@ Phansi Museum on Friday 8 January 2010 at 6 pm

An extraordinary show which combines breath taking magic tricks and dancing marionettes surrounded by the unique Phansi Museum life-size puppets.

Visiting German magician and clown, Koenig Alberto, will collaborate with puppet master Pamela Tancsik, presenting her marionettes with excerpts from well known musicals.

Time: Friday, 8 January @ 18.00
Venue: Phansi Museum, 500 Esther Roberts Rd (formerly Frere Rd), Glenwood, Durban
Fee: R 50 for adults
R 25: for children under 16
Please reserve your seat and call for the booking as seats are limited!
Not recommended for children under 8 years old.
For bookings please call Pamela: 031 2612370 or 082 4031707

uShaka Marine World: 21 Oct – 9 January

A cruise around the various cultures of the world is what awaits you at uShaka Marine World’s Upper Deck supper theatre from October 21 to January 9.

Celebration features an all new cast of performers – Brendan Mendez. Rory Booth, Victor Samsonov – current Mr uShaka and finalist in the Mr South Africa Competition, Danielle Mann, Denya Maslen and Londiwe Dhlomo.

Guests are welcomed aboard the Ms Mardi Gras where the entertainment crew takes them on a special round-the-world celebration of cultures and countries from the United Kingdom, Russia and Saudia Arabia to India, the United States and Rio de Janeiro.

With a fusion of Spanish, Latin American, Arabian and African rhythms this show is ideal for the festive season. Songs include Jai Ho, Pon de Replay, the Saints Go Marching In, Sweet Home Alabama, Bambaleo and Nlalakatha. The dancers will strut their stuff with everything from a belly dance to a Bollywood scene, included also a number from Riverdance.

Booking is at Computicket. Tickets are R150 which includes the show and a three-course meal. For more information call 031 328 8000.

Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre: 6 Dec – 9 January

A brand new musical version of J.M . Barrie’s classic story directed by Steven Stead (who was the first male actor to play Peter in this country in 1992) and designed by Greg King, Peter Pan will be a feast for eye and ear, and promises sumptuous sets and dazzling special effects; a feast for the whole family.

Following the huge successes of productions such as Cinderella, Winnie the Pooh and Aladdin, Durban’s top theatre company is proud to present its all new, enchanting family entertainment: An original version of everybody’s favourite children’s story, Peter Pan! Featuring pirates, mermaids, Red Indians, flying children, sumptuous sets and dazzling special effects this full scale musical version of the much loved tale of the boy who wouldn’t grow up promises to be a feast for eye and ear, and Christmas treat for the whole family!

Bryan Hiles as Peter; Darren King as Captain Hook and Frances Currie as Wendy. Also featuring Shelley Maclean as Mrs Darling, Peter Court as Smee, Elisha Mudley as Tiger Lily and Marc Kay as Gentleman Starkey.

Book and Lyrics by Steven Stead; Music by Justin Southey; Orchestrations by Evan Roberts; Directed by Steven Stead;Designed by Greg King; Costumes by Neil Stuart Harris; Choreography by Janine Bennewith and Vocal Director - Shelley McLean

Peter Pan plays at the Elizabeth Sneddon theatre from 8 Dec until 9 January. There will be a New Year’s Eve gala 9.30pm performance. Book at Computicket and for more information visit KickstArt’s website: www.kickstart-theatre.co.za.

An exhibition of the new work and adorable affordable individually handcrafted ceramic gifts by Trayci Tompkins and her ceramic studio can be seen at the Zulu-Lulu ceramic boutique situated in Lions River on the Midlands Meander.

The gift set range of usable collectables are packaged in recycled paper in diminutive wooden crates which are locally manufactured. The range includes bowl sets with faces on them; egg cup holder sets with faces on them; egg cup holder sets with hearts on them; jug and small plate sets with hearts on them; conversation mug sets and dainty terracotta napkin holder sets.

The quirky table-ware range is individually handcrafted (no moulding involved) and fired to stoneware so dishwasher and microwave safe. As well as her crated gift sets, she has a host of angels – Shweshwe-inspired angels, Dlamini angels with wire wings, and Ntombi angels in snow white with charcoal rose-bud detail.

All products are locally produced in the heart of the Natal Midlands by ceramic artist Trayci Tompkins and the Zulu-lulu ceramic studio team. For more information call 083 6273491. The range can be viewed in Durban at the KZNSA Gallery, and in the Midlands at the Piggly Wiggly Centre on the Midlands Meander.

500 Esther Roberts / Frere Rd – Glenwood

One of Durban’s most valuable cultural hubs, the Phansi Museum which situated in a Victorian home in the leafy suburb of Glenwood, will this week launch a myriad fabulous initiatives: their iconic annual calendar; the opening of the BAT shop; a new music label and inaugural CD; strategic partnerships and a new Mali travelogue.

Their flagship product is a beautifully-designed, funky wall / desk calendar which this year is a collaboration between the Phansi Museum and a group of women from the valley of 1000 Hills / Ndwedwe area who have made a dozen fantastical outrageous hats – perfect for acknowledging the 2010 world cup.

Also to be celebrated is a strategic partnership with Andries Botha and Janine Zagel and their astonishing Amazwe Abesifazane Voices of Women project, Botha and Zagel gave thousands of women from urban and rural backgrounds pieces of A4 cloth and encouraged them to embroider / decorate the cloths with their own personal narratives. The result is over 2000 beautiful, evocative cloths which have travelled the world and have been exhibited at the United Nations. The full collection of cloths has now moved to Phansi Museum and is being exhibited on a rotating basis.

Great news ahead of the Christmas shopping flurry is that the BAT shop will re-open at the Phansi complex. One of the anchor tenants in the early days of the BAT Centre, Marissa Fick Jordaan and her team of art makers will re-open their shop which will stock innovative locally-made artworks, craft pieces and décor items.

There is a great coffee shop on site - Ikhishi - which serves light meals, anytime snacks and great coffees from 11am until 3pm daily.

Phansi Museum is open from Monday to Saturday, from 8am until 4pm daily, by appointment. Public entry to the museum is R35 a head, R20 children and students.

For more info contact the Museum on 031 206 2889. Phansi can be found at 500 Esther Roberts Rd (Formerly Frere Rd), Glenwood, Durban.

Work by Zimbabwean Shona Stone Sculptors

Outdoor Art Exhibition

Durban Botanic Gardens: Festive Season 09

Spirit in the Stone is an outdoor exhibition of approximately 150 original, hand-carved stone sculptures from Zimbabwe which will be exhibited throughout the magnificent Durban Botanic Garden for one month opening at the end of November.

The concept is to create a hands-on cultural event with a strong educational component, which will have broad appeal while also delighting the art connoisseur.

A feature of ZimArt’s exhibitions is to involve an artist on site. This is enormously appealing for visitors who can see a work in progress, handle the tools and the raw stone and gain first hand knowledge of how the work is created. Artist Singi Chihota, will be on site for visitors to the gardens to watch him at work to discuss the exhibition.

For more information about ZimArt visit www.zimart.ca. The gardens are open seven days a week. Entry to the gardens is free and all are welcome. School groups are encouraged to contact Martin Clement on Tel: 031-309 1170 / Fax: 031-3091271 / www.durbanbotanicgardens.org.za. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5yQJyN4YBE

ubilee Supper Theatre, Jubilee Hall, UKZN now running

This year’s outrageous saucy adult panto – Sinderella… Comes Again! – comes to Pietermaritzburg’s Hexagon Theatre from 29 October, and then to the Jubilee Supper Theatre (a brand new venue) at UKZN campus in Durban for a lengthy festive season run currently previewing.

This year’s cast features Anthony Stonier whose name and glamour are synonymous with the adult panto. Stonier is performing for his 14th year - he has performed in every adult panto. Stonier is one of the Ugly Sisters, Thomie Holtzhausen is the other Ugly Sister and Junaid Cassimjee is the Prince. Holtzhausen and Cassimjee were both in the panto last year. The cast includes the unstoppable Rowan Bartlett as Buttons; and newcomers Rikki Hastings (as Sinders) and Daisy Spencer (as the Fairy Godmother).

The new comfortable air-conditioned Durban venue offers ample safe parking and easy access. The venue will be set with venues which seat eight patrons per table. Patrons may bring their own meal. If you book a whole table or more, it is possible to pre-book a delicious custom-made gourmet picnic through Ailsa Windsor from Going Places. Prices range from R120 a head upwards. There is a full bar – patrons who bring their own will be subject to corkage

TICKETS - booking through Computicket
Low price performances on all Tuesday evenings and Sunday afternoons:
R80 throughout Sun and Tues.
Sunday is matinee day: 12.30pm lunch for 2pm performance.
All shows Tues to Sat 6.30pm supper for 8pm show.
All shows - R100 (except Tuesday evening and Sunday afternoon)

Drop us a line if you want directions to the venue!!! or look at the map

Catalina Theatre: 21 - 24 Dec @ 8pm

Christmas Carols have been and are a tradition in many countries and homes during the Xmas season. South Africa is no exception. ADnovate Media through its dedication to exposure of jazz music to many audiences and in the spirit of the Christmas holidays will host these jazz concerts themed The Carols Go Jazz. This is a very exciting concept that will be putting a twist to Christmas Carols and a vibe to them. Attracting jazz lovers and general Christmas carol lovers.

The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

Block Bookings (30 or more) at Going Places box office 031 3091841

Call Thandeka on (031) 305 6889/ 3057612 or email t74@mweb.co.za or tsibisi@mweb.co.za

Catalina Theatre: 11 – 23 Dec

EVERYBODY PLEASE BRING A TORCH!!!!

Written and performed by Grant Jacobs and Rory Booth

Following the amazing success of Festive Fun with Bob and Rob, and The Further Adventures of Rob and Bob. the talented Grant Jacobs and Rory Booth have come up with a third sequel for the festive season Bob & Rob and The Creepy Camping Trip.

Two of the theatre community’s most hard-working rising stars and Catalina regulars, Rory Booth and Grant Jacobs, have jointly devised, scripted, created and directed a delicious story about brothers Bob and Rob who go on another fabulous adventure and learn important life lessons en-route. This production is especially relevant to little boys as the focus of their adventure this time takes them into the world of camping and the great outdoors.

Bob & Rob and The Creepy Camping Trip is perfect for children. It is only 45 minutes long, so is suitable for the little-ones. Tickets include a boat ride around the harbour to make a full morning’s entertainment for families. Bring warm clothes to stay snug during the boat ride because it can get cold in the harbour!

To book call Thandeka on 031-305-6889 or email tsibisi@mweb.co.za. Catalina Theatre Tickets are now available online at www.strictlytickets.co.za or on our website at www.catalinatheatre.co.za or at www.goingplacesSA.co.za / www.goingplacesSA.com.

Shows are at 11am daily including Mondays / seven days a week from 27 June – 12 July 2009. Tickets cost R50 for show and boat ride, or R35 for show only.

The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

Catalina Theatre: 3 Dec – 20 Dec

This Festive season the Catalina Theatre proudly presents the most fun to be had on a tight budget – The Credit Crunch Christmas Party!

If you’re looking for something different this year that will not break the bank, then consider having your end-of-year festivities with the hapless bunch from Joe’s Panel Beaters. Come and see how to plan and execute the festive season on no budget. Written and directed by Themi Venturas and Chantelle Snyman, this fun show will unfold as though the audience are guests at Joe’s Panel Beaters Christmas party, complete with the story, the xmas show, the after party and fun ‘budget’ catering to suit all tastes. In fact you can bring-and-come as our communities are wont to do!

Starring Afzal Kahn, Tiki Nxumalo, Amy Saville, Sam Hlophe, Shona Johnson and Lauren Rose

Performance times: Thurs – Sat at 8pm
Sat at 5pm and Sun at 2pm and 6pm
(Perf times are negotiable according to clients needs)
Price without catering and disco: R85
Price with catering and disco: R130 per person
Price with disco no catering: R95
The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

Last bus this Saturday !

The Arts Bus - a free hop-on, hop-off city bus service which allows arts lovers to visit eight of the city’s premier galleries in one Saturday – has been extended until the end of the year, through the generosity of the city of Durban who realised what an important and popular asset the bus is.

The Arts Bus will continue until Christmas – with trips on Saturday 14, 21, 28 November and 5, 12, 19 December leaving from the KZNSA Gallery at 9am and returning to the gallery mid afternoon. There is safe parking at the KZNSA Gallery.

The following galleries are part of the initiative KZNSA Gallery in Glenwood; Durban University of Technology Art Gallery in Steve Biko / Berea Road; Durban Art Gallery in Durban City Hall; BAT Centre along Margaret Mcnadi Ave; African Art Centre and Artisan Gallery both in Florida Road; artSPACE durban is in Millar Rd, off Umgeni Road and the Kizo Art Gallery in Gateway. A ninth stop is the Kunene Museum in Churchill Rd, close to the KZNSA Gallery in Glenwood.

Bus entry is free and all are welcome. Seats are limited so booking is advisable

Enquiries and bookings: Domy Cortes 031 208 9430 / 073 719 0444 or domy@pubmat.co.za

The international convention on climate change is taking place in Copenhagen from 7 -12 Dec. Around the world actions are taking place to remind our world leaders that we want action on climate change. As part of this awareness raising the Centre for Civil Society together with Climate Justice Now! SA will be hosting the following films:

1. The Age of Stupid
This is a climate change documentary from McLibel director Franny Armstrong. The oscar nominated Pete Postlethwaite stars as a man living alone in the devastated world of 2055 looking at old footage from 2008 and asking : "Why didn't we stop climate change when we had the chance?"

2. The Story of Stuff
From its extraction through to its sale, use and disposal, all the stuff in our lives affects communities at home and abroad, yet most of this is hidden from view. The Story of Stuff is a 20 min, fast-paced, fact-filled look at the underside of our production and consumption patterns. It exposes the connection between a huge number of environmental and social issues, and calls us together to create a more sustainable and just world. It'll teach you something. It'll make you laugh and it just may change the way you look at all the stuff in your life forever.

Time: 12h00 - 14h00
Date: 10th Dec
Place: Memorial Tower Building, UKZN, Howard College
This event is free of charge
For more info – Alice Thomson / alicetho@ispace.co.za

Durban Botanic Gardens: Mon 14 Dec at 6pm

The Durban Botanic Gardens ends its 160th Anniversary year in fine style with the Old Mutual Carols by Candlelight Concert at the Lake on Monday 14 December at 6pm.

