekiel is an intelligent, hard-core writer who wants to get his writings established through Parker. But Parker is against that, because he knows that Ezekiel’s writings are fatal.
@St. Andrew’s Hall
! Eng, Xho 06
05
10:00
Youth In Trust
~ ALL
A freedom fighter returns to South Africa in 1992 with both arms missing, blind and hard of hearing. Rejected by his family, he finds a new family. He gets compensation from the government and the old family members return. Is it for the money? The new family, are they holding on to him for money? He wonders why he did not die in Angola in 1982, one and for all. Can he find out why his death got postponed?
07
08 09 09:00 20:30 20:30
$ Tickets 10
F
C
B
80
72
68
165
Directed, Designed & Conceptualized by Quintin Wils Written by Herman Vorster With Herman Vorster & Vianney Henry Farmer
166
167 DIRTY, BLOOD MONEY
EMKHATHINI
Tshwane University of Technology
01
03
Director: Green Mondlane
Director: Bongani Dlamini Writer: Nhanhla Mazibuko Choreographer: Sipho Mqotsha Music: Sanele Mzimela
04
05
! Eng 06
07
@Recreation Hall
$ Tickets 08
09 10 F 10:00 14:00 10:00 40 Free! 22:30
C 36
B 34
30
01
16:30 19:00 2-4-1
2-4-1
02
# 1h15 03
! Eng
$ Tickets
01
02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10:00 17:00 18:30 20:00 14:30 12:00 14:30 18:00 14:30 16:00 10:00
10
F
C
B
95
95
95
@NG Kerk Hall 30
01
02
# 55m 03
02
03
18:30 22:30 10:00
04
05
14:00
! Eng 06
07
20:00
$ Tickets 08
09
10
18:00 14:00
C
B
70
63
70
03
04
05
07
30
01
02
09
10
F
C
B
80
80
68
Director: Qondiswa James Workshopped by: Zukisani Nongogo, Qondiswa James & Mandla Mpanjukelwa Featuring: Qondiswa James, Mandla Mpanjukelwa and Zukisani Nongogo
01
02
03
04
05 10:00 Free!
! Xho, Eng 06
14:00
66
62
07
F
C
B
45
43
09
04
05
$ Tickets
09 10 F 10:00 14:30 16:00 10:00 65 22:30 07
08
C
B
59
55
~ PG
! Eng 06
$ Tickets
07
08
09
10
F
C
B
50
45
43
FLORENCE ~ PG LP
Florence is a play about a young girl who grew up on a farm with her family as farm workers. When the farm owner chases them away and sells the farm to new owners, Florence decides to go to Johannesburg to look for a job, get the money and buy back a piece of the farm so that her family can live on the farm again.
30
01
02
# 1h 03
10
04
05
! Eng 06
07
10:00
16:30 12:00 18:30 –25%
$ Tickets 08
09
10
22:30
F
C
B
61
55
52
~ ALL FREE SOULS Walter Sisulu University - Ibika Campus Drama A theatre piece where music, drama, poetry, dance and religion are fused. We’ll see the devil and the god argue and agree. The piece takes you to another world of inhabited by the souls of people who knew each other on our world. This is the complete journey of the soul – mind, spirit, love, family, hatred and forgiveness. Director: Luvo Jaza @Recreation Hall 30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng, Xho 06
07
08
10:00 14:30 16:00 12:00 Free!
$ Tickets
12:00 22:00 16:00 50
08
! Eng 06
Fitzgerald Goeieman Production
~ 14+ P
‘Jim’ has been away in Cape Town as part of the migrant labour force that lives in Khayelitsha. In his absence from the Eastern Cape – emaXhoseni – his wife has passed away, and he must now return home to mourn her. This is the story about how Jim must reconcile the urban and the rural, how he must come face to face with what has really been lost in the rural Transkei, how he must mourn the passing of a culture, a people, a way of life that is rapidly giving way to urban city culture, mass development and appropriation.
30
73
~ 14+ M
10:00 20:00
EMHLAB’ OBOMVU Embo Arts collective
# 50m
05
# 40m 03
@NG Kerk Hall
$ Tickets 08
10:00 16:30 16:30 18:00 10:00 19:30
@Dicks
B
Director: Itumeleng Motsikoe Writer: Fitzgerald Goeieman Featuring: Aobakwe Phetlhu, Tsholofelo Potsane & Keitumetse Baitsi
! Eng 06
C
winning production.
~ ALL
Write / Director: Andrew Simpson Choreography: Deon Bisschoff Featuring: Richard Antrobus & Estelle Terblanche
02
F
The Festival of Excellence in Dramatic Arts (FEDA) is the most prestigious high school one-act play festival in Gauteng, celebrating excellence in dramatic arts from the best drama departments. FEDA is made up of two festivals: the original plays festival and the scripted play festival. Thereafter, the finalists compete for the best FEDA production overall. At the time of going to print, the winner had not been decided – watch Cue for details on the
The sold-out smash of last year’s Festival returns for the last time. Maestros Antrobus and Terblanche play two destined soul mates trying to find each other in this breathtaking feel good adventure told through a mix of dance, shadow puppetry, physical theatre and visual effects. Don’t miss this one!
01
$ Tickets 10
FEDA Festival
DREAMS
30
04
@Gymnasium
F
Andrew Simpson Productions
@NELM Museum of Theatre # 45m
09
FEDA WINNING PLAY
~ PG NFC
Director: Luke Ellenbogen Written & choreographed by: Genna Galloway & Natasha van der Merwe Featuring: Genna Galloway, Natasha van der Merwe and Shenay O’Brien
01
08
Director: Khutjo Green Writer: Jon Keevy Featuring: Briony Horwitz & Cara Roberts
Critics called it “fun with a capital F” and audiences flocked! This hilariously camp coming-of-age musical comedy will thrill you, no matter which side of 30 you’re on. From catchy tunes, like “Dear Future Husband” and “Born This Way”, to glittering costumes, both witty and sexy, you’ll be screaming for more.
30
07
From the team behind A Girl Called Owl, this story of two sisters in the aftermath of a car crash returns to NAF in 2016 with a fresh twist. A play about silence and noise. About old habits, miracles and spare parts. About the strange, powerful moments that carve into memory like water through sand.
DRAGGING 30 Page to Stage Productions
# 1h15
! Eng, Tsw, Zul 06
EVERY BEAUTIFUL THING
Writer: Andrew Simpson Featuring: Andrew Simpson, Dominique Maher & Alastair Kingon
@Vicky’s
05
Briony Horwitz
~ PG LP
The show to see in 2016! Simpson (Ghost Story) and Maher (The Rocky Horror Show) lead an all-star cast in this brand new gothic fairy tale. Two worlds divided. A devil’s pact. A mysterious killer. And a hunt for the King of the Underworld - Dracula. Haunting, captivating and riveting!
@NELM Museum of Theatre # 1h10
04
16:30 14:30
DRACULA Andrew Simpson Productions
30
~ ALL
Powerful spirit beings are in control, but his family is in denial... And with both ancestors there’s even more trouble.
# 45m 02
Alexandra Youth In Action Ensemble
A young girl fights to keep her brother alive after losing both parents and ends up making sacrifices that come back and haunt her.
@B2 Arena 30
~ PG M
2-4-1
2-4-1
$ Tickets 09
10
F
C
B
45
41
38
168
169 GHOST HOUSE
HAVE YOU SEEN ZANDILE?
Abahlobo Theatre Productions
~ 10+ NFC
Sharon’s haven of utopia has turned her into a pill-popping zombie to numb the pain her divorce from Deon has left her in. The garden boy, worried about what his employer has turned into, suggests strong Muthi to the madam to chase the ‘Ghost’ away! Writer / Director: Simphiwe Vikilahle Featuring: Lonwabo Xatasi, Olwethu Mdala and Khanyile Mgqwanci @Masonic Back 30
01
02
# 50m 03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
10:00 20:00 12:00 18:00 22:00
Waterford Kamhlaba
Director: Benedict Clark Writer: Gcina Mhlophe, Maralyn Reenan and Thembi Mtshali
F
C
B
50
45
43
@Vicky’s 30 12:00 Free!
GHOST STORY Andrew Simpson Productions
Writer: Andrew Simpson Featuring: Andrew Simpson & Estelle Terblanche
30
01
02
03
04
20:30 18:00 16:30
05
! Eng 06
18:00
07
$ Tickets 08
09
01
# 1h30 02
03
04
10
10:00 20:00 18:00
F
C
B
80
80
68
~ PG M
On the main road leading to the glittering city of Kilnertonehoek there is an old abandoned graveyard known as “Ghost-Town”. The place is filthy, notorious, despised and feared by the local people. The gloomy abode of these humiliated and out-cast people brings a poignant story of courage, love and unity through music, dance and poetry.
30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng 06
09
10:00 12:30 Free!
F
C
B
14:30 40
36
34
10
22:30 19:30
30 16:00 Free!
~ PG M
Refiloe and Matlakala were talking over the fence about their husbands who went to the mines of Rustenburg and never came back. The two husbands, Paul and Rex, were busy having fun at the mines, but when the reality of life caught up with them, it was a bitter pill to swallow.
@Rehearsal Room 30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng 06
$ Tickets F
C
B
13:00 21:00 14:00 10:00 40
36
34
07
08
09
10
THE GRAVEYARD Rust Co-Operative
~ 16+ ML
A rolling pin. An iron. A lamp, a picture frame, a vase (one of many). Bottles, both empty and yet to be emptied. A graveyard of forgotten objects. A man returns to the basement of his childhood home to dig up his past. From three-time Standard Bank Ovation Award-winners, Rust Co-Operative. Writer / Director: Philip Rademeyer Featuring: Gideon Lombard, Bo Petersen & Sarah Potter @Princess Alice Hall 30
01
02
03
# 1h05 04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 Free!
10
F
C
B
60
54
51
$ Tickets 10
F
C
B
70
63
60
01
02
# 1h15 03
04
05
Featuring: Lee-Ann van Rooi
! Eng, Afr 06
07
08
$ Tickets 09
10
16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00
F
C
B
80
72
68
I AM AND WE ARE Ignited Ink
~ ALL M
In these times when our looks and status have become the epitome of our existence; while we are clothed in religion, yet immorally sailing in the sea of death; who are you and where do you stand? Director: Kakaretso Mopedi
30
A GIFT FROM THE MINES
09
~ 12+ L
Director: Sandra Temmingh Writer: Peter Voges
@Gymnasium
Tshwane University of Technology
08
Wife to Charlie, mother to Mercia, sister to Rosie, friend to Freda, neighbour to big Mrs Castens, Henrietta speaks of her life with love. She shares her traditions, her “swear by’s” and her culture. Henrietta explores the meaning of things, troubles of the mind, ginger squares, Protea Village they now call Bishops Court, nerve pills, the war in North Africa, her favourite cerise pill box hat with matching petals and a veil that Mrs Castens said made her look like a pond lily, upright and beautiful... And one day, everything changed...
$ Tickets 08
07
07
HENRIETTA WITH LOVE
Director: Blessing “Aca Joe” Nkabinde @Glennie Hall
! Eng, Zul, Xho 06
Artscape
@Gymnasium
GHOST TOWN Tshwane University of Technology
05
18:00 20:00 18:00
~ 16+ MLP
SA’s Number One thriller on stage is back for the final time at the fest. Jack and Michelle Bouvier appear to be the perfect couple, but soon the ghosts from their past begin to reveal themselves in terrifying ways that will leave you on the edge of your seat! Don’t miss this one!
@NELM Museum of Theatre # 50m
~ ALL
Have You Seen Zandile? has become a classic of South African theatre. In this production the moving story of a young girl’s relationships with the important women in her life, the trials of her coming of age, is told by a group of talented young women theatre students from Swaziland’s United World College – Waterford Kamhlaba. The play treats powerful themes with a sensitive touch and is infused throughout with heart-warming vocal music. Come and enjoy this colourful, moving and uplifting family show.
20:00 –25%
01
02
# 50m 03
04
05
! Eng, Sotho, Zulu 06
07
08
09
$ Tickets 10
12:30 14:00 10:00
F
C
B
42
38
36
IMPIXANO / CONFLICT Thembelani Drama Group
~ ALL
Lundi, a hunchback from a disadvantaged family, is in love with Yonela who is from the Royal family. Royal families believe that their children should only marry into another Royal family. Lundi is very distressed as Yonela’s family rejects his attempt to marry his beloved. His family has also been threatened that if he continues pursuing Yonela, his family may be chased away from his place of birth. However, Yonela loves Lundi and does all she can to convince her parents to allow her marry her beloved. Writer / Director: Thembelani Martin Ntukwana Music: Sakiwo Mpoza Featuring: Luvo Xegwana, Sihle Masiza, Baxolile Nondonga & Yolanda Xegwana @Glennie Festival Centre 30
01
02
03
04
# 1h05 05
! Xho, Eng 06
07
08
$ Tickets 09
10:00 12:00 15:30 –25%
10
F
C
B
40
36
34
170
Dark Laugh Theatre Company presents:
Whistle Stop
“An excellent piece of theatre: beautifully polished and spellbinding...” – (Critter, Sarah Roberson 2014) "Fabulous script, outstanding performance!”(Cue, Lisl Griffioen 2014)
171 IN HER SHOES!
KONTINUUM
Kwethu Kreationz
~ ALL
Dryfsand ~ ALL
This is a one-woman show that explores the life of a street beggar, a woman that begs from strangers in order to provide for her family. She finds herself in rather interesting predicaments, which brings comedic relief whist exploring the cruel realities of her circumstance.
An intercontinental love story that starts in Johannesburg and ends in a street café in Paris. This creative multi-media production uses live sand animation, shadow theatre, guitar and voice to quietly reflect on themes of love and belonging. Expect a visual feast and beautiful music, a show that will leave you space to dream.
Director: Ntombi Nkuna Written & performed by: Sindiwe Mntonintshi, mentored by Ntombi Nkuna @Dicks 30
01
# 1h 02
03
04
! Xho, Eng
05
06
07
Director: Naomi van Niekerk Music: Arnaud van Vliet Featuring: Naomi van Niekerk, Arnaud van Vliet
$ Tickets
08
09
F
C
B
75
68
64
10
10:00 22:00 18:30 14:00
@Bowling Club 30
01
02
INCOGNITO University of Venda
~ PG L
# 40m
04 05 06 07 08 12:00 10:00 16:00 21:30 18:30 12:00 14:30
A powerful reflection of daily challenges.
30
01
# 55m 02
18:30
14:00 Free!
03
04
05
07
09
F
C
B
25
23
21
10
# 1h
30
Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports Foundation
~ 16+ M
02 01 14:00 10:00 22:30 –50% 20:30 2-4-1
03
This play examines the absurd situation of two men from opposite backgrounds, one a former successful lawyer, the other a carefree ex-criminal, brought together by their tragic past. They immerse themselves in far-fetched ideas that they believe will make them rich again, but reality soon catches up with them.
14:00 –50%
02
20:30
# 1h10
03
04
22:30
05
! Eng 06
07
09
F
C
B
50
45
50
10
Craig Morris / Untouchable Productions
# 1h10
10:00
14:00 20:00 10:00 18:00 2-4-1
2-4-1
03
04
05
30
01
02
03
10:00
F
C
B
72
68
08
09
10
Wits Theatre
~ ALL
Kafka’s Ape is a one-hander that rides on physicality to express the character and its world. The deliberate physicality is meant to reference the physical self as a point of external identity conflicting with the internal identity. Relaying his story, Red Peter speaks from the heart and wants everyone to share the depth of his ape to human transformation story. The play attempts to communicate how humankind has far to go to create societies that break rather than fuse chains that limit identity in terms of personal freedom and development. Director: Phala O. Phala
Adaptation by: Phala O. Phala
@St. Andrew’s Hall 30
01
02
03
# 55m 04
05
Featuring: Tony Miyambo
! Eng 06
07 16:00 10:00 18:30 16:30 18:30 12:30 22:30
# 40m 04
$ Tickets 08
05
09
10
F
C
B
70
63
60
08
$ Tickets 09
10
! Eng 06
07 Free!
F
C
B
50
45
43
$ Tickets F
C
B
20:30 22:30 10:00 63
57
54
08
09
10
LITTLE CADRE Euripides Pro Pty (Ltd) ~ 14+ M An explosive and emotionally taxing production which focuses on the role that each individual plays in either improving this country, or retaining its corrupt state. We follow the story of young Zuko, who pays dearly for his parent’s negligence and inability to protect him from his own corrupt uncle. Writer / Director: Godfrey Manenye Featuring: Berlie Swart, Magnus McPhail, Rondo Mpiti & Troy Myeni @B2 Arena
KAFKA’S APE
07
10:00
$ Tickets
14:00 16:00 10:00 80
07
06
~ 14+ MLS
! Eng, Afr, Zul 06
! Eng, Zul
05
Director: Tate Mhunduru
Director: Roslyn Wood-Morris & Craig Morris Writer: Greig Coetzee Music: Syd Kitchen Featuring: Craig Morris
02
85
Anti-mimesis - life imitates art. It is the longing of every living being to find expression. This production is the story of a person exploring various ways of finding expression in everything they do. The artist who gives life it’s meaning.
Where does Johnny Boskak fit in the new South Africa? Is he a white trash dinosaur? Or is he the last cowboy hero in boots and blue jeans? What we know is that he’s on the road, looking for love, redemption, an AK47 and the quickest way out of Secunda...
01
04
@St. Andrew’s Hall
JOHNNY BOSKAK IS FEELING FUNNY
30
100 90
LE MORCEAU
$ Tickets 08
16:30 18:30 14:00
@Kingswood Theatre
B
Rayna ~ 12+ M
Written & directed by: Sekiswa Sewanywa
01
C
Director: Thabani Mahlobo Writer: Hugh Mhlengi Mhlongo @Dicks
IS IT TOO LATE
30
F
Climate change and global warming mayhem; kill or be killed. Answers might be in the Zulus, the sky, the mountain, the sangoma or the mayor. Perhaps the dance of the men from the Northern part of KwaZulu Natal will give us clues. Be part of solving the puzzle of The Last Drop.
$ Tickets 08
12:30 16:30 16:00
@St. Andrew’s Hall
$ Tickets 10
Samnqoba Productions ~ ALL
! Eng 06
09
THE LAST DROP
Director: Nyalungu Promise
@B2 Arena
! Visual theatre
03
30
01
# 1h15 02
03
04
05 10:00 Free!
! Eng, Zul 06
07
08
$ Tickets 09
12:00 20:30 16:00 12:00
10
F
C
B
60
54
51
172
Gabisile Motuba, Juliana Madiba, Litha Mazizi, Kamogelo Nche and Tshepo Mokoane An enchanting music sensation depicting an eloquent woman who is in search of her dreams learns the hard lessons through the challenges that she faces as a young artist. She embarks on a new journey as she escapes from her past to find somebody or anyone who will not milk her voice. Will the eloquent woman awaken the still-stained city with her milked voice by instilling hope into the remainder of the truthful artists that are left in this city? We meet a saxophone lady, a bass player, and a producer, all yearning to re-live their dreams too... When all worlds cross, do the missing puzzles of each characters dreams become fulfilled, or not? Slindile Mthembu’s offering is bound to take you on a reflective journey as she uses the teachings of theatre to reflect the times artists are living in. The stage is set in post-apartheid South Africa with a live four piece band.
Venue: City Hall 05/07 12:00, 06/07 22:30, 08/07 19:00, 09/07 12:30, 10/07 12:00, powerd by mabu art-foundation
173 LOVE RUNS OUT PATO Productions
~ 16+ M L N
Can love truly run out? From Cooper Williams, a hitman in search of love guided by his mentor, who believes that loves only originates from below the belt, to Michael and Vera’s desperate, fragmented display of love... Hit & Match and Unveiling explore this idea from two very different perspectives. Director: Johan Van Rooyen Featuring: Lee William Speechly, Lisa Nightshade, Darren Meltz, Miskar Chomse @Dicks 30
01
# 1h20 02
03 10:00 –25%
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
F
C
B
81
73
69
10
22:30 18:30 20:30
MALALAPIPE PJS Entertainment and Projects
~ ALL
This is a story of homeless young people who live on the streets with no contact with their parents and who depend entirely on the street for shelter. Due to their circumstances they had been branded as street kids. In reality, they ran away from neglect, poverty, the breakdown or the chaos of life with drug-addicted families, verbal, physical and sexual abuse... Writer / Director: Lesley Letebele Featuring: Kabelo Mpete, Mpho Mzima, Marcia Moloto & Thabang Mothupi @Recreation Hall 30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng, Tsw 06
07
08
$ Tickets
F 10:00 20:30 16:00 51 –25% 09
10
C
B
46
43
16:00
MALUJU ZULU! Isikhwili Creative Productions
~ ALL
Maluju Zulu! is an Afrocentric tale of love, war and reconciliation. It is a musical based on faction war (Impi yombango). The word “Maluju” is usually said when an opponent wants a cease fire indicating that he is no longer interested in fighting. The story is told through music, acting, poetry and powerful Zulu dances and is a celebration of the Zulu culture. Writer / Director: Bonginkosi Shangase Featuring: Bongani Mbatha, Sbongile Mthethwa, Musa Mntambo, Sphamandla Zwane. @Gymnasium 30
01
02
# 1h30 03
04
05
! Zul, Eng 06
10:00
07
$ Tickets
08
09 22:30 16:00 11:30 18:00
10
F
C
B
70
63
60
A MAN AND A DOG Here Manje & KB Theatre Productions
~ ALL
The Fleur du Cap nominated and 2015 Silver Standard Bank Ovation Award-winning A Man and a Dog returns to the National Arts Festival. “The play makes use of oral tradition, song, instrumentation and physical theatre to weave together a retelling of our collective family as South Africans. A rediscovery of ourselves. A remembering of what it means to be of this country.” - Penelope Youngleson. www.heremanje.com Written & directed by: Penelope Youngleson @Princess Alice Hall 30
# 55m
! Eng
$ Tickets F
C
B
11:30 11:30 11:30 11:30 11:30 11:30 11:30 11:30 11:30 11:30 11:30 75 –50%
68
64
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
174
175 MASECHABA THE POETESS
MPINGA MORNINGS
Jika Theatre Movement Pty/Ltd
~ PG LVP
Theatre for Africa
In her poetry accompanied by percussionists and traditional music, Masechaba, the poetess, uses HIV/Aids as a metaphor for corruption, instigating the communities to fight against the corrupt police force and poor services by the government. Madubula accepts that HIV/Aids is not just a disease but also a system that is bigger than a few people dying. He implicates heads of states as part of the bigger system of things. Poor Jabula is forced to choose between his loyalty to Madubula and the ills of the system. Eventually Masechaba pushes Madubula too far.
@Glennie Festival Centre 30
01
02
# 1h30
04
03
05
30
! Eng, Sotho 06
07
08
Director: Coleen van Staden Writer & Music composition: Roger Hawkins Featuring: Debi Thomas Hawkins @Drill Hall
Writer / Director: Goitsemang Pholo Featuring: Lebo Leisa, Lehlohonolo ‘Styx’ Mokejane, Napo Nonyane
10
10:00
21:30 16:00 14:00 20:00 2-41
01
# 50m 02
03
F
C
B
80
72
68
Writer / Director: Slindile Mthembu Choreography: Matsemela Mogotlane Composition: Michael Themba Music performed by: Thamie Mahlangu (sax), Tshiamo Nkoane (drums, bass, piano) Featuring: Gabisile Motuba, Litha Mzizi, Juliana Madiba, Kamogelo Nche, Tshepo Mokoena & Thamie Mahlangu
30
01
# 55m 02
03
04
05
! Eng 06
Free!
F
C
B
45
43
08
09
10
Writer / Director: Steader Nkwinti Choreography: Nyaniso Swartbooi Featuring: Akhona Mafani, Sithembile Mshubi, Azola Jela & Asive Boy
01
02
# 40m 03
04
05
! Xho, Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 09
10
C
B
100 90
F
85
~ PG MLV
Writer / Director: Abbey Maeane Featuring: Bongani Tshabalala, Selinah Mokejane & Boiki Motaung @B2 Arena 30
01
# 1h 02
03
04
05
! Eng, Sotho, Zulu 06
07
08
09
$ Tickets 10
10:00 16:30 22:30 12:00 14:00 Free!
F
C
B
50
45
43
NARRATIVE DREAMS Seeds of Water
08
Director: Omphile Molusi Writer: Lereko Mfono Featuring: Titus Mekgwe, Aubrey Mogale @Oatlands Hall 30
01
02
# 50m 03
10
12:00 18:00 16:00 14:00 12:00
F 40
2-4-1
C 36
05
! Eng, Sotho
$ Tickets
F 17:30 17:30 17:30 17:30 17:30 14:00 50 –50%! 06
07
08
09
10
C
B
45
43
B
Modise Sekgothe
34
Necrophilia, a story of two troubled men who go into the darkest of places in search of love and belonging. Two morticians, addicted to fornicating with corpses, find themselves confronted with what it means to love and the extent to which we go to avoid being alone.
MORWA THE RISING SON Artscape
04
NECROPHILIA
$ Tickets 09
~ 10+
Two boys from different worlds, Morena and David, puzzle their way through the tumultuous, playful years of childhood life in search of friendship, acceptance and wholeness. As they grow into adolescence, they try to make sense of the world into which they are moving and whether they can ever realise their dreams.
~ ALL
Witness the erosion of the values of Ubuntu – because of money. Money-lenders weave a cobweb of exploitation and abuse and the elderly are the victims. Life is jungle, where money hawks hunt for invalids and pensioners and also for human parts. The main character, Take-it-Easy, embodies these atrocities.
30
08
They say, “what you sow is what you reap”. A beautiful young girl, Zanele, find herself caught between a rock and hard place. Tangled, not knowing who to listen to - her mother, her father or her boyfriend. We say God gave us His instructional orders as the base for our decision making. You’re whatever you choose. Your choice has the potential to set you forth or back.
MONEY SPEAKS Nyaluza Drama Group
@Masonic Back
07
$ Tickets
19:00 12:30 12:00 50
07
12:00 22:30
! Eng, Shona 06
MY CHOICE
~ PG L
An unknown still-stained city of pasts is established as the humming tunes of an eloquent woman, who truly yearns for people to not milk her dream, but to gently carry it like how a mother would delicately carry her baby on her back, instil hope into a saxophone lady, a bass player, and a producer.
@City Hall
05
Motswako in partnership with Linothile Productions
MILKED VOICE Slindile Mthembu
04
12:30 20:30 14:30 17:00 12:00 16:00 22:00 18:00 18:00
$ Tickets 09
~ ALL
Mpinga Mornings is a powerful play that features the lives of three women, a mother, a daughter and a maid, whose lives are bound together by a farm and a common history. Set in the turbulent recent Zimbabwean troubles, the story spans the Rhodesian Civil War through to the land invasions and economic collapse.
~ 14+ L
This one-man play is a combination of storytelling, presentational theatre and ritual. The play follows the story of Morwa, a young Motswana man and his journey of discovering what it means to be a man. The play is based on personal narrative and looks to evoke dialogue and a better understanding of the challenges faced by young men in Africa and African youth on the whole. Through an individual’s personal story the play, intimately explores
~ ADULTS L
Director: Karabo Tshikube Writer: Modise Sekgothe Featuring: Masibulele Madasa, Swankie Mafoko, & Modise Sekgothe @Dicks 30 12:00 –25%
01
# 1h 02
03
04
05
! Eng, Tsw, Xho 06
07
08
09
$ Tickets 10
14:00 18:30 20:30 15:30
F
C
B
61
55
52
issues of masculine identity. Director: Warren Nebe Writer: Tefo Paya @Gymnasium 30
01
02
# 55m 03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
14:00 14:00 14:00 14:00 14:00 14:00 14:00 Free!
NEXT DOOR TO HAPPINESS LIVES SORROW (THABO LE MAHLOMOLA)
Featuring: Tefo Paya, Volley Nchabeleng
10
F
C
B
80
72
68
Central University of Technology, Free State ~ PG As the title of this show says, after every happy moment one can expect sorrow. We must not believe that there will always be happy times. Written & directed by: Joe Radebe & Lesitsi Ligunya
@PJ’s 30
# 45m 01
02
03
04
05
! Eng, Soth, Zul 06
07
08
10:00 18:00
09
$ Tickets 10
F
C
B
30
30
26
176
177
178 NINE TO FIVER’S ANTHEM
PEOPLE BENEATH OUR FEET
Black Canvas Productions
~ PG L
Hungry Minds Productions
“‘Cause that’s what we’re working hard for, ranking in credit ,and I’m worth a lot even after deductions...” this highly stylised tragic comedy looks into the life of a man working a nine to five job, conflicted by many challenges, the worst of which is his son’s suicide attempt. Director: Thabiso Rammala Writer: Lotanang Makoti
@Dicks 30
01
# 50m 02
03
04
05
10:00 12:30 20:30
! Eng 06
07
09
10
22:30 14:00
–25%
Director: Blythe Stuart Linger Writer: Kiroshan Naidoo & Katya Mendelson Featuring: Kiroshan Naidoo, Roberto Kyle Meyer, Ameera Conrad, Kathleen Stephens
$ Tickets 08
F
C
B
@Glennie Hall
70
70
70
30
01
–50%
OKAPI
Writer / Director: Thabo Motlhabi @Recreation Hall 01
02
Music composition: Kholofelo Kola
# 1h30 03
04
05
! Eng, Afr, Tsotsi 06
07
08
09
$ Tickets 10
14:00 16:30 19:00 20:30 Free!
2-4-1
# 1h 03
2-4-1
F
C
B
55
50
47
# 50m
02
03
04
05
20:30 16:30 12:00 12:00
@B2 Arena 30
01
07
03
04
05
03
05
09
10
B
@Gymnasium
70
70
60
30
01
02
# 1h30 03
04
! Eng 07
20:00 –25%
12:00
# 1h30 04
10:00 14:00
05
C
B
22:30
C
B
72
68
54
51
~ PG MR NFC
07
~ 16+ V
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
2-4-1
F
C
B
40
36
34
08
$ Tickets 09
10
~ ALL
Writer / Director: Zintle Ntshoko Choreography: Mbongeni Nomkhonwana & Lwanda Sindaphi Featuring: Nomasonto Tshabalala &, Mbongeni Nomkhonwana
30
! Sotho 06
F 80
10
Push-ah! – the journey of a loving father. With greasy hands of compassion Tatu Skorokoro, a car mechanic, mends his broken daughter’s 20-year-old car. It reminds her father of his first love, becoming a doctor. Together they steer each other back on track, both dealing with the disappearance of Tatu’s wife. Push-ah! is a witty, innovative and award-winning storytelling craft.
Writer / Director: Lebo Leisa Composition: Lebo Leisa and Ntsiki Ndzume Music performed by: Volley Nchabeleng Featuring: Ntsiki Ndzume, Nthabiseng Mojaki, Mannini Nkata & Nonkosi Sokoyi
03
09
PUSH-AH!
Paleho is a story inspired by the history and heritage of the Basotho nation. A musical show that is based on the life of a young girl who is on a quest for self-identity and is forced by circumstances to know and understand her roots. This is witnessed when this young girl finds herself in an initiation school where she is carried by the music, dances and the humanity of the people she is surrounded by.
02
$ Tickets 08
Push-ah Dream Project
$ Tickets
08 09 10 F 10:00 14:00 14:00 60 16:30
Lebo Leisa
01
07
~ PG M
@Dicks
30
51
Director: Jennifer Onopa Writer: Jackie Sibblies Drury
C
Free!