Music by the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra, the Clermont Community Choir & Shelley McLean will not disappoint. Resident Conductor, Lykele Temmingh, has chosen a wonderful selection of music to celebrate the festive season. Award winning Clermont Community Choir will give another outstanding performance to Durban audiences, having just returned from the national choir festival championships where they are defending their title. Shelley McLean as guest soloist will perform with the KZN PO and sing a few solo items with a strong emphasis on celebrating Christmas with the children. Yet another highlight in the programme is a performance by young music maestro eight year old Roxanne van Oudtshoorn, who will perform a violin solo.

Shelley – who will play Mrs Darling in Kickstart’s Peter Pan - has a great rapport with children as can be seen in her role in the local production of Peter Pan and she will be looking for lots of audience participation and encouraging them to sing with her at this concert. She has chosen to sing the hauntingly beautiful lullaby from Peter Pan as well as the song “Hallelujah” from Shrek, accompanied by Evan Roberts.

This bumper Carols by Candlelight concert will also include two surprise performances from the show “My Fair Lady” currently running at The Playhouse, and of course Father Christmas will be there to meet children before the concert begins so parents please bring your children to see Father Christmas between 5:15pm and 5:45pm.

Musical Dance Production

Emmanuel Cathedral, Church Hall: 5 & 12 Dec

Durban choreographer / dancer Dudu Myeza has created an innovative new piece – Twisting Testing Summer – for his Youngs Helping Youngs Project which comes to the the Emmanuel Cathedral Hall – Hall One.

Twisting Testing Summer is a new piece created on and for Durban kids and thhe city’s surroundings. Twisting Testing Summer is a work about kids who came together with the aim of celebrating the coming of the festive eve and since they are bored from the middle of the city most of the time and they have been attending dance classes at the Playhouse since from July 2009 under the tutoring by Dudu Myeza. This dance classes will continue for next following year for other kids who are interested to join.

Twisting Testing Summer is a pure multi cultural contemporary piece and lasts one hour and 30 minutes. Dudu has created the piece for the dancers and they will be performing it for the first time at the Cathedral Hall. Interspersed with the dancing energy, vibe, element of Indian style Kwaito and Hip-Hop dance.

“The theme talks to me,” says Dudu “Is time to wake up and smell new coming of Christmas Eve and summer. Let’s celebrate and enjoyed together with family’s and friends during this holidays. Let’s test the beauty of summer and let’s twist our body’s and get ready for the coming new season of swimming.

Dates for performances 5 December 2009 @ 6pm and 12 December 2009 @ 6pm. Tickets: R40
Venue: 1 Dennis Hurley Road (Cathedral Church Hall), Durban
To book, call Dudu Myeza 079 5365 244 or cal at 1 Cathedral Church-Durban

Bulwer Park, Glenwood: Sat 5 Dec 6pm until 7.30pm

The annual Christmas Carol Service presented by the Glenwood Community Forum will take place in Glenwood High School Hall on Saturday 5 December as the sun sets.

The proactive Glenwood Community Forum believes this bustling suburb is “A good place to live, work, educate and raise a family”. To this end, they are hosting a special carol service featuring members from the schools and churches within the Glenwood Community

The interdenominational carol service will include nativity readings, poems, and choir solos. There is also plenty of audience participation to sing familiar and well-loved Christmas carols.

It is anticipated that the programme will feature children from the Open Air School, Penzance Primary School, and Glenwood Prep School; musicians from the Salvation Army; church leaders from many of the churches in the vicinity and community leaders.

There will be a special collection taken during the service for J Smith Centre which cares for the elderly in the Glenwood area. The Salvation Army will be selling candles.

The Carol Service takes place in Glenwood High School Hall on Saturday 5 December from 6pm until 7.30pm. Entry is free and all are welcome. There will be guarded parking in Bath / Bulwer Rds.

For more information about the Glenwood Community Forum go to the website at www.forum.glenwood.co.za

Fri 4 Dec – Assumption Church at 7pm

You are invited to an evening of Christmas readings and poems, Mischievous Shepherds, Majestic Kings, and Heavenly Angels. Come and join in the singing of traditional, (and not so traditional) Christmas Carols. For just one hour, let us remember what Christmas is really about.

Our Christmas Pageant takes place at the Parish of Our Lady of Assumption on Friday, 4th December and begins at 7.00pm. Enquires: 031 2053385

Entrance is free, and afterwards please join us for refreshments.
Sherry and mince-pie (R5.00)
(Tea and cool-drink will also be available.)
It would be wonderful if you could join us.
Looking forward to seeing you there!

Botanic Gardens Visitors Complex: Thur 3 Dec at 5.30pm

Join us at the Durban Botanic Gardens Visitors Complex on Thursday 3 December at 5.30pm for a provocative documentary film - a passionate and urgent call for all of us to prevent the overwhelming consequences of climate change.

The Age of Stupid features Oscar-nominated actor Pete Postlethwaite who looks back from the year 2055 to find out why it was that people in 2009 did nothing to stop the eco-catastrophe that was staring them in the face.

Please note that this film carries an age restriction of 12. There will be a cash bar. Tickets: R30. Enquiries: dbginfo@durban.gov.za

Catalina Theatre: 19 – 22 Nov

Dan has recently launched his new album "Move my soul", now to returns to the Catalina Theatre, 19 – 22 November

What DAN PATLANSKY can do with a six-string Fender Stratocaster at the age of 25, most critically acclaimed guitarists will never quite achieve in a lifetime.

Fender also recognised Dan’s fiery playing and offered him an endorsement deal to promote Fender Guitars and amps. Coca Cola flew Patlansky to Dubai to perform.

Dan has played every major venue and music festival in the South Africa and abroad, Oppikoppi to the North Sea Jazz Festival in Cape Town. Furthermore, Dan has finished recording his third album entitled “Real”. Europe and Australia are on the cards for 2008.

“Dan Patlansky is one of the most renowned and fiery blues artists in the southern hemisphere and one of the greatest I’ve ever seen.”- David Batiste Sr.
“Dan has some of the fastest fingers I’ve ever seen” – Phillip Walker

Tickets: R70pp / R 50 student / pensioner.
BUY 1 GET 1 FREE: Thurs, 19 Nov @ 8pm
Time: Thurs – Sat @ 8pm / Sun @ 6pm

Catalina Theatre: 19 – 22 Nov

Dan has recently launched his new album "Move my soul", now to returns to the Catalina Theatre, 19 – 22 November

What DAN PATLANSKY can do with a six-string Fender Stratocaster at the age of 25, most critically acclaimed guitarists will never quite achieve in a lifetime.

Fender also recognised Dan’s fiery playing and offered him an endorsement deal to promote Fender Guitars and amps. Coca Cola flew Patlansky to Dubai to perform.

Dan has played every major venue and music festival in the South Africa and abroad, Oppikoppi to the North Sea Jazz Festival in Cape Town. Furthermore, Dan has finished recording his third album entitled “Real”. Europe and Australia are on the cards for 2008.

“Dan Patlansky is one of the most renowned and fiery blues artists in the southern hemisphere and one of the greatest I’ve ever seen.”- David Batiste Sr.
“Dan has some of the fastest fingers I’ve ever seen” – Phillip Walker

Tickets: R70pp / R 50 student / pensioner.
BUY 1 GET 1 FREE: Thurs, 19 Nov @ 8pm
Time: Thurs – Sat @ 8pm / Sun @ 6pm

Informative Outdoor Art Exhibition
Durban Botanical Gardens: mid June onwards

The ever proactive British Council is bringing its outdoor touring exhibition, Rivers of the World, to the Durban Botanical Gardens from mid June.

In 2007/8 learners from various schools and educational centres in London (UK); Shanghai (China); Kolkata (India); Cairo (Egypt); Sao Paulo and Recife (Brazil); the State of Veracruz (Mexico) and Cape Town worked with artists to create a series of magnificent large-format artworks inspired by their city’s river.

The artwork, and accompanying narrative, is being displayed in this innovative touring exhibition. The exhibition is travelling to each of the riverside locations in each of the participating cities. Based on the astonishing response to their former British Council environmental-themed exhibition, the hugely successful Zero Carbon City exhibition, the British Council is including Durban in the international tour of Rivers of the World.

“Rivers of the World is a creative visual art and design project which links over 2000 young people around the world. The project enables young people to collaborate with their international counterparts developing their understanding of the world. These striking artworks offer a very tangible demonstration of who different perspectives and an international dimension in education serve to enrich young people’s learning – and ultimately their futures. The British Council is delighted to be supporting this project,” says Martin Davidson, Chief Executive of British Council.

The exhibition, curated in South Africa by Cape Town photographer / curator Paul Grendon, is being hosted in Durban in conjunction with the ever proactive Durban Botanical Gardens. The gardens’ education officer, Martin Clement, is encouraging school groups to visit the exhibition and learn about the world’s major rivers, some of the issues affecting them, and the people who engage with them. There are special educational kits for school groups who visit the exhibition.

The gardens are open seven days a week. Entry to the gardens is free and all are welcome. School groups are encouraged to contact Martin Clement on Tel: 031-2025819 / Fax : 031-2019045 / www.durbanbotanicgardens.org.za. For more information, visit the exhibition website: http://rivers.thamesfestival.org.

Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre –Mon 23 Nov @7.30pm Theatre awards time is here again! - the seventh annual awards evening of The Mercury Durban Theatre Awards takes place at 7:30pm on Monday November 23 at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre.

“The awards system considers only those productions originating in Durban and presented during the period 1 October 2008 to 30 September 2009. These productions include the genres of drama and comedy, musical theatre, music revue / music compilation/ cabaret, and children’s theatre, with a total of forty-six productions vying for honours at this year’s awards ceremony. The calibre of work produced in Durban remains at a consistently high standard and The Mercury Durban Theatre Awards recognises and acknowledges this standard,” says administrator Peter Taylor.

Hosted by Nothando Ngubane (Gagasi 99.5 FM) and Beauty Ramapelepele (aka Ben Voss), the evening promises to be a sophisticated and glamorous celebration of our local theatre industry. As Monday night is a “night-off” for the theatre industry in Durban, the audience can expect to brush shoulders with the who’s who of Durban’s theatre fraternity. The evening will include excerpts from productions being presented in Durban throughout the festive season offering the audience a glimpse of what will be on offer this festive season.

Principal sponsors are media partner The Mercury, the Bartel Arts Trust, the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, Troubadour Productions, DarkHorse Productions, Black Coffee, Stuart Edwards & Company, Publicity Matters, Makulu Events, ClaviTech, artSmart and Sunshine Factory.

Booking is through Computicket.

Catalina Theatre: 7 - 17 January 2010

The Performing Arts Network of South Africa (PANSA) KZN will be hosting the fifth Musho International Theatre Festival of One and Two Person Theatre in Durban in January and are inviting interested theatre groups to apply to perform.

Every year theatre groups from throughout South Africa, and abroad, stage new productions in Durban in January. It pays tribute to the smaller works featuring one and two performers.

Planning is still underway for the 2010 festival. Presently the Catalina Theatre is confirmed as the major venue – with a possible second venue still to be decided.
Shows likely to be at the festival include the new one-hander by festival regulars Mary Steward and Ewok, and Tara Louise Nortcutt.

For more info contact the Catalina Theatre on 031 305-6889. Full programme will available at www.mushofestival.co.za by the end of the year.

PANSA is calling for new theatrical works staged by one or two performers to be part of the festival. Please email written motivations with details of script outline and performers to festival director Emma Durden on emmadurden@magicmail.co.za by mid November. For more info, contact PANSA administrator Domy Cortes on 031 208 9430 / 073 719 0444 / domy@pubmat.co.za.

Catalina Theatre: 29 Oct – 15 Nov

Kiss of The Spider Woman is an award winning play by the much decorated Argentine Manuel Puig. It has had great success as a straight play, a musical and later and most famously as a screenplay, the film of which earned William Hurt an Oscar for his portrayal of the tragic and flamboyant Molina. His screen partner for this production was the late, great Raul Julia.

It is a beautiful work of truth and cruelty. The Sunday Times has said " It comes as near to being about pure undiluted love as any play I have ever seen" And the Daily Telegraph, "The film may be more lavish, but it could never reach the spirit of the work as truthfully (as the stage play)"

Kiss of The Spider Woman is directed by Clare Mortimer and stars Darren King and Loyiso Macdonald.

It runs at the Catalina Theatre from the 29 October until the 15 November, with a special gala performance on the 27 October in order to honour Rainbow's BASA award, ackowledging their contribution to the arts in KZN. Tickets are R65, and bookings can be made at the Catalina, Strictly Tickets, or Going Places. To book call 031-305-6889 or email tsibisi@mweb.co.za. Catalina Theatre Tickets are now available online at www.strictlytickets.co.za or on our website at www.catalinatheatre.co.za or at www.goingplacesSA.co.za / www.goingplacesSA.com.

Full Price: R75
Pensioners & Students: R50
BUY 1 GET 1 FREE: Sat 5pm and Sun @ 2pm

SHOW TIMES:
8pm – Thurs and Friday
5pm & 8pm - Saturday
2pm & 6pm – Sundays
The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

KZNPO Spring Season

10 Sept to 12 Nov: Durban City Hall

Info: KZNPO offices on telephone number 031 369 9438

The KwaZulu Natal Philharmonic Spring Season sees a season of orchestral music with international and acclaimed soloists and conductors from 10 September to 12 November, every Thursday evening.

Entry: Tickets at Computicket

Separate is Not Equal

KwaMuhle Museum: now open

Info: KwaMuhle Museum tel 03 1311 2237 / www.durban-history.co.za .

A brief history of segregation in the USA and SA - with particular focus on the schooling systems in both countries. It was brought to South Africa and re-edited for SA audiences by the Apartheid Museum with financial support from the United States Government. The Durban installation includes various new local components and is presented by the Local History Museums at the historic KwaMuhle Museum.

Entry: Entrance is free and all are welcome

Playhouse Opera: 30 Oct to 7 Nov

The ever-popular 18th year of Shall We Dance Ballroom and Latin American showcase presents its glorious annual dance extravaganza which features 100 of the region’s most exciting dancers as well as top award-winning industry professionals, in the Playhouse Opera for a short season from 30 Oct – 7 Nov.

It once more promises to delight audiences with its carefully-chosen eclectic mix of quality dance – all with an underlying ballroom and Latin American theme. Featured dances include Ballroom and Latin American dancing, Indian Classical , Hip Hop, Modern , Ballet, Bollywood, Argentian Tango and American smooth.

This year the celebrity host is once again East Coast Radio’s Damon Beard. Featured artists are fabulous illusionist Ricki Gray and much loved singer Shelley MacLean.

The annual showcase started in 1991 - Shall We Dance is probably the longest annual production in Durban. It is presented by the Playhouse Company in association with the South African Dance Teachers’ Association. It is directed by tireless dance activists, Neville Letard and Caryl Cusens.

This year the guest artists Latin couple are Thapelo Ramathlape and Nombulelo Hlathi. This couple has represented South Africa on numerous occasions overseas and they are the SA Champions in the South American Showdance. They were last seen in Durban competing at the Vodacom Yebo Millionaires championships recently. They currently work for the Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports foundation in North West Province as dance tutors. Ramathlape and Hlathi are no strangers to the stage, having appeared in productions at the State Theatre and Mmabana Foundation, and they danced at the Derby soccer match in November 2008. They have danced together since 2005.

Heading up the Ballroom section of Shall we Dance are Cape Town’s Meagan Lottering and Devon Snell. Hailing from the Foxtrot Dance Academy, this couple have competed together since 2003, starting out as juniors in both Ballroom and Latin categories.

With an impressive list of titles under their belts, they walked off with the top Ballroom trophy at the Vodacom Yebo Millionaires championship held in Durban as recently as September this year. Internationally, they were Ballroom finalists and Latin semi-finalists in the 2005 World Championships, and as a Ten Dance couple (Ballroom and Latin) they held top place from 2004 to 2008 at the South African Championships.

Hexagon Theatre, UKZN – 29, 30, 31 Oct at 7.30pm
Jubilee Supper Theatre, Jubilee Hall, UKZN from 3 Nov. Link to map Click Here
Preview from 3 Nov, press night 10 Nov

This year’s outrageous saucy adult panto - Sinderella – comes to Pietermaritzburg’s Hexagon Theatre from 29 October, and then to the Jubilee Supper Theatre (a brand new venue) Lamont Rd (very near UKZN) in Durban for a lengthy festive season run from 3 November.

The new comfortable air-conditioned Durban venue offers ample safe parking and easy access. The venue will be set with venues which seat eight patrons per table. Patrons may bring their own meal. If you book a whole table or more, it is possible to pre-book a delicious custom-made gourmet picnic through Ailsa Windsor from Going Places. Prices range from R120 a head upwards. There is a full bar – patrons who bring their own will be subject to corkage.

“Sinderella is such a treat and eternal crowd-pleaser, that we couldn’t resist staging it again,” says producer Sue Clarence.

The cast features Anthony Stonier (in his 14th year – he has performed in every adult panto), Thomie Holtzhausen and Junaid Cassidy who were both in the panto last year; the unstoppable Rowan Bartlett as Buttons; and newcomers Rikki Hastings (as Sinders) and Daisy Spencer (as the Fairy Godmother).

Three performances at the Hexagon Theatre: 29 - 31 October @ 1930. Bookings through the Hex on 033 260 5537.

All other booking through Computicket ONLY. First performance in Durban 3 November. Press night 10 November.

Sinderella queries: 083 250 2690.

ADDITIONAL INFO:
Clarence’s esteemed colleague Earnest Diddler esq. (B.Smut Doc. Philth) had this to say:
“You must understand that this is a Museum Piece…a classic collection of some the most venerable knob jokes in the English language (some pre-dating Chaucer by several hundred years…the last remnants of the Great Plagiarism that ravished…. Sorry Ravaged the medieval panto world). As such, many of the more fragile entendres are in a somewhat fragile condition and may not withstand the unsubtle handling of your usual cast of cured meats (well, there are a LOT of hams and generally a sizeable salami hidden somewhere.)

“Now, the cost of insuring vintage smut is, as you are aware much higher than that required to underwrite (or underwire) other ancient artefacts (such as the Stonier Bouffant and the Grecian Gurn of the high Court) which is a concern, but marginally less so than my degree of concern about the degree of coverage you will be giving the ruined temple of Stonier this year. Portions of this much-loved structure (cheekbones, eyelids etc) appear to be migrating Southwards at an alarming rate and all of us at the Council for Theatrical Antiquities earnestly hope that you will treat one of Durban’s stately homo’s with a bit more deference this year (perhaps a nice wooly shawl? A sensible Boksburg tracksuit instead of fishnets?)

“Now as to your proposal…I have earnest doubts as to whether Sinders can survive a nine week season and the ever widening age gap between her and her increasingly decrepit sisters is now stretching the boundaries of credulity (their father would have to be a viagra popping sex-fiend of about 250 to have fathered children at this interval) This DOES pose also pose a safety issue (the Hexagon stage has NO wheelchair access.)

“Be that as it may madam - that is your issue and what with keeping your annual mob of plonkers, scrubbers, letches and lurchers on track and on stage for another run (hopefully sold out too – Durban is after all the amnesia capital of the Southern hemisphere!) money should be the least of your worries – tell me what you can afford and you can have the creaking, throbbing, heaving, crotch thrusting, spandex stretching mass for a whole year – voetstoets, with my blessing.”

The Anton Benzon @ Crouse Art Gallery –17 Oct 09

An exhibition of dramatic large format works by well-known sculptor Llewellyn Davies and paintings by Jocelyn Boyley will be displayed in Crouse Art Gallery in October.

For the past few years Llewellyn Davies’ focus has been on major commissions which have kept him extremely busy. His subject matter is extremely varied and includes life sized equestrian work, birdlife, polo pieces, children, wildlife and animals. He is also well known for his international once-off commissions and limited edition pieces.

Pietermaritzburg-based Jocelyn Boyley – who was married to SA living treasure Errol Boyley – works in oils and is known for her evocative landscapes, floral images and seascapes.

They offer art of our country’s best artists like Anton Benzon, Diane Erasmus, Errol Boyley, Kobus Kotze and the Kotze family, Este Mostert, Lienkie Lombard, Marie Vermeulen Breedt, Bea, Luther Marais, Father Frans Claerhout, Cornelius Bosch, Andre De Beer, Christian Nice, Johan Smit, Chris Tugwell, Portchie, Ina van Schalkwyk and many more.

It is owned by Michelle Dodds (who also runs the gallery) and Chris and Suzette Crouse.

For more information to phone Michelle on 083 385 0654 or visit their website – www.crouseartkzn.co.za. They offer various payment arrangements, and will gladly give professional advice. Gallery hours are 9am til 4pm weekdays and 9am til noon on Saturdays.

Assumption Parish: Fri 6 Nov at 7.30pm

The Durban Men’s Choir are singing at Assumption Parish (Cnr Nicolson and Queen Mary) on the 6 November, at 7.30pm.

Tickets are R40.00 and R25.00 for pensioners and scholars. (No babies please!)
Refreshments on sale.

ALongmynd, 24 Old Main Road, Hillcrest:31 Oct / 1 Nov

The Zululand Art Group is launching their first exhibition at Longmynd, 24 Old Main Road, Hillcrest. This colourful display of over 80 oil, acrylic and watercolour paintings has been carefully put together by 15 artists from the Hluhluwe, Zululand area.The Zululand Art Group comprises of game conservationists, lodge owners and managers, teachers, factory managers, landscape artists, etc all of whom are passionate about painting in their wild and beautiful surrounds.

This amazing collection of art is being shown for the first time at Longmynd in Hillcrest in conjunction with three container loads of magnificent furniture from Bali and Thailand just imported by Duncan and Martin of Design FX . The exhibition opens on Saturday 31st October at 10 a.m. and is only on for the weekend. For more info - 084 365 7 222.

Assumption Parish: Fri 30 Oct at 7pm

If you are doing nothing on Friday, 30tOctober, at 7.00pm, you are so welcome to come and chill at our Double Feature movie night in the hall. (‘August Rush’ and ‘Mama Mia’)

The ‘grown-ups’ are sitting at the back, at tables, and bringing their own drinks and snacks. The kids sit cinema style in front and there is popcorn and cold-drink on sale.

Tues 3 Nov

Yuval Yarlicht, a conscientious objector to the Israeli Defence Force will be in Durban next week as part of the End Conscription Campaign’s 25th anniversary programme.

To highlight the fact that young people whose countries are involved in conflict are today taking a similar moral stand, the organisers of the ECC 25th anniversary celebrations have invited conscientious objectors from Israel and other countries to visit South Africa.

On Tuesday 3 November 2009 Yuval Yarlicht will be in Durban. He will be joined by ECC activists at two public forums:
At 9.30 am at St John's Anglican Church, 5 Payne St., Pinetown or
At 1.00 pm at Diakonia Centre, Diakonia Avenue, Durban.

In Israel both women and men are conscripted into the Israeli Defence Force (IDF). Yarlicht (20) is a member of the Shministim movement. Translated from Hebrew as 'twelfth graders' or 'school-leavers'. Yarlicht was in prison twice last year: his first sentence was 24 November to 5 December, his second from 7 to 14 December 2008.

Yarlicht is here to speak about the courageous stand of these young people, involving repeated imprisonment, and to tell us first-hand about the efforts for justice and peace of many on both sides of the Palestine/Israeli conflict. He will be able to update us on the current situation, and tell us about the hundreds of young people who are resisting the unjust situation

For more information, contact Sue Brittion at sueb@stjohnbaptist.co.za

Durban Art Gallery: Tues 29 Sept – until 4 Nov

One of the key public events to celebrate the End Conscription Campaign’s 25th anniversary in Durban is an exhibition in the Durban Art Gallery entitled Out of Step which looks at the creative approaches to the organisation’s campaigns, which opens on 29 September and runs there until the end of October.

The End Conscription Campaign was a national NGO which tirelessly campaigned for an end to conscription into an apartheid army and representing conscientious objectors – is celebrating 25 years since it was founded by hosting a series of events around the country.

The major centres are all planning a variety of events to mark this historic occasion. The events will be participative, creative and educational. One of the major events to be held in Durban is an exhibition of the organisation’s history, some of the personalities involved and reminding us of the social-political context of the time. The exhibition will be called “Out of Step” which echoes ECC’s non-cooperation with conscription as well as white cultural expectations regarding racism and sexism.

As the exhibition will strongly focus on some of the creative approaches to their campaigns featuring posters, photographs, literature and T-shirts, it is being hosted by the ever-proactive Durban Art Gallery as part of the city’s annual Celebrate Durban season during heritage month. The exhibition has been compiled by Durban ECC 25th committee with curatorial guidance from Dina Cormick and Carol Brown, and creative input from Peter Court.

The vision for the exhibition is both to remind us of the war resistance movement in South Africa, the role it played in the country’s transformation, as well as to educate the new generation of South Africans who were too young to remember the ECC and what it stood for. It is also important for us all to be reminded of the myriad valuable social, political, spiritual and human-rights issues learned through this process.

For the duration of the exhibition, one of the walls in the gallery will become a Wall of Remembrance to honour the lives of friends, colleagues and family whom we have lost as a result of conscription into the SADF – via death, injury, mental illness, emigration etc. Please bring photos to the Gallery, and write on the wall, or photos can be dropped off at the Corner Café (corner of Brand and Cromwell) in Glenwood. Please include contact details and the name and details of those in the photos. Please bring copies of photos (not precious originals).

The exhibition will be opened on September 29 by Durban artist and visual theologian, Dina Cormick and live music will be by Steve Reid and friends.

Gallery Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 8.30am until 4pm; Sunday 11am – 4pm.

For more info / to join the Google ECC group – go to http://groups.google.com/group/ecc-list?hl=en.
(If you do not already have a Google account you will need to create one first.)

Musgrave Methodist Church: 30 Oct: 5pm until 9pm

Musgrave Methodist Church in Durban’s Musgrave Road is hosting an international food fair for one evening only, offering a myriad international dishes, patriotic fare and exotic cuisine on Friday 30 October in the church hall and gardens.

The family event is a fundraiser to upgrade the church’s PA and sound system, to create awareness about the activities of the church, and to enjoy unusual food, fellowship and great company.

The global menu features Chinese delights made by members of the Chinese Church community; hotdogs and milkshakes representing the USA; potjie; boerewors rolls; beans and pap from SA; bangers and mash representing the UK: pizza and pasta representing Italy; spicy chicken representing Portugal; mouthwatering curries representing India; eisbein and sauerkraut representing Germany and fare from Mexico, Mauritius and Greece.

There will be a dessert oasis with an array of puddings and pancakes, and for the health conscious, there will be a fruit cocktail and fruit juice stand. There will be tea, coffee and cool drinks for sale.

There will be a children’s play area with child minders and a kiddies scratch patch to find sweets and suckers.

“We are hoping our International Food Fair provides a fun, family-friendly, affordable alternative to an evening of home cooking for families on the Berea and beyond,” says Musgrave Methodist’s Rev Stuart Bosch.

Sample global delights in a festive al-fresco-like atmosphere in the hall and grounds of one of the city’s landmark historic churches. Sample-size portions can be purchased on a ticketing system. Tickets of various denominations can be bought on the evening. All profits go to Musgrave Methodist. For more info, contact Rob 082 042 3502 or the church office on 031 201 2005 .

University of KwaZulu-Natal Westville: Thursday, 22 October, 9am and 12 noon.

Bloemfontein bands turned out in their numbers to enter the Doritos Be Heard global music search on Monday, and talent scouts are hitting the road to visit other campuses around the country as well – heading to Durban on Thurs 22 Oct to the Westville campus.

On 12 October 2009, hopefuls flocked to University of the Free State to perform their original music compositions and be filmed by the Doritos crew. Their entries will be uploaded to www.doritosbeheard.co.za, where users can log on and rate the various music videos.

Momentum is building and excitement is mounting as the South African leg of this global Doritos talent search heads to clubs and campuses around the country on a quest to unearth fresh, raw talent. The winning artist or band will walk off with the R200, 000 first prize, the runner-up with R100, 000, and those who rate and vote for the videos can also win great cash prizes and iPhones.

The University of KwaZulu-Natal follows on Thursday, 22 October, when hot young music wannabes can head to the lower cafeteria on the Westville campus between 9am and 12 noon. Prospective entrants can also head to one of a number of clubs around the country this month to have their performances professionally recorded and uploaded, or can film themselves and enter online. Performances must be of original material and should be accompanied by a short introduction, making use of a pack of Doritos.

Visit www.clubmedia.co.za for a list of the participating clubs, and log onto www.doritosbeheard.co.za or www.beheard.mobi for competition details and to view and rate the uploaded entries.