06
54
University of Massachusetts-Amherst presentation by Jackie Sibblies Drury. Both humorous and harrowing, an acting ensemble attempts to dramatise the Herero genocide. While wrestling with racial representation, they encounter their biases and realise the story hits close to home.
F
PALEHO
@St. Andrew’s Hall
! Eng 06
18:00 11:30 22:30 16:00
# 45m 04
60
UMass Amherst Department of Theater
Only when the doors and windows of a house are open and the blinds are raised can you see inside and, even then, there are secrets hidden inside drawers, under mattresses and tucked inside of books.
02
B
~ ALL
14:00 18:00 18:30
OPEN
01
C
A PRESENTATION ABOUT THE HERERO OF NAMIBIA
$ Tickets 08
Free Fire Productions
30
F
10
21:30
# 1h30 02
Free!
16:30 10:00 18:00
@St. Andrew’s Hall
09
~ 10+ NFC
! Eng 06
$ Tickets 08
Writer / Director: J.Bobs Tshabalala Music: Bernett Mulungo Featuring: Billy Langa & Mbali Malinga
Director: Kirsten Harris Featuring: Ryan Dittmann & Tebogo Machaba
01
07
This play probes the thrilling landscape that is the ‘Poetry In Performance’ realm that exists in the underbelly of South Africa’s art-house circles. Observed is the relationship between two poets, “The Guru” and “The Grasshopper”. Scrutinized is how they respectively relate to the holistic scene, and how they both negotiate this illusive and mysterious under-world, with the more urgent and conventional real-world. Poet.O.Type follows the journeys of an eager student and his dynamic teacher.
“The only title in our democracy superior to that of President is the title of citizen.” (Loius Brandeis). One Zero One 777 tells the collected stories of some of the bravest civil servants working in Johannesburg. This piece is an offering and a social x-ray of the stories that form part of a broader understanding of our shared and collective experience as South Africans living in cities.
30
06
POET.O.TYPE
ONE ZERO ONE 777
@NG Kerk Hall
! Eng
05
Kiri Pink Nob
10:00
Hijinks Theatre
04
19:00 14:30 17:30
~ 14+ MLV
This suspense thriller follows a notorious gangster who confesses to a multitude of knife crimes because he believes he’s dying, a decade into his life sentence his daughter is raped and disemboweld. He vows to avenge her before her burial, and his daughter’s murderers start dying one by one. The police are puzzled – some believe he bought a free pass from prison, others believe he uses muthi. At every murder scene the message is clear “Okapi was here”.
30
02 10:00
The Northern Cape Theatre Conservatoire
~ 14+ L
“Do not despair at the sounds outside. They can be overcome. If you can stay brave.” Beneath the marching boots of a destructive force, four people hide. Once-strong relationships and firmly held notions are crumbling. What aspects of humanity do you preserve when you’re made to live like you’re not human?
F
C
B
50
45
43
01
# 1h 02
03
04
05
! Eng, Xho 06
10:00 14:30 18:30 Free!
07
08
$ Tickets 09
22:30 12:00
10
F
C
B
60
54
51
179
180 RACE TROUBLE
RED EYE SOLDIERS
ScruffySession Productions
~ 10+ M P
“Were they black?” So often, this is the question asked when one is robbed, assaulted or killed. Crime, violent crime, is rampant in South Africa, racial tensions fester and our post-apartheid society is sadly no rainbow nation. In Race Trouble, Divya (Durban Theatre Award nominee, Kamini Govender), a victim of a violent crime, and Menzi (Durban Theatre Award-winner, Sboniso Msimango), a trauma counsellor, must confront their own prejudices. What Divya and Menzi realise is that they may be just as bad as the people whose ideas they’ve always hated. Director: Ndabenhle Christopher Tobo Writer: Devaksha Moodley Featuring: Sboniso Msimango & Kamini Govender @Masonic Front 30
01
20:00 16:00 2-4-1
2-4-1
02
# 1h 03
04
16:00 14:00 20:00
05
! Eng 06
07
Tshwane University of Technology
~ PG M
A group of different guys form a gang called “Red Eye Soldiers”. They have something in common, living in poverty and hustling to make it through the day. They all have a different story to tell because of their different backgrounds (unemployment, sick grandparents, drug abuse). This group wants to be forgiven. Director: Bonginkosi Mashilo @Rehearsal Room 30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
F
C
B
17:00 10:00 12:00 40 Free! 16:00
36
34
09
10
$ Tickets 08
09
10
F
C
B
40
30
30
VENUE: VICKY’S 30 June-18:30 6 July-20:00
1 July-22:30
8 July-18:00
2 July-10:00
9 July-14:00
4 July-14:00
NATASHA VAN DER MERWE / SHENAY O’BRIEN / GENNA GALLOWAY
181 RUN Siyakha Performing Artists
~ 14+ L
This is the story of two brothers from Kwanonguqa in KwaZulu Natal. They come from one of the most prominent families in the village but all of that changed after the death of their grandfather. As the story unfolds it reveals the impact that love, trust, honesty and hope can have on our families and on society. Director: Sbusiso Ntsalaze Writer: Dumisani Kubheka @Vicky’s 30
01
# 45m 02
03
04
05
! Eng, Zul 06
07
08
$ Tickets 09
10
14:30 20:30 16:00 10:00
F
C
B
50
45
43
SALT Wynne Bredenkamp
~ PG
This Standard Bank Ovation Award and PANSA New Writer Award-winning drama follows a schizophrenic who encounters a new doctor intent on dragging her out of her drug-induced amnesia. Selling out performances at NAF and Cape Town, Salt is back one last time! Considered ‘... nothing short of brilliant.’ (Cue, 2014) Writer / Director: Wynne Bredenkamp Featuring: Emma Kotze, David Viviers & Shaun Gabriel Smith @Princess Alice Hall 30 19:00 –50%
01
02
03
# 55m 04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
19:00 19:00 19:00 19:00 19:00 19:00 19:00 19:00 19:00
F
C
B
70
63
60
THE SCREAMS OF TATIANA DT Entertainment
~ PG M
This story is about a woman who finds herself at the crossroads of life, where she has to deal with skeletons from her past, and where she questions a number of things about life. Tatiana, played by Portia Mothibi, wants to understand whether rules are meant to keep us safe or to confine us. Director: Thato Morokane Writer: Douglas Tsimane Featuring: Danny Jason, Tsholofelo Masibi, Portia Mothibi @B2 Arena 30
01
# 1h 02
03
04
05
! Eng, Tsw 06
07
08
$ Tickets 09
10
12:00 14:30 18:30 22:30 16:00 Free!
F
C
B
30
27
26
THE SEARCH FOR INTELLIGENT SIGNS OF LIFE IN THE UNIVERSE Search For Productions
~ 14+ M
Hilarious, thoughtful, poignant; Steven Feinstein directs Michelle Douglas in this carnival of characters; from Homeless Trudy to dying-of-boredom Kate to Seminar Addicted Lyn, as they bring home the human condition in a way that will have you giggling in recognition as you see glimpses of yourSELF onstage! Trail mix included. Wagner
Director: Steven Feinstein Writer: Jane Featuring: Michelle Douglas
@Drill Hall 30
01
# 1h05 02
03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
F
C
B
85
85
85
10:00
Free! 20:00 10:00 22:00
14:00
14:00
THE SILENCE (BREAK THE SILENCE) Rising Sun Theatre Production
~ 12+ NFC
Come and witness the scourge of domestic violence and how it affects both the victims and perpetrator. The play showcases Mr Mogale who abuses his wife financially, physically, emotionally and psychologically. The abuse occurs because he lost his job and feels like less of a man and therefore cheats with the ‘mother’ of his son Manare. Mr Mogale is oblivious to the effect his actions have on his daughter, Dikeledi and wife, Dorcus. Writer / Director: Kwena Joel Tlhako Music: Oupa Meletse @NG Kerk Hall 30 16:00 Free!
01
02
# 1h15 03
04
05
14:00 16:30 12:00 22:30
! Eng, Ped 06
07 12:00
08
$ Tickets 09
10
F
C
B
50
45
43
182
183
184 SILLAGE
SWEET PHOEBE
Rust Co-Operative
01
02
03
Page to Stage Productions
On the surface it was the “perfect marriage”, then came Phoebe. Internationally acclaimed actors Matt Newman and Genna Galloway will have you riveted in this dark comedy. Under the flawless direction of the awardwinning Paul Griffiths, this exceptional duo bring you the Australian smash hit that made Cate Blanchett famous.
Writer / Director: Penelope Youngleson Featuring: Rebecca Makin-Taylor & Michele Belknap
Director: Paul Griffiths Writer: Michael Gow Featuring: Matt Newman and Genna Galloway
# 55m 04
05
! Eng 06
07
@Drill Hall
$ Tickets 08
09
10
10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00
F 60
Free!
C 54
B
30
01
# 1h15 02
03
51
Writer / Director: Tshepiso Phahlane Featuring: Alice Maqenukana, Enos Tshabalala, Sipho Nyathi & Bonga Mdontswa
14:00 –50%
# 1h 02
03
04
! Eng, Sot, Zul
05
06
07
08
09
F 75
C 68
B 64
@Masonic Back 30 20:00
01
02
# 1h10 04
05
07
09
10
10:00 22:30 12:00 14:00
# 50m 03
04
05
C
B
Director: Peter Mitchell Writer: Greig Coetzee
51
@Masonic Back 30
! Eng, Tsw 06
12:00 16:00
07
08
01
02
# 55m 03
10
14:00 22:30 18:30
–25%
04
F
C
B
35
32
30
02
# 1h05 03
04
05 16:00 Free!
07
18:00 12:00
08
09
01
02
03
F
C
B
10:00 14:00 50
45
43
2-4-1
60
~ 10+ NFC
Featuring: TQ Zondi, Mpilo Nzimande $ Tickets F
C
B
59
55
07
04
05
08
09
10
~ ALL
! Eng 06
07
12:00 16:30 11:30 17:00 10:00 13:00
$ Tickets 08
09
10
13:00 16:30
F
C
B
80
80
68
SLINDELO & HIS BONES Herbert Mokoena
~ ALL
In a very hot country a man lived with his wife and son Slindelo in a little hut, which was surrounded by grass and flowers. They were perfectly happy until Slindelo stopped helping around the hut and started playing dirty tricks on everyone.
$ Tickets 10
63
Writer / Director: Dianne Simpson Featuring: Baden Dowie & Andrew Simpson
~ 12+ NFC
! Eng, Zul, Xho 06
70
The good old days come back to life in this charming and funny coming-of-age story told through the music, movies, TV shows, events and pop culture of the 70’s and 80’s. “It’s a multi-media trip down memory lane that will steal your heart” – The Star Tonight. This feel good show is perfect for all ages!
Writer / Director: Londiwe Ngema Featuring: Nompilo Jili, Nkanyiso Mazibuko, Nozipho Mbanjwa & Sibonelo Ndlovu
01
B
THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE
Sugar Sugar is based on the true story of Thozamile Taki, the infamous Sugarcane Killer. Sentenced to thirteen life sentences, Taki was defined as a “jackal in a sheep’s skin”. This drama, woven with song and dynamic imagery, opens our minds to the truth that no action is unmotivated.
30
C
Andrew Simpson Productions
30
BlackBird Productions
F
10
10:00 16:00 14:00 22:00 10:00 65 Free!
@NELM Museum of Theatre # 55m
SUGAR SUGAR
@Masonic Back
B 70
$ Tickets 09
! Eng 06
05
~ ALL
$ Tickets 09
08
22:00 18:00 14:00
54
Writer / Director: Jafta Mpye Music: Tebogo Seolo
02
C 63
The delicious and astute Termite! combines physical theatre, satire and a dash of lunacy as it blends traditional folk tales with modern South African life. This fast-paced trilogy of stories tells tales of various animals as they take on minicab taxis, Colonel Sanders and try to explain why dogs sniff each other’s behinds! This is satire of the most hilarious and cutting variety. An award-winner at the Musho! Festival.
This is a play about teachers who take advantage of young girls, promising them better life and success. It also reflects on the lives of learners today in our schools who are involved in drugs and alcohol.
01
07
F
Mhlobo-Hlangana Cultural Group
30
! Eng, Sotho 06
60
STAFFROOM
@Recreation Hall
F 70
~ ADULTS ONLY S
Hexagon Theatre
$ Tickets 08
10
TERMITE! TALL TALES FOR BIG PEOPLE
~ 14+ L
! Eng 06
05 20:00
Director: Karabelo Lekalake Writer: Mike van Graan
03
04
14:00 18:00
The face of reconciliation has both complexions whether being white or black. The anecdotes of Braam Visser and Vusi Mataboge allows the audience to realise that although we are all victims of violence; we are all capable of perpetrated violence because of our historical background.
02
09
22:00 16:00
# 1h05 03
SOME MOTHER’S SON Flipping the Scripts
01
$ Tickets 08
Because the birds & the bees do it, Masters & Johnson did it, Kinsey did it and now, Tumi Morake and Vanessa Frost do it in a hysterical comedy, set in a hair salon, about sex, life, love and surprising truths whispered in sanctity amidst weaves and upstyles. A new blow wave of sexual awakening is upon us – hold onto your hairdos, you’re in for a wild ride!
Free!
30
07
Director: Jose Domingos Writer: Vanessa Frost, Tumi Morake & Jose Domingos Featuring: Tumi Morake & Vanessa Frost
$ Tickets 10
22:30 16:30 20:30 12:00
@NG Kerk Hall
! Eng 06
Bloom & Stone
~ ALL
A satirical play about a teenage girl who heads her household, taking care of four physically challenged uncles. She, however, decides that it is time for her to embark on a journey to seek a normal home.
01
05
TEASE!
Khensani Tribe Super 16
@B2 Arena
04
10:00 18:00 20:30 12:00
SLEEPLESS MISERY
30
~ 16+ L
By Penelope Youngleson (co-writer of two Silver Standard Bank Ovation Award-winning shows; Fleur du Cap nominee 2016, winner 2014), Sillage is the story of a mother and daughter forced to pack up their family home – and fit themselves into the very boxes they’ve fought against their entire lives.
@Princess Alice Hall 30
~ 16+ ML
Director: Herbert Mokoena Writer: Nomveliso Tshabalala Featuring: Bongani Nkosi, Palesa Mofokeng, Joel Mnguni & Nqobile Sibanyoni @B2 Arena 30
01 02 10:00 22:30 18:00
# 1h 03
04
05
20:30 14:00
! Eng, Nde 06
07
08
$ Tickets 09
10
F
C
B
40
36
34
185 THIS IS FOR KEEPS
TOWNSHIP GIRLS
Nondumiso Lwazi Msimanga
~ 14+ M
This is for Keeps is a concentrated slice of South African life, during the end days of apartheid. The intimate story of a young white couple struggling to make sense of their expected roles in a fourth-wall drama of forceful pace that sheds light into some of the turmoil of living in apartheid in privileged skin.
Phambili Ghetto Artists
~ 16+ MLV
This could be the story of any girl who is doing her best to earn, to make ends meet, and to survive in a township that is overwhelmed by crime, abuse, prostitution, and poverty.
Director: Nondumiso Lwazi Msimanga Writers: Janice Honeyman, Vanessa Cooke, Danny Keogh Featuring: Kirsten Mary Harris, Roger Gordon & Paul Lambert
Director: Psalm Skhwenene Dlamini & Tsietsi Mahese Writer: Psalm Skhwenene Dlamini Choreography: Nzimeni Herembi Music composed by: Skhwenene Dlamini & Tsietsi Mahese Music performed by: Teboho Khomane & Sifiso Zondo Featuring: Papi Lethoba,Flab April,Lerato Letsoka & Pretty Malindi.
@St. Andrew’s Hall
@Gymnasium
30 12:00 Free!
01
02
# 50m
03
04
05
! Eng 06
$ Tickets
07
08
09
10
14:30 22:00 14:30 20:30
F 50
C 45
B 43
30
01
02
# 50m 03
~ ALL
02
03
04
05 06 10:00 20:30 Free!
08
09
$ Tickets 10
F
C
B
45
41
38
! Eng 07
Director: Thando Doni @Princess Alice Hall 30
$ Tickets F
C
B
16:30 12:00 12:00 50
45
43
08
09
10
~ PG NFC
Ubuze Bam (Inside Out) is a raw, articulate exploration of what it means to be on the other side of the glass looking in. Or out. Under the skilled direction of award-winning Thando Doni, 15 young men who have been within the prison system tentatively journey to the other side.
Director: Nicola Niehaus and Uvile Ximba
01
07
Theatre ARts Admin Collective and Young in Prison
Thunzi follows the journey of Lizwi and her mother as they travel to their new home in the city. An encounter with an unusual girl changes everything. Deemed as “fresh evocative storytelling by a cast of powerful young performers” (Gerard Bester), this award-winning production captures the conflict of choice.
30
! Eng, Sot, Zul 06
UBUZE BAM
UpAHill Theatre Productions
# 40m
05
22:00 14:00 18:30 18:30
THUNZI
@NG Kerk Hall
04
01
02
03
# 50m 04
05
! Xho, Eng, Afr 06
07
08
09
17:30 17:30 17:30 17:30 17:30
$ Tickets 10
F
C
B
60
54
60
186 WE DIDN’T COME TO HELL FOR THE CROISSANTS
UNDESIGNATED University of Venda
~ ALL
POPArt Productions
An African tale about an orphan on the eve of her wedding day, and the quarrel about which customs and beliefs should they follow. Three cultures, two families, one orphan – Undesignated. Director: Nyalungu Promise Featuring: Thobakgale Alfred, Mokwele Sello, Nong Matjie & Mkhonto Fezile @Recreation Hall 30
01
# 55m
02
03
04
05
F
C
B
Director: Lindiwe Matshikiza Writers: Tertius Kapp, Justin Oswald, Nicholas Spagnoletti, Louis Viljoen, Rosa Lyster & Lebogang Mogashoa Featuring: Jemma Kahn and Roberto Pombo
14:00 12:30 10:00 30
27
26
@Princess Alice Hall
! Eng, SA languages 06
07
10:00 12:00 18:30 Free!
08
09
10
$ Tickets
30
01
02
03
POPArt Productions
Director: Orly Shapiro Writer: Gwydion Beynon Featuring: Hayleigh Evans & Rachael Neary
01
# 1h 02
03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
F
C
B
100 100 100
~ 16+ ML
A satirical and sometimes scathing look at the world of women’s magazines with all of its insistencies, fallacies and general nonsense. Fill up on the fad diets, catch the latest celebrity goss and walk away with all you need to know about this season’s sexiest new workout routine.
30
# 1h10 04
22:00 22:00 22:00 22:00 22:00
UNFAIR LADY
@Vicky’s
~ 16+ MNS
7 Deadly Sins. 7 writers. 7 new stories. Jemma Kahn and her irreverent side-kick return in the follow up to the international cult hit The Epicene Butcher with stories that seduce the sinless and astonish the immoral. It’s unmissable and definitely not for children. Unless you are an awful parent.
$ Tickets 08
09
10
10:00 20:00 16:00 18:00 14:00 12:00
F
C
B
100 100 100
UNONTOMBI MUSICAL PLAY Izodela Community Development Centre
~ ALL
A beautiful young Zulu girl has two men fighting over her. Mbuzini, the one she loves, and Mkhonto, the one she does not have feelings for. Mkhonto tries to make use of traditional powers to bewitch uMbuzini for the love of uNontombi but it doesn’t work because his late father had already chosen a wife for him at kwa-Xhosa.
WHISTLE STOP Dark Laugh Theatre Company in association with ~ 12+ NFC Hijinks Theatre Winner of a Standard Bank Silver Ovation Award and a PANSA New Writer’s Award, this is a love story like no other. “Whistle Stop is an excellent piece of theatre: beautifully polished and spellbinding... performed by two highly skilled performers who captivate from start to finish.” – (Arts Blog, Sarah Roberson 2014). A man, a woman, a bench and all the hidden thoughts that we think and never allow ourselves to say... If you have ever fallen in or out or around love, this absurd two-hander that travels beyond the present moment, is for you. Director: Frances Slabolepszy Writer: Ameera Patel Featuring: Jaques De Silva & Ameera Patel @Drill Hall 30
01
# 55m 02
18:00 14:30 16:00
03
04
05
! Eng 06
20:30 18:00
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
12:00 10:00
F
C
B
75
75
64
Director: Fana Masilela Writer: Dan Ndlovu Choreography: Sibusiso Skosana Music: Siphosethu Mnisi Featuring: Thandeka Magagula, Sibusiso Skosana, Zinhle Masango and Siphosethu Mnisi @Recreation Hall 30
01
# 1h30
02
03
19:00
12:00 14:00 –25%
04
05
! Zul, Eng, Xho 06
07
08
09
$ Tickets 10
22:30 20:00
F
C
B
60
54
51
presents
VAT EN SIT Maruping Agency
~ 14+ V
With a dead body, an insane woman and a doll, what transpired in that squatter camp shack in Galeshewe, Kimberley, is unknown. Who is responsible for this mess? Can this rape victim, an abused child burdened with life’s craziness, be saved before she’s killed? Director: Thabo Motlhabi Writer: Kim Maruping Featuring: Kim Maruping & Calvin Mafoko @Glennie Festival Centre
# 1h
02
05
30
01
10:00 Free!
03
04
! Eng, Afr, Tsw 06
07
08
09
$ Tickets 10
17:30 22:00 17:30 14:00
F
C
B
65
59
55
Sakura Productions
~ 14+ NFC
1940; the world is at war. Two lovers; an English medic on the front lines and a French prostitute living under Nazi occupation, are left with only their letters to draw each other closer, in spite of being thousands of miles apart. Playing at the National Arts Festival before a season at the Theatre on the Square. Director: Lidija Marelic Writer: Lidija Marelic and Julian Kruger
30
01
02
# 1h30 03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
04/07 14:30 05/07 14:00 07/07 18:30 Starring: TERI SCOTT & IGNATIUS VAN HEERDEN Directd by: LIHAN PRETORIUS Script by: WESLEE SWAIN LAUDER
$ Tickets 08
09
13:00 19:00 15:00 15:00 21:00 Free!
LAST SUPPER Venue: GLENNIE FESTIVAL CENTRE
WAITING FOR JACK
@Rehearsal Room
(the)
10
F
C
B
50
45
43
18+ MLNP
187
LITTLE CADRE
OUT OF BOUNDS
P E O P L E B E N E AT H O U R F E E T
FA B U LO U S N OT H I N G
The bitter, sweet and spicy
Beneath bloodstained boots, they hide
A play about something
GLENNIE HALL 03|07 10:00 06|07 17:00 04|07 19:00 08|07 16:00 05|07 13:00
GLENNIE HALL 02|07 10:00 04|07 14:30 03|07 19:00 05|07 17:30 07|07 21:30
GYMNASIUM 05|07 12:30 07|07 16:00 06|07 22:30 08|07 18:30 0 9 | 0 7 10 : 0 0
@hungrymindsprod
Hungry Minds Productions
hungrymindstheatre
188 WOMEN THOU ART LOOSED
THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF FOK’S PARK
Centre Stage Arts
01
03
Writer / Director: Abongile Manka Featuring: Athenkosi Woli, Zizipho Yako, Analo Sigwabe, Mazini Mtoba and Unakho Kwatsha
Director: Jake Nathane Featuring: Winnie Moni, Stuart Young, Kirsten Segeren & Tshekiso Kepadisa
04 12:00 –25%
! Xho, Eng
05
06
07
08
$ Tickets 09
10
21:00 16:00 18:30
@Masonic Front 30
F
C
B
65
59
55
01
02
# 45m 03
Director: Bongani Dlamini Writer: Nhlanhla Mazibuko Music: Sanele Mzimela Choreographer: Tshepo Rapola
# 1h15 02
03
04
05
! Eng, SA languages 06
10:00 14:00 2-4-1
2-4-1
07
$ Tickets F
C
B
16:00 22:30 14:00 69
62
59
08
09
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
22:00 16:00 22:00 Free!
10
Klara van Wyk
~ ALL
Experience musical emotions travelling through the hearts of women in their struggle for freedom. A true South African masterpiece, Women’s Liberation will take you through untold stories of Imbokodo.
01
05
F
C
B
53
48
45
YOU SUCK: AND OTHER INESCAPABLE TRUTHS
Alexandra Youth In Action Ensemble
@PJ’s
04 14:00
WOMEN’S LIBERATION
30
~ 14+ ML
A story of the sudden, and often, traumatizing leap from childhood into adulthood. The Wonderful World of Fok’s Park consumes the unspoken pain, experiences and youth of two teenagers as they struggle to come to terms with growing up.
# 35m 02
Jake Nathane
The story of four women and their journey of a grievous past. It tells of the thought-provoking, heartfelt struggles women go through. A story of hope and finding oneself, it says you are not alone in your situation and you can break away from it!
@Dicks 30
~ ALL
~ 12+ L NFC
New-wave clown and comedienne Klara van Wyk plays Prettina in You Suck: And Other Inescapable Truths. Part ‘dear diary’, part sarcastic teen commentary, You Suck engages with growing up in all its complexity. This curious concoction of day-dreaming, conspiracy theorising and confessional monologues will catapult you straight into that grimy high-school gym class and offer some excellent tips on how to: hashtag like a celeb, defeat mean girls and twerk your way through teenage angst. A laugh-out-loud pop-com for the Youtube generation. Director: Francesco Nassimbeni Written & featuring: Klara van Wyk @Princess Alice Hall 30
01
02
03
# 50m 04
! Eng
$ Tickets F
C
B
13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 60
54
51
05
06
07
08
09
10
189 APOLOGIES IN ADVANCE
BESPOKE
Pickledginger
~ 16+ M L
TaylorMade Productions
Apologies in Advance is a new, off-the-wall, mostly improvised, late night comedy show, starring three of SA’s top comics and any other performers they can bum a favour from. If they weren’t so damn humble, they would tell you how amazing the show is. Director: Chris Forrest Featuring: Chris Forrest, Mojak Lehoko & Deep Fried Man @Rhodes Club 01
# 1h
! Eng 07
C
B
21:30 21:30 21:30 21:30 21:30 21:30 21:30 21:30 21:30 21:30 21:30 70
63
60
02
03
04
05
06
08
09
10
Featuring: Stuart Taylor @Bowling Club
$ Tickets F
30
30
01 20:00
02
# 55m 03
Written & directed by: Clinton Marius Featuring: Shona Johnson @Scout Hall 30 18:00 Free!
01
# 1h10 02
03
22:00 14:00 12:00
04
05
! Eng 06
18:00 20:00
07
08
09
10:00 18:00
10
F
C
B
80
72
68
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
16:00 10:00 14:00 20:30 16:00 2-4-1
F
C
B
70
63
60
10
2-4-1
ExploSIV Productions
~ 16+ M L
Festival favourite Rob van Vuuren brings a retrospective of his best stand-up comedy over the last 10 years. Join the legendary funnyman in a no holds barred celebration of his unique brand of stand-up insanity. The perfect Fest feel good laugh-a-thon. Featuring: Rob van Vuuren
@Scout Hall 30
$ Tickets
05
THE BEST OF ROB VAN VUUREN
~ 14+ M L
This 2015 Standard Bank Ovation Award and multiple Mercury Durban Theatre award-winning comedy is a raucous satire about warring neighbours ? with unexpected results! “One-woman comedy riot” (Estelle Sinkins, The Witness). “Has you laughing from start to finish” (Latoya Newman, The Daily News). “A crowdpleasing winner, well worth seeing!” (Billy Suter, The Mercury). “A Triumph! (Caroline Smart, ArtSmart). “A quirky, sassy and hilarious one-woman show” (Pumla Kalipa, Cue)
04
16:00 12:00 –50%
B!*CH STOLE MY DOEK Copy Dog
~ PG L
Don’t miss this Standard Bank Ovation Award-winning comedy show from one of SA’s most prolific comedy talents. Stuart is famed for such shows as Techni-Coloured and Learner Husband. This latest offering will take you on a ‘Taylor-Made’ journey into our uniquely South African landscape. It’s a guaranteed good time.
01
# 1h 02
03
04
! Eng
05
06
20:00 18:30 16:30
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
22:00 16:30
C
B
100 90
F
85
BIG BOYS THE THIRD Follow Spot Productions
~ 10+ NFC
The hottest new chapter of the ‘Big Boys’ saga is here. It’s wild, it’s unbelievable and it’s hysterical. Fresh innovative dance routines and larger-than-life action performed by the irresistible multi-award winning dudes. Ash and Brad are so flipping fantastic you’ll want to see it twice! Prebooking is absolutely essential. Director: Vanessa Harris Featuring: Ash & Brad Searle @Kingswood Theatre 30
01
# 55m
! Eng
$ Tickets
07 06 08 09 12:00 10:00 12:00 18:00 10:00 12:00 10:00 18:00 18:00 10:00 18:00 10:00 02
03
04
05
10
F
C
B
85
85
72
THE BLOEM-BOYKIE DIARIES Carl Webber
~ 14+ M
One man’s account of his hilarious journey as a farm boy to the big city. Trying to adapt to city life with small town quirks resulting in comedic consequences. This story is definitely one for the funny in you. Trying to find his proverbial pot of pap, this bloem boykie finds himself in the most awkward situations. Featuring: Carl Webber @Scout Hall 30 14:00 Free!
01
# 1h 02
03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
18:00 22:30 20:30 16:00 10:00 12:00
$ Tickets 08
09
10
12:30 20:30
F
C
B
60
54
51
BON SOIR 1.5 Follow Spot Productions
~ 12+ L NFC
Nominated for the Circus Award (Perth 2016). A distinctive brand of ‘Cirque’. Strength, beauty, contortion, illusion and comedy provide a surreal and seductive feast for your senses. After their sell-out success in SA and Australia, the multi-talented artists return with an enriched edition. All the acts you loved combined with some fresh, slick and sexy additions. Director: Vanessa Harris Featuring: Ash and Brad Searle Lucy Tops and Nadine Theron @Kingswood Theatre 30
01
02
03
# 1h 04
18:00 20:00 12:00 18:00 12:00
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09 12:00 20:00 12:00 20:00 18:00 18:00
10
F
C
B
90
90
77
190
191
A5 DEAR BREEDER Advert 2016.pdf
1
05/04/2016
20:40
Mom #2 Mom #1
DEAR BREEDER Directed by ‘Ewok’ Robinson
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
AN AWARD-WINNING MUSICAL COMEDY ABOUT RAISING OURSELVES. “CLEVER, QUIRKY, HILARIOUSLY FUNNY.” — artSmart
“...NOTHING SHORT OF GENIUS”
— Estelle Sinkens, The Witness
05/07 | 16:00 06/07 | 14:00 07/07 | 14:00 07/07 | 20:00 08/07 | 16:00 09/07 | 14:00
Where:
KINGSWOOD THEATRE Cost:
R70
192 BOET N SWAER
BUCKET LIST
Brian Mullins & Alan Weyer
~ PG 12+
ZikkaZimba Productions
Boet ‘n Swaer, the hilariously funny, politically incorrect, sexist comedy returns to the Festival after last year’s sold out shows … delightfully wicked and awfully dry... this East Cape humour brings tears to a sour veld tortoise’s eye... Festino’s will cry...... Director: Alan Weyer Written & performed by: Brian Mullins & Alan Weyer @Scout Hall 30
01
# 1h 02
03
20:30 18:30
04 19:00 @ Drill Hall
! Eng, Afr, Xho 06
07
08
09
Director: Ryan Dittman Written by & featuring: Avril Cummins
$ Tickets 10
F 80
C 75
B 75
@Masonic Back 30
01
02
# 55m 03
04
05 10:00 Free!