KZN events to mark ECC’s 25th anniversary

Sept / Oct 2009 The End Conscription Campaign was a single issue campaign which mobilised organisations and individuals in opposition to the conscription of young white males to fight in an unjust apartheid war.
The campaign grew out of the moral stands taken by conscientious objectors who were jailed or exiled for their political and religious beliefs using highly creative strategies to mobilise support.
All events are free except FrontLines and White Men with Weapons

FrontLines
Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre: Tues 15 – 20 Sept
A new production creatively exploring aspects of global war and conflict by DUT and UKZN drama depts.
Tickets: Claudette Wagner (031) 260-3133, email – wagnerc1@ukzn.ac.za

White Men with Weapons
Catalina Theatre, Wilsons Wharf: 23 Sept at 8pm
Directed by Garth Anderson, written & performed by Greig Coetzee now based in the UK. Winner of over twenty Awards, Coetzee’s 13 characters will take you on a rollercoaster ride through the old SADF.
Tickets: Catalina Theatre tel 031 -305-6889 or www.strictlytickets.co.za

“Out of Step” Exhibition
Durban Art Gallery: Tues 29 Sept – until end Oct
A CELEBRATE DURBAN PROJECT
An exhibition of the organisation’s history with a strong focus on some of the creative approaches to their campaigns featuring posters, photographs, literature and T-shirts. Wall of Remembrance: Death be not proud
For the duration of the exhibition, one of the walls in the gallery will become a wall of remembrance to honour the lives of friends, colleagues and family whom we have lost, or who have been traumatised, by their time in the SADF. When you come to the gallery, please bring photos / messages to be pinned to the wall.

NGO Display
Natal Museum, Pietermaritzburg: Sat 3 Oct onwards
An NGO display for various NGOs including ECC that are 20, 25 and 30 years old this year.

Seminar
UKZN: Tues 13 Oct at 3pm
Hosted by the UKZN Centre for Critical Research on Race and Identity examining the Conscientious Objector Support Groups and ECC and their role in the transformation of white identity.
Phone 031-260-3902 for more information.

“Out of Step” Placard Stand
Durban Art Gallery - Red Eye - Fri 25 Sep @ 7.30pm
Join us as we take a stand for peace and nonviolence in South Africa today.

“Out of Step” Public Meeting
Denis Hurley Hall, Diakonia Centre: Sat 17 Oct at 2pm.
A panel of ECC and community activists will reflect on the significance of ECC and the relevance of its values for South Africa today.

“Conscientious Objection to military force in Israel/Palestine”.
Mon 2-4 Nov
An Israeli conscientious objector and a Palestinian colleague from the youth organisation Shministim http://december18th.org/ will hold a public meeting (details to be announced).

For more information contact Dr Richard Steele on 031-201-6508 / rsteele@vodamail.co.za or Illa Thompson on 031 2011 638 / illa@pubmat.co.za or
join the Google ECC group – go to http://groups.google.com/group/ecc-list?hl=en. (If you do not already have a Google account you will need to create one first.)

uShaka Marine World: Aug 13 – Oct 17

A nostalgic tribute to top female artists and all-girl groups is the next musical offering from the popular Upper Deck supper theatre at uShaka Marine World.

Featuring the sizzling hot talent of Pume Zondi, Londiwe Dhlomo, Samantha Landers and Lauren Laing, Sing it Sista promises audiences a sleek and festive night out from August 13 to October 17.

The show covers most genres of music ranging from the cutesy vocals of the 1920s Brox Sisters and swinging wartime favourites The Andrew Sisters through to the disco beats of The Three Degrees and the contemporary sounds of Destiny’s Child. Backing is by the top-notch five-piece uShaka Marine World band with costumes designed and styled for each decade by Bradley Marshall.

Scripted in monologues and dialogues, the show depicts all types of women in different situations, eras and relationships. It includes hit numbers such as Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, My Heart belongs to Daddy, Baby Love, Stop in the Name of Love, Sisters are doing it for themselves, Fire, Substitute, Pussycat Dolls "Buttons" and, of course, Beyonce's "Single Ladies. There is also a medley of hits from Adele, Amy Winehouse and Duffy.

The show is produced by Events and Entertainment Manager Wayne R. Scott and is directed by Charon Williams Ros. Sing it Sista, on the revamped Phantom Ship’s Upper Deck will be staged Thursday to Saturday nights at 8pm (dinner starts at 7pm). Tickets at R150 per person include the show and a three-course gastronomic feast. The Upper Deck also has a new wine and cocktail menu in the bar which now sports its very own mini aquarium tanks. Come and dine with the very best that Durban has to offer. Booking is at Computicket or 031 328 8068.

Amphitheatre, Dbn Botanic Gardens: Sat 24 Oct: 2 – 5pm

This December the world’s leaders will meet in Copenhagen for the UN Climate Change talks. In preparation for these talks, people around the world are joining forces to take a stand against carbon emissions and ensure that the treaties signed reflect the interests of people suffering the most. In support of this, a number of concerned organizations have joined forces to present an afternoon of theatre and entertainment.

This entertaining and informative programme is designed for people of all ages and explores through the arts a variety of challenges facing our planet from climate change to environmental issues to genetically modified foods.

Fish Out of Water: Sakhisizwe Drama Group Amaoti adapted and written by Kiara Worth and Louise Buchler

What on Earth? Gordon Rd Primary School. Water - What would we do without it? Written by Peter Court.

Food for Thought / Udlani? On the Edge. An educational performace about genetically modified food. Performed and written by Gareth Pretorius and Thato Oliphant.

African Storytelling: Told by Nomfundo Ngcobo from Phelani Primary School.

Little Tree. Only by growing Little Trees can we save the earth. Written and performed by Ellis Pearson and Sdumo Mtshali.

Tickets R5 from the door or at Botanic Gardens / Corner Café / The Hemp Shop / WESSA / Vanille Café Kloof.

For more info: Kiara Worth kworth@golder.co.za / 031 717 2790

Meggan Lewis: lewism@durban.gov.za / 031 311 7920

Catalina Theatre: until 25 Oct

Devised and directed by Themi Venturas and with the assistance of Charon Williams- Ross, The Birth of the Blues is a must –see show

Staged to run concurrently and as part of the Durban International Blues Festival week which ends on Sun 4 October, this show has a life of its own and will run until 25 October.

Discover the origins of the ‘blues’ and their influence on world music. Discover why the rock musicians of the 60’s and 70’3 where so influenced by Leadbelly, Blind Lemon Jefferson, Robert Johnson, Ma Rainey and the many others. Discover how Louis Armstrong found his groove, and how the ‘torchsong’ singers like Billie Holiday and soul singers like Ray Charles were influenced and inspired by the Blues. Under the musical direction of MELVIN PETERS the show features an all star band with ROB WARREN on guitar and vocals, BRUCE BAKER on drums, BRIAN THUSI on trumpet, JERRY KUNENE on sax accompanying the velvet-voiced TAMMY SAVILLE who will share with THULILE ZAMA BANDILE HLOPHE who recently wowed everyone with his performance of the slave, JIM, in BIG RIVER If you enjoy interesting and humorous anecdotes and a superb rocking band then this is the show for you.

Tickets are R 74 and are available at the Catalina Theatre on 031 305 7612 or online booking through Strictlytickets on www.strictlytickets.com

Denis Hurley Hall, Diakonia Centre: Sat 17 Oct at 2pm.

A panel of ECC and community activists will reflect on the significance of ECC and the relevance of its values for South Africa today

Godfrey Johnson performs a show in the spirit of Noel Coward

Rhumbelow Theatre, Umbilo: 2,3,4 & 9,10,11 Oct

Fleur de Cap winner, Godfrey Johnson brings to life the spirit of Noel Coward in the one-person cabaret, Flirting with Coward which comes to the Rhumbelow Theatre in Umbilo for two consecutive weekends – 2,3,4 Oct and 9,10,11 October.

The genius wit of this writer and composer of the 20th century is showcased by one of Cape Town’s most moving musical performers. “Coward carried himself with style and sophistication in a time when the standards were higher. Witty and debonair, he was the centre of attention, charming his friends with his musical genius and satirical wit. He was the very image of the elegant gentleman in a smoking jacket with a cigarette holder,” reminisces Johnson. Join Godfrey Johnson to discover the spirit of this iconic performer, who can hold audiences in the palm of his hand with his illuminating wit and irresistible musical charm.

After having worked for many years as a musician, director, composer and having accompanied Pieter-Dirk Uys, Godfrey Johnson won the 2007 Fleur du Cap award for Best Performance in a Cabaret for his work in Kissed by Brel. He now brings his signature style of music to reinterpret the songs of one of the last century’s most satirical and visionary entertainers. Noel Coward, known for being the musical and witty host, comes alive between the notes, chords, and words sung by this Cape Town performer. Johnson will perform his own versions of such Coward classics as Mad Dogs and Englishmen, 20th Century Blues, Mad about the Boy, and If Love were All. More than a tribute, this show honours the spirit of Coward in the 21st century.

FRIDAY 02 OCT 2009 Show starts 20.00
SATURDAY 03 OCT 2009 Show starts 20.00
SUNDAY 04 OCT 2009 Show starts 18.30

FRIDAY 09 OCT 2009 Show starts 20.00
SATURDAY 10 OCT 2009 Show starts 20.00
SUNDAY 11 OCT 2009 Show starts 13.30
SUNDAY 11 OCT 2009 Show starts 18.30

Venue opens 90 minutes before show for picnic dinner or braais
R 80-00 a ticket; limited secure parking available; Booking is essential.
Bar Available - no alcohol be brought on to the premises.

Book at COMPUTICKET or Phone or email Roland for bookings and get that money rolling in. H 2057602 / Cell 0824998636 / email roland@stansell.za.net / www.rhumbelow.za.net

A free public seminar will be held at 3pm on Tues 13 October at the UKZN Centre for Critical Research on Race and Identity with guest speakers Judy Connors and Richard Steele entitled Out of Step - the End Conscription Campaign (1984-1993) and white resistance to apartheid.

This seminar draws on two papers concerned with the End Conscription Campaign (ECC) and white resistance to apartheid. Judy Connors' paper is based on her dissertation, "Empowering alternatives: A history of the Conscientious Objector Support Group's challenges to military service in South Africa" and focuses specifically on the elements that contribute to a successful social justice movement.

Richard Steele's paper looks at the End Conscription Campaign (1984-1993) as a crucible for the transformation of white identity. It challenged whites to decolonise their minds, withdraw their support from conscription and apartheid, and align themselves with the aspirations of the black majority.

This seminar, hosted by the ccrri,is being presented as one in a series of events organised by the ECC commemorating the 25th anniversary of the End Conscription Campaign (see www.ecc25.org).

Date: Tuesday, 13 October 2009
Time: 15:00-16:30
Venue: ccrri seminar room, 2nd floor George Campbell building, South Campus, Howard College Campus. Use the south entrance into the building; and Entrance 3 on Rick Turner (Francois) Road if driving. Please refer to the ccrri website (http://ccrri.ukzn.ac.za) for a map (click on 'The Centre' tab).
Enquiries: ccrri@ukzn.ac.za or 031 260 1599/3904/3902

Temple David, 13 October

The 2009 annual Desmond Tutu Peace Lecture is to be delivered by the Right Revd. Rubin Phillip: Anglican Bishop of Natal who will speak on: “Peace Today: A Quest For Environmental Justice” at the Temple David on 13 October.

When Archbishop Tutu received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984, World Conference on Religion and Peace -SA (of which he is a founder member and patron) decided to honour him by instituting an annual lecture bearing his name. He graciously accepted this suggestion and has continued to give hearty support to this venture.

Archbishop Tutu has repeatedly stated that people of religion are under obligation never to remain silent in the face of injustice, oppression, suffering and poverty. We therefore find it appropriate that an interfaith organization like WCRP should promote and host the Desmond Tutu Peace Lecture.

Lecture: Temple David, 369 Peter Mokaba Road, (Ridge Road), Overport, Durban on 13 October 2009 at 19.00 hours.

Refreshments will be served after the lecture
Please RSVP Saydoon (031) 3735404 or 073 241 3260
fax: 0866 763 612 or 031-2096538 / e.mail: wcrpdbn@dut.ac.za

Playhouse Drama from 7 to 10 October,

The entertaining accapella musical comedy Native Blues can be seen in the Playhouse Drama from 7 to 10 October, as part of The Playhouse Company’s New Stages Festival. This engaging retrospective of the musical sounds emanating of Durban’s legendary Umkhumbani dating back to the 1950’s is written and directed by Faca Kulu. The production stars Faca Kulu and Siyabonga Zuma, who head a vibrant cast that includes Thabani Mhlangu, Sifiso Mngadi, Mandla Manzi and Bonga Zulu

There was a time in Umkhumbane when young men, fired up with the prospect of a glance from a beautiful woman, would spend hours perfecting their Accapella singing. They would meet on street corners or in some backroom and rehearse their close harmony singing until their heads resonated with the ‘buzz’ that only perfect close-harmony can bring. And if they could make a crust from the music it would be an added bonus.

Native Blues tells the heart-warming story of one such men’s singing group, as seen through the eyes of its two surviving members. Through their music the men relive their memories of life and hope in an era which marked the early dark days of apartheid. As their story unfolds it is interspersed with close harmony singing that envelops them and captivates their audience.

Native Blues saw its first performances at the Catalina Theatre in 2008. The Playhouse Company presentation in its upcoming New Stages Festival sees a more developed script, set and staging allowing the production the necessary ‘next step’ that it needs.

Performances of Native Blues will be on 7 October at 11h00 and 19h30, on 8 October at 19h30, on 9 October at 14h00, and on 10 October at 14h00 and 19h30. Tickets at R45 can be booked through Computicket on 083 915 8000 o 031-369 9540 / 031-369 9596.

A Known Heritage which celebrates the rich cultural heritage of KwaZulu Natal is the art exhibition which forms the backbone of The Heritage Arts Festival held throughout September at the Kizo Art Gallery.

The exhibition, curated by Nathi Gumede, features participating artists Sifiso KaMkame, Zamani Makhanya,Thami Jali and Lindelani Ngwenya who are all important assets to the province and have contributed extensively to our arts industry. They all share the same sentiments about their commitment to the province; work in the same studio and have been friends, colleagues and mentors for many years.

Their pre-occupation and love of KwaZulu Natal and its heritage is a reoccurring theme that runs through all of their works despite the very marked differences in preferred styles and mediums. Works will range from delicate and intricate wire sculptures to oil pastels and prints.

The exhibition aims to not only showcase but recognize their talent, commitment and experience that has made them such an integral part of the KZN visual arts industry.

A Known Heritage will showcase a unique breed of artists who are internationally renowned but have made the decision to live and work in KZN. Whilst KZN has been recognized as a source of exceptional artistic talent many artists have chosen to leave the province in search of greater opportunities.

The exhibition launches on 1 September 2009 and runs until the 30th September.

The launch will also be the official opening of the 2009 Heritage Arts Festival in which the exhibition plays an integral part. The exhibition has been supported by Nedbank Private suite who will be hosting a special preview for their clients

For more information contact Nathi on 031 566 4322 or nathig@kizo.co.za or see www.kizo.co.za

Exhibition title: A Known Heritage
Exhibition venue: Kizo Art Gallery, Gateway (Upstairs Gallery)
Exhibition launch date: 01 September 2009 at 6:30p.m.
Exhibition closes: 30th September 2009
Exhibiting Artists Names: Sifiso KaMkame, Zamani Makhanya, Thami Jali and Lindelani Ngwenya

The Arts Bus - a free hop-on, hop-off city bus service which allows arts lovers to visit eight of the city’s premier galleries in one Saturday - is being hosted again as part of the Celebrate Durban season over Heritage month and October.

The Celebrate Durban season bus schedule will cover eight weekends - Sat 12, 19, 26 Sept and 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Oct leaving from the KZNSA Gallery at 9am and returning to the gallery mid afternoon. There is safe parking at the KZNSA Gallery.

A Movable Arts Feast, AKA the Arts Bus, is an innovative project to encourage the pubic to visit Durban’s many galleries. It is being hosted for the second year by VANSA (Visual Arts Association of SA, KZN) as part of the Celebrate Durban season supported by the City. It receives supplementary support from the Department of Arts and Culture.

People are encouraged to visit a selection of Durban’s premier galleries through an "art gallery trail". Members of the public will be able to park their cars in Glenwood and hop on the specially-decorated free Art Bus at the KZNSA Gallery which leaves the gallery at 9am every Saturday. It will travel a dedicated circuit to these venues throughout the day allowing visitors to visit some of Durban’s top galleries every Saturday.

Arts Bus tour guide King Zorro will be providing narrative along the route about the galleries and exhibitions on show.

The following galleries will be part of the initiative KZNSA Gallery in Glenwood; Durban University of Technology Art Gallery in Steve Biko / Berea Road; Durban Art Gallery in Durban City Hall; BAT Centre along Margaret Mcnadi Ave; African Art Centre and Artisan Gallery both in Florida Road; artSPACE durban is in Millar Rd, off Umgeni Road and the Kizo Art Gallery in Gateway. A ninth stop is the Kunene Museum in Churchill Rd, close to the KZNSA Gallery in Glenwood.

Bus entry is free and all are welcome. Seats are limited so booking is advisable
Enquiries and bookings: Domy Cortes 031 208 9430 / 073 719 0444 / domy@pubmat.co.za or Book Online

Free Saturday Durban art galleries bus
Leaves KZNSA Gallery 9am
Returns mid afternoon
To book: Domy Cortes 031 208 9430 / 073 719 0444 / domy@saol.com.

Exhibitions at Participating Galleries

KZNSA Gallery
166 Bulwer Road, Glenwood
Info: Emme Young / tel: 031 2771705 / www.kznsagallery.co.za
gallery@kznsagallery.co.za
Panoply: A Joint Exhibition by Walter Oltmann and Hentie Van Der Merwe
8 – 28 Sept

Panoply is defined as: “A splendid or striking array; ceremonial attire with all accessories; something that covers and protects; The complete arms and armor of a warrior.” In this two-person exhibition, Walter Oltmann and Hentie van der Merwe explore their interests in costume as a way to display the absent body.

Durban Revisited: An Exhibition of Paintings by Jenny Parsons
8 – 27 Sept

Durban Revisited is Parsons’ first exhibition in Durban in nearly two decades, and marks a return to the KZNSA, the venue of her very first show. Durban Revisited seems to reinterpret the familiar seen through the eyes of a painter, creating a mood, a feeling or a moment of recognition in the viewer.

Durban University of Technology Art Gallery
Info: Tel/Fax: 031 3732207 / www.dut.ac.za / artgallery@dut.ac.za
Gallery hours: Mon - Thurs 08:00 - 16:00 Mon - Fri 08:00 - 15:00

Hybrid Culture – Durban II
8 - 30 Sept
Themba Shibase will be receiving his Master’s Degree in Fine Arts on the 08 September 2009. As part of his graduation Shibase will be showcasing his works - a new presentation consisting of old and new work, accompanied by a site specific drawing installation broadening the concept of urban cultural hybridity.

Durban Art Gallery
Durban City Hall
Info: Jenny Stretton: 031 311 2262

Past/Present
12 Aug – 1 Nov 09

Works by Andrew Verster who turns 72 this year. This exhibition takes the time frame from 1994 – the start of democracy in South Africa - and shows works from that time to the present. The artist places significance on this period which gave equal rights to all. Speaking as a gay man Verster claims that “For the first time in my life I became legal”.

Rising Up Together
9 Sept – early Oct 09

An exhibition of photos from the 1980s taken by Gille de Vlieg during the resistance campaigns. de Vlieg was a member of the Black Sash movement who became a photographer during that time and in 1984 was invited by Paul Weinberg to join Afrapix. Her work will be juxtaposed against works from the permanent collection.

Out of Step
To mark the ECC’s 25th anniversary commemorations
29 Sept – until end Oct

The End Conscription Campaign - a national NGO which tirelessly campaigned for an end to conscription and representing conscientious objectors – is celebrating 25 years since it was founded. An exhibition of the organisation’s history with a strong focus on some of the creative approaches to their campaigns featuring posters, photographs, literature and T-shirts.

The Bat Centre
Info: Tel: Xolani Sithole / tel 031 332 0451/ publicity@batcentre.co.za
September

Work by a range of professional visual artists who use the BAT Centre facilities for working and exhibiting.

October
Group exhibition of highly fired African ceramics by Clive Sithole and a group of learners who have been studying in the Artists in Residency programme at the BAT Centre.

Art for Humanity
Suitcase Workshop With Refugees on their Origin, Arrival and Future
22 - 29 Sept

Art for Humanity with the Bat Centre are hosting The Suitcase Workshop which will focus on refugees in the Durban area, who will speak of their experiences and origins. Suitcase installations emphasise the cultural background, characteristics and individual strength of the refugees. Each suitcase is designed with objects which are connected with the personal history of each refugee.

The African Art Centre
Florida Rd, Durban
Info: 031 312 3805 / fax 031 312 3818 / africanartcentre@afri-art.co.za
12 Sept - 16 Sept

The gallery will be hosting wooden sculptures by Timothy Mlambo, telephone wire baskets by Zodwa Maphumulo, paintings by Sibusiso Duma, beadwork and many more local artists works.

16 Sept - 30 Sept
"Best Ceramics in KwaZulu Natal" a joint exhibition of ceramic works by Clive Sithole and Jabu Nala. 1st and 2nd prize recipients at the 2009 Craft Competition hosted by the Department of Arts and Culture

Artisan Contemporary Gallery
Info: info@artisan.co.za / www.artisan.com / Tel: 031 312 4364 / 344 Florida Road
Gallery Hours are weekdays 10:00 to 17:00; Saturday and Public holidays 9:00 - 15:00

Vista
10 Aug - 7 Sept

The latest work from the internationally-acclaimed Fibreworks group of SA artists exhibiting their fibre art works and mixed media. Also included in this exhibition will be the quirky beaded animals by Ceaser and Tafa Mkhize. The work uses long used techniques - dyeing, printing, stitching and embellishment with threads, beads, natural and found objects.

Charmaine Haines
30 Sept – 28 Oct

Internationally-celebrated ceramicist Charmaine Haines will be showing her latest Nieu Bethesda-inspired work. Haines describes this small Eastern Cape Karoo village where she now lives and works as “sympathetic”. Working within the realm of figurative clay, she uses both abstract and stylized symbols and motifs to embellish both her sculptural and utility forms.

artSPACE durban
3 Millar Road (off Umgeni Rd next to Waste Centre)
Info: 031 312 0793 / www.artspacedurban.co.za
Gallery hours: Monday - Friday 10 - 4pm; Saturdays and Public Holidays 10 - 1pm

Exhibition 1: 12 Sept 09
Collect, Deconstruct, Assemble - Martin Burnett – Main Gallery

A collection of works combining finely painted elements with appropriated surrounds and extensions by Martin Burnett. The thematic link is more about the delight in textures painted or real than specific subject matter.

And
Life Journey - Di van Wyk – mixed media – Middle Gallery

The human condition shown in lines on people’s faces and the expression in their eyes is what fascinates Van Wyk. She works from hundreds of images taken from newspapers, filed in categorised boxes.

Exhibition 2: 14 Sept – 3 Oct 09
Cold Sweat by Christiaan Diedericks and Vulindlela Nyoni - Main Gallery

We have always come to ourselves as a rich raw material for creation. The idiosyncratic, everyday person is a subject, with no act or feeling too intimate, too trivial to be shaped into biography; or autobiography.

And
The Sometimes Zoo by Amelia Smith - Middle Gallery

First solo exhibition of Amelia Smith, creator of www.whimsy.co.za showcasing her illustration and design work. This mixed media show revolves around fantastical themes of story-telling, flight and fancy, and the magic we keep in our pockets.

Exhibition 3: 5 Oct – 24 Oct 09
Mud to Art - Ceramics SA/KZN Regional Exhibition + Drawn from Clay – Main Gallery

Ceramic artists of the Ceramics KZN Southern Africa Association will be holding their Regional exhibition for the third year running at artSPACE durban. This is a showcase for the best ceramic work coming out of KwaZulu Natal.

At the same time, Drawn From Clay is an exhibition of paintings where the concept is to exhibit ceramics alongside paintings that relate to ceramics. This is a selected exhibition from artists working at Carol Hayward Fell's studio and six invited artists.

And
Stillness Moves - Ellis Pearson – Middle Gallery

Through this series of large oil paintings Pearson explores his fascination with water - the stillness, the movement, reflection, layers of depth, the mystery, the hidden-ness, the beauty, the colours, the shifting formlessness.

26 October – 14 November 2009
Friends – Main Gallery
UNISA Students: Cally Lotz & Anthea Martin – Middle Gallery + Front Room

Kizo Art Gallery
Info: Nathi Gumede/ Sharon Crampton - Tel: 031 566 4324
Fax: (031) 566 2494 / Email: nathig@kizo.co.za / www.kizo.co.za
A Known Heritage - 2009 Heritage Arts Festival Kizo exhibition

1 Sept onwards: Kizo Art Gallery

Celebrates the rich cultural heritage of KwaZulu Natal is the art exhibition which forms the backbone of The Heritage Arts Festival. The exhibition, curated by Nathi Gumede, features Sifiso Ka-Mkame, Zamani Makhanya, Thami Jali and Lindelani Ngwenya who are all important assets to the province and have contributed extensively to our arts industry.

The Mazisi Kunene Museum
8 Belville Avenue, Glenwood
Info: Mathabo Kunene - 082 327 3424 / mathabokunene@kunenefoundation.org or
Rose Mokhosi / rosemokhosi@kunenefoundation.org
072 8968 191. Foundaiton tel 031 260 2356 / www.kunenefoundation.org

Poet Mazisi Kunene was amongst the most important creative intellectuals of the 20th century South Africa. This museum aims to become an international facility in which visitors can experience Kunene and become familiar with the sheer magnitude of his legacy. This space allows the public and those who love Kunene and his writings to enjoy a closer experience of the man, his environment and his life’s work.

Halala eThekwini 2009.

Heritage month – time for the eighth annual Celebrate Durban events showcase which features 40 plus eclectic participative vents which are on offer this year during September in recognition of heritage / tourism month.

The season once more sees a comprehensive calendar with a clever mix of social, family, heritage, sports, arts, culture, health, environmental and spiritual events to celebrate our city’s cultural diversity.

Among the many highlights of the season is the anchor event: MMINO MusicMix “A Boundless Experience” to be held on 24 - 25 September in the ICC Arena. This musical extravaganza features Johnny Clegg, Zimbabwe’s Oliver Mtukudzi, Hugh Masekela, Thandiswa Mazwai, Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Ray Phiri. Musicians from nine SADC countries and Etran Finatawa (Niger) will collaborate with the MMINO Boundless All Star Band led by Neill Solomon to symbolically break down musical barriers and create music without frontiers. The festival includes free workshops.

The MusicMix festival marks the culmination of a four month Boundless Southern Africa Expedition, led by National Geographic explorer Kingsley Holgate to raise awareness of the nine SADC countries and transfrontier parks. An exhibition which showcases the nature, culture and communities encountered on their journey, will be held in the ICC foyer and includes a talk ‘around the camp fire’ with Holgate, beautiful photographs and video footage. The event also includes free workshops and Kingsley Holgate’s Boundless exhibition in the ICC Foyer. More info can be found www.musexchange.co.za.

Another key component of the season is the Heritage Arts Festival – an exciting ambitious festival of 23 art themed events which will be held throughout Heritage month of September primarily at the Kizo Art Gallery and the Gateway Theatre of Shopping. The Heritage Awards is one of the major events of the annual Heritage Arts Festival line up, which takes place at the ICC on 19 September. A major exhibition will be held at Kizo Art Gallery throughout the season, opening on 1 September and curated by resident Kizo curator Nathi Gumede. Entitled A Known Heritage it celebrates the region’s rich multicultural heritage.

The season sees favourites like the annual Coca-Cola Bunny Chow Barometer; the Flavours of Durban Sister Cities Cuisine Festival and the Independent on Saturday Design Durban’s Drink.

There will be dance events (Vodacom Yebo Millionaires Ballroom and Latin American Dance Championships and Phansi Phezulu Dance Fest); theatre (What’s Funny in SA?; Freedom Valley and Red Eye: Ready?); literature (Creative Writing and Story Telling and Dancing Pencils Book Fest); fashion and beauty (Miss eThekwini and Durban Young Designers Fashion Extravaganza); sports (Celebrate Durban Ward Based Sports programme and MTN Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge); heritage (Living Legends Awards; Out of Step:ECC 25th Anniversary Commemorations; the Heritage Awards;>
Back To Africa; Heritage Day event for traditional healers and Separate is Not Equal exhibition)

Of course there will be festivals within festivals (Glenwood Community Festival; Shared Histories: The Indian Experience in SA; Healthy Lifestyle Expo; the Float Street Parade and Durban Blue Lagoon Indian Ocean Festival) and much music (KZN Music Imbizo; MMINO MusicMix “A Boundless Experience”; Emerging Sounds of Durban Festival; Isicathamiya Festival; Cell C Durban Music School Street Festival; Cardinal’s Concert; Renee Fleming in Concert; KZNPO Spring Season; SATMA Awards 2008 and Durban International Blues Festival).