THE BROTHERS STREEP: SAME STREEP DIFFERENT DAY The Brothers Streep
30
01
02
03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
08
09
10
F
C
B
50
47
THE BROTHERS STREEP: STAND-UP MUSICIANS PLUGGED ~ ALL
The Brothers are bringing their full band to the Festival for the first time in this re-imagining of their original sell-out Grahamstown Festival show. Experience their musical comedy classics in a fun new way in this suitable for the whole family hit. “Laughing all the way” Cue 2012. Director: Dylan Hichens & Simon van Wyk @Albany Cabaret Club 30
01
02
03
# 1h 04
16:00 20:00 18:00 12:00 22:00
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
18:00 20:00 10:00 16:00
10
09
10
16:00 14:00 20:00 18:00
F
C
B
60
54
51
~ 14+ M
Director: Justin Wilkinson Featuring: Luella Holland, Michael Kirch, Alistair Mouton Black & Allana Aldridge
55
The Brothers Streep
$ Tickets 08
Audience participation! YOU get to kill off characters throughout the show in this dark, murder-mystery comedy! A group of aspiring performers are vying for the limelight on Broadway until they begin dying, one by one. When it comes to fame, some people will do anything to get to the top... Written by Justin Wilkinson.
$ Tickets
12:00 14:00 18:00 16:00 20:00 22:00 16:00
07
BUTLERS AND BROADWAY
Director: Dylan Hichens & Simon van Wyk # 1h
! Eng 06
Slick ‘n Sleeve
~ ALL
Dylan and Simon are back with their latest show featuring songs about life, love and loadshedding. This is the duo’s 5th year at the Festival and they’ll be celebrating it in style with this fun hour of musical comedy. “Good for a laugh” Cue 2015.
@Albany Cabaret Club
~ ALL
Down-and-out Nora is stuck in a rut. An unthinkable revelation – 13 days to live! – catapults her into a crazy adventure. Avril Cummins plays an array of characters in this zany comedy, featuring mime and clowning. Audience suggestions are improvised into Nora’s unfolding story: bring yours! What’s on your bucket list?
F
C
B
65
59
55
@Vicky’s 30
01
# 1h 02
03 21:00 12:00 12:00 18:00 20:30 –25%
04
05 22:00
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10:00 16:00 18:00
10
F
C
B
69
62
59
193 CAMP CARRAWAK
THE DARK AGES
Lipsmac Productions
~ ALL
ExploSIV Productions
~ PG
NB: This blurb should be read in a Country Western accent ;) Howdy folks! Come and join this comedic couple for comedy round the campfire. Yawl will have a whipcrackin’ hee-hawin’ knee slappin’ toe-tappin’ time that will leave you in stitches. Butch and Cassidy Carrawak will take you on a ride filled with hilarious characters and all your favourite country music guaranteed to leave you smilin’, whistlin’ and with a spring in your step! Featuring Lucy Tops (Absolucy, Big Girls, Bar None) and Alex Tops (Bon Soir, Bar None, Cooked).
Tyson Ngubeni’s complexion lies somewhere between Wesley Snipes and eternal darkness. But in South Africa, this often leads to tense encounters when people make assumptions about where he comes from. The Dark Ages is a comedy spectacular throwing punches at xenophobia while asking probing questions of our unpredictable country. Ngubeni teams up with award-winning comedians Donovan Goliath (director) and Siv Ngesi (producer) to bring sharp observations and a thrilling mix of characters.
Director: Alex Tops Written by & featuring: Lucy Tops & Alex Tops
Director: Donavan Goliath
@Kingswood Theatre
# 55m
! Eng
01 07 30 02 03 04 05 06 08 09 10 F 16:00 12:00 14:00 16:00 14:00 20:00 16:00 16:00 12:00 20:00 12:00 80 –50% 2-4-1
C 72
# 55m
B
30
68
18:00 18:00 12:00 22:00
01
02
03
~ PG NFC
This the latest hilarious offering from the king of ‘extreme sport’ comedy, Aaron McIlroy the artist that brought you Abbamaniacs, The Loser and, most recently, The Ranga and Seven Deadly Sins. Join Professor Jurgen Gaff as he delves into the science that underpins the worlds oldest coping mechanism – “a sense of humour”. Comedy Masterclass, directed by Patrick Kenny is a surreal comedic roller coaster ride that explores the anatomy of the funny bone. Director: Patrick Kenny Written by & featuring: Aaron McIlroy
30
01
02
03
# 1h15 04
05
20:00 10:00 16:00 14:00 16:00 12:00
! Eng 06
07
09
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
12:00 20:00 18:00 14:00
F
C
B
70
63
60
10
F
C
Amehlo Productions
~ 12+ L
‘Nothing short of genius’ – The Witness. ‘Clever, quirky, hilariously funny.’ ArtSmart. Last chance to catch this multiple award-winning musical comedy that is as absurd as the art of parenting itself. Four uniquely insane, instantly recognisable South African mothers encounter Darth Vader, the underwear fairy and a staple-gun wielding baby Jesus. Guaranteed to entertain anyone who’s witnessed the joyful and not-so-joyful moments of raising a small child. Standard Bank Ovation Award, Best New SA Script, Best Comedic Performance, Durban Theatre Awards. Director: Iain ‘Ewok’ Robinson Music performed by: Kasia Vosloo Written by & featuring: Karen Logan and Kasia Vosloo
$ Tickets 08
04
DEAR BREEDER
COMEDY MASTERCLASS Macbob Productions
@Kingswood Theatre
Featuring: Tyson Ngubeni
@Masonic Front
$ Tickets
B
100 100 85
@Kingswood Theatre 30
01
02
03
# 55m 04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
16:00 14:00 14:00 20:00 16:00 14:00
10
F
C
B
70
63
60
194
195 DEATH OF A DONUT Andrew Simpson Productions
~ PG
The brand new murder mystery comedy from the creator of the sold-out smash To Kill a Koeksister where the audience becomes a part of the show! A policeman has been murdered. Whodunit? Was it the Fugitive? Was it you? Was it me? Solve the clues and catch the killer! A must-see! Written by & featuring: Andrew Simpson
@ NELM Museum of Theatre # 55m 30
01
02
03
04
05
17:00 12:00 18:00 14:00
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
11:30 16:30 11:30 15:00
F
C
B
80
80
68
DEEP FRIED MAN - IN GOOD TASTE Whacked Management
~ 16+ M L
Award-winning musical comedian Deep Fried Man has played all the best rooms and been seen regularly on Comedy Central as well as Emmy-nominated shows LNN and ZANews. Now he’s back with his latest confection a delectable one-man musical comedy extravaganza that will satisfy even the biggest craving for crazy satire. WARNING: Not to be served to children under 16. Director: Daniel Friedman Featuring: Deep Fried Man @Bowling Club 30
01
02
# 50m 03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
10:00
19:00 16:00 20:00 18:00
2-4-1 16:30 14:00
F
C
B
60
54
51
DEFENDING THE PLANET Macbob Productions
~ PG NFC
Have you ever felt that you don’t belong... That there’s more to life than this? Are your dreams so weird that you’re afraid to go to sleep? You may not realise it but you have had an alien abduction experience! The time has come to step out of the dark and DEFEND OUR PLANET. Stand by for super-charged comedy duo Aaron McIlroy and Lisa Bobbert, the team that brought you Abbamaniacs and Seven Deadly Sins with their smash hit that’s out of this world. May the probe be with you! Director: Darren King Written by: Susan Monteregge Featuring: Lisa Bobbert and Aaron McIlroy @Kingswood Theatre 30
01
02
03
# 1h20 04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
14:00 16:00 18:00 20:00 20:00 14:00
F
C
B
100 100 85
HHHHH ’Devastatingly funny, I didn’t want it to end’ – Ed Fringe Review
DIE HUWELIKSAANSOEK CHS Dramatic Arts
~ ALL
“’n Fantasitiese teaterervaring”, sê Pedro Kruger van dié mallemeule verwerking van Chekov se klug, regie Melina Smit. Beroemde teatermaker Hennie van Greunen meen dat Wian Taljaard en Kalinka Venter se spel “imposant” is en dat Dirkie Cronje se teenwoordigheid op die verhoog “indrukwekkend” is. Moet dit nie misloop nie!
TH
Direkteur: Melina Smit Aangepas deur: Melina Smit Met: Wian Taljaard, Kalinka Venter en Dirkie Cronje. @PJ’s 30
# 55m 01
02
03
04
05
! Afr 06
07
F
C
B
20:30 12:00 14:30 10:00 45
41
38
09
10
nb Edi
F
DON’T BURN YOUR SAUSAGE! Pickledginger
~ 16+ M
“The Top Gear of Cooking Shows” 2015 NAF. People say food is like sex, some use food to get sex, others even use sex to get food. This “whisk-que” show stars a celebrity chef and a comedian who combine their talents to bring you something deliciously, scrumptiously naughty. Director: Bevan Cullinan Featuring: Chris Forrest & Pete Goffe-Wood @Eden Grove Red 30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
18:30 18:30 18:30 18:30 18:30 18:30 18:30 18:30 18:30 18:30
10
ov r p im U K m e dt hye c os h f r o m g h fre
$ Tickets 08
R O F X EO
S P M DI
F
C
B
70
63
60
‘WH
ur
e g n ri
DY OME S C V O T MPR DUL YLE I AND A T S ’ AY? ENS NYW FOR TE A T I LE IS LINE SUITAB OSE
HHHHH ’the best improvised comedy I’ve ever had the pleasure to witness’ – ThreeWeeks
30 June – 10th July
Bowling Club
www.oxfordimps.com
196 DR STEF’S SIDESPLITTING HYPNOSIS Stef ~ ALL AGES except 1,7 & 9 July (adults only) Extreme, fast-paced and suitable for all ages! Informative, wacky, yet bizarre. An amazing journey into the world of the subconscious. Crazy reactions from volunteers who Dr Stef helps on stage. Regularly sold out. The funniest show you will ever see! Rated “One of the worlds best”. Come see why! www.DrStef.co.za Director: Stef Junker @St. Andrew’s Hall 30
01
02
# 1h15
03
04
05
! Eng, Moon 07
06
08
$ Tickets 09
10
22:30 18:00 16:30 18:30 14:00 10:00 20:00 14:00 20:00
F
C
B
85
77
72
FABULOUS NOTHING Hungry Minds Productions
~ 14+ L
A writer wants to write a play. But what is the point? It will never be Shakespeare. Fabulous Nothing is a ridiculous bittersweet romp through the vast empty brain of a writer struggling to write, as she grapples with the fickle thoughts inside her own head. Director: Blythe Stuart Linger Written by: Callum Tilbury Featuring: Kiroshan Naidoo, Aneshree Paul, Tankiso Mamabolo, Roberto Kyle Meyer & Kathleen Stephens @Gymnasium 30
01
# 55m
02
03
04
05
! Eng 07
06
$ Tickets 08
09
10
12:30
22:30 16:00 18:30 10:00 -50%
F
C
B
70
63
60
THE FULL MORTY Ginger Cube Productions
~ 16+ M L
Back after a hugely successful run at last year’s Festival! Join critically acclaimed theatre and TV actor, madly talented vocalist and professional k*k talker Mortimer Williams as comedy meets cabaret in this hilarious show. It’s the one subject which fascinates us all... the mind of the South African male! Written by: Kristy Suttner & Mortimer Williams Director: Kristy Suttner Featuring: Mortimer Williams @Bowling Club 30
01
16:30
# 1h
02
03
04
! Eng 07
06
$ Tickets 08
09
10
12:00 16:00 20:30 20:00 10:00 12:00
10:00 16:00
Free!
05
F
C
B
70
63
60
GLUTEN FREE NAthi comedy
~ 12+ L P NFC
Nkosinathi Maki is a CapeTown stand-up comedian and TV actor known for his signature writing, quirky delivery, informative jokes and use of edgy euphemisms. Nkosinathi has been described as, `The hardest working man in the Cape Town comedy scene. Gluten Free is Nkosinathi Maki’s first solo stand-up show and is reckoned to be ?one of the most anticipated comedy shows by a Cape Town comedian?. Written, directed & performed by: Nkosinathi Maki @Scout Hall 30
01
# 1h 03
02
04
10:00 22:00 –50%
2-4-1
05
! Eng 06
20:30
07
$ Tickets F
C
B
14:00 20:30 14:00 10:00 60
54
51
08
09
10
GYM AND TONIC: MEMORY OF AN OLD MUSCLE Tim Plewman
~ 14+ L
Inspired by his best-selling book, Fitness For Old Farts, Tim Plewman brings you his hysterical new comedy. Gym and Tonic takes you through the escapades of three friends battling their middle-age spread as well as their preconceived ideas, fears and each other. The intrepid trio bench press, crunch and squat their way through gym, life and love to hilarious ends. Written by: Tim Plewman Featuring: Tim Plewman, Mike Huff, Russel Savadier @Victoria Theatre 30
01
02
# 1h10 03
04
20:00 15:00 18:00 12:30 12:30
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
F
C
100 90
B
197 HAIRY POTTER AND THE STONED PHILOSOPHER Andrew Simpson Productions
HASHTAG LOTTERING Marc Lottering ~ PG L P
The hilarious new spoof from the creator of the smash-hit Lord of the Flings, which was described as ‘a work of pure genius’. THE FARCE AWAKENS! Why? Because WINTER IS COMING! A boy wizard must find the last bit of magic left in the world while attending the Polokwane School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Don’t miss it! Written by & featuring: Andrew Simpson @NELM Museum of Theatre # 55m 30
01
02
03
04
20:00 15:00 15:00 10:00
05
! Eng 06
07
08
09
10
11:30 15:00 13:00 17:30 12:00
Written by & featuring: Marc Lottering
@Thomas Pringle $ Tickets F
C
B
80
80
68
30
01
02
# 60m 03
01
02
03
Featuring: Jan Brink & Marco D # 40m 04
05
07
08
10:00 14:00 22:00 20:00 18:00 20:00 Free!
07
$ Tickets
08
09
10
F
C
B
85
$ Tickets 09
10
F
C
B
69
62
59
~ 16+ L
International Emmy nominated comedian Mojak Lehoko brings his hilarious stand-up comedy show How Did I Get Here? to the 2016 National Arts Festival. An irreverent coming of age show about growing up in South Africa. Also, I found writing this in the 3rd person really awkward. Director: Chris Forrest Featuring: Mojak Lehoko
@Scout Hall 30
01
# 1h 02
03
04
20:30 12:00 12:00 14:30 18:00
! Afr, Eng 06
! Eng, Afr 06
Pickledginger
~ 14+ M
Harlequeens tells the story of Megan and Petruska, two clueless drag queens in search of fame and fortune. They come across an audition notice for the hit television show, Getroud met Rugby, and immediately jump at the chance. On the day of the audition, both Megan and Petruska are shocked to find that the casting will be taking place on an actual rugby field, with actual coaches and actual players. It’s a pity that no one told them that they inadvertently walked into a try-out for the Harlequins Rugby Club.
30
05
HOW DID I GET HERE?
Masketeer Productions
@Albany Cabaret Club
04
21:30 21:30 21:30 21:30
HARLEQUEENS
Director: Lymari Alberts
~ 18+ L
One of South Africa’s top comedians comes to the National Arts Festival with his brand new stand-up show HASH TAG LOTTERING! The show features Lottering’s newest material, and has been keeping audiences in stitches at theatres around the country.
05
! Eng 06
07
22:30 12:00
$ Tickets 08
09 10:00
10
F
C
B
60
54
51
198
199 I CAME, I TAUGHT, I LEFT Dalin Oliver
~ PG
Following two successful seasons at the Baxter Theatre and the National Arts Festival, teacher turned comedian, Dalin Oliver, is back for the final run of his smash hit stand-up comedy show, I Came, I Taught, I Left. Come find out why he ditched the chalkboard and assemblies, for a microphone and the stage. Director: Stuart Taylor @Bowling Club 30
01
02
# 1h 03
14:30 12:00 18:00
04
Featuring: Dalin Oliver
! Eng
05
06
$ Tickets
07
18:00 10:00 14:00
08
09
10
18:30 18:00
F
C
B
60
54
51
IRIT NOBLE SHOW Irit Noble
~ PG M
An hour with award-winning comedienne Irit Noble, in a show combining incisive, risqu? stand-up comedy and hilarious song parodies. Irit is renowned for Madame Zingara, SABC3’s Comedy Showcase, Cape Talk Radio and Smirnoff Comedy Festival. “What this woman has to say is simply spot-on and very, very funny” Cape Times. Director: Performed by: Irit Noble Featuring: Irit Noble @Scout Hall 30
01
# 1h 02
03
04
05
! Eng 06
$ Tickets
07
08
09
10
10:00
12:00 18:00 16:00 22:30 –25%
F
C
B
90
81
77
LAMBS TO THE LAUGHTER Lambs to the Laughter
~ 16+ M L NFC
Five young stand-up comedians share their unique and hilarious perspectives on the world. Watch these freshfaced jokesters, unsullied by the years, as they navigate the turmoil of youth in contemporary society. These lambs will lead you to the laughter, and you won’t regret it! Director: Tyson Ngubeni Featuring: Brad Lang, Ester van der Walt, Kate Pinchuck, Mpumelelo Malumo @Masonic Front 30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
12:00
14:00 22:00 16:00 Free!
05
! Eng 06
$ Tickets
07
08
09
10
20:00
F
C
B
50
45
43
THE LAST LAUGH TaylorMade Productions
~ PG L
End every evening on a comedy high with the very best comedians at the Festival. It’s the last show of the day and it’s a no holds barred comedy experience. Featuring an array of comedians to appeal to all comedy tastes, line-ups change daily, so don’t miss out! Featuring: All the hottest stand-up comics at the fest!
@Bowling Club 30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng 06
$ Tickets
07
08
09
10
23:00 23:00 23:00 23:00 23:00 23:00 23:00 23:00 23:00 23:00 –50%
2-4-1
F
C
B
60
54
51
LIFE ExploSIV Productions
~ 14+ M L
Rob van Vuuren is ?Life? ? the brand new show by the multi Standard Bank Ovation Award-winning comedian. Catch the firebrand comic madman at his most cynical, acerbic and anarchic as he tears apart life as we know it. Book now! And remember...’Life’ is like the toilet at Home Affairs. Director: Tara Notcutt Featuring: Rob van Vuuren @St. Andrew’s Hall 30
01
02
03
18:00 16:30 16:00 12:30
# 1h 04
05
! Eng 06 14:30
07
$ Tickets 08
09
18:30 18:00
10
C
B
100 90
F
85
200
201
202
203 LIVE JUKEBOX Ginger Cube Productions
~ 16+ M L
Come to the one show this Festival where YOU are in charge of the playlist and get a chance to call the shots... be it tequila or vodka! Hosts Mortimer Williams and Kristy Suttner combine their comedy and vocal talents to produce the hottest, craziest game show experience this Festival! Director: Matt Suttner Performed by: Mortimer Williams and Kristy Suttner Featuring: Mortimer Williams and Kristy Suttner @Bowling Club 30 12:30 Free!
01
02
14:00
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng 07
06
$ Tickets 08
21:30 20:00 14:00 12:00 16:00
09
10
10:00
F
C
B
70
63
60
THE MATING GAME (A.K.A BODY LANGUAGE 2) Gaetan Schmid
~ 14+ M NFC
Everything. Everything we think. Everything we do, we do it with one sole purpose in mind: Mating. Getting laid. SEX. Socially correct it might not be, but procreation is our ultimate goal. Says who? We do. Our body. Everybody’s body language sneakily reveals our very naughty mind. Best comedy lecture EVER! Director: Lara Bye Written by & featuring: Gaetan Schmid @Drill Hall
# 1h
01 30 02 03 20:00 18:30 14:00 12:30
04
05
! Eng 06
07
22:30
–50%
$ Tickets 08
09
10
18:00 16:00 12:00
2-4-1
F
C
B
70
63
60
MAYBE, BABY, IT’S YOU Helicon House
~ ALL
From first date, to first kiss, to the not-so-golden years of marriage, this show takes a riotous ride alongside couples that would-be, could-be and shouldn’t-be, as they search for that most elusive of beings ? the soul mate. Written by : Charlie Shanian & Shari Simpson Director: Genevieve Olivier
DIRECTED BY KRISTY SUTTNER M o r t i m e r
W i l l i a m s
i n . . .
@Vicky’s 30
01
# 50m 02
03
04
05
! Eng 07
06
$ Tickets 08
09
10
10:00 14:00 20:00 22:30
F
C
B
60
54
51
MR RIGHT SWIPE Slick ‘n Sleeve
~ 16+ M L
“Swipe right for this show!” If you don’t know what that sentence means... where have you been? Jump on board this hilarious ride - exploring the game-changer dating app ? Tinder! You’ll be snorting with laughter as you identify with the modern day dating drama that is hooking up online! Director: Michael Kirch Written by: Luella Holland & Alistair Moulton Black Featuring: Luella Holland @Drill Hall 30
01
# 50m 02
03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
16:00
20:30 22:30 16:30 21:30 16:30 12:00 –25%
$ Tickets 08
09
10
10:00 20:00
F
C
B
55
50
47
NATURALLY CAFFEINATED Naturally Caffeinated
RELAX OKES. KEEP YOUR PANTS ON!
THE MOST REVEALING INSIGHT INTO THE MIND OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN MALE.
Featuring: Amy Annear, Douglas Smith, Mpumelelo “Lolo” Malumo, Anton Krueger @Bowling Club
VENUE: THE BOWLING CLUB
~ PG NFC
In the vein of Who’s Line Is It Anyway?, Grahamstown’s beloved improvised comedy troupe is back to entertain you for the third year running. Making it up as we go along, watch as we turn your most ridiculous suggestions into “comedy gold” (Activate). We’re ‘Naturally Caffeinated’: SHARE THE BUZZ!
31
01 10:00
02
# 1h 03
04
05
14:00 14:00 21:30 18:00 –50%
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
F
C
B
50
45
43
204
205 NOMAKHISIMSI THE PONDO COMEDIAN ~ ALL
Ntombifuti Ncwayiba
In this captivatingly funny show, a Pondo comedian and storyteller shows how Pondo people react in different situations and also provides some lessons about how to behave in marriages. Directed by & featuring: Ntombifuti Ncwayiba
@Glennie Fest Centre 30
01
02
03
# 45m 04
05
! Pondo, Xho 06
07
08
$ Tickets
09
10
10:00 12:00 16:30 14:00
F
C
50
45
B
OOM SCHALK, FROM THE HEART David Muller
~ ALL
Four years on, each year different, patrons are still saying, ‘Lovely break from reality, a trip to a time where time was appreciated,’ ‘Much better than Patrick Mynhardt,’ ‘Muller truly inhabited this character, we were transported into the reality he created,’ ‘Great to share Oom Schalk with my kids’. Specially for you, Ssshhhh! Director: Celia Musikanth @Dicks 30 18:30 –50%
01
# 1h05 02
03
18:30 15:30
04
05
Featuring: David Muller
! Eng 06
13:30 12:30
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
12:00 15:30 20:30
F
C
B
70
63
60
OUT OF BOUNDS ~ 14+ L
Hungry Minds Productions
27 characters come to life through two actors in this flavourful story of an Indian family transitioning from apartheid into democracy. Lall, the main character takes us on a journey of laughter, joy and sadness as he dares to travel on the spice route of self-discovery. Director: Crizelle Anthony Written by: Rajesh Gopie Featuring: Tazme Pillay & Tailyn Ramsamy @Glennie Hall 30
01
02
# 1h 03 10:00 –50%
04
05
! Eng 06
07
19:00 13:00 17:00
$ Tickets 08
09
10
16:00
F
C
B
55
50
47
THE OXFORD IMPS The Oxford Imps
~ 10+ NFC
Fresh from their sell-out run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the Oxford Imps – wielding only your suggestions, attack the stage for a high-energy, ‘Whose Line Is It Anyway?’ style show. From rapping to musicals, Shakespeare to Bond films, anything can happen in this “devastatingly funny” showcase of UK improvised comedy. Director: Adam Mastroianni @Bowling Club 30
01
02
21:00 21:30 12:00
# 45m 03
04
05
! Eng 06
14:00 20:00
$ Tickets
07
F 18:00 12:30 20:00 10:00 70 08
09
10
C
B
63
60
PAY BACK THE CURRY! ExploSIV Productions
~ 16+ M
In the tradition of the popular, award-winning Bafana Republic franchise, the highly talented creative team aims their mighty satirical pens at everything under the rainbow, from sparrows and statues to zombies and Zuptas! Sharp, biting, funny social commentary to empower your currently disadvantaged laughter muscles. #Selfcensorshipmustfall. Director: Rob van Vuuren Written by: Mike van Graan Featuring: Daniel Mpilo Richards @Masonic Front 30
01
02
03 04 10:00 12:00 16:00 18:00
# 1h05 05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10:00 22:00 16:00 16:00
10
F
C
B
70
63
60
206
DON’T BURN YOUR SAUSAG E!
A RATHER WHISK-QU
é SHOW
DIRECTED BY BEVAN CULLIN AN
STARRING CHRIS FORRES T& PETE GOFFE-W OOD EEN
W T E B N I G N I H T Y ER D & SEX... AND EV
FOO F O E G A I R R A M E TH
VENUE: EDEN GRO VE RED
30/06 @ 18:30 | 01 /07 @ 18:30 | 02/0 7 @ 18:30 | 03/07 05/07 @ 18:30 | 06 @ 18:30 | 04/07 @ /07 @ 18:30 | 07/0 18:30 7 @ 18:30 | 08/07 @ 18:30 | 09/07 @ 18:30 CHRIS FORREST | TWITTER: @CHRISFORRESTSA | FACEBOOK: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/CHRISFORRESTSTANDUP PETE GOFFE-WOOD | TWITTER @PETEGW | FACEBOOK: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/PETER.GOFFEWOOD DBYS_A4.indd 1
2016/04/04 1:11 PM
207
208 PHILLIP “KULNECK” DIKOTLA
THE PLOTHOLE
Flip’n Flap
Cairns / Cockrell
01
Cape Town based comedy duo Stuart Cairns and Westley Cockrell bring to life the trials and tribulations they have faced while pursuing careers in stand-up comedy. From keeping a day job to chasing the impossible dream of impressing their parents, these two oddballs will have you laughing at their expense.
Director: MoMo Matsunyane Featuring: Phillip Dikotla
Director: Rob van Vuuren Written by & featuring: Westley Cockrell & Stuart Cairns
# 50m 02
03
04
05
! Eng, SA languages 06
07
08
09
10
10:00 22:00 12:00 20:00 Free!
@Albany Cabaret Club
$ Tickets F
C
B
80
72
68
30 20:00 Free!
01
02
03
12:00
02 16:00
03
04 18:00
! Eng, Afr 06
07
12:00
$ Tickets F
C
B
16:00 20:00 14:00 80
72
68
08
09
10
POLITRIX KURUP
# 50m
! Eng
05
07
06 10:00 2-4-1
Director: Thurston Amsterdam Written by & featuring: Johnnie Campher @Masonic Back
$ Tickets 08
09
18:00 14:00
10
~ 10+ NFC
A very different kettle of fish is Johnnie Campher, Johnnie articulates a laughter that some comedians can only guess at. He has a great stage personality, plays with gesture and pauses with great flair. The comedy gives a satirical view of our society. He convincingly plays the part of all his characters, sometimes up to thirty.
Written & directed by: Nic Smal & Gareth Allison Muisc performed by: Derick Watts & The Sunday Blues Featuring: Nic Smal & Gareth Allison
01 22:00
05
Johnnie Campher
~ 16+ L NFC
After 30 million YouTube views and a sold-out run at NAF 2015, Derick Watts & The Sunday Blues return to the stage with their brand of awkward musical comedy. Will they find fame, fortune and enough petrol money to get back home or learn a valuable lesson about friendship instead?
@Albany Cabaret Club
# 1h 04
18:00 20:00 22:00
PLEBS Derick Watts & The Sunday Blues
30
~ 10+ M L
This is what happens when Phillip, a budding young comedian decides to live his dream for a day, where he is a household name, with the funniest and biggest late night show on TV... it’s not stand-up, it’s not seat-down, it’s PUNCHline to PUNCHline – rib-cracking live comedy at it’s best... So, pretend he has made it!
@Vicky’s 30
~ 14+ ML NFC
F
C
B
60
54
51
30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng, Afr 06
07
08
10:00 14:00 14:00 18:00 12:00
$ Tickets 09
10
F
C
B
80
72
68
209
210
211 RAIDERS SPACED OUT: THE MOON ROCK MUSICAL Theatre for Africa
~ ALL
Raiders returns to make Grahamstown sing. Yes, Nicholas Ellenbogen and the Boy Band will bring you the true history of the American moon landing. It’s rock and laughter, its jive to survive! Miss Raiders and you miss the Festival. The multi award- winning Standing Ovation team is back in town. Director: Nicholas Ellenbogen Featuring: Nicholas Ellenbogen, Cameron Robertson, David Viviers, Nathan Lynn @Thomas Pringle 30
01
02
# 1h15 03
04
! Eng
05
06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00
F
C
B
120 108 102
RATIONAL ASSASSIN Ed Pepperell
~ 16+ M L N S R
Ever taken a star sign reading seriously? Or imbibed a homeopathic “remedy”? Or believed in an improvable all powerful being with no evidence whatsoever? (Looking at you Santa Claus...) Well... Sh*t. I’m sure there’s other stuff on. Featuring: Ed Pepperell
@Scout Hall 30
01
# 1h 02
03
04
! Eng 06
$ Tickets F
C
B
20:00 18:30 22:30 10:00 50 Free!
45
43
05
07
08
09
10
10:00
SIX INCHES Musings and Musicals Productions
~ 18+ M L
Back by popular demand, three unlikely friends share sizzling stories of love, lust and everything between the sheets. The wedding doesn’t happen, but the bridesmaids still have a long night ahead. It’s everything you want to know but never want to talk about. What would we do without Six Inches? Director: Kristy Suttner Written by: Kristy Suttner & Diaan Lawrenson Featuring: Bongile Lecoge-Zulu, Caitlin Clerk, Dikelo Mamiala @Vicky’s 30
# 1h10
01 10:00 Free!
02
03
04
12:00 14:00
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
16:00 18:00 14:00 10:00 22:00
F
C
B
65
59
55
SWEETIE DARLING Copy Dog
~ ALL NFC
The award-winning romantic comedy about a young man going all out to prove himself. While he sets up a picnic in the park for his sweetheart, he recounts the ups and downs of his journey to happiness. As he finds himself and love, he finds his path to spiritual growth. Written & directed by: Clinton Marius Featuring: Bongani Mbatha
@Scout Hall 30 12:00 Free!