A major component of the season is the eleventh SMME fair which takes place at the Durban Exhibition Centre provides a platform for small businesses to create linkages and networks with each other and with big businesses and service providers.

Interspersed with the events will be a strong presence from the Clowns Without Borders.

Our city has once again put together a diverse, engaging and participative programme for September to which city residents and visitors are warmly invited to share.

For more information, contact the Department of International and Governance Relations in the eThekwini Municipality on tel 031 311 2104, or for the whole season visit www.durbanexperience.co.za>

Programme

Children’s theatre for the Michaelmas holidays

Catalina Theatre: 24 Sept – 4 Oct

During the September school holidays from 24 September until 4 October, the Catalina Theatre will offer day-time shows of a charming theatre piece for young children, The Wheel, by Brian Way – the world-renowned playwright of children’s theatre.

The Wheel reminds us of the importance of make-believe, working together, kindness and having good fun! Ned Wheelwright makes wheels for a living. His wheels were always perfectly-made except one day a wheel was made with one spoke missing. A note appeared on this faulty wheel one night stating clearly that Ned was not to sell this wheel for one whole year! Much to the chagrin of his grumpy wife and the village trouble-maker, Ned put the wheel aside and refused to fix it or sell it. The missing spoke, was, of course, magical! She came to the village and charmed Ned, his wife, the other villagers… even the trouble-maker. The magical spoke reminded the village to take time to tell stories to the children, to play, dress up and have fun… and to always be kind and help each other.

A lively cast of talented actors have been assembled especially for the season. Directed by Catalina intern, Marcia Mzindle, the cast features Chloe Perling, Thobani Mbhele, Shona Johnson and Philile Ntimbane.

The Wheel is produced by TheatreBIZ and is at the Catalina Theatre daily from 24 Sept – 4 Oct. Full price tickets are R45 including a boat ride around the harbour. Show only tickets are R30. No concessions. Performances are daily at 11am.

To book call 031-305-6889 or email tsibisi@mweb.co.za. Catalina Theatre Tickets are now available online at www.strictlytickets.co.za or on our website at www.catalinatheatre.co.za or at www.goingplacesSA.co.za / www.goingplacesSA.com.

The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

29 Sept – 4 Oct: Wilson’s Wharf

Info: Catalina Theatre 031 3056889

The fifth annual Durban International Blues and Jazz Festival will again take place on Wilson’s Wharf and Festival Island, hosting an array of top musicians, including guests from Durban’s sister cities.

On Sunday afternoon - 4 October - an attempt will be made to break the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest number of guitars playing together in a group. Aim is to have 2010 guitarists en mass to perform Deep Purple Smoke on the Water.

DO COME ALONG!!

Entry: Various – ticketed and free events

Heritage Theatre, Hillcrest: 22 – 27 Sept

In Beauty and the BEE, South African director Janice Honeyman teams up with comic actor Ben Voss (Green Mamba, Black Mamba) to bring you Ben's alter ego, Beauty Ramapelepele, a 49-year-old nouveau-riche Houghton mother of two which returns to the Heritage Theatre in Hillcrest due to popular demand, for one week only from 22 – 27 September.

In this one-(wo)man piece we join Beauty in her boudoir shortly after her triumph as South African Business woman of the year. Beauty Ramapalapele is the perfect South African weapon. A black, bright, beautiful, bitchy woman at the top of her business and social game.

She is currently enjoying regular spots on The Just Plain Darren show on East Coast Radio and on Jacaranda FM on the Just Plain Breakfast show.

With a nose for gossip and the inside line on everything from stripes to checks and BEE to the presidential race, Beauty Ramapelepele gives us a “fly on the wall” view of South Africa’s new black elite. Hers is a rags to riches story of our relatively tender democracy built on her simple and effective business philosophy. “Invest in Africa…buy a politician!”

The show ticket includes a delicious two course meal, with coffee and pudding options. To book contact the Heritage Theater - 031 7654197, or online at www.heritagetheatre.co.za, or at Strictly Tickets - www.strictlytickets.com, www.goingplacessa.com, www.goingplacessa.co.za,. R190 for two course meal and show. R165 on Tuesday and Sunday – two course meal and show.

Shows are
Tues 22 - supper 6.30pm for 7pm. Curtain up at 8.30pm
Wed 23 - supper 6.30pm for 7pm. Curtain up at 8.30pm
Thurs 24 - supper 6.30pm for 7pm. Curtain up at 8.30pm (Heritage Day Holiday)
Fri 25 - supper 6.30pm for 7pm. Curtain up at 8.30pm
Sat 26 - supper 6.30pm for 7pm. Curtain up at 8.30pm
Sun 27 – lunch from noon. Curtain up at 2pm

Catalina Theatre: Wed 30 Sept

The SA National Community Theatre Association (Sancta) is to open a branch in Durban at Catalina Theatre on 30 September.

Sancta is proud to announce the opening of its 2nd official branch outside of Gauteng in Durban on 30 September at The Catalina Theatre, Maydon Wharf, at 4-6pm.Sancta has connections in other provinces, particularly Mpumalanga, but this is its first new official branch.

The branch will be co-ordinated by Wesley Hiepner, who performed in the Sancta festival in 2007 and runs an Events Management Company with specific emphasis on modelling and fashion in Durban.

We look forward to welcoming all multi-cultural theatre groups to the opening launch to introduce Sancta to and advise them of our 30th Annual Sancta Festival plans for 2010 with the aim of entries from KZN into this festival.

For more information on Sancta, visit our website www.sancta.org.za; join us on Facebook; or contact the National Chairperson Noel Mc Donald (Arts and Culture Trust Administration Award Nominee 2005) on 083 309 4315. For information on the launch and to RSVP, please contact Wesley on 072 413 6434.

Catalina Theatre, Wilson’s Wharf: 10 – 20 Sept

What happens when you take six talented young Afrikaner students of opera, combine them with three equally talented young Black students of opera and dress them up to look Japanese in an English classic? Does it all sound too bizarre to be true?

Coming down to Durban from Pretoria this Michaelmas, these talented young singers accompanied by Engeli Le Roux will provide lovers of Gilbert and Sullivan a rare opportunity to hear The Mikado – in miniature.

This well loved G&S classic will be performed without a chorus with a cast of nine young singers. Adapted and directed from the original by Thinus Spies, a former Durbanite, now living and working in Pretoria and Johannesburg after completing his studies at the Tshwane University of Technology Opera School. The rest of the cast are currently studying at the TUT and this tour to the Catalina is part of their practical exams for this year.

It is many years since Durban enjoyed the delights of a G & S show, so this one is not to be missed. Performances run from 10 – 13 September, and again from 17 to 20 September. Performance times are Thursdays and Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 5pm and 8pm, Sundays at 2pm and 6pm. Tickets cost R75 (evenings), matinees buy one get on free. Pensioners and students concessions are R40. Don’t miss it – and tell your friends. Book now on 031-305 6889.

Catalina Theatre: Wed 23 Sept

End Conscription Campaign – 25 years on.

International playwriting mastermind, UK based Greig Coetzee, returns to South Africa to perform three of his one-handers at the Witness Hilton Arts Festival on 18, 19, 20 September, and to do one Durban performance of his smash-hit army-themed play, White Men with Weapons at the Catalina Theatre on 23 September.

Directed by Garth Anderson, written and performed by Greig Coetzee, White Men With Weapons won over twenty awards and has been critically acclaimed on five continents. Coetzee performs more than a dozen characters inspired by his own experiences as a conscript in the old SADF.

Coetzee – who is currently based in London – returns home for a nostalgic season of his fabulous, era-defining mono-dramas : Johnny Boskak is Feeling Funny, White Men with Weapons and The Blue Period of Milton van der Spuy – all of which he will perform once at Hilton. For Coetzee junkies this “festival within a festival” of his watershed productions is an opportunity not to be missed.

For those not getting to Hilton, there will be one opportunity to catch White Men With Weapons – at the Catalina Theatre in Wilson’s Wharf on Wednesday 23 September at 8pm. Coetzee has donated this performance to the End Conscription Campaign which is celebrating 25 years since it was founded by hosting a series of events in Durban during late September and October.

To book for Catalina performance, call 031-305-6889 or email tsibisi@mweb.co.za. Catalina Theatre Tickets are now available online at www.strictlytickets.co.za or on our website at www.catalinatheatre.co.za or at www.goingplacesSA.co.za / www.goingplacesSA.com.

Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre: 15 – 20 Sept 09

“I don’t know. I don’t know if it was worth it.. Because you know, when I was in the concentration camp, and even after, I said to myself, ‘You know, after the war, people will learn. They will know. They will – they will see. We will learn.’ But did we really learn anything? I don’t know. I don’t know if we learned anything. Or if we ever will - I don’t know.”

Helen K: Witness – Voices from the Holocaust

A new production creatively exploring aspects of global war and conflict – FrontLines – sees for the first time a collaboration between the drama departments of DUT and UKZN in their first joint performance project together which comes to the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre from 15 – 20 September.

FrontLines is a collection of thoughts, images, testimonies, letters and responses to global conflict in the 20th century. Told as image theatre, aspects of war are examined in a non-linear expressionist way. The production touches on the two World Wars, Vietnam, the SADF, genocide, terrorism, the holocaust, xenophobia, Iraq and the recent conflicts throughout Africa. The production attempts to present a personal view of the global political issues with well researched private letters, photographs, reflections, anecdotes, narratives, songs and stories.

FrontLines is jointly devised and directed by Tanya van der Walt, a lecturer in TV, Drama and Production Studies department from the Durban University of Technology, and Tamar Meskin a lecturer in Drama and Performance Studies of UKZN with input from the cast.

Van der Walt and Meskin spent days in the Imperial War Museum in London and international and local libraries and archives researching the personal stories which punctuate the various wars and conflicts.

“Wars are fought over lines on maps, but no one really ever gets to see the lines. The lines really exist only in our heads. There has been a moral dilemma over the concept of a ‘just war’ which is never really resolved. We never learn from the generation which has gone before,” explains Tamar Meskin.

FrontLines is being created by approximately 20 students from DUT and 20 students from UKZN – the students are mostly first, second and third year undergraduates complemented with some post-graduate students. Meskin and van der Walt are hugely excited about working together on this joint project. They believe this may be the first combined project between the two tertiary education drama departments. They are finding a new way of working which involves the students in the creative process. They are working with multiple experiences, creating work from raw authentic source material which enables the students to tell real-life stories in an evocative, interesting, theatrical and meaningful way.

The production also uses live music and a 15 member choir. Music has been composed and lyrics written inspired by the source material.

The directors explain that the preparation for this production and the rehearsal process has been an incredible emotional journey for all concerned – sometimes profound and other times harrowing. They are working from original letters, diaries, correspondence, photographs, biographies and family reminiscences. Many of the students had scant knowledge of the history and politics of the wars – even from our own past. Learning about the apartheid-era wars and conflicts was an eye opener for many of the cast members.

This production has been included as part of the season which commemorates the 25th anniversary of the End Conscription Campaign this spring. Various projects and events are being held in Durban during September and October to remember the role played by the ECC. The ECC was a national NGO with a strong international support network which campaigned for an end to conscription into an Apartheid army and represented conscientious objectors to the SADF.

Visit the ECC website www.ecc25.org. Join the Google ECC group, go to http://groups.google.com/group/ecc-list?hl=en.

FrontLines is created by Tamar Meskin, Tanya van der Walt and the cast. Set is by Stephen Woodroffe, and lighting by Wesley Maherry.

FrontLines runs nightly at 7.30 pm from 15 – 20 September 2009 at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.

The opening performance – 15 September – will be a fund-raiser for the MOTH (Memorable Order of Tin Hats). All monies raised on opening night will be donated to the Durban and District MOTHs. There will also be a donation box on the boxoffice counter for donations to the Durban and District MOTHs for the duration of the season.

Tickets are R30.00 for adults, R20.00 for students, scholars, pensioners and block bookings over 10. Teachers bringing scholars are admitted free. Contact Claudette Wagner for bookings and/or information: (031) 260-3133, email – wagnerc1@ukzn.ac.za, fax – (031) 260-1410.

In association with East Coast Radio
Hilton College: 18 – 20 September 09

KZN’s foremost arts and culture festival - the annual Witness Hilton Arts Festival comes to the Hilton College from 18 – 20 September with a glittering line-up of cutting-edge drama, comedy, music and cabaret, as well as an impressive array of arts and crafts in a bumper programme that features an enticing mix of hot South African performers and artists gleaned from the most prestigious stages around the country including the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown festival in July.

Programmes at selected Spar stores; on www.artslink.co.za/hilton. Detailed information can be found on www.artslink.co.za/hilton. For more information or a full programme and booking kit – visit http://www.artslink.co.za/hilton or the Hilton Festival hotline on theatre@hiltoncollege.com or phone 033 383 0126.

Catalina Theatre: Sat 12 Sept This Saturday, Sept 12th from 9am - 4pm, TheatreBIZ will hold auditions for their upcoming three productions at the Catalina Theatre for professional actors only. The productions are as follows:

THE KISS OF THE SPIDERWOMAN to be directed by Clare Mortimer rehearsing Oct Performing end Oct and November (Two men required one white and one black)

THE CREDIT CRUNCH CHRISTMAS PARTY to be directed by Themi Venturas rehearsing November playing December ( Four men, Two women all races, all ages. Must be able to sing)

MAN OF LA MANCHA to be directed by Clare Mortimer Rehearsing Dec/Jan performing Jan/Feb. (3 women, 4 Men All races All ages)

Candidates must prepare an audition piece both acting and singing and be prepared to read and improvise. To book an audition time call Thandeka on 031 3057612.

A selection of interesting, meaningful and enjoyable one off lectures, courses and workshops are being held by LLL.
Visit heir website on www.LLLkzn.net for the full line up.

Denis Hurley: Renewing the Church, Opposing Apartheid
By Paddy Kearney

Published by Continuum International
Suggested retail price: $34.95
SA launch price R300
All Royalties go to the Denis Hurley Centre *.