01
# 1h 02
03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
16:00 10:00 22:30 20:00 14:00 14:00 18:00
09
10
16:00
F
C
B
80
72
68
THE SKANKS OF THE PROFESSIONALS Thomas Ramabu
~ ALL
This satirical play highlights the misplacement of workers. People are employed for professions they never studied. Some got their jobs through political pathways and corruption. In the play the audience are involved, each character has a moment to shine, witty dialogue, slapstick, dances and puppetry will hook any audience. Written & directed by: Thomas Ramabu Featuring: Thomas Ramabu, Johannes Moagi, Oupa Seopela @B2 Arena 30
01
# 1h 02
16:00 20:00 18:30
03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
F
C
B
70
63
60
212
213
214 THENX PRESENTS AZA-NYA IS FIVE-TO ~ 12+
ExploSIV Productions
A sketch comedy piece that explores the state of the nation through satire and parody. THERE IS A FIRE ON THE MOUNTAIN! No, not Table Mountain but the one we are choosing to ignore. Something is brewing... some are on privileged fences, others hang from trees. BE WOKE OR YOU MIGHT CHOKE! Featuring: Kitty Moepang , Tumy Motsoatsoe, MoMo Matsunyane and Zethu Dlomo @Masonic Front 30
01
02
# 55m 03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
12:00 14:00 18:00
12:00 14:00 20:00
$ Tickets 08
09
10
12:00 20:00
F
C
B
70
63
60
VIOLET ONLINE Three Cats Productions
~ 18+ M L
Violet Online is back ! This hilarious, sexy comedy about love, life and the ups and downs of online dating received rave reviews at the Festival in 2015. Recently divorced forty-something Violet explores the titillating world of cyber dating, Scrabble sex and Tinder, Brazilian waxing, Botox, Banting and bad spelling! Director: Megan Furniss Featuring: Lynita Crofford Adapted from: The blog Violet Online @Vicky’s 30
01
# 55m 02
03
16:30
16:00 22:30 –50%
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
20:30 12:00 12:00 16:00 20:30 16:00
F
C
B
70
63
60
WATTS UP WITH STREEP: A PANEL SHOW Derick Watts and the Sunday Blues & The Brothers Streep
~ PG NFC
Join musical comedians Derick Watts and the Sunday Blues and The Brothers Streep in a hilarious panel show where they battle it out for the title of funniest comedy duo at the National Arts Festival. Don’t miss this fresh and unpredictable fight to take home the ultimate made-up award. Directed & performed by: Gareth Allison, Dylan Hichens, Nic Smal & Simon van Wyk @Albany Cabaret Club 30
01
02
03
# 1h 04
05
! Eng 06
07
10:00 16:00 12:00
$ Tickets 08
09
10
22:00 12:00
F
C
B
50
45
43
WHO’S YOUR DADDY? Pickledginger
~ 14+ M L
A hilarious one-man comedy show all about comedian Chris Forrest’s journey to becoming a dad. This laugh-aminute show covers everything from “trying”, to dealing with pregnancy, to having a baby. A must see for all parents, expectant parents or just fans of great comedy. Director: Bevan Cullinan Featuring: Chris Forrest
@Scout Hall 30
01
# 1h 02
16:00 14:00 16:30
03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
12:00 16:00 16:00 10:00 14:30 12:00
10
F
C
B
70
63
60
215
Stuart Taylor BOWLING CLUB 01/07 - 20:00 02/07 - 16:00 03/07 - 12:00 05/07 - 16:00
06/07 - 10:00 07/07 - 14:00 08/07 - 20:30 09/07 - 16:00
'A top-notch comedian’ ‘An Excellent, funny stand-up comedy show of professional quality.'
- The Cue
Taylor made Comedy
Art Direction & Design by ghia@bizmoggi.com
'Spend your evening in entertaining company - you certainly won’t be sorry you did!'
216
THEY’RE BACK THREE SHOWS ONLY!
r SCOUT HALL R80 o r o f R75 ers SATURDAY 2 JULY - 20:30 SUNDAY 3 JULY - 18:30 ion pens ents DRILL HALL d & stu MONDAY 4 JULY 19:00
217 BLACK GODS OF THE ASPHALT
FALLING OFF THE HORN ~ 12+ M
Phillips Academy
On the street every ballplayer has a story. Fusing the beats of city life with rhythms of basketball and pulsating hip-hop dance, our production weaves from urban courts to memories of prison, slave communities, and Africa. Our stories transform the city asphalt into a sacred altar of perseverance and love.
2015 Standard Bank Ovation Award-winners for Waterline, ‘Uyabona Ke’ (‘See What I Mean’), and Rhodes Masters directing student Sam Pennington, present Falling off the Horn: A new work that showcases the company’s captivating style of visual storytelling to shed light on experiences of xenophobia in modern-day South Africa.
Director: Allen Grimm Writer: Onaje Woodbine Choreography: Erin Strong
Director: Sam Pennington Featuring: Khaya Kondile, Nombasa Ngoqo,Mziwanele Jodwana,Ayanda Nondlwana
@Centenary Hall 30
01
02
# 1h15 03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
@Glennie Hall
$ Tickets 08
09
10
10:00 20:00 2-4-1
2-4-1
F
C
B
30
27
26
# 45m
30 01 02 03 18:00 21:00 12:00 17:00
02
# 55m 03
04
05
$ Tickets
! Non-Verbal 06
07
08
13:00
09
10
F
C
B
21:30 10:00 49 44
42
FATHER, FATHER, FATHER!
07
15:00 21:00 15:00 19:30
08
09
10
13:00 12:00
Director: Toni Morkel @Drill Hall
$ Tickets
! Eng, Zul, Afr, Xho 06
F
C
B
60
60
51
# 40m
30 01 02 03 14:00 16:30 12:00 22:30
04
05
$ Tickets
! Eng 06
07
08
09
10
10:00 12:00 20:00 16:00
–25%
CONNECTION TO HOME
C
B
70 63
F
60
FINDING UPRIGHT
~ ALL
Marcus Mabusela
~ 16+ V
Three sisters locked in a basement awaiting their father’s return. “...shades of Chekhov’s (twisted) The Three Sisters meets Salvador Dali (in drag)...this ridiculously quirky fantasy, with a menacing twist, underpins a performance piece by three gifted young artists who are creating a zany style and rigorously theatrical language.” ? Adrienne Sichel.
Director: Simona Mazza Devised by: Simona Mazza and Cast Featuring: Tyson Ngubeni & Luthando Jamda
01
05
Robaby
~ 14+ M L V
In life, everyone is a victim, everyone is a predator. Nothing is black and white, only Blue. Thirty years after apartheid ended Mthunzi grapples with the terrible grief of being born free on a rubbish dump Rainbow Nation Dream. The work is interspersed with explorations of the faceless drivers of the Blue Light Brigade.
@Rehearsal Room
04
–50%
BLUE Alt Eye Productions
30
~ PG M
Uyabona Ke
~ 16+ M
Rhodes University Drama/ Maipelo Gabang
Connection to Home is a marriage of contemporary Afro dance and spoken word. This work explores the immigration crisis currently happening in Europe and the historical elements that derail humanity from attaining unity and peace. It sows together lives of Africans who crossed borders in search of better living conditions in the west.
Looking in from the outside, curating spaces of alternative perspective, fashioning sense and self-importance through threads of self-recognition and retrospection. Delicate but resilient, intricate yet illusive. Slow, nonetheless steady, we go.
Choreography: Mandla ‘Sunnyboy’ Ntuli @B2 Arena 30
01
# 50m 02
03
04
05
06
07
@PJ’s
$ Tickets
! 08
09
10
12:00 16:00 20:30 18:30
C
B
65 59
F
55
# 35m
30 01 02 03 20:00 12:00 16:00 18:00
04
05
$ Tickets
! 06
07
08
09
10
–50%
DEATH OF A CLOWN
F
C
B
40
36
34
GA(Y)ME(N)PLAY ~ 16+ M Rhodes University Drama / Kamogelo Molobye
Masidlale in collaboration with Oddbody Theatre ~ 12+ M
In a time where manhood and masculinity lacks a language to fully realise and define itself, Ga(y)me(n)Play is a physical theatre performance that seeks to explore the nuanced images of a man through vulnerability and intimacy that challenges stereotypes of masculinities.
Life is a comedy to those who think, a tragedy to those to feel. Death of a Clown presents a Pierrot’s repeated attempts to overcome his failures and finally make an audience laugh. In doing so, uncovering the cruelty inherent in theatre and art.
Choreography: Kamogelo Molobye
Director: Richard Antrobus & Tristan Jacobs Featuring: Ryan Napier @Masonic Back 30
01
# 45m
02 03 04 05 06 10:00 22:00 14:00 18:00 12:00 -25%
07
@PJ’s
$ Tickets
! 08
09
10
F
C
B
70 63
70
–50%
Director: Nicholas Ellenbogen Writer: Nicholas Ellenbogen & Hilda Cronje Choreography: Hilda Cronje Featuring: Hilda Cronje
01
02
03
# 45m 04
05
! Eng, Zul, Xho, Tsw 06
07
08
09
10
2-4-1
$ Tickets F
C
B
40
36
34
06
07
08
09
10
Choreography: Bailey Snyman Directed by & featuring: MIcia de Wet and Bailey Snyman @Glennie Hall
$ Tickets
! Eng
C
B
100 90
F
85
~ 10+ L
She waits on the beach for her lover to return from the ocean. He waits knowing he will never return. Their parents are lonely together. This 2-hander risks the ideals of love, loss and apathy that surrenders to comedy and touches the heart of the meaning of life. Two minutes can feel like an eternity.
International award-winning actress Hilda Cronje takes time out of her world touring to bring her hugely powerful performance in Ebola to Grahamstown. Directed by Nicholas Ellenbogen, she ventures into the terrifying world of Ebola. Last seen at Grahamstown in Mies Julie this extraordinary actress is back!
30
05
Matchbox Theatre Collective
~ 14+ M
Theatre for africa
17:30 17:30 17:30 17:30 17:30
04
GIFTIG
EBOLA
@Princess Alice Hall
# 45m
30 01 02 03 14:00 17:30 21:30 19:30
30 01 02 03 04 14:00 14:00 18:00 21:00 12:30 –50%
# 40m 05
$ Tickets
! Eng 06
07
08
09
10
F
C
B
55
50
47
218
219
220 HOME
PULP ~ ALL
Intlangano Project
Home is something peculiar in South Africa. There is a yearning for it; something mystical, restful, hopeful. Inspired by Toni Morrison’s novel titled Home. The production will use unprocessed physicality to explore the insidious presence of the desire for a home in our contemporary lives.
Pulp begins in a hazy dream, a silent movie where bodies hide secrets. Mysterious beauty, dark comedy, and seatshifting tension co-exist in a world that follows the peculiar logic of dreams. Film Noir meets Dance Theatre in the most intimate work yet from Cape Town’s award-winning leaders in innovative dance.
Choreography: Nomcebisi Moyikwa @Centenary Hall 30
01
02
# 45m 03
04
16:00 22:30 18:00 16:30
05
06
17:30
Free!
07
Director: Steven van Wyk, Thalia Laric & Kristina Johnstone Featuring: Cilna Katzke Steven van Wyk Thalia Laric & Kristina Johnstone
$ Tickets
! 08
09
10
13:30
F
C
B
60
54
51
I AM ...... DEDANIZIZWE
~ ALL
Underground Dance Theatre
~ 16+ M
@PJ’s 30
# 40m 01
02
03
04
05
$ Tickets
! Eng 06
07
08
09
10
21:30 15:30 10:00 14:00 12:00 20:00
F
C
B
90
81
77
Rhodes University Drama & Lenin Shabalala I am... Dedanizizwe explores the journey of multifaceted, multifarious being, immersed in life’s exhilarating highs and depressing lows, an autobiographical choreographic portrait of self-discovery and expression through diverse movement, iconography, music and poetry. A contemporary hip-hop physical theatre performance for the Rhodes Drama Department Masters Programme
REAL? From media to make-up, parents to religion, every event, suggestion, action and word plays a role in how a woman learns to see herself. Real? attempts to dissect these influences as the female characters grapple with finding their true identity.
Direction & choreography: Lenin Shabalala Performed by: Siki Qwazi & Zukizani Lamani Featuring: Jay Molopo, Sizwe Zulu, Smangaliso Ngwenya and Wezile Mgibe @Centenary Hall
# 45m
30 01 02 03 12:00 21:00 22:30 18:30
04
05
07
08
Director: Peraldo Senekal Written by & featuring: Riandi Malan, Kay Dewes @B2 Arena
$ Tickets
! Eng, Zul 06
09
10
–50%
F
C
B
40
36
34
INGRID ~ 12+ M
Alt Eye Productions
A tribute production, celebrating the life and work of acclaimed poet Ingrid Jonker. The piece serves as a visual and physical response to her oeuvre: a reaction to her as provocation. A devised imagistic theatre production drawn from texts such as Ontvlugting, L’Art Poetique, and Ek Herhaal Jou. Director: Ester Van Der Walt Featuring: Lea Vivier, Maude Sandham, Megan Van Wyk @Masonic Front 30
01
02
# 55m 03
04
05
$ Tickets
! Non-verbal 06
07
14:00 22:00 20:00
08
09
10
14:00 10:00
F
C
B
60
54
51
LOXION STORY:UMAVUSANA ~ ALL
Via Kasi Movers
This is a moving story about three close friends who are doing their best to live a positive lifestyle. But the “loxion culture” that immediately surrounds them, is at odds with their good intentions. Do they find a way out? Join them in this humorous battle of life-changing decisions. Director: Ayanda Nondlwana Featuring: Ayanda Nondlwana, Siyabonga Bawuti, Elethu Heshu and Xolela Fatyi @NG KERK HALL 30
01
02
# 55m 03
21:00 10:00
04
05
$ Tickets
! Eng, Tsotsi 06
07
08
09
10
F
C
B
18:30 14:00 22:00
PIECES OF EVERY ME ~ PG NFC Ntsika Tyatya, Phumlani Mtiti, Khaya Ndlovu A rethinking of life, the study of shadows and a cultural timeline. The song, poem, dance seeks to find an answer to the question: who are we? Where do we come from? An exploration of our identity within the places/spaces/ faces that we inhabit: mind, culture, heart, land. A vision translated. Writer: Ntsika Tyatya Choreography: Khaya Ndlovu Music: Phumlani Mtiti Performed by: Phumlani Mtiti & Mthokozisi Mabuza Featuring: Mthokozisi Mabuza, Ntsika Tyatya, Khaya Ndlovu & Phumlani Mtiti @Centenary Hall 30
01
02
# 45m 03
04
05
$ Tickets
! Eng, Xho, Zul 06
07 08 09 10:00 19:00 16:00 –50%
10
~ 14+ M
Riandi Malan and Kay Dewes
F
C
B
50
45
43
30
01
# 55m 02
03
04
05
$ Tickets
! Eng 06
F
C
B
10:00 14:00 20:30 12:00 65
65
65
07
08
09
10
221 RICE ~ ALL
Atlegang Creatives
Rice reflects the story of Karabo and Mothusimang who tragically lose their parents in a fatal car accident. Their entrusted Aunt turns against them, Karabo loses his job due to nepotism and gets involved in shady dealings, he gets arrested while Thusi fights till his final year at varsity... Written & directed by: Christopher Mathe and Matthews Mongale @Dicks 30
01
# 1h 02
03
04
05
$ Tickets
! Eng, Tsw, Afr 06
07 08 09 10 F 10:00 20:30 16:00 10:00 50 Free!
C
B
45
43
20:00
SACRE FOR ONE ~ 16+ M NFC
Alan Parker
Le Sacre du Printemps or The Rite of Spring was first performed in France in 1913. Since then hundreds of choreographers, all over the world, have taken turns to re-imagine this infamous ballet and Stravinsky’s evocative score. In Sacre for one, Alan Parker attempts to remember and piece together fragments of these historical dances (and some contemporary ones too) to create a ‘leftover’ Sacre ? one comprised of multiple voices and multiple histories, emerging through the body of the solo performer. Choreography: Alan Parker Performed by:
Featuring: Alan Parker
@PJ’s
! Eng
30
# 45m
01 02 03 04 05 10:00 17:30 12:00 16:00 22:00
06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
–25%
F
C
B
60
54
51
SONDER JOU ~ ALL
Freed & Rona
As starlings flock together making a magnificent murmuration, so too can humanity be a beautiful body, formed from unique and individually wonderful parts. Through dance and physical theatre Sonder Jou highlights how we each have a story to tell and can only be united if we see life through each other’s eyes. Director: Abi Wiese Writer: Abi and Cobus Wiese Choreography: Cobus Wiese Music: Anjulie Nock @Glennie Hall 30
01
02
# 50m 03
04
05
$ Tickets
! Eng, Afr 06
07
08
16:00 16:00 22:30 12:30
09
10
F
C
B
55
50
47
TO 4RM ~ PG
Prince Lamla
Workshopped by 2013 Standard Bank Young Artist Award-winner, Prince Lamla, and four AFDA graduates, this reflective piece sees the four actors deliver harrowing personal stories that have shaped their lives. The piece is thematically structured around love, loss and forgiveness, with each actor reflectively relaying stories of loss and grief; and them stumbling around in their respective narratives trying to gain perspective and closure on the injustices that were dealt to their former selves. Director: Prince Lamla Featuring: Mpolokeng Chabane, Thapelo Madondo, Sabelo Ndumo & Sandile Mkhize @Dicks 30
01
# 1h 02
03
04
05
! Eng, Zul 06
07
$ Tickets
08 09 10 F 10:00 18:30 12:00 75 -50%
C
B
68
64
222 VLOWER Francesca Matthys and Andrea van der Kuil ~ 14+ M “Is it awkward? Does it hurt? Do you bleed? Fornication, consummation, copulation.” This quirky, playful physical theatre piece explores all the secrets about female virginity. Watch as the three main characters navigate their way through the preparation that leads up to the ultimate watering. “Come on ladies, its flower time.” Director: Francesca Matthys Written & Choreograpphed by: Francesca Matthys Featuring: Sharmyan Kassen, Andrea van der Kuil & Tamara Bergman @Masonic Front 30
01
02
# 45m 03
04
05
$ Tickets
! Eng 06
07
08
09
10
10:00 18:00 12:00 20:00 12:00
F
C
B
40
36
40
WATERLINE ~ ALL
Uyabona Ke
“Waterline whets your appetite, feeds your soul, and washes it all down with a generous gulping of humility, humanity and humour.” Critter 2015. Uyabona Ke is a sensational group of masked performers whose physical adeptness and versatility makes Waterline, a 2015 Standard Bank Ovation Award-winner, a visually richly captivating production. Director: Rob Murray Rehearsal Coach: Mike da Silva Featuring: Khaya Kondile, Ayanda Nondlwana,Nombasa Ngoqo & Mziwanele Jodwana @NG Kerk Hall 30 12:00 2-4-1
01 14:30
02
# 1h 03
04
21:30 14:30
05
$ Tickets
! Non-verbal 06
07 18:30
08
F
C
B
10:00 14:00 50
45
43
09
10
Gaymenplay half vertical
223 ABANGABONWA (THE UNSEEN) ~ ALL
Sibonelo Dance Project
‘Abangabonwa’ means ‘the unseen’ in isiZulu. This piece draws on the ‘unheard’ stories of people living in the townships in poverty (mother daughter love, struggle with drugs, living in two worlds – work and home). It was choreographed by drawing on the experiences of the dancers – experiences where they felt unheard and unseen. Director: Mzokuthula Gasa Choreography: Mzokuthula Gasa & Company @Centenary Hall 30
01
02
# 50m 03
04 12:00 –25%
05
$ Tickets
! 06
07
21:30
F
C
B
10:00 18:00 14:00 70
63
60
08
09
10
AFRICAN RHYTHMS ~ ALL
Thabisong Youth Club
African Rhythms is a vibrant music and dance show where you explore the beauty and origin of the African beat and African movements through dance and music. Director: Mbali Shezi Choreography: Dumisani Thusi
@City Hall 30
01
# 1h10 02
04 03 10:00 17:00 –50% 2-4-1
05
! SA lang 06
07
08
22:30
$ Tickets F
C
B
16:00 14:00 60
54
51
09
10
THE BEST OF GAUTENG II: PANTSULA DANCE ~ ALL
GAUTENG DSRAC
A very vibrant and energetic combination of dance pieces, mainly PANTSULA. Presented by the Gauteng Deoartment
of Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation. Director: Sharon April Choreography: Louis Baloyi Featuring: Molefe Magazi, Sipho Dlamini, Sydney Maseko @City Hall 30
01
# 45m 02
03
04
05
$ Tickets
! 06
07
08
09
10
18:30
20:30 16:30 12:30 14:30 2-4-1
F
C
B
25
23
21
BURN ~ ALL
Liquid Fusion
Humanity is the Earth’s most intimate friend. Burn explores the tense relationship between Earth and Man, and how the two hold each other ransom. A full-length duet, strong, powerful and explosive, Burn is a fierce dance work that tests the limits of the human body. Director: Bailey Snyman Music: Daniel Geddes Featuring: Daniel Geddes, Mark Tatham @PJ’s 30
# 45m 01
02
03
04
$ Tickets
!
05 06 07 08 09 14:00 16:00 22:30 14:00 18:30 20:30
10
F
C
B
70
63
60
CHASING SHADOWS ~ PG NFC
Cape Academy of Performing Arts
Standing in their shadows they wondered why it was always dark. Disturbed by this sight and displeased with their footsteps, they decided to seek the light. But with every step their mercurial shadows kept up with them. They attempted the impossible and tried to catch their own elusive shadow, and all the while it followed, always darker, emptier and simpler. “Intense choreography matched with soft moments will pierce the hearts of the audiences...” Tinika Nuen, Cue 2015. Adapted from:
Director: Debbie Turner & Nathalie Vijver
@Centenary Hall 30
01
20:00 14:30
02
# 1h15 03
04 12:00 14:00 20:30
05
$ Tickets
! 06
07
08
09
10
F
C
B
70
63
60
224 DANCE SPECTRUM
EMAXESIBENI AFRICAN DANCE ~ ALL
National School of the Arts
~ ALL
Alfred Nzo Cultural Ensamble
An exquisite programme of ballet, Spanish and contemporary dance presented by the talented learners of the National School of the Arts (NSA). The 2016 Dance Spectrum features excerpts from Pharaoh’s Daughter, which premiered at the Jo’burg Theatre Festival of Fame.
A showcase of traditional dance and music that puts the spotlight on our diverse cultures and the incredible heritage abundant in South Africa. Director: Dumisani Kala
Director: Manuel Norambuena Featuring: Learners from the National School of the Arts @Alec Mullins 30 01 10:00 10:00
02
# 1h 03
04
! Eng
05
06
07
@Sundowner Stage
$ Tickets 08
09
10
F 60
2-4-1
C 54
B
30
01
02
03
51
Free!
2-4-1
$ Tickets
! 06
07
08
09
10
F
Free!
Free!
C
B
Free!
FABRIC OF THE UNIVERSE ~ ALL
S’hlangene Dancers
Downfall is a dance about the distraction that money brings into our daily lives: the way people resort to crime, prostitution, domestic violence and how people get into relationships just because of money. Writer / Director: Nzimeni Phiwe Herembi Choreography: Nzimeni Herembi, assisted by Flab April & Mangaliso Mtimkulu Featuring: Timothy Mtimkulu, Itumeleng Mothibedi, Lethola Maduna & Sibusiso Masangane @Recreation Hall 02
# 50m 03
04
12:30 20:30
05
! Eng, Xho, Zul 06
16:30
~ ALL
Lexi Meier
DOWNFALL
01
05
11:30 13:30 13:30 11:30
21:00 21:00
30
# 30m 04
07
08
09
$ Tickets 10
F 45
C 41
B 38
“Had I the heavens’ embroidered cloths enwrought with gold and silver light, the blue, the dim; the dark cloths of night and light and half light?” What are the blue; the dim cloths? When is life ‘enwrought with gold and silver light’? Fabric of The Universe (conceived by the 2015 Aha Awardwinning choreographer, Lexi Meier) is an immersive, tactile, choreographic installation for all ages to enjoy. It explores the scale of the human working hand and the joy felt in the physical act of making. Come! We have spread our dreams beneath your feet... Choreography: Lexi Meier Featuring: Lexi Meier & Hannah Lax @Glennie Media Centre 30
01 19:00 –25%
02
03 19:00
# 35m 04
05 19:00
! Eng 06
07 19:00
$ Tickets 08
09 19:00
10
F
C
B
85
77
72
225
226 FAMILY PORTRAIT
GENESIS (THE BEGINING OF AN END) ~ ALL
Koketso Dance Project
This dance piece tells of a single mother raising her sons in dysfunctional circumstances. It alludes to the miscommunication in our society that has led to separatism and gaps in our social classes. This family proposes a solution in which, as individuals, they should try to mitigate the differences among the brothers. This is acknowledged by their mother and ultimately brings calmness to this destructed family.
30
01
02
03
# 50m 04 15:30 –50%
05
07
02 14:00 12:00 19:00 16:00 Free!
$ Tickets 08
09
10
17:30 10:00
F
C
B
90
81
77
~ ALL
Moving Into Dance Mophatong
Celebrating 38 years in the SA Dance Industry, MIDM proudly presents a programme of exhilarating new dance works by, and with, its male dancers. “MIDM’s men ... shift gear instantaneously ... from aggression into malleability” Tammy Ballantyne “...truly a privilege to witness.... a magnetic tour de force” Robyn Sassen Director: Mark Hawkins Choreography: Sunnyboy Motau & Rachel Erdos/ Oscar Buthelezi/ Eugene Mashiane Featuring: Sunnyboy Motau, Oscar Buthelezi, Muzi Shili,Eugene Mashiane,Teboho Letele
30
01
02
# 55m 03
01
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng, SA lang 06
07
08
09
$ Tickets 10
16:30
F
C
B
50
45
43
I AM ~ PG M
Kmad Dance Company
’...FEATHERS...’
@Centenary Hall
Direction & choreography: Corne Delport
30
! Eng 06
Genesis tells the story of Adam and Eve but focuses in on their relationship both in and out of Eden. We explore the journey they went on and draw comparisons to relationships today. We often forget that love didn’t start with Romeo and Juliet but with Adam and Eve who are the Father and Mother of us all. The piece questions what happened between them on a mental, physical, psychological and spiritual level, and reflects on what relationships were intended to be and what they have become.
@Centenary Hall
Director: David Matamela Writer: Boitumelo Mokolopeng Choreography: Douglas Sekete @Transnet Great Hall
~ 14+ M R NFC
Youth In Trust
04
05
06
07
08
12:00 15:30
09 10 F 14:00 10:00 90 22:00
C 81
Director: Kelsey Middleton Choreography: Thami Tshabalala & Khaya Ndlovu Featuring: Thami Tshabalala, Khaya Nlovu, Nelmari Bornman, Laura-Jean de Vries @Centenary Hall
$ Tickets
!
I AM..... a contemporary dance work, inspired by the haunting photographs of Christian Samson, capturing mental disorders, such as insomnia, schizophrenia, anxiety and depression, giving these illnesses physical form . On paper, photographs, have an image, but when those images are translated into movements those very same images, explode into a world that is unique, surprising, original and above all, accessible to Everyman. “Because it can’t be seen, doesn’t mean damage can’t be done”.
B
30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
77
05
06 15:30 14:00 –25% 21:30
$ Tickets
! 07
08
09
10
16:00 10:00
C
B
100 90
F
85
...IF THE WORLD WAS LISTENING
GAUTENG MOTJEKO DANCE
~ PG M
Phakama Dance Theatre
~ ALL
Gauteng Provincial Government
...if the world was listening This breath taking contemporary work is a journey delving deep into the mind of self discovery. In a world of layers; complexities; haste and noise, One would wonder; if the world would pause & turn a willing ear to ones mouth, what is it truly, that you would say?
Modern dance mixed with street dance. This is explosive dance entertainment that will wow the whole family.
Director: Leagan Peffer Choreography: Sandile Mkhize Featuring: Sandile Mkhize, Leagan Peffer, Lorin Sookool @Centenary Hall 30
01
02
# 03
04
$ Tickets
! 05
@Transnet Great Hall
F
C
B
10:00 19:30 14:00 20:00 12:00 32
27
26
06
07
08
09
10
30
01
02
03
04
# 50m
! Eng
05
07
06 15:00 10:00 17:30 21:30 19:00
$ Tickets 08
09
10
F
C
B
50
45
43
227 IF THESE BODIES COULD SPEAK ~ PG M
Matchbox Theatre Collective
A digital-dance love story that examines the instinctive experience of the body as viewed from the inside out, revealing the ‘lived’ experience that vocalizes emotion, allowing the body to ‘speak’. Choreography: Bailey Snyman and Nicola Haskins Featuring: Nicola Haskins and Bailey Snyman
@PJ’s 30
# 55m 01
02
03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
18:00 –50% 21:30 14:00 10:00 18:00
F
C
B
75
68
64
INTWASO ~ ALL
Isingqi Sakwa-Ntu Cultural Group
‘Intwaso’ is the process one goes through to become a traditional healer. This is known as the calling by the ancestors. When one has gone through ?the calling?, ‘intwaso intlombe’ is performed to celebrate the success of the calling. This is chiefly celebrated through indigenous dance and music, after which the person are able to heal other people using herbs and is called a traditional healer. Director: T. Maqoko Writer: N. Ngombane Music: N. Mehlomakhulu @Sundowner Stage 30
01
02
03
# 30m 04
05
$ Tickets
! Xho 06
07
08
09
10
F
C
B
11:30 16:00 11:30 16:00 Free!
Free!
Free!
Free!
KUKURA ~ ALL
Orange Farm Dance Theatre
The dance piece is about the path we take as individuals from the past to the present. It demonstrates how our journey is different from others, the growth within the individual, and how our culture plays an important role in the up bringing of soul. It signpost the roles of elderly people, men and women in the village. The stages, challenges and changes they go through. Director: Nthabiseng Segoe Music: Nkosana Bembe Choreography: Nthabiseng Segoe & Mpumelelo Zikiza @Transnet Great Hall 30
01
02
03
# 45m 04
05 10:00 –50%
! Sot, Eng 06
07
08
$ Tickets 09
10
12:00
F
C
B
68
61
58
16:00 17:00
MORETHETHO RHYTHM ~ ALL
Bothakga Productions
Gumboot dance impeccably performed using modern, energetic dance styles. This production is electrifying prepare to be shocked! Director: Professor Matlaopane Choreography: Onkgopotse Segaloe
@Recreation Hall 30
01
02 03 04 10:00 12:00 16:30 18:30 –50% 21:00
# 50m 05
! Tsw, Eng, Fan 06
07
08
09
$ Tickets 10
F
C
B
40
36
34
228
229 MY BODY, MY LIFE, MY DECISIONS. ~ 16+ V NFC
Rainbow Theatre Company
South Africa has a high prevalence of hate crimes, including assault and corrective rape within communities. This work captures reported incidents of hate crimes within Southern Africa using contemporary dance and live music to share and explore the stories of both victims and survivors. It tells the stories of the silenced voices within the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender & Intersex (LGBTI) community, using original images of well-known cases. Direction / Choreography: Thobeka Bhengu Music performed by: Mfundo Ndlovu @City Hall 30
01
# 40m 02
03
04
! Eng 06
05
$ Tickets F
C
B
21:00 14:30 22:30 10:00 50 Free!
45
43
07
08
09
10
14:30
NEFELIBATA Oakfields College Faculty of Dance and Musical ~ ALL Theatre He is mute. She is blind. Together they embark on a whimsical journey of discovery, connection and selfexpression as they learn how the world of movement transcends the restriction of language and personal inhibition. Nefelibata explores the various aspects of movement through a dreamlike, cross-disciplinary collaboration of traditional mime and contemporary dance. Director: Ignatius van Heerden Choreography: Ignatius van Heerden & Jaques Van Jaarsveld Featuring: Students from the Oakfields College Faculty of Dance and Musical Theatre @Centenary Hall 30
01
02
# 50m 03
04
05
$ Tickets
! 06
07
08
09
10
17:00 14:00 10:00
F
C
B
60
54
51
NGWAO YA RONA ~ ALL
Kopano Ke Matla Youth Group
Ngwao ya Rona uses various traditional and indigenous Tswana music and dances to promote and recognise the culture of the Batswana. It is energetically performed by 22 members of the Kopano Ke Matla Youth Group, established in 2016, and based in Jouberton township in the North West Province. Director: Tshepiso Modisadife Choreography: Eric Gabatlhalefe @Recreation Hall 30
01
02
# 45m 03
04
05
! Tsw, Eng 06
07
$ Tickets F
C
B
18:00 16:30 14:00 45 –25%
41
38
10:00
08
09
10
230
For 7 Deadly Sins
231 NKWEKHWEZANA CULTURAL GROUP
PURPLE RAIN
~ ALL
Nkwekhwezana Cultural Group
We have our own history, our own language, our own culture. But our destiny is also tied up with the destinies of other people history has made us all South Africans.
Transformed from the drought and the intimate relationship between rain and earth to give life, Purple Rain unravels a love story between a beautiful girl and a handsome deaf boy. The only way of communication is through dance. Just like rain needs clouds to form for a fruitful rainfall. Lots of challenges come their way as people are against them being together.
Director: Lulama Khethani Choreography: Viwe Khethani
@Sundowner Stage 30
01
02
03
# 30m 04
05
! Xho 06
11:30
11:30 14:00 11:30
Free!
Free!
Free!
07
Choreography & direction by: Warren Randell Wilskut
$ Tickets 08
09
10
F
C
B
@City Hall 30 12:00
Free!
Free!
01
# 50m 02
03
01
02
# 30m 03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
09
10
10:00 –50% 16:00 12:00 18:00
F
C
B
55
50
47
30
# 55m 01
02
03
# 1h 03
04
05
$ Tickets
! 06
07
08
F
C
B
50
45
43
~ ALL
04
05
! Eng, SA lang
$ Tickets
06 07 08 09 10 F 12:00 16:30 10:00 16:30 12:00 61 18:00
C
B
55
52
09
10
16:00 –50% 19:30 12:00 16:00 14:00
Awe-inspiring dancers unfold the intricacies of this challenging choreographic work by two of South Africa’s most inspiring young choreographers. Following on from their 2013 Standard Bank Ovation Award-winning work, 7 Deadly Sins, this work ventures down dark, illusive paths. Through acrobatics, endurance and athleticism, the dancers sting the venomous intentions of these two choreographers into their audiences, like poison filtering a child’s mind...
F
C
B
60
54
51
Director: Kelsey Middleton Choreography: Thami Tshabalala & Phume Sikhakhane Featuring: Thami Tshabalala, Laura-Jean de Vries, Thato Nkwe, Khaya Ndlovu @Centenary Hall 30
PREDICAMENT / AYEYE
01
02
# 1h 03
04 10:00
~ 12+ M
Eastern Cape Dance Company
~ PG NFC
Kmad Dance Company
Direction & Choreography: Colleen Kitching Featuring: Mikayla Isaacs & Caitlin Mackay
02
10
SINS
~ ALL
Cape Town ‘s Starlight Studios returns after a triumphant 2013 run to present a varied and exciting programme of dance. Nineteen talented dancers will perform awardwinning dance pieces in various styles ranging from lyrical to contemporary and jazz. This is a must for dance lovers.
01
09
Direction & Choreography: George Hlungwani
OWN THE SPOTLIGHT
30
$ Tickets 08
2-4-1
Starlight Studios
@PJ’s
07
This is 100% eclectic fusion, a constellation of some original, sacred yet exhilarating, vibrantly colourful indigenous cultural heritage... pure songs and dances of Limpopo choreographed to entertain and epitomise the rich and cultural diversity of the six aboriginal natives in their extraordinary forms.
@PJ’s
$ Tickets 08
! Eng 06
RHYTHMS OF THE NORTH - THE MUSICAL
Direction & Choreography: Des van der Spuy, Gabriel Masango & Simiso Sokhela Featuring: Gabriel Masango, Simiso Slash, Fire Sokhela, Kirsty Fisher, Siwela Sonke Dancers
30
05
Heritage South Africa
~ ALL
A contemporary and poetic journey delving into the complexities of untold stories in our lives, revealing the opportunities that life has for us.
@Centenary Hall
04
14:30 18:00 19:30
OPPORTUNITY Dance Direction International / Youngstar Production / Simiso SlashFire Sokhela
~ ALL
MDG Performing Arts Academy
–25%
First Piece: Predicament: In memory of a dearly loved mother. For everything there is a season, a time to be born and a time to die. You can shed tears that she is gone, or you can smile because she has lived. You can do what she wants smile, open your eyes, love and go on. Second Piece: Ayeye, My God: A fusion of isiXhosa content with a dash of Danster in motion, together they produce a cocktail of human emotion and spiritual awakening.
05
$ Tickets
! 06
07
08
09
10
19:30 17:30 21:30 12:00
F
C
B
100 90
85
TEN ~ PG
Northern Dance Project
Director: Phumzile Zakaza Choreography: Thembikosi Puwane & Reginald Danster Music: Ndumiso Mtsali Featuring: Siphokazi Gwazela, Nasiphi Ntabeni, Ntombokanyo Stofile, Asanda Hanabe
Ten reflects on the recounting of a story, looking back through the decade on issues of the past and the relevance of today. Highlighting a new work called ‘Divergence’ by Louise Coetzer, looking at the point where two things split off from each other, separating, parting, divided: could we recognise harmony within polar opposites or celebrate that which seems to be poles apart.
@City Hall
Director: Deborah McFadden
30
01
# 55m 02
03
04
! Xho, Eng
05 06 07 10:00 16:30 12:30 –50%
08
$ Tickets 09
10
F
C
B
@Centenary Hall
40
36
34
30
20:30
~ ALL
Students of the Sarah Cookney Academy of Dance present a dynamic forty-five minute fusion of jazz, contemporary, African and hip hop dance. This effervescent showcase of original dance works is filled with captivating music and attractive costuming. It’s both entertaining and stimulating and appeals to dance lovers of every age. Director: Sarah Cookney & Meagan Miller Choreography: Brigette Reeve Taylor, Sarah Cookney, Ciara Baldwin, Nathan Bartman, Elvis Sibeko & Meagan Miller
12:00
# 45m 01
02
03
04
13:30 19:30 21:30 10:00 Free!
05
# 1h 03
! Eng 06
07
04
12:30 10:00 14:30 18:30 –50% 2-4-1
PULSE
30
02
18:00
Sarah Cookney Academy of Dance
@PJ’s
01
$ Tickets 08
09
10
F
C
B
55
50
47
2-4-1
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
F
C
B
60
54
51
232 WITH/HOLD ~ 16+ M NFC
Magdalena de Beer
In this innovative new dance work, the performers interrogate emotional and physical attachments. They move independently, dependently, and co-dependently with each other and the audience, engaging with bodily experiences of support, connection and isolation. Confronting the audience with their vulnerability, performers expose their humanness with a raw honesty. Choreography: Magdalena de Beer Performed by: Carla Navarra Featuring: Ameera Mills, Kate Pinchuck @Transnet Great Hall 30
01
02
03 12:00 –50%
# 45m 04
05
$ Tickets
! 06
07
08
09
10
21:00 12:00 13:30
F
C
B
65
59
55
XX ~ 13+ L
Triple C
XX, kiss kiss... A sassy, non-stop hour of hip hop, contemporary, Michael Jackson and Prince, XX is a full on dance show which proves that dynamite does come in small ... and intimate ... packages. Join us in the dark for a little glitz, and a lot of... well, we’d say more, but as you know it’s impolite to kiss and tell? Director: Tara Notcutt Choreography: Cleo Notcutt Solo by: Marcus MakesUMove Featuring: Kelly Atkins, Rori Bingham, Marcus MakesUMove, Cleo Notcutt @Princess Alice Hall 30
01
02
03
# 1h 04
13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00
05
$ Tickets
! 06
07
08
09
10
F
C
B
70
63
60
3 July 10:00 4 July 17:00 7 July 22:30 9 July 16:00 10 July 14:00
233 2-4-1 EVEN MORE FUN! Cherryco
FLORENCE AND WATSON AND THE SUGARBUSH MOUSE
~ ALL
ExploSIV Productions
Join festival regular Adi Paxton as Petric, the Admirable Nelson, a crazy penguin (and others) in a new interactive seaside puppet adventure: and as a dotty, Cherry the Clown to enjoy even more magical fun. “Kept the children thrilled and begging for more” – Cue 2014. Directed by & featuring: Adi Paxton
@Oatlands Hall 30
# 50m
01 02 03 04 05 10:00 12:00 14:00 14:00 14:00
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
–50%
~ ALL
Join husband and wife team Rob van Vuuren and Danielle Bischoff as Florence and Watson, the funniest, all-singing, all-dancing, all-storytelling Honey Badgers you’ve ever met as they bring to life, the remarkable tale of a brave and resourceful little mouse who discovers a unique talent that allows her to save the Proteas on the beautiful mountain that she calls home. Written, directed & performed by: Rob van Vuuren and Danielle Bischoff
F
C
B
55
50
47
@Memory Hall 30
01
02
# 40m 03
04
05
10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
10:00 10:00 10:00 10:00
F
C
B
61
55
52
THE CLOUD-CATCHER OddBody Theatre
Writer: Richard Antrobus
~ ALL: 6-12 YEARS
HOW STORIES BEGAN
Now, Buhle Lifu was no ordinary child. She was shy and timid but adventurous and wild. She was strange looking, unpopular but also quite smart, despite failing science, maths, history and art. But Buhle was a thinker, a tinker with a brain, who would soon save the day and bring back the rain. Best suited for audiences aged 6 to 12 (and their parents!).
Jungle Theatre Company
Director: Richard Antrobus Featuring: Asiphe Lili
@Memory Hall 30
01
02
# 40m 03
04
05
! Eng, Xho 06
07
12:00 12:00 19:00 19:00
Director: Seiso Qhola Writer: Ntombifuthi Mkhasibe and Vincent Meyburgh Featuring: Vincent Meyburgh and Ntombifuthi Mkhasibe
$ Tickets
08
09
10
14:00 14:00
F
C
B
@Oatlands Hall
42
38
36
30
~ ALL
A Tanzanian folktale with great, comical inserts. Mulima, a childless widow, prays to the Mountain Spirit for children. One magical morning, she finds her hut spotlessly clean. That night Mulima decides to feign sleep to discover the truth. Magically the six empty calabashes at her hearth turn into six beautiful children. “Cook, Clean, Sweep...” they chant as they do all the chores. Mulima calls them her Calabash Children but she starts beating them and... Director: Soraya Adams @Memory Hall 30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng, Tanz, Afr 06
07
08
10:00 16:00 19:00
09
$ Tickets 10
12:00
F
C
B
30
27
26
FANTASTICAL FLEA CIRCUS Copy Dog
~ ALL
Hailed as “Wonder-flea entertaining” (Latoya Newman, Daily News) and “BIG fun from tiny stars” (Billy Suter, Mercury), this multi-award-winning mix of song, dance, rhyming verse and clever tricks stars comedic performers Shona Johnson as renowned opera singer, Duchess De Nunu, and Verne Rowin Munsamy as a bumbling professor of Fleaology. Writer / Director: Clinton Marius Featuring: Shona Johnson & Rowin Munsamy @Memory Hall
# 55m
30 01 02 03 04 05 14:00 12:00 14:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 –50% 19:00
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
12:00 16:00
F
C
B
60
54
51
FINGO FESTIVAL ~ ALL The 6th annual Fingo Festival returns this year on the 40th anniversary of the 1976 June 16 youth protests by bringing art to the heart of Black community. Started by youth, for youth, Fingo Festival opens up a platform to bring the spirit of the National Arts Festival to Fingo township; breaking down divides of class and geography. Our programme offers children’s theatre, civil society dialogues and an open air stage. The open air stage hosts gives community groups and professional artists an equal opportunity to amaze. @Fingo Multi-purpose Centre (Dr Jacob Zuma Dr) 30
01
02
03
04
! SA languages $ Tickets
# 9am - 4pm 05
06
07
08
09
09:00 09:00 09:00 09:00 09:00 Free!
Free!
Free!
Free!
01
02
# 40m 03
04
05
! Eng, Xho
06 10:00 2-4-1
CALABASH CHILDREN Bethvale Drama Group
Free!
10
F
C
~ ALL
This African folktale is set in ancient times on the Wild coast. The first people go on an adventure in search of stories. They discover comical characters leading them to magical creatures under the ocean. The stories come to life in English and isiXhosa with original songs and innovative masks.
B
16:00
07
08
$ Tickets 09
16:00 16:00
10
F
C
B
60
54
51
234
235 THE INCREDIBLE JOURNEY KB Theatre Productions
~ ALL
“Exceptional ... storytelling, masterfully performed.” Once upon a time, a boy named Tommy, who lived an unadventurous life, was presented by a challenge from the new kid at school – join us on an adventure of imagination and magic. Can Tommy become a hero? Director: Stefan Erasmus Featuring: Stefan Erasmus, Emma Kotze & Callum Tilbury @Oatlands Hall
# 50m
! Eng
$ Tickets
30 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 14:00 14:00 14:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 14:00 14:00 14:00 14:00
10
2-4-1
F
C
B
55
50
47
~ 12+ NFC ISARO Outreach Foundation (Hillbrow Theatre) ‘Isaro’ is a Rwandan name meaning beads knitted together, symbolising unity. The play emerged as a response to the 20-year anniversary of the Rwandan genocide. Tracing the journey of ‘The Forgotten One’ who flees Rwanda and lands up in South Africa. The narrative is used to probe the reasons behind South Africa’s repeated xenophobic violence. Questioning if the attacks on those who are ‘Other’ in South Africa are as a result of fear of cultural invasion, language dilution, competition over resources or fear of losing what we fought for in apartheid. Writer / Director: Gcebile Dlamini @Oatlands Hall 30 01 02 03 04 18:00 18:00 18:00 18:00 18:00 –50%
# 50m 05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
F
C
B
40
36
34
236 LANGA YANTA- MONSTER HUNTER
TSHIMBILA RANTSULA ~ ALL
UBOM!
“You sacred of Monsters? Don’t call your mamas, call the guy in the cool pyjamas!” Ubom! lights up the stage in this thrilling tale of creepy monsters and cuddly toys. Monster Hunter is the story of one brave youngster’s quest to defeat the nameless fears that many children suffer. Director: Kyla Davis Featuring: Anele Heshu, Elethu Heshu, Sisonke Yafele & Nox Donyeli @Oatlands Hall 30
01
02
# 40m 03
04
05
! Eng 06
16:00 16:00 16:00 12:00 12:00
07
$ Tickets 08
09
16:00
2-4-1
‘Tshimbila’ means ‘walk’ in Venda. This play deals with the way Africans have lost their sense of identity through the dilution of their culture by the pervasive wash of western teaching. This production tells of the struggles that are experienced in different parts of Africa and allegorically deals with issues of gender and women’s issues through its tale of how Africa was thrown out of the village because she was a woman. Awarded 2nd Best Production at the Inner-city Drama School Festival. Writer / Director: Gcebile Dlamini
F
C
B
@Memory Hall
12:00 50
45
43
30 01 02 03 12:00 14:00 19:30 19:30
10
# 40m 04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
–25%
THE LIGHT HOUSE Alt Eye Productions
30
01
02
03
04
! Eng, Afr, Xho
C
B 51
PUSHMI PULYU ~ PG
This piece explores the concept of ‘push me pull you’, which is something that has more parts than usual – it can be human, plants or animals. The piece shows two people that are stuck together and trying to cope with life. When they discover that they are stuck together, they both pull in different directions, that doesn’t work, so they try other means like running away from each other until they figure out its better to push while the other is pulling. Pushmi Pulyu, is a beautiful show that is full of smiles and new discovery for small people. Writer / Director: Bulelani Mabutyana Featuring: Thulisa Mayalo Sisipho Mbopa @Oatlands Hall 30
01
02
# 35m 03
04
05
! Eng, Xho 06
07
08
$ Tickets 09
10
10:00 12:00 11:00 11:00 11:00
F
C
B
50
45
43
RAT RACE Well Worn Theatre Company
~ ALL
Rat Race is a pop-up storybook play for 4 to 6 year olds about an unlikely friendship between stressed-out city rat, Miles, and kind, easy-going farm mouse, Melissa. It’s a humorous story with music, clowning, puppetry, illustrations and physical theatre that tells a colourful tail about Big Changes in Little Lives. Director: Kyla Davis Featuring: Ameera Patel and Roberto Pombo @Oatlands Hall
# 40m
30 01 02 03 04 05 12:00 12:00 10:00 10:00 10:00 12:00
! Eng 06
–50%
$ Tickets F
C
09:00 09:00 09:00 10:00 50
45
07
08
09
10
B
THE SAVER POPSTERS Andrew Simpson Productions
~ ALL
A Prince, a vampire, a ghost and a witch who live in Procraster Nation decide to do something with their lives and start a superhero agency called the Saver Popsters. These super heroes must save the world from an evil villain. Perfect for kids, teens, schools and adults too! A feel good fantasy adventure! Writer / Director: Andrew Simpson Featuring: Alastair Kingon, Dominique Maher, Natasha Williams & Ryan de Villiers @TBC 30
# 50m 01
02
03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
14:00 13:30 13:30 13:00 15:30 13:00 10:00 11:30 14:30 13:30
10
~ ALL
Writer / Director: Wynne Bredenkamp Featuring: Emma Kotze
54
Ukao Theatre
B 34
Award-winning writer-director, Wynne Bredenkamp, brings a new thrilling story where secrets, betrayal and hope collide in the futuristic adventure of two friends who dream of finding the mythical Green. One will follow the Settlement’s rules, the other will break the greatest one: No One Will Hide The Green! Adult friendly.
$ Tickets
05 06 07 08 09 10 F 12:00 14:00 14:00 08:30 16:00 10:00 60 –50%
C 36
Wynne Bredenkamp
Director: Maude Sandham Featuring: Jaques De Silva & Joe Young # 50m
F 40
WARRIOR GREEN
~ ALL
Gordon lives in a light house. He watches the sea every day for ships ... and for his friend Sailor. Antie Lachmi and Uncle Thabo say Sailor is never coming back, but Gordon won’t give up hope. Surely Sailor will come back for his birthday? A story of love and adventure!
@Memory Hall
~ ALL
Outreach Foundation (Hillbrow Theatre)
F
C
B
59
53
50
@Memory Hall
# 50m
! Eng
30 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 16:00 16:00 12:00 16:00 14:00 14:00 12:00 16:00 12:00 –50% 16:00
$ Tickets 09
10
F
C
B
60
54
51
FLORENCE & WATSON BOOK TALK By authors Danielle Bischoff & Rob van Vuuren WHEN: WHERE: TICKETS:
Tuesday 5 July at 11:00 Seminar Room 1 at Eden Grove R40 for adults; R25 for the kids
NOT TO BE MISSED! Bring the whole family along!
237
238
239 ASTONISH Mawonga Gayiya
Astonish wowed audiences at the 2015 National Arts Festival, Cape Town Fringe and later won bronze at the South African Magic Championships. The award-winning Mawonga Gayiya from Khayelitsha in Cape Town, has performed his hilarious magic widely from China to Las Vegas and appears regularly at the prestigious Cape Town Magic Club the only one of its kind in Africa. Experience an impossible hour of non-stop laughs and gasps as Mawonga shares his life and magic. 100% guaranteed to ‘Astonish’. Director: Stuart Lightbody Written by & featuring: Mawonga Gayiya @Drill Hall?? 30 12:00 –25%
01
# 1h 02
03
04
22:30 10:00 18:30
05
! Eng 06
07
08
09
10
F
C
B
68
61
58
MIND OVER MAGIC Brendon Peel
~ 10+ NFC
Is it true that we have the potential to perform incredible feats of mind reading, telepathy, and intense memorisation– Brendon Peel’s latest mind blowing psychological illusion show puts this to the test. YOU are put in the driver’s seat to discover the possibility of unlocking your true mental potential. Are we able to make use of this intuitive ability or is it all just an illusion? Written, directed & performed by: Brendon Peel
30
01
02
# 55m 03
14:00 16:00 12:00 20:00
04
! Eng
$ Tickets F
C
B
12:00 22:00 20:00 10:00 20:00 12:00 72
65
61
05
06
07
08
09
10
Stuart Lightbody
~ 12+ NFC
From the Standard Bank Ovation Award winning creators of Illusive and Devilish comes a true story of obsession; a story that starts with an out-of-print book hidden in a secret library... Join Stuart as “with charm and phenomenal dexterity, he explores our dreams and destroys our nightmares” (Australian Stage 2016). Nominated for ArtRage Theatre Award (Fringe World, Perth). Director: Tara Notcutt Written by & featuring: Stuart Lightbody @Princess Alice Hall
$ Tickets
18:30 14:00 20:00 14:00 22:00
@Masonic Back
STUART LIGHTBODY’S SLEEPLESS DREAMS
~ 12+ M NFC
30
01
02
03
# 1h 04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00
10
F
C
B
70
63
60
240
241 1606
NTSIKI SPEAKS
Youth In Trust
~ 12+ M L V
Ntsiki Mazwai
This show uses music, poetry and dance to reflect on the events leading to the 1976 Soweto Uprising. We follow the life of the then 19-year-old leader, Tsietsi Mashinini who, together with his fellow comrades plotted and spearheaded the march that shocked the world and remains in people’s hearts today. The young students bravely took to the streets of Soweto to face their nemesis and conquer almost 70 years of oppression. Little did they know that this march would leave many without homes and parents.
@Glennie Festival Centre
Writer / Director: Nelsen Mokoena
30
@City Hall 30 16:30 Free!
01
# 1h 02
03
04
05
! Eng, Afr 06
07
08
10
21:00 22:30 14:00 12:30
Director: Sinethemba Mpepo/Ntsiki Mazwai Writer: Ntsiki Mazwai
01
02
03
F
C
B
70
63
60
An extended choreopoem that tells the stories of seven women identified only by the colours assigned to them. With subjects ranging from rape and abandonment to abortion and domestic violence, the play weaves their interconnected stories of love, empowerment, struggle and loss into a complex representation of sisterhood.
07
08
$ Tickets 09
10
F
C
B
50
45
43
NOMAKHISIMSI THE PONDO COMEDIAN
@Centenary Hall 01
02
# 1h15 03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
09
10
11:30 19:30 15:30 21:30 12:00 2-4-1
2-4-1
F
C
B
54
51
~ ALL
In Thebes tensions are high as Antigone has disobeyed Creon’s law, risking her life JUST to honour her brother. This piece is an exciting ensemble work that creatively chronicles the odyssey of the stubborn Antigone. Simple, interactive and imaginative it’s a great way of introducing theatre classics to young people. Director: Mahlatsi Mokgonyana Choreographer: Billie Edwards # 1h
30 01 02 03 18:00 12:00 22:00 16:00
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
22:00
Free!
F
C
B
60
54
51
METROPOLAR Modise Sekgothe
~ 16+ L
Metropolar is a multi-media show about the city of Johannesburg and the different realities that dance along and against each other in the space. A live performance offering that includes animation, music and poetry to create an audio-visual live portrayal of the city as seen by Modise Sekgothe and Jotam Schoeman. Writer: Modise Sekgothe Music: Jotam Schoeman Featuring: Modise Sekgothe & Jotam Schoeman @Glennie Festival Centre 01
02
03
04
# 1h 05
19:30 18:00 12:00 14:00 16:30 12:00
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
02
03
! Pondo, Xho
# 45m 04
05 Free!
JUST ANTIGONE
@Masonic Back
01
06
07
08
10:00 12:00 16:30 14:00
60
The Movement RSA
Director: Ntombifuti Ncwayiba Writer: Ntombifuti Ncwayiba Featuring: Ntombifuti Ncwayiba
30
$ Tickets 08
~ ALL
In this captivatingly funny show, a Pondo comedian and storyteller shows how Pondo people react in different situations and also provides some lessons about how to behave in marriages.
@Glennie Fest Centre
Director: Khutjo Bakunzi-Green Choreographer: Kieron Jina Writer: Ntozake Shange Featuring: University of Johannesburg (UJ) students
–25%
! Eng, Xho 06
Ntombifuti Ncwayiba
UJ Arts & Culture (a Division of FADA) ~ PG M NFC
30
05
–25%
FOR COLORED GIRLS WHO HAVE CONSIDERED SUICIDE WHEN THE RAINBOW IS ENUF
30
# 35m
04
18:00 20:00 14:00 16:00 18:30 16:00 20:30 22:30 22:30 17:30
$ Tickets 09
~ 16+ M L NFC
Magnetic, energetic and powerful the untameable Ntsiki Mazwai brings her widely popular poetry to life in a onewoman poetry play. This is the story of a young girl coming of age... as a legend. With themes ranging from spirituality, politics and social consciousness...this one is a MUST SEE.
F
C
B
61
55
52
09
$ Tickets 10
F
C
B
50
45
43
242 BIRD / FISH
INSIDE THE SOUND ~ ALL
Kristin Hua NG-Yang
‘Bird / Fish’ is an installation and performance piece that deploys metaphors that allude to the ephemera of air and water, of love being subject to fate. The visual work and music is meditative on life’s journey into inevitable oblivion. The audience may interact with the tactile installed elements after a live performance.
Inside the Sound is a multi-disciplinary, cutting edge performance featuring a Swedish painter, Johan Bloom, who will improvise to experimental piano music played by a Polish pianist, Joanna Wicherek. The uniqueness of the project lies in the combination of minimal music and abstract action painting, which complete and enrich each other. Our performance brings the two disciplines to another level of perception and understanding.
Visual art by: Kristin Hua NG-Yang Dance performance by: Bonwa Mbontsi & Tegan Peacock @Venue to be advised 30
01
02
03
# 1h 04
05
! Eng 06
07
Featuring: Joanna Wicherek & Johan Bloom
$ Tickets 08
09
10
F
C
B
Free!
@St. Andrew’s Hall 30
10:00 10:00 10:00 15:00 15:00 15:00 Free!
01
02
# 1h
03
04
Free!
~ PG NFC
This is a production that shows the political and social changes in both South Africa and Germany between 1989 and 1994 by using as many creative tools as possible, including poetry, monologues, drama etc. This journey will come alive under the direction of Frank Fuhrmann, who brings two South African and two German actors to the stage. Director: Frank Fuhrmann Featuring: Nobesuthu Rayi, Xabiso Zweni, Jeffrey Von Laun and Vasilios Zevrakis @Masonic Back 02
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
10:00 22:00 16:00
F
C
B
50
45
43
Wesley Deintjies
@St. Andrew’s Cornish # 45m Dining Hall (meet at the traffic lights on Somerset Street)
@Oatlands School Quad 01
02
03
03
04
05
! Eng
06
# 30m 04
~ 18+ MNVSP
10
07 08 09 20:00 20:00 20:00 21:00 21:00 21:00
10
C
B
55
50
55
Featuring: Mike Bruton # 1h 05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
B 60
~ PG M
! Visual 06
$ Tickets
07
08 09 11:30 11:30 13:00 11:00 13:00 15:30 13:00
10
F
C
B
40
36
34
LENYALO (THE WEDDING) ~ PG M
Wedding invitation for onlookers in the street ‘you are hereby cordially invited to our wedding’ dress code: as you are time + date: check the programme place: grahamstown’s national arts festival we look forward on sharing our special day just with you!
@Drostdy Lawns 30
01
02
03
# 20m
! Visual
04 05 06 13:00 17:00 15:00
07
Free!
Free!
11:00
~ ALL
invented.
04
05
@Fingo Festival Square
Over 1000 years ago the famous Islamic scientist, Ibn al-Haytham, discovered the principles of optics and many of the properties of light. He also invented the camera obscura and demonstrated how the human eye works, centuries before Western scientists. Join Ibn al-Haytham in this re-enactment of some of his famous experiments, and for a personalised tour of the camera obscura that he
01 02 03 10:00 10:00 14:00 14:00
C 63
Writer: Theatre Thump! Featuring: Carole Deborde, Oliver Borowski, Seipati Magagula and Herbert Mokoena
F
Mike Bruton
@Observatory Museum
F 70
Theatre Thump! and Sisonke Arts
$ Tickets
IBN AL-HAYTHAM: THE FATHER OF OPTICS
30
09
Writer: Theatre Thump! Music: Juliette Fabre Performed by: Juliette Fabre Featuring: Performers: Carole Deborde, Oliver Borowski Cello: Juliette Fabre Coaching: Tom Roos (Wurrewurre, Belgium)
Free!
Director:
08
‘And crawling on the planet’s face Some insects called the human race Lost in time, lost in space...’ (Rocky horror picture show) Death. Love and sacrifice. ® A couple search for the place where their lives toppled over... ¯ Mamma Roma comes to tell us a story about M‚d‚a and Simion, two characters from another world returning to give hommage to their beloved one. Come reconstruct this puzzle of intrigue via these three strange characters. “FLEURS DE SILENCE” – A visual and musical public art show with expressive masks.
glory hole (noun): a hole in a wall/partition through which people anonymously watch, or engage in questionable/ sexual activities. Weave y(o)ur way thr(o)ugh an immersive labyrinth which pr(o)mises to expl(o)re all facets of human desire. At the thresh(o)ld of fetish, paraphilia and kink,(o) ne question remains: Will y(o)u merely watch, or be brave en(o)ugh to partake?
01 02 20:00 20:00 21:00 21:00
07
Theatre Thump!
30
GL(O)RY
30
$ Tickets
! 06
FLEURS DE SILENCE (FLOWERS OF SILENCE)
CHANGES
01
05
16:00 18:30 12:00
P.E Opera House and Landesbuhne. Nord Wilhelmshaven
30
~ ALL
Joanna Wicherek
F
C
B
20
18
20
Free!
08
$ Tickets 09
10
F
C
B
0
0
0
243 A GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK ROLSKA Productions
~ ALL
Hits from the Golden-Age of Musical Theatre, performed at the piano by the debonair Roland Perold. Porter, Berlin, Rodgers & Hammerstein and many other composers’ works come to life in a light-hearted cabaret with humorous anecdotes and well-loved standards. www.rolska.com Director: David Fick Featuring: Roland Perold @Albany Cabaret Club 30
01
02
03
# 50m 04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
10:00 12:00 16:00 12:00 14:00 14:00 10:00 12:00 10:00 2-4-1
2-4-1
F
C
B
70
63
60
BEAUTIFUL WRECKAGE BW Productions
~ 14+ L
Beautiful Wreckage is a new pop/rock musical, that follows the story of Chase and Damon. These two young men of the moment hit first year varsity hard. Wild and wonderful nights on the town are the name of their game. Crazy youthful memories, created by the moment; some unforgettable, others highly regrettable and a few fateful moments which change their lives. Written & performed by: Grant Jacobs & Liam McDermott @Albany Cabaret Club 30 18:00 –25%
01
02
03
# 55m 04
05
! Eng 06
14:00 22:00 14:00 20:00 18:00
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
22:00 14:00
F
C
B
90
81
90
THE CALLING – UBIZO Tsembeyi Music Productions
~ ALL
This play explores cultural differences in South Africa. A child, adopted in a different culture, gets an ancestral calling and it’s difficult for the mother to understand because the child has been with her from infancy. It encourages openness and acceptance of each other without prejudice. Written & directed by: Nkoi Matshoba & Priscilla Moses Music: Thandisizwe Frans @Recreation Hall 30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng, Xho 06
07
08
10:00 12:00
$ Tickets F
C
B
14:30 12:00 40
36
34
09
10
CANNIBALISING OF AN IRISH NUN Gompo Art Centre
~ ALL
This is a true story of a nun (Sister Aidain Quinlan) who was brutally killed in Duncan Village on 10 November 1952. Written & directed by: Buyile Geza Choreographed by: Masibulele Dyakophu
@Recreation Hall 30
01
02
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng, Xho 06
07
$ Tickets
08
09 12:00 18:00 20:00 10:00 22:30 Free!