Durban author and veteran social activist and campaigner for peace and justice, Paddy Kearney, launches Guardian of the Light, the first full autobiography about the astonishing life and phenomenal work of Archbishop Denis Hurley – one of the most significant Catholic leaders in South Africa in the second half of the twentieth century

Huley was a courageous opponent of South Africa's apartheid regime for 50 years, dubbed "an ecclesiastical Che Guevara" by a South African official and "guardian of the light" by Alan Paton. He was a champion of the reforms and "spirit" of Vatican II, who was controversial for his views on birth control, married priests, and women's ordination.

Born in Cape Town in 1915 of Irish parents, the son of a lighthouse keeper, he was raised at various lighthouses on South Africa's coast. He became the youngest Catholic bishop in the world in 1947 at 31 and Archbishop of Durban in 1951.

He first served as chairman of the Southern African Catholic Bishops' Conference from 1952 to 1961. The conference issued in 1957 its first statement against apartheid, describing the system of enforced racial segregation as "inherently evil." Eventually, along with four other church leaders (including Desmond Tutu), he was regarded as one of the South African state's "most wanted" political opponents.

He retired as archbishop in 1992, becoming chancellor of the University of Natal from 1993 to 1998. He continued to work as a parish priest well into his eighties.

Auxiliary Bishop Jabulani Nxumalo of Durban recalled that in 1951 Hurley "was the first bishop ... who openly expressed himself against apartheid and spoke in support of the rights of the blacks."

"Denis Eugene Hurley was undoubtedly the most significant Catholic leader in South Africa during the twentieth century. Hurley had a profound effect upon the Church’s struggle against apartheid and played a major role in the process of renewing the Catholic Church. Tall and impressive, he was an eloquent speaker, years ahead of his time not only in his views on South Africa’s racial problems, but also on the reforms needed in the Catholic Church,” explained Kearney.

“To Hurley, apartheid was a form of organised evil, which he believed could only be overcome by organised good. Thus, in the 1970s, he established organisations that would help to bring about change. He founded Diakonia (1976), an ecumenical agency promoting action for justice and peace in the Greater Durban Area; initiated the Human Awareness Programme (1977) which strengthened civil society efforts; and supported the establishment in 1979 of PACSA (the Pietermaritzburg Agency for Christian Social Awareness). Through his contacts with leaders of other churches and other faiths, his ecumenical commitment grew ever stronger. The dynamic ecumenical movement in KwaZulu-Natal even now owes much to his pioneering efforts.

“Investigations by South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Commission found that Hurley was "one of the state's most wanted political opponents and a target for dirty tactics because banning was not an option for such a high-level cleric," Kearney said.

Author - Paddy Kearney:
PADDY KEARNEY was born in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, in 1942 where he went to school at St Charles's Marist College. He has Bachelors degrees in Arts (Natal University) and Education (Witwatersrand University) and a Masters Degree in Education from Toledo, Ohio where he had a Fulbright Scholarship. He taught in secondary schools in Durban and Johannesburg and lectured in Education at Natal University. From 1976 to 2004 he headed the staff team at Diakonia, an ecumenical social justice agency founded by Archbishop Denis Hurley to help Durban churches respond to the socio-political challenges of the area. He is at present a consultant to the KwaZulu-Natal Christian Council. Kearney also serves as a trustee for Gandhi Development Trust (GDT) and as a board member for the International Center of Non-violence (ICON).

This is his third biography about the life and times of Archbishop Denis Hurley. The first is Vatican II – Keeping the Dream Alive, and Memories: The Memoirs of Archbishop Denis E Hurley OMI - Archbishop Hurley's memoirs for the period 1915 to 1965, together with an account of the Archbishop's last 38 years up to his death in 2004.

Website:
www.archbishopdenishurley.org

Book Launch Schedule:
Pretoria Launch:
18 August 2009
4 to 6pm.
Venue: Denis Hurley Peace Institute, Khanya House (offices of the SACBC), 399 Paul Kruger Street, Pretoria.
Speakers are Fr Smangaliso Mkhatshwa, Saydoon Sayed, Father Sean O'Leary. Chair is Bishop Kevin Dowling of Rustenburg.

Durban Launch:
24 August 2009
5.30 for 6pm
Denis Hurley Hall, Diakonia Centre, Diakonia Ave, Durban
Speakers include Premier Zweli Mkhize, Ela Gandhi and Bishop Kevin Dowling.

Pietermaritzburg Launch
31 August 2009
5.30 for 6pm
Leeb du Toit Council Chamber, UKZN Pietermaritzburg
Speakers include Bishop Michael Nuttall, Mervyn Brahams

Durham Launch
7 September 2009
At the opening of the Catholic Theological Association annual conference

London Launch:
9 September 2009
Abbey Centre, Westminster

Dublin Launch:
10 September 2009
Newman Centre, St Steven’ Green

Johannesburg Launch
22 September 2009
5pm for 5.30.
Holy Trinity Church, Braamfontein.
Speakers include Fr Larry Kaufmann and Fr Cletus Mtshali

Cape Town Launch:
29 September 2009
Baptismal font, St Mary’s (the cathedral where Hurley was baptized)
Then to the Diocesan offices in Cape Town
Speakers include Gunter Simmer Macher, Thora Perez, Di Oliver
3 October 2009
9am – depart Waterfront for Robben Island. Pilgrimage including lighthouse, school, church relating to Hurley family.
Return 12.30pm.

Messages of Support:
Archbishop Hurley was one of our greatest South Africans. This biography reveals what gave him that stature – his integrity, fearlessness, gentleness of spirit and his magnanimity. It is a must read for all of us.
The Most Reverend Desmond Tutu, Archbishop Emeritus of Cape Town.

Denis Hurley’s father was a lighthouse keeper, the guardian of the light that warms the sailors of dangers and guides them away from destruction. Our Archbishop has been doing this work of warning and guiding for the greater part of his life. And he has done it with great faithfulness.
Alan Paton, author of Cry, The Beloved Country
On the occasion of the Archbishop’s 70th birthday celebration.

This book not only provides a glimpse into South African history during the apartheid years but a vivid poignant story of a powerful yet humble man of God, committed to truth, justice and non-racialism. It should be ready by every South African and many others too around the world, in order to understand our role as part of the human family.
Ela Gandhi – grand daughter of Mahatma Gandhi
Chancellor of the Durban University of Technology

Denis Hurley was an inspiration. This champion in the fight against apartheid in South Africa was a bishop ahead of many of his people. Paddy Kearney is well placed to tell the inside story. His book throws fresh light on the lift and career of a great churchman.
John Wilkins. Editor: The Tablet

Archbishop Denis Hurley’s life of immense courage, deep spirituality and prophetic leadership deserves to be more widely known not only in South African but throughout the world.
Albert Nolan OP, author of God in South Africa.

This magisterial work was written with loving care by Paddy Kearney… Kearney’s account of Hurley’s struggle with Rome over ICEL, the International Commission for English in the Liturgy, is worth the price of the whole book… Julian Filochowski, director of CAFOD, a fight-hunger organization in the UK, called Hurley “the best cardinal Africa never had.”
Robert Blair Kaiser: National Catholic Reporter. Kaiser covered Vatican II for Time magazine.

Ordering details:
To order in SA – from 1 September 2009: phone On the Dot Distributors (021) 918-8815
or email: orders@onthedot.co.za
Now available in the USA: Call Continuum’s 800 number: 1 800 561 7704 .

To order in UK – will be available from Waterstones Bookshops, from 1 September 2009.
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it The book will also be available through any of the major on-line booksellers in SA such as loot.co.za, Kalahari.net, or exclusivebooks.co.za

To order in Australia – contact Rainbow Books.

* The Denis Hurley Centre, Durban:
The Denis Hurley Centre is an initiative spearheaded by Durban’s Emmanuel Cathedral to transform and re-furbish a pre-WW1 building in the inner city, transforming it into an innovative outreach centre.

Situated on the corner of the busy Denis Hurley Street (Queen St) and Cathedral Rd in the heart of the city, the three storey Emmanuel Cathedral Parish Centre was built as a primary school shortly before the beginning of World War 1. Already much in use, the vision is to give this sturdy building a major upgrade, overhaul and facelift. It is a listed building, so the distinctive façade cannot be altered. The intention is to make the building more useful for the social service and educational objectives of the Cathedral.

The new building will be used to its optimum. It will house the Cathedral’s outreach and social responsibility programmes – including homeless support and feeding projects; refugee pastoral care; nursing / HIV / AIDS programme; a comprehensive counselling service; the St Vincent de Paul Society

In association with East Coast Radio
Hilton College: 18 – 20 September 09

KZN’s foremost arts and culture festival - the annual Witness Hilton Arts Festival comes to the Hilton College from 18 – 20 September with a glittering line-up of cutting-edge drama, comedy, music and cabaret, as well as an impressive array of arts and crafts in a bumper programme that features an enticing mix of hot South African performers and artists gleaned from the most prestigious stages around the country including the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown festival in July.

The Witness Hilton Arts Festival – hosted in association with East Coast Radio - have invited productions on the Main festival, and there are a huge selection of productions on the Fringe. There are also children’s productions, various concerts and cabarets physical theatre productions, street theatre and comedy.

This year’s flagship production is a triumph for the festival - a collaboration with top KZN theatrical producers, KickstArt. Together they are producing a brand new production of the ultimate backstage farce, Noises Off by Michael Frayn funded by the National Lotteries Board. This hilarious play that tells of the rivalries and misfortunes of a bickering touring theatre company will open at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre on the 20 August and runs until 6 September before opening the Witness Hilton Festival. The cast comprises top-notch local talent, starring Ben Voss, Lisa Bobbert, Jailoshini Naidoo, Darren King, Michael Gritten, Bryan Hiles, Belinda Henwood, Peter Court and Liesl Coppin. It is directed by Steven Stead and designed by Greg King.

A much anticipated highlight is Greig Coetzee performing his one-man classics: White Men with Weapons; Johnny Boskak is Feeling Funny and The Blue Period of Milton van der Spuy.

Brilliant theatre comes from all major cities: Mark Graham directs Dorothy Ann Gould and Michael Maxwell in one of the South Africa’s most enduring dramas, Athol Fugard’s poignant masterpiece Hello and Goodbye. High Diving looks at the most embarrassing situations revolving around dating and introducing your partner to your family! Pictures of You is an enchanting little story produced by From the Hip productions. Pregnant Pause (Just Swell!) explores the joyous highs and challenging lows of pregnancy and parenthood by award-winning director Sylvaine Strike in collaboration with award-winning performers Michael Richard and Charmaine Weir-Smith.

Andrew Buckland recently returned form Las Vegas where he had been working with the internationally acclaimed Cirque du Soleil. Inspired by this experience, he directed Stilted immediately on his return. Created, conceived, and performed by Richard Antrobus and featuring newcomer, Chris Fisher, it is an extraordinary piece of physical theatre, highly entertaining, very funny, curious and accessible. Edward Albee’s The Zoo Story is set on a bench in New York’s Central Park. Two strangers start a conversation which will have devastating effects on both their lives.

From further afield: the intriguing story of Karen Blixen is told in Longing for Darkness conceived and performed by Mia Theil Have and directed by Max Webster. Mia Theil Have is a Danish actress and singer. She has performed at the Royal Theatre, Copenhagen and The Royal Opera House, London

The Fleur de Lis club is under new management and will run as a cabaret venue with the top Durban cabarets including Let’s Misbehave; Girls Behaving Badly; The Bald and the Beautiful and Kicking it Country - Darren King and Shelley McLean doing a new show of Country classics.

For those looking for something lighter – comedy offerings include Ben Voss’s Beauty Ramapelepele, and David Newton who brings two shows to Hilton - Laugh and Politically Incorrect.
Durban productions which are heading up the hill this year are Shear Madness - One of the world’s most popular comedy-thrillers. Their presence at the festival is sponsored by DACT. It is the world’s second longest running play (after Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap) and probably America’s greatest theatrical success story. It combines comedy, a juicy whodunit murder mystery… opportunities for the audience to give input to help craft the script – and the resolution of the murder.
Also from Durban is the hugely acclaimed Wit - Margaret Edson’s Pulitzer Prize-Winning play supported by the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown. Wit engages both the heart and the mind. It is at once funny, sad, tragic and life-affirming, complex and simple.
The festival once again will have strong focus on classical music with an eclectic mix of more than a dozen concerts hosted by Christopher Duigan’s Music Revival Concerts featuring a myriad special guests and soloists.

This year the dance element will be provided by Rob van Vuuren – who together with his partner Mary Martin – will be doing a highlights package of some of the dances from Strictly Some Dancing marrying dance with comedy in Strictly Rob and Mary. More elegant song and dance can be found in Gumboots & Glitter – Ian & Rory at their Best featuring the inimitable music duo, Ian von Memerty and Rory Rootenberg, perform highlights from their favourite musicals.

For a glimpse behind the obvious - there will be a series of Thinkfest lectures and discussions on a myriad interesting and diverse subjects presented by leaders in their respective fields.

Many artists will be selling their works throughout the festival. Crouse Art Gallery will also be on site again this year selling a selection of astonishing collectable and investment art situated at the Normand Dunn Gallery.

There will be a special focus on food and eating this year with various food areas to choose from.

Booking will open on 21 August. Programmes available in that day’s Witness; at selected Spar stores; on www.artslink.co.za/hilton. Booking opens on 21 August 2009.

It is strongly advised you book your accommodation early at one of the many B&Bs and hotels in the area. Booking kits will be available from 21 August from selected SPAR Stores in KZN. Kits can also be collected from Exclusive Books (La Lucia, Pavilion, Liberty Midlands Mall and Gateway), Adams in Musgrave Centre, Bookworld @ Cascades; KZNSA Gallery in Bulwer Durban; Crouse Art Gallery 254 Lillian Ngoyi / Windermere Rd; Pietermaritzburg Publicity offices in the CBD and Liberty Midlands Mall, and the Witness offices in Willowton Industrial estate Pietermaritzburg, The Corner Café in Glenwood, and the Hilton College Theatre (weekdays office hours). Also from leading galleries and theatre foyers. Detailed information can be found on www.artslink.co.za/hilton. For more information or a full programme and booking kit – visit www.artslink.co.za/hilton or the Hilton Festival hotline on www.theatre@hiltoncollege.com or phone 033 3830126.

Info will also be found on the East Coast Radio website.

Port Elizabeth: 8 - 10 September 09

The 73rd South African Museums Association National Conference will be held at Pine Lodge, Port Elizabeth, from Tuesday 8th September to Thursday 10 September 2009.

The Conference Theme is Practical Museology — Basics and New Concepts

Museology is without a doubt a hands-on vocation. This applies to those of us who care for collections or visitors, create and maintain exhibitions and infrastructure or apply and fine-tune museum policies and legislation which, in turn, allows for spaces of creativity, innovation and development.