10
F
C
B
60
54
51
CHEERS TO BROADWAY Mixing Bowl Productions
~ ALL
After a critically acclaimed run at NAF 2015, Cheers To Broadway! returns with their cheesy yet loveable tribute to Broadway. With hair-raising 4-part harmony, dynamic duos and show stopping solos, Cheers To Broadway! will leave you giddily tapping your foot and singing along with a smile. Director: Keenan Tyler Oliphant Choreography: Tammy de Klerk Music performed by: Kurt Haupt Featuring: Keenan Tyler Oliphant, Tammy de Klerk, Amy Campbell & Richard White @Beethoven Room 30
01
02
03
# 1h 04
14:00 12:00 12:00 12:00
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10:00 10:00
10
F
C
B
70
63
60
244 DANI & THE LION
KADITSHWENE
Daneel van der Walt
~ 14+ L, NFC
Dani and Leo have been performing together for longer than their memories serve. They love to hate each other, but love the music more. They also both believe that they steal the show. A show that is 65 minutes of original songs, a medley, a story about a whale and a cockatoo jug. “Daneel’s original songs are so beautiful and strange. A bit like Tom Waits lyrics crossed with Joe Jackson melodies and Eartha Kitt vocals... Daneel’s stories would be heartbreaking if they weren’t so touchingly funny.” Megan’s Head Director: Nicholas Spagnoletti Writer: Daneel van der Walt Featuring: Daneel van der Walt & David Lubbe @Albany Cabaret Club 30
01
02
03
# 1h05 04
05 10:00 Free!
06
07
08
16:00 12:00
$ Tickets F
C
B
22:00 10:00 70
63
60
09
10
Good Hope Centre of Concern
12:00 Free!
02
03
# 50m
04
05
~ 10+ M
! Eng, Zul, Ped 06
07
08
09
$ Tickets 10
14:00 15:30 21:30 20:00
# 1h 03
04
05
07
09
10
10:00 18:30 14:00 18:00 20:30
F
C
B
50
45
43
~ PG
# 1h30 03
04
05
! Xho 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10:00 14:00 18:30 18:30 16:30 20:30 Free!
10
C
B
65
59
55
~ ALL
Mohlakeng the Musical celebrates the lives of people who mapped Mohlakeng to be recognised as one of the progressive townships in entertainment, business and academy. The show portrays some of the Mohlakeng legends, including Terror Mathebula, the first black boxer to bring the world title in Mzansi, the maestro Patrick Ace Ntsoelengoe, the only player in South Africa to be included in the Wall of Fame, and the Kaffirnated Stan Motjuadi. The show is told through dance, music and narration - a heart throbbing piece.
19:00
Direction: Thando Doni & Mandla Mbothwe Written by: Samuel Edward Krune Mqvhayi, adapted by Thando Doni Music composition: Bongile Mantsai Featuring: Faniswa Yisa, Bongile Mantsai, Chuma Sopotela, Lamla Ntsaluba
02
2-4-1
F
@City Hall
Set in the time of the historical King Hintsa kaKhawuta, a dispute takes place between the fictional twins Wele and Babini over their deceased father’s estate as to who should take their father’s place. This is resolved via a traditional Xhosa legal trial and various people give testimony, with Xhosa traditions being practiced.
01
$ Tickets 10
47
ITYALA LAMAWELE
30
09
50
Artscape
@City Hall
08
55
$ Tickets 08
16:00 14:00 22:30 20:30
07
Writer / Director: Pitso Molebeledi Choreography: Bafana Moshoe Music performed by: The Isago Band Featuring: Tumi Mosiane, Lucia Modise & Goitseone Koloi
~ ALL
! Zul 06
06
B
Gug’othandayo was established in 2011, where senior citizens are given an opportunity to partake in the creation and performance of musical theatre productions. They take a journey through music and storytelling. These reflect their day to day life experiences as senior citizens in the community and their challenges.
02
10:00
05
C
GUG’OTHANDAYO MUSICAL PLAY
01
! Eng, Tsw, Zul
04
F
Gug’othandayo
30
# 1h 03 Free!
30
@Recreation Hall
02
MOHLAKENG THE MUSICAL
Written & directed by: Percy Tsima Choreography: Percy Tsima, Poppy Tsima & Veronica Mokgabudi
01
01
Isago Theatre Productions
This musical production looks at the issue of growing up without a father. Using songs and poetry, this production, with its inspiring message, will resonate with students and teenagers.
30
Director: Aobakwe Phetlhu Writer: Lebeisa Molapo Choreography & composition: Boitumelo Malepe Featuring: Tshireletso Moreo, Tsagae Serasengwe & Letlhogonolo Mothibedi
30
ENSLAVED BY THE ABSENCE OF A FATHER
@Glennie Festival Centre
This is a showcase of the life and times of the Bahurutse nation that forms part of the cluster communities of Tswana, descendants of Kaditshwene (renowned for its iron ore and now declared a national heritage site). The story is told through traditional songs, dances and poetry, taking us through the bloodthirsty war with the Ndebele warrior, Mzilikazi.
@Recreation Hall
! Eng, Afr
~ ALL
Are Takeng New productions
F
C
B
80
72
68
Free!
01
# 1h 02
03
04
19:00 14:30 16:00 21:00
05
! Eng, SA languages 06
07
08
09
10
$ Tickets F
C
B
48
43
41
245
246
247 MUSIC IN THE AIR - THE MUSICAL
SON OF THE SOIL MUSICAL ENSEMBLE
United Artists in association with Maduma Productions
2745 Community Performing Arts ~ ALL
This musical extravaganza tells the story of South Africa during the 80’s and 90’s. Celebrate Brenda, Yvonne, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Mango Groove and other legends of that period, and the role their music played in society. Re-live the vibrant townships, the hectic pace of the city of the 80’s and 90’s. Director: Mncedisi Shabangu Writer: Joel Zuma
Written and directed by: Lehlohonolo Dlamini
Choreography: Thabo Rapoo @City Hall 30 14:00 -25%
01
# 1h30 02
03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
@PJ’s
$ Tickets 08
09
10
16:30 12:00 21:00
F
C
B
90
81
77
30
# 1h 01
02
03
01
# 1h 03
04
05
! Eng, Sotho 06
07
08
09
10
12:00 19:00 22:30 Free!
# 1h 05
07
09
10
F
C
B
65
59
55
SCRATCH Heather Livesey
~ ALL
This is the story about a boy and his toaster and a girl and her bicycle. A sweet, indie style musical that plays with what has been forgotten and what has been lost. Like the revolution of a music box, each note brings old memories to light. Direction & Music: Heather Livesey Featuring: Wayne Smith & Nell van der Merwe
30
01 18:00 Free!
02
# 55m 03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
21:30 20:00 10:00
F
C
B
50
45
43
SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD The University of Oklahoma in collaboration with ~ ALL Oakfields College “A new world calls for me to follow, holds me to a promise. A new world crashes down like thunder! A new world charging through the air and louder every moment... Come to me!” These words speak to all people but perhaps even strongest to our youth. How will they respond when presented with that “one moment, that moment before it all becomes clear?” Come and see our young people discover that new world through acting, song and dance! Director: Dr Harold Mortimer Choreography: Weslee Lauder Music: Jason Robert Brown Featuring: Students of the University of Oklahoma and Oakfields College @Rehearsal Room 30
01
02
# 1h30 03
15:00 13:00 17:00 21:30 21:30
04
05
! Eng 06
07
50
45
43
$ Tickets 08
09
10
~ 14+ M
@City Hall
$ Tickets 08
20:30 20:30 20:30 20:30 20:30 20:30 20:30 20:30 20:30 20:30
@Bowling Club
B
B
~ 16+ M, L
! Eng 06
C
26
Director: Keenan Tyler Oliphant Featuring: Amy Campbell, Tammy de Klerk, Richard White & Keenan Tyler Oliphant
04
F
C
You know you want to see our ‘Private Parts’! From the sexy and scary to the strange and psychotic, this contemporary musical theatre revue invites you into the depths of the mind where untold stories live. Join us for a night of scandal...it’ll be a private affair.
03
10
27
21:00
Mixing Bowl Productions
02
09 12:30 10:00 12:00 20:00 20:30
F
PRIVATE PARTS
01
$ Tickets
08
30
30
30
07
Director: Mkhomazi Mashinini Writer: Mkhomazi Mashinini Choreography: Moeketsi Sebiloane Music: Vusi Lushaba & Thabang Mokoena Featuring: Ndumiso Zindela, Mphakiseng Gwebu, Nomvula Gaba & Gift Mabena
$ Tickets
10:00
@Princess Alice Hall
! Eng, Tsw 06
Uhuru is a born-free, ambitious and free-spirited young man who desires to be truly free. In his journey he has felt too controlled and contrived by rules and traditions. His determination to break free, like many other youngsters, is categorized by countless errors in judgement and by constantly hitting dead-ends everywhere he goes as, he discovers, there are always rules of engagement in every area of our lives.
Director: Patrick Mdlalose Writer: Kedibone Motlhasedi Music performed by: Zizi Kongo
02
05
Ubuhle Be Ikhono Artists
~ ALL
My Home Town tells the story talks about the lives of the Zamdela People, relating how the community was formed and some of the challenges faced by community members.
@City Hall
04
SPIRIT OF UHURU
MY HOME TOWN Kedio’s1 fs
30
~ ALL
A wonderful musical theatre production that tells stories of the lives of our people in the townships. Through song, rhythmic dance and eloquent narration with powerful lyrics crafted in the African poetic voices. The musical brilliantly combines and fuses a variety of exceptional dances, which are brilliantly choreographed and features musical genres like gospel, folklore songs, jazz, traditional music and township dance.
F
C
B
60
54
51
01
# 1h 02
12:30 16:30 2-4-1
03
04
05
15:00 20:30
! Eng, Tsw, Zul 06
07
08
09
$ Tickets 10
F
C
B
60
54
51
248 STIMELA THE MUSICAL ~ ALL
Mthakathi Entertainment
Stimela the Musical is a unique South African musical story which tells a tale of rural African men who come by train from all over Africa in search of a better life and greener pastures in the city of gold, Johannesburg. This is a vibrant musical piece told through narration, music and gumboot dance. Enormously enjoyable and delivered with rare mixture of ferocity and vivacity, passion and charm. This is another master piece by Thapelo ‘Mthakathi’ Motloung. Writer / Director: Thapelo Motloung Music composition: Thapelo Motloung, Nkosinathi Malinga & Siyabonga Hlatshwayo Music performed by: The Alternative Featuring: Mzwandile Nikane, Siyabonga Hlatshwayo, Thulani Meyiwa & Thanduxolo Mhlongo @City Hall 30
01
# 1h15 02
03
04
05
! Eng, Zul 06
07
10:00 20:00 17:30
08
$ Tickets 09
F
C
B
60
54
51
10
14:30 21:00 18:00
STORIES BEHIND BARS Department of Correctional Services
~ ALL NFC
This is a music and dance performance show by the Department of Correctional Services offenders. It provides the opportunity for Artists Behind Bars to express their views about art, to redefine them as part of the broader society as well as to create a platform for these artists to harness the skills developed whilst they are still in custody.
@City Hall 30
01
# 1h30 02
03
04
! Eng, Zul 06
05
07
10:00 Free!
08
$ Tickets 09
F
C
B
20
18
20
10
10:00 10:00 10:00
TAPPING HEARTS Abangani Theatre
~ PG
The play is performed by six powerful women who incorporate drama, tap dance and music. Tapping Hearts gives South African women the freedom to express themselves, women who believe that one day South Africa will be run by women. These women present an uncomfortable threat to men who do not want to accept their responsibilities, men who do not have problems in spending lots of money entertaining other women. These women say: we can do things on our own! Writer / Director: Jullian Seleke Mokoto Choreography: Samson Mabuza @NG Kerk Hall 30
01
02
# 1h15 03
04
05
18:30 21:00 19:00
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
10
16:30 20:30 18:30 20:00
F
C
B
80
72
68
UNFORGETTABLE Starlite Media
~ ALL
Starlite Media brings you an ‘Unforgettable’ production featuring the vocal talents of singer/pianist Derek Cuénod. Performing standards from the golden age of crooners like My Way, What a Wonderful World and Unforgettable, Cuénod shows off his lyrical, smooth but powerful voice that perfectly compliments the material. Written, directed & performed by: Derek Cuenod @Albany Cabaret Club 30 14:00 Free!
01
02
03
16:00 10:00 20:00
# 55m 04
05
! Eng 06
07 14:00
$ Tickets 08
F
C
B
18:00 12:00 60
54
60
09
10
Book your tickets through our on-line booking system at www.nationalartsfestival.co.za and choose whether to pay by credit card, instant EFT, or Snapscan! Phone our friendly call centre for expert assistance in making your bookings
0860 002 004
249 BAOBAB TRIO IN CONCERT Babette Viljoen, Olga Leonard and Andrea Fisher-Jeffes
~ ALL
The Baobab Trio is an exciting collaboration between Andrea Fisher-Jeffes (euphonium), Babette Viljoen (accordion) and Olga Leonard (piano). These instruments combined create an exciting extravaganza of popular classical pieces, Latin dances and gypsy jazz. The programme combines familiar works by well known composers such as Mozart, Monti and Ginastera, as well as new and up-coming composers like Leonard and Fisher-Jeffes. Performed by: Babette Viljoen, Olga Leonard & Andrea Fisher-Jeffes @Beethoven Room 30
01
02
03
# 1H 04
! Eng
05
06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
F
C
B
100 90
85
10
10:00 21:30 12:00 17:00 21:00 19:00
CHISIPITE SCHOOL ORCHESTRA AND AFROJAZZ ENSEMBLE Chisipite Senior School
~ ALL
Entertaining is the buzzword for this year’s Zimbabweflavoured programme of orchestras, ensembles and vocal presentations. Over the years the music groups have toured in France and South Africa. Don’t miss out on the musical surprise that Zimbabwean youth has to offer. Conducted by: Mrs. D. Wright and Mrs. N. Seager @Thomas Pringle Hall 30
01
02
03
# 50m 04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
F
C
B
50
45
43
10
15:00 18:00 13:00 15:00
LET THERE BE MUSIC A CHORAL CELEBRATION Hoërskool Randburg Choir & Horizons Project Choir
~ ALL
This hundred voice choral experience is a true celebration of the most beautiful and exciting choral music from all genres. The music, performed by two award winning South African Choirs - Hoërskool Randburg Choir and the Horizons Project Choir, will truly inspire and touch your heart. You will be swept away....! Director: Norman Burger Featuring: Hoërskool Randburg Choir (Conductor: Franco Prinsloo) & Horizons Project Choir (Conductor: Pieter Bezuidenhout) @Rhodes Chapel 30
01
02
# 55M 03
04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
F
C
B
48
43
41
10
17:00 14:00 17:00 14:00 14:00
MORE GOOSEBUMP A CAPELLA The Boulevard Harmonists
~ PG NFC
An established Grahamstown favourite: the Boulevard Harmonists -a mixed 6-voice A Capella ensemble, celebrating good music and excellent singing. Classical music, as well as folk and popular music - stylish, sophisticated, with flair. A highlight for your Festival, an event of pure musical delight! Director: Kobus Venter
@Beethoven Room 30
01
02
03
# 1H 04
05
! Eng 06
07
$ Tickets 08
09
12:00 12:00 10:00 21:30 2-4-1 17:00 21:00 2-4-1
10
F
C
B
75
68
64
250 NEO MOTSATSE - THE CONCERT Neo Motsatse
The sixteen year old violinist, Neo Motsatse, has already captured the hearts of South Africans through her recent Neo Motsatse the Concert (NMtC) National Tour which was featured in Johannesburg, Bloemfontein, Cape Town, East London and Port Elizabeth. This 2015 National Eisteddfod Academy (NEA) Gold Medal Award and Overall winner is set make her debut at the National Arts Festival with an outstanding symphonic repertoire of both well-known classical pieces as well as new arrangements of South African and popular music. Be Inspired! Music performed by: Neo Motsatse with the Resonance String Quartet @Beethoven Room 30
01
02
03
# 1H 04
05
! Eng 06
07
10:00 12:00 12:00
$ Tickets 08
09
10
19:00 17:00
F
C
B
50
45
43
~ ALL
The legacy award winning group which originates from the mother-earth province of Limpopo, comes to the Festival once again this year(two years in a row!) Seshego Gospel Choir will be again bring you traditional Gospel music called “Clap and tap” spiced with rhythm, a bit of drama and art. This choir brings along with it massive talent and lots of entertainment.They are well known for their mature voices and powerful leading vocalists Featuring: Rosinah Mokgaphane, Rose Khozi, Ponagatso Chabalala, Maria Bongwe, Faith Mokgaphane, Grace Mokgaphane, Suzan Phalane, Constance Mohlaka, Doreen Sebola, Winnie Ramalatswa, Happy Mohlapamaswi, Mosima Ribane, Florinah Phasha, Evah Moloto, Esther Moloto, Tumelo Morata, Mahlodi Teffo, Magauta Manamela, Nthabiseng Mabotja, Keabetswe Leboho, Semakaleng Makgato, Maphuti Malematse. Doreen Maputla, Lefentse Maruma, Chuene Sebone, Katlego Maluleka, Naftaly Makgoba, Quoe Tloubatla, Phuti Matlala, Gabriel Molomo, Nakedi Leputu, Job Ramabu, Malesela Kgomo, Lesiba Kola, Kgaogelo Duba, John Manaka, Jack Manaka, Jack Seakamela, Jonas Talakgale, Kgaogelo Mohale, Paledi Selepe, Kabelo Kganyago, Tsepo Tauatswala, Stanley Maetisa, Oupa Keetse, Mahlatse Mathe & Matete Mathe
30
01
02
03
# 50M 04
05
06
2-4-1
21:30 2-4-1
07
08
09
10
~ ALL
St. Paul’s Choir, Cape Town’s premiere choir, has long been regarded as on one of South Africa’s finest choral ensembles. The choir’s mandate is to make a diversity of choral music, performed to the highest standard, accessible to a growing audience. The choir consists of about 40 trained voices, performing music that spans the times from the apostolic origins to the present. Each year the choir commissions new projects. It presents concert series each year in different cities within South Africa. Featuring: Gcobisa Ntlatli, Zandile Ntlatli, Andisiwe Ntibane, Nosibulele, Andiswa Mgciza, Cindy Tini, Vuyokazi Jayoya, Pamela, Thembi Nqavashe, Nolufefe Nxozana, Babalwa, Asanda Mrobo, Phumeza Khabiqeya, Nkululeko Watermeyer, Luthando Nofemele, Goodhope Mawuwa, Sivuyile Thanda, Theo Davids, Siyabonga Mfiki, Siyabulela Jongile, Sinethemba Manene, LuyandaNntozonke, Mandisile Temele, Masixole Ntshoko, Benny Jonkers, Bonani Tshanda and Ndumiso Diamond (President)
30
01
02
03
# 50m 04
05
$ Tickets
! 06
07
08
09
10
11:00 15:00
F
C
B
40
36
34
Book your tickets through our on-line booking system at www.nationalartsfestival.co.za and choose to pay by credit card, instant EFT or Snapscan!
$ Tickets
!
13:00 11:00 12:30
St. Paul’s Gospel Choir
@Guy Butler Theatre
SESHEGO GOSPEL CHOIR Seshego Gospel Choir
@Guy Butler Theatre
ST. PAUL’S GOSPEL CHOIR THE RED SEA MUSIC
~ ALL
F
C
B
50
45
43
OR phone our friendly call centre for expert assistance in making your bookings
0860 002 004
251 ACATEARS MUSIC
BLAQSEED
VUT BOTC
VUT BOTC
Golden voiced musicians Sipho Hlanguza and Rebaballetswe Selematsela, established the acoustic band Acatears (tears of a capella) in 2011. With influences of Afro pop, alternative and jazz, Acatears fuses Sotho songs and a capella, to create a uniquely memorable sound. They have performed at the Puyisano Jazz Festival, Deep Routed Art Expo in Sharpeville, Sharpeville Human Rights Day and recently, to acclaim on the Fringe at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown.
Jammination Blaqseed a three piece band that has a guitarist, vocalist and a rapper, the music they make is self proclaimed as acoustic soul for its simple melodies, singalong choruses and thought provoking lyrics. Simplicity is key, but they’re choosing to add to this simplicity other elements such as a bassist and percussionist to create a sound that will resonate with people even after they have left the show. Their soulful sound is owed to the fact that they believe that music needs to reach and move people.
Featuring: Sipho Hlanguza & Rebaballetswe Selematsela
Featuring: Karabo K Mokoena, Gabriel Chauke & Lesego Moerane
@Graham Hotel 30
01
# 50m
02
03
04
05
07 08 15:00 17:00
09
10
–75%
@The Fringe Club
@Graham Hotel
$ Tickets 06
Steve Biko Building 11:00 15:00
F
C
B
60
54
51
Cover charge at door
16:00
03
04 05 21:00 19:00
06
07
08
09
10
Steve Biko Building
F
C
B
45
45
43
Cover charge at door
12:00 15:00 13:00
AZLAN, ZEEZEE AND KAY KAY Audio and Visual Makenik The trio is a collective of street hard hitting raps, inspired with a conscious movement of the truth music. Representing Grahamstown hip hop, Azlan is a radio presenter, a street rapper with an international collaboration with a band from Finland. Zeezee is trapsoul music motivated with inspirational bars of wisdom. Kay Kay grew up with tribal hip-hop and found his own way of rap with hyped up punch lines. This year, for the crew, is the introduction of a new name, SMANGA, it is derived from the unexpected kind of music to come out of the city. Featuring: Mzwamadoda Makalima, Zolani Tshobo & Siyanda Booi @Slip Stream Bar
# 50m 03
04
05
$ Tickets 06
07
08
09
10
-25%
@The Fringe Club
Steve Biko Building
F
C
B
20
18
20
Cover charge at door
14:00 11:00 18:00
BIANCA WOOD Singer/songwriter, Bianca Wood, carves away songs of life’s experiences. Influenced by synth pop, old school blues and more, Bianca Wood has devised an exclusive programme for NAF 2016. Performing original music and classics, this is one artist not to miss. Talented musicians, a powerful singer with a remarkably expressive vocal quality, and an entertaining performance: audiences are falling in love with this new act nation-wide. After releasing her debut album, Time, Bianca Wood dedicates 2016 to welcoming audiences onto her musical journey. Featuring: Bianca Wood, James Lombard, Luke Otto, Conrad Rudolph & FH Joubert @Slip Stream Bar 30 21:00
01
# 50m
02
03
04
05
$ Tickets 06
07
17:00
–50%
@The Fringe Club 16:00 14:00
05
$ Tickets 06
07
08 09 21:00 17:00
10
–75%
@The Fringe Club
Steve Biko Building
F
C
B
60
54
51
Cover charge at door
11:00 12:00 16:00
Steve Biko Building 19:00
08
09
10
Featuring: Chris Chameleon & Daniella Deysel
@Thomas Pringle Hall 30
01
02
03
# 50m 04
05
$ Tickets 06
07
08
09
18:00 22:30 20:00
$ Tickets
Free!
01 02 17:00 21:00
04
CHRIS CHAMELEON – FIRMAMENT
@The Fringe Club
30
# 50m 03
Chris Chameleon’s new solo album release is celebrated with this eponymous production. 12 brand new songs and the stories behind them, seasoned with his subtle humour, honest renditions and physical comedy to seduce audiences into dreaming, wonder and laughter.
# 50m
02
02
ACOUSTIQ ASSASSINS
@Graham Hotel 01
01
Acoustiq Assassins is an acoustic, African pop and underground soul band born and bread in Pietermaritzburg but looking to play to the ears of the world. Our music caters for a cosmopolitan audience with songs in IsiZulu and English. As a quartet, we perform very minimalistic music using two acoustic guitars as our accompaniment, creating room for a capella. The band’s sound, style and performance is inspired by the likes of Boyz II Men, The Script, The Soil and The Muffinz, allowing for a multifaceted and versatile performance. Featuring: Siphesihle “Tonick” Bhengu, Noma Noxolo Khumalo, Gugu “GU” Mdladla and Siphiwe Jnr Mazibuko
30
30
F
C
B
60
54
51
Cover charge at door
10
F
C
B
100 100 100
252 CREATIVE EXPRESSION: THE WHIRLWIND
GUY BUTTERY
VUT BOTC
As an internationally recognised musician, Guy Buttery enjoys invitations to play sell-out performances all over the globe. Guy’s distinct unification of South African guitar music is the musical advocate for everything positive and beautiful about the place he calls home. His international role has surpassed merely performing concerts to foreign audiences. It has evolved into one as an ambassador of South African music. Expect high dynamics, deep grooves, delicate African inflections and mind-bending guitar playing of an entirely new order.
Creative Expression is a conscious poetically influenced musical band that consists of eight powerful artists who believe in changing the world through their art. It consists of three vocalists, two poets, two guitarists and a percussionist. They create various forms of music, ranging from Afro soul to urban hip-hop using poetic flare. They are musical geniuses in their own realm; inspired by local and international artists, they seek to speak truth and life unto people’s lives by making their music relatable. Featuring: Sihle Matandela,Thabo Makhoana,Linston Maaboi, Blessing Mahloko, Mahase Majoro, Phindile Malindi, Lerato Mokhere, Lindiwe Pearl Khumalo @Graham Hotel 30
01
02
# 50m 03
04
@The Fringe Club
05
$ Tickets
06 07 13:00 19:00 –75%
08
09
10
Steve Biko Building 16:00
F
C
B
50
45
43
EXODUS Untitled Management An artist born and raised in Maputo, Mozambique who gets his inspirations from artists like Frank Ocean, Bob Marley, John Legend, Jason Mraz and modern hip hop. He has a melodic sound and a voice that will give you goose bumps. His sound can be described as the new sound/ generation of R&B and with hip 11:00hop elements and meaningful lyrics, his music is interesting and gripping. His passion for music is his desire for people to find themselves through his music.
01
02
# 50m 03
04
05
$ Tickets 06
07
08
09
10
17:00
Free!
01
# 50m
02
03
04
05
$ Tickets 06
07
@The Fringe Club
Steve Biko Building
C
B
65
59
55
Cover charge at door
17:00 11:00 14:00
09
10
F
C
B
90
81
77
HATCHETMAN Three men, armed with acoustic guitars, bass and cajon wrap their remarkable blend of three-part harmony around an intoxicating brew of original songs. Musically, they meet at the delta of folk, blues and rock - muscular yet beautiful, powerful, poignant and at times, quite otherworldly. They have been compared favourably with seventies supergroup, Crosby, Stills and Nash, and are the recipients of a Silver Standard Bank Ovation Award for their show at the 2015 edition of the National Arts Festival. Featuring: Jonathan Tait, Nick Catto & Matt Catto @Graham Hotel 30
01
02
# 50m 03 04 13:00 17:00
@Thomas Pringle Hall
F
08
21:00 13:00 19:00 15:00
05
$ Tickets 06
07
09
10
C
B
100 90
F
85
C
B
12:30
100 90
F
85
18:00
Cover charge at door
# 50m 21:30 18:00
@The Fringe Club
08 15:00
Free!
@Slip Stream Bar 30 19:00
@Graham Hotel 30
Cover charge at door
11:00
Featuring: Guy Buttery
Steve Biko Building 13:00
FELT FIRE Felt Fire is an indie pop band hailing from Johannesburg. Musically the band is inspired by luscious pop rock sensibilities and indie authenticity. Morally and politically we advocate for early child development and infant mental health. Aesthetically we fall somewhere in the shadowland between the Foo Fighters and Regina Spektor. Psychologically we are more or less functionally neurotic. We love red wine. Featuring: Clint Van Der Walt, Joe Randall, Terri Ella @Slip Stream Bar 30
01
02
# 50m 03
04
05
$ Tickets 06
07
08
09
10
21:00 19:00 @The Fringe Club
Steve Biko Building
F
C
B
50
50
50
Cover charge at door
18:00 13:00 17:00
FILTHY ENT. Turn Up & Get Dirty with Filthy ENT. Shikisha to the vibes of talented DJ, producer and vocalist; Rooted Soul, Electro Jazz sensation; RubyGold, “Buya” Hitmaker & Metro FM Award-winner; Toshi, the Most Talented MC to come out Cape Town; DaZZ FleXXX & Hip Hop Kings; Young B with a massage for the world as well as charisma of a king , Ayanda with breath taking flows backed with Punch lines, Mr B A cross over artist with the most versatile melodic styles. Featuring: Young B, Ayanda , DazzfleXXX , Yanga, Mike, RubyGold , Mr Bee, Toshi, RootedSoul, Thubi, Lwandile, Gugu @Rhodes Club 30
01
02
# 50m 03
04
05
$ Tickets 06
07
19:00 21:00 @Slip Stream Bar 14:00 16:00 11:00
Steve Biko Building
08
09
10
F
C
B
80
72
68
Cover charge at door
Situated on the First Floor in the Monument we offer a comfortable and friendly environment with soft, classical music in the background while you enjoy a selection of our freshly prepared, healthy and scrumptious meals. Our menu includes the following and more: BREAKFASTS SOUP OF THE DAY LIGHT MEALS TRAMEZZINIS GOURMET SALADS JUICY FLAME GRILLED STEAKS OUR FAMOUS VENISON AND CHICKEN BURGERS JUMBO STEAK ROLLS HOT AND COLD BEVERAGES DESSERTS DAILY HOME-COOKED MEALS SUCH AS ROASTS SERVED WITH RICE AND VEGGIES DON’T FORGET OUR FULLY LICENSED BAR TRADING HOURS: 9AM TILL LATE (children welcome)
For more information, Take Away Orders and Reservations please contact Deon on 0829244797
253
254 JOANNE COOPER Joanne writes and performs folk music in an instantly recognisable style that is reminiscent of Joan Baez with a touch of Emmy Lou Harris. She writes, records, produces and releases her music from her tiny home studio in Johannesburg and has independently released 6 albums in the last two years. Joanne will perform new arrangements of some favourites alongside original songs. Featuring: Joanne Cooper @Slip Stream Bar 30
01
# 50m
02
03
04
@The Fringe Club
The Stone Crescent Hotel We speak your language! Contact George or Olwethu 063 425 2015 / 082 654 9786 / 062 414 0256 stonecrescenthotelght@gmail.com
$ Tickets
05
06
07 08 17:00 13:00 Free!
09
10
Steve Biko Building 12:00 17:00
F
C
B
20
20
20
Cover charge at door
11:00
JULANIE J NueLight 17-year-old Cape Town singer, songwriter Julanie J is a white girl with soul!! Hearing her sing R&B and jazz is quite an experience. The combination of an experienced band and an extraordinary voice, will send shivers down your spine and you will definitely join in with the song. Featuring: Rixi Roman, JP Crouch, Duane Brown (sound engineer), Winston Siljeur @Slip Stream Bar 30
01
# 50m
02
03
04
19:00 @The Fringe Club 15:00 12:00
$ Tickets F
C
B
17:00
40
36
34
Steve Biko Building
Cover charge at door
05
06
07
08
09
10
18:00
LEGATO Azande Social Relations Legato is an A Capella group formed by childhood friends back in 2005 hailing from the friendly city of Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. Their sound is influenced by jazz, blues and other kinds of music. In 2015 they entered the SABC 1 SA Sing-Off Competition coming in as runners up, an opportunity that exposed them to audiences nationwide. Featuring: Milani Sixakwe, Lisa Yengeni, Lwando Lukhukho, Phiwokuhle Tyatya And Luyolo Stungu. @Slip Stream Bar 30
01
02
# 50m 03 21:00
04
–25%
@The Fringe Club 19:00 13:00
$ Tickets F
C
B
19:00
80
72
68
Steve Biko Building
Cover charge at door
05
06
07
08
09
10
20:00
LEOMILE Reigning from the mountain kingdom of Lesotho, Leomile is a singer-songwriter whose music ensnares all who encounter it with its blend of curious mysticism, modern sound and storytelling. Accompanied by a 7-piece live band, it is a refreshing musical experience that encapsulates Africa’s challenging past and its exciting future. Featuring: Leomile Motsetsela, Thabang Malete, Siphiwe Khubheka, Zelizwe Mthembu, Mpolokeng Chabane, Nkululeko Sithole, Mpho Molikeng, Khutso Makokoropo @Slip Stream Bar 30
01
02
# 50m 03
04
05
$ Tickets
06 19:00
07
09
17:00
Free!
@The Fringe Club
08
Steve Biko Building 16:00 12:00 13:00
10
F
C
B
50
45
43
Cover charge at door
Nestled in a valley and surrounded by nature, 10kms from Grahamstown, accommodation is offered in bungalows, dormitories and luxurious rooms. BBQ area, children’s playground, wifi, tv and safe, secure parking is all yours.
255 LOVECHILD
MSAKI AND THE GOLDEN CIRCLE TRIBE
With last year’s experience as a first timer, Love Child is bringing you her heart in rhythmic blues and soulful jazz covered in her unique dress sense. Be sure not to miss this one!
One Shushu Day Artistry
Featuring: Vuyiseka Maguga, Khayalethu Njikelana, Edgar Muzah, Masixole, Mzwanele
@Slip Stream Bar 30
01 21:00
02
# 50m 03
04
05
$ Tickets 06
07
08
09
10
17:00
–25%
@The Fringe Club
Steve Biko Building
F
C
B
42
38
39
Cover charge at door
13:00 17:00
Msaki is a rare breed of artist. She disrupts your senses with her alto voice and subtle tales of love, loss, home, revolution and hope. Msaki & The Golden Circle Tribe is soulful, folky, symphonic and African. They will be performing the music of Zaneliza: How the water moves, Msaki’s debut album, co-produced with Standard Bank Young Artist of the Year for 2015, Nduduzo Makhathini. Zaneliza boasts an eclectic mix of talented musicians (The Golden Circle Tribe) who came together to serve the vision of an artist coming into her own sound. Selah! Featuring: Ella Roselt, Tim Hutchinson, Joel Karabo Elliott, Nduduzo Makhathini & Asher Gamedze, @Thomas Pringle Hall 30
01
02
03
# 50m 04
05
15:00 19:30 14:15
LU DLAMINI
@The Fringe Club
“She waits at a place of intuition and when she starts to sing it feels like the most natural thing. Her voice is intimate, her spirit has a freedom that is uniquely original and her talent soars. Each note is like rain on the dry earth, it nourishes and refreshes.” Gisele Turner. - Jazzeye.
30
01
02
# 50m 03
04
05
09
10
F
C
09
10
21:30
C
B
100 90
F
85
Cover charge at door
NOMBASA Nombasa is an Afro soul singer / songwriter with unique sounds that consist of an ancient Xhosa sound fused in modern Afro soul. Originally from, and currently residing in, Grahamstown, she brings a fresh sound of the Eastern Cape that leaves one revived. Her music addresses personal and societal issues, yet brings fresh hope and a great vibe that resonates with an audience from different backgrounds and regions. In 2015, she was chosen to be one of the acts at the opening of the National Arts Festival. She also featured in Msaki’s NAF show in 2014.
B
100 90 100
Free!
08
19:00
$ Tickets
06 07 08 21:00 19:00 13:00
07
Steve Biko Building
16:00
Featuring: Barney Bophela - Keyboards, Mazwakhe Gumede - Bass, Mzamo Zungu - Drums, Marius Botha Sound Engineer.
@Slip Stream Bar
$ Tickets 06
Featuring: Nombasa Maqoko
MASIDUMISENI NOSISANDA
@Slip Stream Bar
Thandile Petshwa
30
In 2011 Sisa decided to start performing solo, but she never left her former youth gospel group peers that she recruited. After local success, and great responses and performance reviews from her fans and supporters, she recorded her debut album titled Uzosinda Njani? released in January 2016.Her songs have, in a short space of time, triggered a lot of interest from a number of Eastern Cape community radio stations and national radio stations and she has collaborated on stage with some of the best Gospels stars in South Africa. Featuring: Thandile Petshwa, Sisanda Mjekula, Edgar Muzah, Mvuzo Mnyaka & Khayalethu Njikelana @The Fringe Club 30
01
02
$ Tickets
Steve Biko Building 03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
19:30 19:30 19:30
Cover charge at door
MATTHEW VAN DER WANT Songwriter Matthew van der Want comes to Grahamstown in 2016 to showcase his new album, ‘terror and love’. ‘One of the finest songwriters to emerge from South Africa.’ Chris Roper, M & G Featuring: Matthew van der Want
@Graham Hotel 30
01
02
# 50m 03
04
05
$ Tickets 06
07
15:00 21:00 @The Fringe Club 20:00 20:00 19:00
Steve Biko Building
08
09
10
C
B
100 90
F
85
Cover charge at door
01 02 13:00 19:00
# 50m 03
04
05
$ Tickets 06
07
–50%
@The Fringe Club
Steve Biko Building 11:00 13:00 18:00
08
09
10
F
C
B
70
63
60
Cover charge at door
256 POETICSOUL
SAMTHING SOWETO
Poeticsoul is a combination of spoken word and live music that is largely influenced by jazz and traditional African sounds. PoeticSoul describes the sound as a collaborative relationship between music and poetry, which takes you on a spiritual journey of self-introspection, rediscovery and love. To PoeticSoul poetry is life’s eye.
Samthing Soweto is a presentation made especially for this year’s Festival audiences. It comprises original compositions that Samkelo has performed over the years he has been a musician in Soweto. The production is a fifty-minute love letter dedicated to someone hidden. Throughout the performance, Samkela tries to explain who this person is. The performance is presented softly and with the utmost care for your enjoyment.
Featuring: Lelethu Mahambehlala, Bongani Tulwana, Sinethemba Ncetani, Sakhumzi Nompozolo, Sakhile Mambukhwe,Kamva Goba,Wandile Bebula @Slip Stream Bar 30
01
# 50m
02
03
04
05
13:00 @The Fringe Club
@Graham Hotel
$ Tickets 06
07
08
09
F
C
B
60
54
51
10
17:00 21:00 19:00 Steve Biko Building
Cover charge at door
18:00
30
01
# 50m
02
03
02
04
05
07
08
09
10
Steve Biko Building
Shef and the Kitchen are a live performing band from Johannesburg. Cooking Afro jazz funk music promises to give music lovers food for the soul – enjoy a fully cooked soul meal from the band?s hot chilled performance!
F
C
B
65
59
55
Cover charge at door
30
01
02
# 50m 03
Featuring: Quallay, Yahkeem , Ndlulamthi , Slum Intellect, Luna Kill, Tsviehloheem ThePrince, Son Of law, Cush Solomon & Adon Geel @Slip Stream Bar
# 50m 04
05
07
08
09 21:00
Steve Biko Building
10
F
C
B
10
20
Cover charge at door
$ Tickets
06 13:00
07
08
–50%
14:00
F
C
B
17:00
10
10
10
12:00
Cover charge at door
09
10
13:00
SOUL RENOVATORS If yoga does not calm your soul, then let music be you’re remedy. The Soul Renovators’ music is soothing to the soul, sweet on the ear, and does not harm. Featuring: Tebogo,Thabang, Mmotseng & Ditiro
30
20
05
Steve Biko Building
@Graham Hotel
$ Tickets 06
04
@The Fringe Club
AroundHiphop and the family presents to you “ The Return Of Cypher “, a three day hip-hop festival that seeks to revive the true essence of the hip-hop culture through its 5 elements. This will be exhibited in music dialogues (topic discussions and music business),workshops ( info sharing and networks), live performances and b-boy battles. This program seeks to represents hip hop in its entirely without comprising the culture.
18:00 19:00 20:00
B 43
SHEF AND THE KITCHEN MUSIC
THE RETURN OF THE CYPHER
@The Fringe Club
C 45
Cover charge at door
12:00 16:00 20:00
Aroundhiphop in association with Fingo Festival
03
13:00
Steve Biko Building
@Slip Stream Bar
$ Tickets 06
18:00 17:00
02
F 50
10
Featuring: Siphiwe, Freddy,khanyisile, William,mzwakhe
@The Fringe Club
01
09
Featuring: David Jenkins, Maqhinga Radebe
15:00 21:00 19:00
30
08
BOTC
# 50m 03
$ Tickets
06 07 15:00 21:00
Hailing from the heart of Zululand, Qadasi and Maqhinga are an acoustic duo reviving the powerful sounds of traditional Maskandi music. Both SAMA and SATMA Award nominees in their own right, they have taken their fusion of Maskandi and western folk music to audiences in the USA, Europe and Asia.
@Graham Hotel 01
05
Free!
@The Fringe Club
QADASI & MAQHINGA
30
04
01
02
# 50m 03
04
05
$ Tickets 06
07 17:00 –25%
@The Fringe Club
Steve Biko Building 17:00 12:00 15:00
08
09 21:00
10
F
C
B
50
45
43
Cover charge at door
257 TARYNNE SWARTS Tarynne Swarts, is an international composer, producer, pianist and vocalist. Her debut album Pachamama, was recorded in Granada, Spain and was released in 2016. The album features, an international collaboration of musicians from Cuba, Spain, and the USA, which gives the album its unique World sound but at the same time maintaining its African voice. The debut single Pachamama is an eclectic fusion of Latin rhythms combined with Afro-fusion influences and is composed in Spanish, Zulu and English. Pachamama is available on iTunes and Spotify.
THE EASTERN CAPE DEPARTMENT OF SPORTS, RECREATION, ARTS & CULTURE PRESENTS
Featuring: Tarynne Swarts, Edgar Kaye Muzah, Thoba Goba, Kamva Goba @Slip Stream Bar 30
01
# 50m
02
03
04
05
$ Tickets 06
07
08
09
10
13:00 21:00
F
C
B
100 90 100
THEE LEGACY Sony Music Thee Legacy bring a new interpretation and relevance to contemporary isicathamiya without taking away from the tradition. And judging by the audience response from the first season of The Sing Off, South Africa has witnessed the birth of a new generation sound that can bring it back full circle to popular culture. The Durban based group were the Inaugural Winners of The Sing Off South Africa 2015, which aired on SABC 1. Following their success, the group released their first studio recording under Sony Music, their new home. Featuring: Jabulani Mthembu, Khanyisani Mazibuko, Philani Duma, Emile Ngcobo and Simphiwe Sikhakhane @Graham Hotel 30
01
# 50m
02
03
04 05 15:00 17:00
$ Tickets 06
07
08
09
10
Free!
@The Fringe Club
Steve Biko Building
F
C
B
50
45
43
Cover charge at door
20:00 17:00 14:00
TSHEPO FELA
Featuring: Tshepo Fela, Ncamisa Ncana, Lesego mokgatle, Thato Leputu, Ryan Peters, Sakhile Twala, Mzwakhe Msimango
30
# 50m
01 02 19:00 13:00
03
04
05
$ Tickets 06
07
08
09
10
Free!
@The Fringe Club
Steve Biko Building
F
C
B
60
54
51
Cover charge at door
15:00 14:00 18:00
ZLS_HIPHOPPRO TSG Zamokhule Michael Ndimande Longfield Stevens, best known as Zama, who goes by the alias ZLS_HipHopPro (Zman Longfield Stevens) The Hip Hop Prodigy is a South African based musician. ZLS isn’t just another pass me by musician, this young talent has been around the entertainment business since the tender age of five, a familiar face on the family show “Kideo” and “YoTV” which is the flagship of children’s entertainment on SABC’s three main television channels. His first musical performances were at his school choir and Rhema church choir. Featuring: ZLSHipHopPro, Dipps, Dj Shuura, Roxy Onke @Slip Stream Bar 30
01
02
@The Fringe Club
# 50m 03
04
05
$ Tickets 06
07
08
09
10
F
C
B
13:00
116 104 99
Steve Biko Building
Cover charge at door
12:00 15:00 16:00
Well known publishers in the province will showcase their publications. WordFest strives for participation by a broad spectrum of language stakeholders. Wordfest 2016 will be officially opened by the Honourable MEC for Sport, recreation, Arts and Culture, Ms Pemmy Majodina. DATES Sunday 3 to Wednesday 6 July VENUE Red Lecture Hall, Eden Grove
The master of liquid African jazz, Tshepo combines American jazz progressions and African vernacular influences from different cultures dipped in soulful melodies. A true reflection of the beautiful marriage between talent and skill is experienced through his exceptional stylistic ways of delivering a performance. “Music has NO gender, colour, race or any politically selected language. It is a universal language spoken by the heart translated by use of melodies, rhythm and progressions”.
@Slip Stream Bar
W
ordFest is a series of literary events featuring book launches by budding and professional writers, workshops on creative writing conducted by academics and people well versed in the field of writing and books in general. The series also includes poetry reciting sessions and an analytic review of works by writers. A strong focus is on local content with a primary focus on the four official languages of the province: isiXhosa, Afrikaans, English and Sesotho.
258
FULL LENGTH FILMS MPEPHE THE PROPHET 2
THE FAMILY SECRET
Kasi Style Power House
~ ALL
The movie is about two old men who are playing heroes in a very small village to impress the ladies of that village. They accept a challenge to face a monster that has been killing the village girls and now that monster has taken the king’s daughter. . Director: Letlhogonolo Makgaka Featuring: Ali Mpephe Mokoena GENRE: COMEDY / DRAMA
(SA 2015)
@Seminar Room 1, Eden Grove 30
01
02
# 1h10 03
04
05
$ Tickets
! 06
07
08
09
10
13:00 13:00 17:00 17:00
F
C
B
25
20
20
DEATH AND LIFE OF MAKHAZA MSHIYENI DREAMS Isanga Media (Pty) Ltd and Isomi Creative Arts Space Npc
Konopi Media
Director: Tshepiso Konopil Featuring: Lebogang Letlhake, Obakeng Moribe & Thapelo Molaolwa GENRE: SUPERNATURAL
30
~ ALL
01
30
01
02
03
04
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
13:00 13:00
F
C
B
25
20
20
09
10
F
C
B
25
20
20
GENRE: DRAMA
(SA 2015)
~ 16+ N
CO2 Pictures (Pty) Ltd
ALWAYS & FOREVER
Lilith - Genesis One is a re-envisioning of the story littleknown biblical character Lilith, as a Creator existing in a universe of cement. She spends her infinite time alone sculpting figures, searching for a partner within the cement. This film aims to challenge traditional precepts of Creator and Creation.
LMTL Entertainment
Directed by & featuring: Luretha Cronje GENRE: ROMANTIC DRAMA
ITRONGO
Arts Sake Productions
~ 16+ LV
To Ike is a short film made by young independent filmmakers. About a young girl ‘Slindy’ who deals with her life trauma in the most unexpected way. Come witness the thrills and drama of this ordinary girl who made extraordinary life choices as we delve into her psyche. This is the first short film produced by the Arts Sake Productions team and first film for the young director Vuyani Bilal out side of film school. Director: Vuyani Bilal Featuring: Itumeleng Mofokeng, Sello Ramolahloane, Isanalemvula Maseko & Tshepiso Lesufi
# 26m 03
04
05
17:00 13:00 13:00
PT Investments
~ 13+ LVS
iTrongo is a story that is narrated by a teenage inmate, reflecting on the events that led him to be behind bars. The boy’s story creates a mind picture of how prison was not his home, but home was prison because of domestic violence. The story is set in a township shack where violence and sexual abuse is a daily occurrence. On this occasion, the boy’s father comes home drunk, kicks the door down and starts abusing the mother,. The boy gets out of bed to help his mother., but before he can do anything, his father hits him with an empty beer bottle and he falls down unconscious, bleeding from deep head cuts. The father repeatedly rapes his own daughter while his mother pleades for him to stop. Director: Masthembe Vena & Thandaka Vabaza Featuring: Siyabulela Ngewu, Nondumiso Zweni, Milani Satsha & Xhanti Maxambela
(SA 2016)
@Seminar Room 1, Eden Grove
(SA 2015)
(SA 2014)
TO IKE
GENRE: DRAMA THRILLER
~ PG L
This is a short film that formed part of the 48 Hour Film Festival, produced and completed in 48 Hours. The story centers around a young man’s secret love for his roommate..
Director: Andre Coetzee Featuring: Nicola Haskins & Gopala Davies GENRE: EXPERIMENTAL / MOVEMENT
~ ALL
A Sunday afternoon in a deserted area in South Africa. Two girls are driving home when a stone hits their car. The different ways they perceive the event ignites a series of misunderstandings between them as they begin to question the elements of their connection. Director: Jessie Zinn Featuring: Qondiswa James, Emilie Badernhorst, Faniswa Yisa & Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi
LILITH - GENESIS ONE
02
08
INTO US AND OURS
SHORT FILMS I
01
07
Jessie Zinn / University of Cape Town 17:00
30
06
17:00
$ Tickets
!
05
$ Tickets
!
SHORT FILMS II
Director: Sonwabile Mfecane
# 52m
02
# 50m
13:00 17:00 13:00
(SA 2012)
@Seminar Room 1, Eden Grove
(SA 2015)
@Seminar Room 1, Eden Grove
In 1973 in the rural village in Mthatha a man was killed in front of many witnesses, four weeks after his funeral he returned home. This was associated with witchcraft. This film, with the help of an anthropologist, investigates the incident. GENRE: DOCUMENTARY
~ 16+ LVSR
Some families have got deep and dark secrets that they would like to hide from the public to avoid persecution, but secrets have a way of coming out. The story follows the life of Setlhako, a recently appointed detective, who falls in love with a young Nurse. A couple of kisses, lead to pregnancy and an engagement. Unknowingly, his new engagement turns sour and sends him spiraling down the yellow brick road of mayhem and chaos into a world riddled witchcraft and murders. He finds himself investigating a case that has its roots in muti murders, where he finds his beliefs and love connection straddling on a tight tight rope of misconceptions and fear.
$ Tickets
! 06
07 17:00
08
09
10
GENRE: DRAMA
F
C
B
25
20
20
(SA 2015)
@Seminar Room 1, Eden Grove 30
01
02
17:00 17:00 13:00
# 27m 03
04 17:00
05
$ Tickets
! 06
07
08
09
10
F
C
B
25
20
20
259
CELEBRATING THE ARTS IN THE CONTEXT OF CHRISTIAN FAITH
WORSHIP
MUSIC
Choral Evensong
Gospel Africa Music Concerts
An inspiring Choral Evensong for festival goers, visual artists, musicians, writers and arts administrators. The service will feature a programme of South African choral music and hymns sung by the Cathedral Choir and directed by Dr Andrew-John Bethke. During the service, Dr Sizwe Mabizela, Vice-Chancellor of Rhodes University, will receive the Dean’s Award from the Very Revd Andrew Hunter, Dean of Grahamstown.
Gospel music remains the most popular grass-roots music form in South Africa. This is your chance to experience the passion of new and established singers and bands.
1 July
17:30 (60 mins)
The Cathedral
1 July & 2 July R30 at the door
19:00
Trinity Presbyterian Church, Hill Street
Organ Recitals
Presider: Fr Anthony Egan SJ from the Jesuit Institute in Johannesburg.
Dr Andrew-John Bethke, Director of Music at Grahamstown Cathedral. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear an outstanding young musician and a world-class cathedral organ. The programme will include works by S S Wesley, J S Bach, Mendelssohn and Wely.
Preacher: Fr Anthony Egan SJ.
1 July
Sunday Mass
3 July
08:00
15:00 (50 mins)
The Cathedral
St Patrick’s Church, Hill Street
Daily Mass 4-8 July
12:00
St Patrick’s Church, Hill Street
Festival Eucharist Come and participate in a magnificent Choral Eucharist with rousing hymns led by the Cathedral Director of Music and Organist Dr Andrew-John Bethke. The Mass setting “A Chamber Eucharist” was written by Dr Bethke for a talented group of local singers and instrumentalists. Using a variety of musical styles from around Africa and beyond, he wrote this work as a response to recent outbreaks of xenophobic violence. Preacher: The Very Revd Andrew Hunter, Dean of Grahamstown 3 July
09:30 (90 mins)
The Cathedral
Lucernarium A lucernarium is a simple service of lighting the lamps before the darkness of evening sets in. It is an ancient liturgy which formed the basis of evening prayer from the 4th – 9th centuries. Vestiges of it are still discernible in modern liturgies. The service will begin in darkness and will centre on lighting a central “Christ” candle and then lighting numerous candles around the church. A small choir will lead plainsong sections of the service. It is a must for those who enjoy contemplative liturgical worship. 6 July
17:30 (40 mins)
The Cathedral
Festival Service Preacher: Andile Mbete, Bishop of the Grahamstown District. Bishop Mbete is a wellknown Church leader, writer and radio commentator, and recipient of the Metropolitan Eastern Cape Award in the Religion category. 10 July
09:00
Commemoration Methodist Church
DR ANDREW-JOHN BETHKE Professor Albert Troskie, renowned Eastern Cape organist, composer and author, plays the recently restored 1875 Bevington Pipe organ of Commemoration Methodist Church. He has selected mostly Romantic music for which the organ is ideally suited, including works by Lang, Sullivan, Mailly, Nieland, Verdi, Bach, Handel, contemporary American composers, and by Professor Troskie himself. 5 July
15:00 (50 mins)
Commemoration Methodist Church
Concert A concert performance of the “Chamber Eucharist” by Andrew-John Bethke (see above) together with the world premier of the same composer’s String Quartet. All the music in this programme was inspired by the traditional music of Africa. 2 July
15:00 (60 mins)
The Cathedral
Arthur Wellington Methodist Choir This choir from the Grahamstown District won the 2015 Connexional Music Competition, and has toured overseas. Come and hear them sing spiritual favourites from South Africa and beyond. 3 July 15:00 (60 mins) Commemoration Methodist Church, Church Square
St Michael’s Marimbas This year the group is going to play music exclusively from Africa. Come and enjoy the vibe presented by musicians with rhythm in their souls. 5 July, 8 July
13:15 (45 mins)
The Cathedral
Bell-ringing in the Cathedral Tower Climb the narrow spiral steps to view the oldest bell tower in South Africa and learn how the enormous bells are rung.
BISHOP ANDILE MBETE
15 people maximum per tour.
Festival Eucharist Come and be inspired by a music-filled, devotional Eucharist, with the choir of the Diocesan School for Girls. Preacher: The Revd Gary Griffiths-Smith, Chaplain, St Andrew’s College, Grahamstown. 10 July
09:30 (90 mins)
The Cathedral
Free – but donations encouraged. Tickets at the base of the tower. 1, 2 & 9 July 13:00 & 13:30 (30 mins) Ringing Chamber, Cathedral Tower
260 VISUAL ART 40 Stones in the Wall Curated by Jonathan Griffiths An exhibition which explores the dialogue between art and faith in building relationships with God and within community. Viewers can join the discussion by engaging with the artworks and talking with the artists-in-residence, who are creating artwork during the week. Various media. The Cory Room, Behind 108 High Street, next to the Long Table Open daily
30 June–9 July: 09:30 to 12:30 and 14:30 to 20:00 10 July:10:00 to 12:00 Walkabouts: 5 July 16:00, 9 July 10:00 (no charge)
SPIRITFEST LECTURES AND BOOK LAUNCHES St Patrick’s Church, 47 Hill Street
10:30 (60 mins)
4 July: “The Church and Same-Gender Relationships”: Owen Franklin, Minister in the Gay Community, Johannesburg. 5 July: Benedict Daswa, modern African martyr. Francis Williamson, Philosophy lecturer at Rhodes University and leading Catholic layman, tells the story of a Limpopo Christian who died in 1990 rather than participate in a witch-hunt. His beatification in 2015 was the first step towards being declared a Saint. 6 July: Book launch: Philippe Menache and Darryl Earl David launch “Church Tourism in South Africa”, the third book in their popular series. Introductory talk illustrated by stunning photographs of little-known and well-known heritage architecture. 7 July: “Anxiety and Grace”. Chris Mann explores the inner life with humour and delicacy in a series of original poems and songs, illustrated by large-scale digital images by Grahamstown artist Julia Skeen. 8 July: Book launch: “Celebrating the Seasons” by Dr Andrew-John Bethke. This new book is aimed at those who lead worship either as clergy, lay-ministers or musicians. It focuses on the rich Christian symbols which are embedded within the festivals of the year.
GUIDED PRAYER An adventure in prayer in the midst of your daily life. • deepen your relationship with God • meet God in your everyday life • experience different ways of praying What happens? 30 minutes, Mon–Fri, with a confidential prayer guide for listening, sharing and focused prayer. St Patrick’s Church, 47 Hill Street 4-8 July 30-minute slots available between 14:00 and 16:00. No charge. To book, email spiritfest@grahamstowncathedral.org or book at the venue.
DRAMA “Romero” Enter into the inspiring and moving story of Archbishop Oscar Romero. Romero, who became Archbishop of San Salvador in 1977, spoke fearlessly on behalf of the poor and victims of oppression, and called upon the US to stop giving military support to the government of El Salvador. In 1980 he was assassinated – shot dead while celebrating Mass. Devised by and featuring Fr Anthony Egan SJ, historian, ethicist and writer, on the staff of the Jesuit Institute. He has written for a number of newspapers, and is a regular commentator on radio and television. 4, 6 & 8 July 15:00 (60 mins)
Wesley Methodist Church Hall (Corner Market and York Streets)
OPEN MIC Share a poem, a story, a sacred text, a song or testimony – yours or somebody else’s – with a sympathetic audience in the beauty of a sacred site. With emcee Harry Owen, well-known South African poet and Grahamstown resident. 6 July
15:00 (60 mins)
Chapter House inside the Cathedral
For more about Spiritfest see http://www.grahamstowncathedral.org/spiritfest Facebook: facebook.com/spiritfest.grahamstown
261 40 STONES IN THE WALL An exhibition that explores the dialogue between art and faith in building relationships with God and within community. Viewers can join the discussion by engaging with the artworks and talking to the artists-in-residence, who will be creating artwork throughout the week. Artists: Jonathan Griffiths, Cobus Kruger, Marie Mohlomi, Susan van der Berg and others Drawings, Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:30 to 12:30 & 14:30 to 20:00 daily
Walkabouts: 5 July at 16:00 & 9 July at 10:00. Exhibition closes on 10 July at 12:00 @The Cory Room, Off High Street, behind the Long Table
ABABHEMU Esimobeni Art Gallery These KZN-based artists use paper as a secondary tool on which to project their art. They have more than 15 years experience in the arts and are all involved in teaching and sharing knowledge with up and coming artists. Artists: Nonto, Thami Jali, Mthobisi Maphumulo Photography, Lino Prints, Graphics, Drawings, Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Steve Biko Building, Prince Alfred Street
ALONG THE WAY Monique Wiffen Rorke An exhibition featuring the photograph as medium and subject. The viewer is taken on a journey to share in impressions and experiences. Moments of beauty found in forgotten and overlooked places. An instant evoked using texture and light. A memory triggered by a fleeting glimpse. Photographs
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Johan Carinus Art Centre, Beaufort Street
ART & WINE The Artists’ Collection The Artists’ Collection: Bubbly – Classic – Vintage – Collectable. A unique festival destination featuring wellknown South African artists in conjunction with our stylish Wine Bar. Come and arouse your senses: See – Taste – Smell – Feel – Hear. A SENSE-ATION! Artists: Mary Fowlds, Shirley Pittaway, Belinda Arde, Bruce Little, Karen Flood, Justin Hervey, Dale Morris, Rick Becker, Michaela Rinaldi, Tess Lovemore, Cheryl Castle, Gayle Lovemore and Dominique Thoenes Photographs, Sculpture, Drawings, Paintings
~ All ages
# 10:30 to 21:00 daily
@The Highlander, Worcester Street
ART IN ACTION Sonnett Olls This˜exhibition portrays a selection of paintings in watercolour, acrylic and oil techniques: landscapes, trees, floral, figures and abstracts. The artist will be performing at the exhibition, demonstrating three paintings every day in different techniques. The artist will assist and teach those interested in different techniques. Portraits will be done on commission. The style captures the joy and magical play of colour in a moment of time.˜ Drawings, Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Albany Museum, Somerset Street
263 BIRD / FISH Kristin Hua NG-Yang ‘Bird / Fish’ is an installation and performance piece that deploys metaphors that allude to the ephemera of air and water, of love being subject to fate. The visual work and music is meditative on life’s journey into inevitable oblivion. The audience may interact with the tactile installed elements after a live performance. Performances at 10:00 & 15:00 daily from 30 June to 2 July (20mins) Artists: Artist Kristin Hua NG-Yang with dance performance by Bonwa Mbontsi and Tegan Peacock Drawings, Installation, Performance Art (dance)
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Commemoration Church Hall
BRUCE LITTLE ORIGINALS Internationally renowned sculptor Bruce Little sculpts to capture the spirit of the African wildlife. Self-taught and instinctual his technique captures the essential movement and attitudes of his subjects. Visit our gallery and working pewter studio, enjoy a cappuccino and take a walk through our unique factory. All artworks are for sale.˜ Photographs, Sculpture, Hand Crafts, Drawings, Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Bruce Little Originals Gallery, Rautenbach Road, Industrial Area
CARINUS ART CENTRE GROUP EXHIBITION Carinus Art Centre Group Exhibition As always this well-known venue features quality art produced by established artists. A range of styles and media reflecting strong individual interpretations and honed techniques are on show. The beautiful gardens and heritage buildings of the venue enhance the viewing experience. Artists: Peter Midlane, Roxandra Dardagan , Tori Stowe, Sally Scott, Anthony Stidolph, Nicky Rosselli, Charmaine Haines, Martin Haines, Richard Pullen, Lucas Bambo, Monique Rorke, Sandy Diogo Ceramics, Lino Prints, Graphics, Drawings, Paintings, Mixed Media
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Johan Carinus Art Centre, Beaufort Street
CHARMAINE HAINES CONTEMPORARY CERAMICS Charmaine Haines The ceramic pieces embrace the artists continued fascination for Ancient Cultures, African Artefacts and Medieval Iconic Art through – ‘filtering the style of a previous age through a 21st Century sensibility’. Abstract and stylised symbols used to embellish sculptural forms have become autobiographical design elements repeated throughout the work adding both a narrative and mythical presence to the sculptural pieces. Ceramics
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Johan Carinus Art Centre, Beaufort Street
COMMON ROOTS, DIFFERENT ROUTES Sally Scott, Nicky Rosselli, Anthony Stidolph The notion of travel is often employed as a metaphor for living. In this unique family exhibition, siblings Sally Scott, Nicky Rosselli and Anthony Stidolph use this idea to re-examine their shared heritage and retrace the slightly different journeys each has undertaken to reach the point where they are now. Artists: Sally Scott, Nicky Rosselli, Anthony Stidolph Fabric Art, Drawings, Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Johan Carinus Art Centre, Beaufort Street
264 CROSSING OVER Mathias Chirombo Since the death of my father in 2014, I have been creatively occupied by exploring the theme of crossing over. Crossing over from living to dead, from human to spirit form. The abstract nature of the work creates space for the viewer to personalise their interpretation through the contemplation of their personal experiences of loss. Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Albany History Museum, Somerset Street
DEEP TIME: A FINAL COUNT-DOWN Anthony Harris Harris, in his paintings, explores this concept of ‘Deep Time’: a geological time that places the age of the earth at approximately 4.6 billion years. These landscapes hold within them aspects other than pure nature – the panorama is composed of elements that bear witness to change and evolution. Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Trinity Hall, Hill Street
DIOGO ART Sandy Diogo A solo exhibition of mixed media artworks portraying inner peace, movement and line. Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Johan Carinus Art Centre, Beaufort Street
ECHOES OF A MORE GRACIOUS PAST Laura-Kate Barnes With a love for old, decaying buildings, their architecture, patterns, textures and a reminder that everything is impermanent, Laura-Kate explores the journey of unwinding; the stories quietly spoken to us through derelict scenes so long forgotten. Included in the exhibition will be two sculptures by Louis van Eeden. Photographs, Sculpture, Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Steve Biko Building, Prince Alfred Street
EGAZINI EXPRESSIONS Egazini Outreach Project This exhibition by local artists and crafters is a showcase of local talent that explores everyday, community life in Grahamstown. The exhibition includes hand printed textiles created by Violet Booi, Daniwe Gongqa and Vukile Teyise. Lino Prints, Graphics, Fabric Art, Hand Crafts
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Carinus Annex, Donkin Street
FORT ENGLAND & TOWER HOSPITAL ART GROUP EXHIBITION Take a studio, add healthcare users with paper, pen and paint and what do you get? A collaboration between two of the Eastern Cape’s oldest hospitals – Fort England and Tower Hospital – presenting the creative artworks of a marginal population, given a platform to express their imagination through art. Please come and support and celebrate the mental healthcare users’ creativity and the healing milieu of art. Drawings, Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Carinus Annex, Donkin Street
265
Anthony Harris
FRAGMENTS OF LAND Bretten - Anne Moolman This exhibition of aerial landscape paintings that wellknown artist B.A. Moolman recently exhibited at the William Humphries National Gallery is guaranteed to take you on a journey. Imagine flying lightly on a slipstream of heat, fragmented by clouds, and cast shadows on the hot lands of Africa. Arresting colours in an aerial defying perception of space. Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Trinity Hall, Hill Street
FRAMEWORK Anton Brink An exhibition of new paintings by Anton Brink, exploring themes of alienation and the sense of being overwhelmed by ‘the system’. The hidden framework behind the facade of perceived reality is exposed, guiding, ordering and, above all, limiting our lives. It is about the stress of not conforming. Paintings
~ PG
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Albany History Museum, Somerset Street
DEEP TIME: A Final Count-down Image: “Deep Time: Farm on a Precipice”
Trinity Hall
FREE STATE ARTS TALK Free State Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Free State Arts Talk Exhibition is a provincial collection of artworks ranging from paintings and drawings to sculpture and photography collected from the various towns of the five districts in the Free State. These works touch on and look at various themes around people’s circumstances and situations, and their appreciation of the landscape and nature of the Free State.
Oil on Board
In the new series of work titled "Deep Time" Harris conceptually explores land issues: the concept of geological time, social geography, political, culture and cultural identity.
Hill Street Daily: 9 am - 5 pm Modern science has established the age of the Cell: 072 370 5933 Earth at around 4.54 billion years – this www.anthonyharris.co.za geological time is known as “Deep Time”.
Artists: Free State Visual Artists drawn from all 5 districts of the Province Photographs, Sculpture, Drawings, Paintings, Mosaics
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Steve Biko Building, Prince Alfred Street
FRIENDS OF TALENT ARTIST COLLABORATION Curated by Juliette Welham The Friends of Talent Artist Collaboration brings together several talented emerging contemporary artists, each committed to producing collectible fine art that is both honest and inspired. Because of their commitment, hard work, sheer talent, and dedication, these artists are expected to become greatly sought after in their own lifetimes. Artists: Buhle Wonder Mbambo, David Tsoka, Eric Sher, Keith Zenda, Kelebogile Masilo, Lebohang Sithole, Mandla Mandlenkosi Mavengere, Mlamuli Mkhwanazi, Muzi Ndlela, Nkosana Nhlapo, Olatunji (TJ) Sanusi, Sean McMahon, Sizwe Khoza, Thabo Sejesho, Wilson Ngoni Drawings, Paintings, Pastels, Prints, Photography
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Carinus Annex, Donkin Street
GLASS IN FLUX Lorinda Pretorius ‘Glass In Flux’ is an exhibition of sculptural forms in glass that seek to explore the tactile and visual qualities of material. Glass is the sculptural tool of the age: recyclable, environmentally aware, transparent and bold. Glass Art
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Trinity Hall, Hill Street
266 GOD’S PERFECT PALETTE Brian Hammond Brian was helped into the wonderful world of painting in oils by an artist friend who inspired his passion for landscapes. Brian’s work portrays references from wide country vistas, to big skies of fire, peaceful country scenes and water features. All this is inspired on by the beauty and magnificence of God’s creation. Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Steve Biko Building, Prince Alfred Street
IT’S ALL ABOUT LIGHT 5 R D Mckenzie Light continues to be the core element in my work. Some new topics have been approached with sometimes exciting new directions. The journey continues to be great fun. Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Steve Biko Building, Prince Alfred Street
IZIMPANDE – THE ROOTS Sthenjwa Luthuli Izimpande – The Roots is the collected effort of three talented artists who, though very different from one another, work together in a shared studio. Their exhibition deals with social issues, re-looking at the many different ways of living and surviving in a contemporary society. A society that continually challenges us to adapt and survive, influencing our dreams of transformation. Artists: Sthenjwa Luthuli, Wonder Mbambo, Mthobisi Maphumulo Lino Prints, Drawings, Paintings
~ PG
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Carinus Annex, Donkin Street
JENNEFER ANN’S GALLERY Jennefer Ann, Gordon Grant Jennefer Ann is a wildlife, landscape and portrait fine art artist. Her works focus on realism. Her paintings are inspired by the awe-inspiring beauty of South Africa and evoke her wish to share, from her perspective, a part of the ‘Heart Beat of Africa’ using with God’s beautiful palette of colours. She uses her own photos for most of her artworks, which are an expression of God’s beautiful talent given to her in its entire amazing splendour for your pleasure. All commissions welcome. Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Steve Biko Building, Prince Alfred Street
LOCAL ARTISTS EXHIBITION Local artists from the Eastern Cape The Local Artists Exhibition offers a diverse showcase for artists from Grahamstown and the surrounding areas. This year, an incredibly talented group of artists are showcasing a diversity of styles that will make for an interesting and eye catching exhibition. Mediums include acrylics, oils, watercolours and sketches. In addition to the original artwork, prints and postcards will be on offer. Drawings, Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Steve Biko Building, Prince Alfred Street
OPEN SPACES Gordon Legg Paintings of landscapes and seascapes in watercolour and acrylic Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Albany History Museum, Somerset Street
267 PAINTINGS AND GLASS Susan Alexander An exhibition consisting of paintings in oil depicting landscapes, people and portraits, as well as fused glass bowls, plates, tiles in a variety of colours and styles. Paintings, Glass Art
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Steve Biko Building, Prince Alfred Street
PALETTES IN NATURE Alison van Zijl & Mandy McKay Landscapes, wildlife, portraits in oils, watercolours and charcoals are the subject matter to Mandy and Alison’s 5th Exhibition. Their travels and hikes throughout our scenic land, bring new inspiration to their canvasses at this 2016 Festival Exhibition. Artists: Alison van Zijl, Mandy McKay, Susan Lucas Ceramics, Fabric Art, Drawings, Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Albany History Museum, Somerset Street
PATHLESS WOODS Roxandra Dardagan Britz ‘Pathless Woods’ is an exhibition by printmaker Roxandra Dardagan Britz. The exhibition includes etchings and mixed media works. The work is inspired by the natural world and explores existential themes. Graphics, Mixed media
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Johan Carinus Art Centre, Beaufort Street
PHALL♂S
Phall♂s Erotic Art Gallery
~ NS
A titillating variety of erotic art inspired by fun, desire, lust and pleasure awaits your discovery and marvel in our famous Phallery and Priapic Garden. Art and craft for sale. Phall s Erotic Art Gallery at Bon Tempo is in the tranquil Manley Flats farm area, please see map.♂ Artists: Bernard Barry, Will Alves, Ian Anderson, Pieter Wannenburg, Volkher and Claudia von Lengeling, Wendy Manser and others Ceramics, Photographs, Graphics, Sculpture, Fabric Art, Hand Crafts, Drawings, Paintings, Mosaics, Installation
~ Strictly adults only
# 10:00 to 17:00 daily
@Bon Tempo, Farm 5, Manley Flats, On the road to Port Alfred Road
PORTALS Roddy Fox Follow your imagination into Portals. Stunning imagery from South African and Swedish landscapes that reveal the fantastical, whimsical, meditative and mythical in the world around us. Photographs
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Carinus Annex, Donkin Street
REFLECTION Tori Stowe An exhibition of recent work in charcoal, ink and collage by Tori Stowe. Drawings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Johan Carinus Art Centre, Beaufort Street
268
269
270 RETRO: A RETROSPECTIVE EXHIBITION OF ABSTRACT REALISM
TOKARA’S “CELEBRATION” Group Exhibition at the GFI Gallery
Tony Swift
Sponsored by Rand Merchant Bank and Meridian Wine, the GFI is proud to be hosting the 10th anniversary Collection of Tokara’s Wine Made Art.
Mysterious and enlightening, this compelling retrospective exhibition is curated with powerful landscapes. Tony Swift shares his energy in unique and original explorations of Abstract Realism. These truly beautiful and uplifting paintings evoke the magic in your life – a real fine art investment.
Paintings
~ All ages
Sat 10:00 -13:00
Paintings
~ All ages
@GFI Art Gallery, 30 Park Drive, Port Elizabeth
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
UNEARTHED
@St. Patrick’s Hall, Hill Street
Art on Target This exhibition, curated by Art on Target, Port Elizabeth, showcases a selection of ceramics from well-known Port Elizabeth artists. It comprises works in porcelain; thrown and pit fired ware; earthenware plates as well as sculptural work. From low to high fired, this exhibition comprises an interesting collection of ceramics.
SA COMIC BOOKS Sail with Cape Town pirates. See mankind fighting dragons. Fly with a Gauteng superhero. Take a trip to Mars. Adventure with the adolescent big five. These are only a few of the experiences to enjoy in SA comic books. Visit our market of comics and art, and meet some creators. Graphics, Drawings, Prints, Comic Books
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Eastern Star Education Centre, 4 Anglo African Street
Artists: Billie McNaughton, Lydia Holmes, Donve Branch, Margie Higgs, Amos Senzela Ceramics
~ All ages
SOMETHING LEFT TO SAVE
UNLOCKING HORNS Donvé Branch, Sue Hoppe, Stephanie Liebetrau
In our lives, we encounter moments of absolute isolation and deep silence. In those moments, if we are equipped with a modicum of introspection, we are confronted with the Cosmos and, more importantly, our utter insignificance in the face of it. Questions of ‘why are we here?’ and ‘what does it all mean?’ become nonsense: the terrifying magnitude and endless power of the Cosmos simply overwhelm and devour. Paintings # 09:00 to 17:00 daily
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Trinity Hall, Hill Street
Cedric Vanderlinden
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 16:00 Mon - Fri daily
UNLocking Horns is an exhibition by three diverse artists, rooted in Africa yet known for their unique viewpoints and styles. Donvé Branch blends classical ceramic forms with traditional African firing. Sue Hoppe has a bold approach to painting with a social message. Stephanie Liebetrau’s evocative oils fuse women with natural South African elements. Ceramics, Paintings, Sculpture, Photographs
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Steve Biko Building, Prince Alfred Street
@Trinity Hall, Hill Street
THE PRINTING GIRLS After graduating in 2009, ‘the printing girls’ left Rhodes University heading in six different directions. Now, seven years later, they are meeting up for their first joint exhibition. This exhibition promises six very different artistic expressions, joined by friendship. From screenprinting to etching, painting to ceramics, they’ve been busy! Artists: Amy van den Bergh, Carmen Ford, Cassey Delissen, Lucy Stuart-Clarke, Emma Honiball & Claire Zinn
VAGUE NARRATIVE Theo Kleynhans Lustre fired ceramic plates, small sculptures and small paintings make up this exciting exhibition. Ceramics, Sculpture, Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Steve Biko Building, Prince Alfred Street
WE THREE
Ceramics, Lino Prints, Graphics, Paintings
Anna Mari Burger, Jenny Maltby and Les Bird
~ All ages
This is a wonderful exhibition of new works by three well known local artists. Vibrant colour, exciting subjects and very different styles make this exhibition well worth a visit. NB: This exhibition is in Port Elizabeth.
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@Steve Biko Building, Price Alfred Street
Drawings, Paintings
~ All ages
# 09:00 to 17:00 daily
@St George’s Prep, 8 Park Drive, Port Elizabeth
THE ARENA ART EXHIBITION AT THE FESTIVAL GALLERY Fringe visual art is given centre stage in the Arena Exhibition of Exhibitions, which features a selection of artworks from the more than 40 Fringe exhibitions. Designed to give Festival goers a sense of what is on offer in the many rooms, halls and makeshift galleries all over Grahamstown, the Arena Exhibition is a visual art appetiser – a space where visitors can see samples of work and design their own personal visual art meander. Installed in the Festival Gallery, with a coffee shop (selling Gawie’s infamous handmade coffees and the best fairy cakes this side of the equator) and next door to Tori Stowe’s Corner Shop, the Arena Exhibition will feature a range of work in different mediums.
38 SOMERSET STREET
271
CALL FOR
PROPOSALS
T
he curatorial themes for the 2017 National Arts Festival, which will run from Thursday 29 June to Sunday 9 July, will focus on the relationship between Art and Disruption: art as a disruptor of mainstream ways of thinking, and art in response to disruptions to the status quo.
We invite works in all genres that: • are inspired by a reaction to borders of any and all kinds; • engage with the ‘#mustfall’ and ‘#mustrise’ movements; • wrestle with the past to understand the present
“
We are particularly interested in proposals for work that are likely to challenge and spark lively discussion and reflection. In short, we are looking for compelling, innovative and high-quality performances, exhibitions and cross-disciplinary works that serve as catalysts for debate and transformation. Preference will be given to proposals that: - incorporate cross-disciplinary collaborations and / or explore new forms of making art and / or boldly and innovatively blur the lines between genres - critically reflect on and / or re-imagine the past so as to envision the future by challenging / disrupting / collapsing language and cultural boundaries that have divided people historically; and that advance intercultural collaborations
- explore the African continent in terms of collaborations / themes / texts; and advance inter-continental collaboration through cross-border engagement and / or a broad engagement with foreign national creatives resident and working in South Africa - respond to human migration by creating compelling performances / exhibitions about the personal and / or political challenges of migration by engaging with these issues through the narratives / lived lives / experiences of people affected by e.g. xenophobia, questions of home, crises of identity, displacement, struggle for restitution, etc.
We, of course, also welcome proposals that are not bound to these themes. Our intention is to present a diverse artistic programme that continues to position the National Arts Festival as a prominent platform for innovation, experimentation, reflection, entertainment, and celebration. The Festival celebrates its commitment to freedom of expression as enshrined in the South African constitution; and thus recognises that the arts can be engaged as an advocate for both social cohesion and social provocation. The Festival’s Main Programme is a solid platform for exciting new work presented by established, mid-career and emerging South African artists; as well as a forum for successful international productions to premiere on the continent or in South Africa.
THE FESTIVAL CELEBRATES ITS COMMITMENT TO FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AS ENSHRINED IN THE SOUTH AFRICAN CONSTITUTION...”
The Festival presents a limited number of revivals or works that have been previously staged in South Africa. Strong motivation for why such work should be revived or presented at the Festival needs to be submitted in proposals. In the case of classics, preference is given to fresh takes of these works. Artists are encouraged to think beyond the conventions of formal theatre spaces and to explore site-specific interventions that will engage with and / or challenge the historical, social, and / or cultural boundaries of Grahamstown. The Festival’s audiences are as diverse as its artists. The Festival embraces the spirit that a successful national cultural event has a responsibility to serve its audiences and artists in equal measure and to ensure that each event contributes to growing a more progressive, tolerant, and cohesive society. Proposals for any production that has been presented at the National Arts Festival (including the Fringe) during the past five years will not be considered. Artists / companies and presenting managements can download guidelines for submitting proposal from the Festival’s website: www.nationalartsfestival.co.za Proposals must reach the Festival Office no later than Friday 12 August 2016. All proposals must be submitted as per the proposal brief that will be available on the website. Enquiries should be emailed to proposals@nationalartsfestival.co.za Winners of the Standard Bank Ovation Awards will receive written invitations to submit proposals for the 2017 Arena programme. Fringe applications will be available in November 2016 and registration will close on Friday 14 January 2017. Forms and information booklets will be available on-line at www.nationalartsfestival.co.za . Enquiries should be addressed to the Fringe Manager, Zikhona Monaheng, on 046 603 1177 or by email: fringe@nationalartsfestival.co.za.
273
TRANSNET VILLAGE GREEN FAIR
T
he Transnet Village Green Fair is the Grahamstown home of some of South Africa’s best crafters and artisans – a treasure chest of delights awaits, whether you’re looking for clothing, furniture, food, everyday household items, something special and unique, or a work of art you’ll treasure forever. And if you’re not looking to buy, but just wanting to browse, the spacious layout and colourful vibe will make this a morning (or a day!) to remember. It is where you can lose yourself for hours, hang out with friends or make some new ones. And then, as the day winds down, join us in our beer tent and relax in a great, chilled environment. The Transnet Village Green Fair plays another role too. As a hub of ‘casual commerce’, it helps up-and-coming traders and artisans find a market for their work, and helps them turn their talent into a livelihood. And the proceeds of the project go to a good cause – through a range of Grahamstown service organisations the proceeds are invested in projects spanning the whole city, throughout the year. So shop knowing that you’re paying it forward and helping support a wide range of good causes. We look forward to welcoming you to our amazing marketplace.
FIDDLERS GREEN & CHURCH SQUARE In the heart of Grahamstown there’s a hive of activity that is definitely deserving of your attention. The Fiddlers’ Green precinct in Cawood Street, and the nearby Church Square, offer plenty of shopping and eating opportunities, plus fun and adventure for the whole family.
274
275
TRAVEL & ACCOMMODATION INFORMATION AIR TRAVEL
HOPPER SERVICE
Flights operating into Port Elizabeth (130km from Grahamstown) or East London (150km from Grahamstown) include: SAA, British Airways, Mango, SAFAIR and Kulula. It is advisable to book early to take advantage of the best discounts and seats. Bookings should be made through any ASATA travel agent or through the respective airline website. Note: the Festival discounted shuttle service is only available between Grahamstown and Port Elizabeth. For information on East London to Grahamstown shuttles contact Blunden Tours or Van Rensburg Shuttle Services. Contact details below.
For those who do not have transport in town the Festival Hopper Service is easy and accessible with suitably placed ‘hop’ on/off stops around Grahamstown, thereby taking away the stress of parking and congestion in a small city. Virtually every Festival venue is within a 5-minute walk from a Hopper stop; Hoppers run frequently throughout the day; with a convenient night bus until 1am. For enquiries phone 079 605 7871. The Festival Hopper is free but a R5 tip for the drivers would be greatly appreciated! See the fold-out map at the back of this programme for the Hopper routes and timetables.
BLUNDEN TOURS SHUTTLE TRANSPORT
The Festival Hopper is free but a R5 tip for the driver would be greatly appreciated! See the foldout map in the Festival Programme for the Hopper route and timetable.
The Festival has partnered with Blunden Tours to operate a bus service between Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown. Please check-in at the Blunden desk in the arrivals hall of Port Elizabeth airport. Tickets for the shuttle service can be purchased through the Festival website – www.nationalartsfestival.co.za or by calling 0860 002 004. Prior booking is essential.
TAXI SERVICE Blunden runs a 24-hour taxi service across Grahamstown for 1-2 passengers at R70 a trip within a 5km radius, and R100 within a 10km radius. To book the taxi, us the 24 hour number 083 658 7991.
Single Festival fare: R300 Return Festival fare: R600 Inter-city Timetable: (See schedule below – applies daily from 29 June 2016 – 11 July 2016)
BUS/COACH TRANSPORT Grahamstown is accessible by scheduled coach services. Consult a travel agent for details.
VAN RENSBURG SHUTTLE SERVICES This transport company operates between Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown. For details contact 041 451 0446 / 083 654 3242 / 071 990 2888 or email: info@vanrensburgtours.co.za
ACCOMMODATION & HOSPITALITY SERVICES A variety of accommodation and hospitality services are available in Grahamstown – please support our advertisers! Full details on hospitality providers registered with the Festival are available on our website, www.nationalartsfestival.co.za. All accommodation establishments run independently of the Festival.
AVIS BUDGET CAR HIRE The Festival’s preferred car rental company for 2016. Their sponsorship of vehicles for Festival usage is gratefully acknowledged. Contact Marco Louw at Go Travel Grahamstown tel. 046 622 8233 or email ronald.simango@avisbudget.co.za for a competitive Avis Budget car rental rate.
The Grahamstown Accommodation Guild grades and vouches for members of the GHG – they run a booking service at www.grahamstown-accommodation.co.za and can be contacted at info@grahamstown-accommodation.co.za. For a comprehensive listing of accommodation, things to do, places of interest in Grahamstown and surrounds please visit the Makana Tourism website, www.grahamstown.co.za or call them on 046 622 3241
AVIS VANS & 4X4 RENTAL To qualify for special Festival rates on van and 4X4 rentals call Central Reservations on 0861 021 111 and quote ZX.
Children’s activities, sport facilities, game lodges and restaurants are also listed online at www.nationalartsfestival.co.za so that you can plan your trip right down to the nitty gritty!
Bus 1 Arr Blunden High St Grahamstown
Dep
Bus 2 Arr
06:00
Dep
Bus 3 Arr
08:00
Dep
Bus 4 Arr
10:00
Dep
Bus 5 Arr
12:00
Dep
Bus 6 Arr
14:30
Dep 17:00
Grahamstown Monument
06:05
06:15
08:05
08:15
10:05
10:15
12:05
12:15
14:35
14:45
17:05
17:15
PE Airport
08:15
08:45
10:15
10:30
12:15
13:00
14:15
15:30
16:45
17:00
19:15
20:00
Grahamstown Monument
10:45
11:00
13:30
13:45
15:00
15:15
18:30
18:45
19:00
19:15
22:00
22:15
Blunden High St Grahamstown
11:15
14:00
15:30
19:00
19:30
22:30
276
277
278
279
BOOKING PROCEDURES Booking opens nationwide on 9 May 2016 ARTBUCKS MEMBERS ArtBucks members have a preferential booking window from 4 May 2016, during which time they may email their ticket requirements to boxoffice@nationalartsfestival.co.za or fax them to 086 233 2122. No telephone or online bookings will be accepted until Monday 9 May.
BOOKING TICKETS
shows, you will be able to take your print at home tickets directly to the venue where a cashier will scan the bar code and permit your entry to the show. Note that each ticket will only admit one person once – if a bar code has already been scanned at the door and someone else arrives with a photocopied or duplicate ticket bearing the same bar code, they will not be granted access. •
Booking for the National Arts Festival is a simple process: 1. Go through the Programme, or the online schedule at www.nationalartsfestival.co.za and choose the productions you would like to see. 2. Once you know what you’d like to see, you have several booking options: ONLINE: If you haven’t booked online for National Arts Festival tickets, you will need to register on our system – www.nationalartsfestival.co.za. Once you are registered, follow the easy steps to make your booking. You may pay by VISA or MASTERCARD credit card, Instant EFT or SnapScan. Please note that website bookings attract an online booking fee of R2 per transaction. NB: Before starting to book, please make sure you know what you want to see and when – once you start filling your basket you will not have time to still be deciding on your shows! Get your Fest schedule planned – then go online to book. If you can’t decide on all that you want to see – book the must-haves and come back later for other tickets. CALL CENTRE: Phone the Festival Call Centre 0860 002 004 and book your tickets with one of our friendly box office operators – you may use your credit card to make payment or make an EFT or direct deposit payment. EMAIL OR FAX: Complete the enclosed Booking Form, following the instructions it contains for returning it to. Once your booking has been made, your reservation will be emailed to you and you will have 48 hours in which to provide us with proof of payment. GROUP BOOKINGS: Large groups are encouraged to book through the Grahamstown Box Office – contact the Box Office Manager on 046 603 1186 / 1163 or email your bookings to boxoffice@nationalartsfestival.co.za.
GETTING YOUR TICKETS ARTBUCKS MEMBERS: If you have your Artbucks card, you can collect your tickets at any of the self-service kiosks in Grahamstown by simply swiping your card at the kiosk – no need to wait in long queues! PRINT AT HOME TICKETS – WEBSITE BOOKINGS ONLY: If you booked online, you can click on the link ‘Print at Home’ to print out your tickets. These tickets will be scanned at venues. Instead of having to collect your tickets prior to your
•
You are not OBLIGED to print your tickets at home – you can also collect your tickets from any of our Box Office cashiers or at the self-service terminals (see below). If you are booking a large number of tickets, we recommend that you have your tickets pre-printed by the Box Office and collect them from the Monument on your arrival in Grahamstown. Please email boxoffice@nationalartsfestival.co.za to arrange this.
COLLECTIONS: Pre-booked tickets (i.e. those booked via email, fax or Call Centre) must be collected from the COLLECTIONS desk in the Monument Box Office. To collect your tickets for an on-line credit card booking, bring the credit card you used to make the booking to any of the Box Offices in Grahamstown (Monument, Village Green or Rhodes Theatre) and swipe your card at the self-service kiosks to have your tickets printed. Online EFT customers should bring their emailed confirmation and give it to a cashier at any of the Box Offices to have their tickets printed out. COURIER SERVICE: School and touring groups can request that their tickets are couriered to them prior to the Festival. Courier charges will be R150 per delivery. Please enquire when making your booking about this option.
TICKET ENQUIRIES Call Centre 0860 002 004 Box Office Manager 046 603 1186 Festival Manager 046 603 1163 General Festival Enquiries 046 603 1103 Fax 086 233 2122
GRAHAMSTOWN BOX OFFICES MONUMENT BOX OFFICE (1820 Settlers National Monument) From 9 May: Mon to Fri 08:30 –18:00 daily Sat 09:00 – 13:00 daily From 29 June: 08:30 – 19:15 daily VILLAGE GREEN BOX OFFICE (located in the Steve Biko Building) From 29 June: 09:00 – 18:00 daily RHODES THEATRE BOX OFFICE (servicing the Rhodes Theatre and Box Theatre only) From 30 June: 09:00 – 20:30 daily Tickets, if still available, may be purchased half an hour prior to performance starting times at all venues. CASH or SNAPSCAN purchases only. No discounts are available at the door.
280 VISITORS WITH A DISABILITY
HALF PRICE HUT
Wheelchairs, guide-dogs, crutches etc. can be accommodated in most venues but we would need to be notified if special assistance is required at any of our venues. Please contact the Box Office Manager on telephone 046 603 1186 who will discuss your requirements and arrange assistance for you where necessary.
In 2015, we introduced the Half Price Hut where artists offer a limited number of tickets at a 50% discount for the next performance of their show. Half Price Hut tickets are announced the day before they go on sale and you can only purchase Half Price Hut tickets for performances on the day of purchase. These tickets are ONLY available at the Half Price Hut on the Steve Biko lawns. Cue Newspaper , the Festival’s Facebook page and the Twitter account announce the list of performances that are offering Half Price tickets on a daily basis.
REFUNDS Refunds for Main and Fringe events will be made only in the event of programme alterations or cancellations. The National Arts Festival cannot make other refunds or undertake to resell or exchange tickets.
Like us on www.facebook.com/nationalartsfestival or follow us @artsfestival to keep tabs on these and other special offers.
The Festival organisers cannot be held responsible if a production runs longer than the advertised duration. This information is supplied by the performers and is published as a guide. Allow at least 50 minutes between performances.
ARTBUCKS
We regret that we cannot refund tickets for late arrivals at performances. Late admission is not permissable at most Festival venues - please make sure you arrive in good time to get into your shows.
DISCOUNTS The following discounts are made available to selected Main and
Fringe events – where available, discounts are indicated in the Festival Programme alongside the ticket price for each production. •
Students, learners and pensioners (registered full-time only) – ONE discounted ticket per performance
•
Group Bookings – groups of TEN OR MORE seats per performance may be booked at the discounted rate (please mark appropriate price column).
•
Buy One, Get One Free – these discounts have been offered by some Fringe producers – to qualify you must book at least two tickets to the performance and you will only be charged for one. Any multiple of two will qualify – i.e. if you book 7 tickets you will be charged for 6 tickets at half price and 1 ticket at full price. So why not bring a friend!
•
50% Fringe and Free / Preview Fringe performances – these are date specific discounts offered by Fringe producers. Where productions are free, you should still book a ticket to ensure that you will be able to get into the performance. For performances on the Free Fringe, donations will be encouraged in lieu of a ticket price – please donate generously!
Members of the Festival’s ArtBucks loyalty programme should confirm with their cashier that their Artbucks membership is recorded when they make their booking. Alternatively, they should give the cashier their Artbucks card when booking. At the end of the Festival the amount of credit due to the member, as per the rules of the programme, will be calculated. Credit that has been accumulated by Artbucks members for purchases at the 2015 Festival, can be deducted from the amount due for their 2016 Festival purchases. Artbucks members may use their credit vouchers online or in person at the Box Offices. Please remember to inform the cashier that you would like to use your credit. You will receive an email indicating the credit that has been allocated to you shortly before preferential ticket bookings open. For online Artbucks purchases, you need to use the voucher code indicated in this email. Join Artbucks online and qualify for credit vouchers equal to 10% of your spend on full price tickets to 2016 Festival events for use at the 2017 National Arts Festival. NB: Artbucks credit is only allocated on full price tickets – tickets purchased at concession prices, special offers etc. do not qualify for the Artbucks credit.
2016 FESTIVAL PROGRAMME UPDATE We will be publishing an update to our Programme, which will be available in Grahamstown throughout the Festival, at all of our Ticket Offices and Information Kiosks. This will contain all information regarding both Main and Fringe performances and events: performance changes, a daily diary, a colour-coded map, and other necessary info. This is a must for all festivalgoers – pick up a free copy on your arrival in Grahamstown.