To obtain your EARLY BIRD discount register before 30 June 2009.

More information on the conference is on the CONFERENCE WEBSITE:
http://sites.google.com/site/southafricanmuseumsassociation/

General Enquiries: Rachel Williams (Chair SAMA EC) Tel (W): 043 7430686.
Fax 043-743 3127, rachel@elmuseum.za.org and Marita Venter; Tel (W): 043 7430686 FAX 043-743 3127, e-mail sarahventer@hotmail.com

The Playhouse Drama Theatre: 26 August - 6 September

The ever-busy K-Caps based in Ekhaya Multi Arts Centre KwaMashu, have created a topical new musical perfectly timed for Women’s Day, entitled Madame President, which examines some of the issues which would be grappled with were South Africa to democratically elect a woman as their next president.

Madame President is a new musical penned and directed by Edmund Mhlongo, with musical direction and music by Linda Ngcwensa (leader of gospel group Avante), featuring a cast of 25 singers / actors / dancers all with the K-Cap company. The production is ideal for public audiences, as well as for daytime school groups.

Times are changing, and women the world over hold positions of immense power – politically, socially and economically. It can be argued that it would be a natural progression in the future of South Africa that a woman could emerge as an appropriate leader and ultimately be elected to the highest office in the land – that of President of South Africa.

Madame President will be staged at the Playhouse Drama theatre from 26 August - 6 September 09.

Times: 19h00
Matinee Shows for Schools: 11h00am
Bookings at Computicket
For Details: Xolani Majozi: 031 504 6970 or 083 621 6338 or at The Playhouse

Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre: 16 Aug – 6 Sept
Witness Hilton Arts Festival: 19 / 20 Sept

The Witness Hilton Arts Festival in collaboration with multi-award winning Durban production company, KickstArt and funded by the National Lotteries Board will stage a brand new production of the ultimate backstage farce, Noises Off by Michael Frayn which comes to the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre from 20 August until 6 September before going to the Witness Hilton Arts Festival on the weekend of the 19 / 20 September.

Noises Off is a rollicking farce that tells of the rivalries and misfortunes of a bickering touring theatre company. It was written in 1982 by English playwright / novelist / journalist / commentator / translator Michael Frayn. Noises Off has become a staple of professional theatre companies, school groups and community theatres on both sides of the Atlantic.

The KickstArt cast is comprised of top-notch local talent, starring Ben Voss, Lisa Bobbert, Roxy Nel, Darren King, Michael Gritten, Bryan Hiles, Belinda Henwood, Peter Court and Liesl Coppin. It is directed by Steven Stead and designed by Greg King.

The programme notes from the Carpenter Square Season explains: “The silly plot seems to involve a daffy maid in an English country house, where one couple plans an illicit affair, another couple hides from the tax collector, and a drunken burglar and an Arab sheik complicate the action. Of course, the requisite slamming doors and dropping trousers are in abundance. At intervals in the botched rehearsal, the audience gets a glimpse of the actors' own quirky personalities and company romances.”

KickstArt presents Noises Off, funded by the National Lotteries Board. Performances are 7.30pm Tues-Sat, Sat @ 2.30pm and Sunday @ 3pm. Tickets are R90 throughout, with a special low price preview on Thurs 20 August. Booking for the Durban season is now open. For more information visit KickstArt’s website: www.kickstart-theatre.co.za. Details and bookings for performances at Witness Hilton Arts Festival – www.artslink.co.za/hilton or 033 3830126 or tickets@hiltoncollege.com. Booking for Hilton opens on 21 August.

Frank is a new South African play about family relationships and the power of secrets to impact and sometimes destroy lives, which comes to the Catalina Theatre from 27 August until 6 September

Just what is Frank’s secret? Dorothy knows it, but she hopes that nobody else ever discovers it. Lloyd discovered it years ago and it drove him over the sea and far away from friends and family. Delia is blissfully unaware of how Frank’s secret is about to dramatically alter the course of her life. Set in Durban at the beginning of 2009, South Africa is in the grip of the controversial Zuma trial by media, election fever and a recession.

Frank debuted at the 2009 Musho Arts Festival under the title “Conversations with your Ex”. It was written by Chantal, Gail and Megan Snyman. Chantal and Gail performed and Megan directed the production for the festival.

Frank runs at the Catalina Theatre with an age restriction of 16, from 27 August – 6 September. The cast includes Chantal Snyman, Gail Snyman and Jonathan Tifflin. Tickets are R90 and there is a concession of R45 for pensioners, students and matinees. Anyone interested can contact Thandeka at the Catalina on 031 305 6889 or Chantal on 0736530067 or Gail on 0836431923 or Jonathan on 08222 33 504. Charities or organisations wanting to fundraise are particularly encouraged to get hold of Chantal/or Gail. A special offer for corporates includes a dinner and harbour cruise with the cast.

Booking Office: 031-305 6889 between 9am and 4pm from Mon-Fri and between 9am – 1pm Sat. Boxoffice office closed on Sun but tickets available online at www.strictlytickets.co.za. For more info – call Thandeka on (031) 305 6889/ 3057612 or email tsibisi@mweb.co.za.

The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

Catalina theatre: 22 Aug

A Musical Experience with Head Over Heels - all female Jazz band.
From 7pm

To book call Thandeka on 031-305-6889 or email tsibisi@mweb.co.za. Catalina Theatre Tickets are now available online at www.strictlytickets.co.za or on our website at www.catalinatheatre.co.za or at www.goingplacesSA.co.za / www.goingplacesSA.com.

The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

Fri 21 – Sun 23 August 2009

The third annual Glenwood festival offers a busy weekend of music, civic, sports and spiritual events to be held on the weekend of Friday 21- Sunday 23 August which forms part of the Celebrate Durban’s season.

The proactive Glenwood Community Forum believes this bustling suburb is “A good place to live, work, educate and raise a family”. To this end, they are hosting a weekend festival with events on Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday.

For more information contact the Glenwood festival Info Line on 0744156729. For a detailed programme of events go to the website at www.forum.glenwood.co.za

Incorporating Fashion Show & TLTL Awards

Centre for Fine Art, Animation and Design
DLI Hall – 21 August 2009

CFAD (the Centre for Fine Art Animation and Design) in Durban’s CBD will host their annual graduation ceremony at the DLI Hall in Greyville on 21 August, which doubles as an unusual fashion showcasing some watershed and funky designs created by the CFAD students, and their annual TLTL (Too Little Too Late) Awards.

The coveted event – now in its ninth year – sees three significant events rolled into one fabulous evening. A sit-down banquet in the atmospheric DLI Hall provides the backdrop for the Centre for Fine Arts Animation and Design’s most important annual event. The overall theme of this year’s evening is Superheroes.

The formality of the institution’s graduation ceremony is a counterpoint to the fun, fantastical and frivolous organic fashions created by undergrad students which addresses the challenges of waste with a focus on recycling. This year the designers are all working to the theme of Bollywood Masala to be interpreted literally, figuratively or symbolically.

A key annual event is the institution’s acknowledgment of unsung heroes instrumental in weaving the complex fabric of our community. This year the TLTL awardees are The Consular Six – Thumba Pillay, Billy Nair, George Sewpersad, Archie Gumede, MJ Naidoo, Paul David and Mewa Ramgobind. These six political activists protested against Britain’s strong ties with the then South African government and as a protest action “took refuge” in the British Consulate building in Durban.

The Edge Award for art and media achievement goes to Karen Bradke of ArtSPACE Durban and Berlin.

For more info about CFAD, or to secure your space at the Graduation Dinner, contact Sasha on 031 305 2480.

Catalina Theatre: 22 August 09

World-acclaimed storyteller, Gcina Mhlophe joins tales with American storyteller, Valerie Tutson in Stories that Bind at the Catalina Theatre on 22 August.

Both these women have been travelling around the world sharing their magic and Durban audiences have the opportunity to see the duo live. With an array of tales up their respective sleeves, they have organised two diverse shows: the first – a morning show - for the younger audiences followed by stories from long ago which they have entitled – ‘Historytelling’ at 5pm.

Tutson who is from Rhode Island, has been telling stories since 1991. She has known Mhlophe since 1986 and it is the first time the two y come together to weave their words taking you on a magical ride through their fantasy world.

Tutson draws her stories from around the world with an emphasis on African traditions. Her repertoire includes stories and songs she learned in her travels to South Africa, her experiences in West Africa, stories from African American history.

In addition, Tutson has gained quite a reputation for her exciting retelling of age-old Bible stories.

Durban’s very own ‘Queen of Stories’, Mhlophe boasts, “I so look forward to sharing the stage with my U.S. Storytelling friend and showing her off to our Durban audiences. I have had so many wonderful requests to do another show in my hometown. The time has come.”

Mhlophe is chairman of TheatreBiz – the Board that serves the Catalina Theatre.

Show times are 11.00am for the children’s show and 5.00pm for the’ Historytelling’ adult show. Booking is through Thandeka on 031 305 6889. Tickets are available at the door.

Be mesmerised by two extra-ordinary tale-tellers at the Catalina Theatre with Gcina Mhlophe and Valerie Tutson in Stories that Bind.

The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

A season of contemporary dance inspired by albinism entitled Rejected Angels takes place at the Courtyard Theatre from 17 – 21 August.

Discrimination against albinos is a serious problem throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. Recently in Tanzania, albinism took a wicked twist with many people in Tanzania and across Africa believing albinos have magical powers. A growing trade in albino body parts in Tanzania is making headline news worldwide where witch doctors are marketing albino skin, bones and hair as ingredients for potions that will make people rich.

Rejected Angels addresses rumours and the strange beliefs made by witch doctors. Rituals using a bald head while fishing will instantly gain the believer wealth or, spreading blood from an albino on the ground in a mine will reveal gold. The rumours come and go but the problem is that the people believing in the witch doctors do not question them.

Albinism is hereditary; it is not an infectious disease and cannot be transmitted through contact, blood transfusions, or other vectors. The principal gene which results in albinism prevents the body from making the usual amounts of the pigment melanin.

Through movement, the second and third year drama students will tackle the issue of discrimination of albinism through cleverly choreographed works. Well known Durban based choreographers, Mdu Mtshali; Sifiso Majola; Musa Hlatshway and Sifiso Khumalo guide the students in this showcase. Mtshali also takes on the role of Director for this annual dance drama.

Following on from last year’s dance success called Bodies In Space that commented on contemporary South African life, the cutting edge choreographers brings his own voice and dance language to this dance piece.

The forever-evolving and hard working Durban University of Technology, Television, Drama and Production Studies have created a dance piece, Rejected Angels to highlight albinism at the Courtyard Theatre from 17 – 21 August.

Date: 17 August to 21 August 2009
Time: 19h00
Venue: The Courtyard Theatre (DUT Mansfield Road)
Tel: 031 373 2194
Email: lebohangs@dut.ac.za
Tickets available at the door

Glenwood Prep field: Fri 21 Aug

The Glenwood Community Proms will take place on Friday 21 August 2009 at Glenwood Preparatory School (Bath Road), starting at 18h30.

The KZN Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of Naum Rousine will perform an exciting programme of popular classics and chart topping hits with power-house vocalists Crystal Tryon, Sam Marais and Shelley McLean heading the line-up. The concert will also feature seven year old violinist Roxanne van Oudtshoorn, who recently made her debut with the KZNPO at the Young Performers Concert. Items featured on the programme include Save the last dance for me, Wind beneath my wings, Unforgettable, Can’t take my eyes off you and selections from Grease, Jungle Book and Chicago.

A musical feast for the whole family, this concert forms part of the Glenwood Festival, an initiative of the Glenwood Community Forum. Pack a picnic basket and bring the whole family for a relaxing evening of great entertainment. Tickets at R60 are available from Glenwood Prep School on 031 201 5165.

Schools Season
Catalina Theatre, 18 – 23 Aug 2009

Happiness Through the Mist, Imbumba Production’s delightful mini-musical, follows its Playhouse Loft triumph in May this year with a short schools season at the Catalina Theatre on Durban’s Wilson’s Wharf, from 18 to 23 August.

Written and directed by Zeph Nzama and starring Thabane Mahlobo, Scelo Ngobo and Muzi Mhlango, with Madala Kunene on guitar, Happiness Through the Mist offers popular entertainment for theatre goers of all communities who make up South African society, as it depicts the colourful life of Durban’s historic Umkhumbani in the 1950s.

A compelling mixture of infectious music, wry humour and dialogue, the show celebrates the extraordinary cultural heritage of Ethekwini’s historic Umkhumbane district, Durban’s equivalent of Johannesburg’s legendary Sophia Town and Cape Town’s former District Six. Umkhumbane, evacuated and flattened during apartheid to became known as Cato Manor, was the birth place of many legendary South African artists. These people grew up in a community which today is remembered as much for its colourful and vibrant community life as for the harsh realities of poverty and material deprivation they endured.

Performances of Happiness Through the Mist at the Catalina Theatre are at 10h00 and 12h00 daily. Tickets cost R30. Schools are advised to book early to avoid disappointment. Booking is on 031-309 6889.

Lutheran Church, Renshaw Rd: 15 August

The Maya Dance Company Belly Dancers are entering Miss Belly Dance South Africa in Johannesburg on 5 September 2009, and are holding a fundraiser show, to help cover the competition costs, on 15 August at the Lutheran Church in Renshaw road, Glenwood.

The two shows are at 15:30 and 19:00 and tickets are R50 for adults and R35 for kids under 12.

15 year old Carla Shepperson, is entering seven categories in the competition, as she competes for the title of Miss Belly Dance South Africa 2009, against some of the best professional Belly Dancers in the country! Carla was invited by the SADTA (South African Dance Teacher's Association) to perform solos in the Hilton arts festival and again at Shall We Dance at the Playhouse in 2008.

The Maya Performance group will be entering two group numbers in the competition - a Saidi Cane Dance, and a Modern Egyptian Dance. Lucille Kambarran, Ioleen Lazenby, Julie Pretorius and Candice Upfold will also be entering a solo dance in the competition. All the competition dances will be performed at the fundraiser show.

Please contact Senta on 082 829 3658 for more information and to buy your tickets for the fundraiser show.

Catalina Theatre: 30 July until 16 August 2009

Master Harold …and the Boys - Athol Fugard’s seminal three-hander drama about the complex relationship between a young white teenager and his two older black servant / companions, comes to the Catalina Theatre in Wilsons’s Wharf for a season designed primarily as a study aid to high school learners, from 30 July until 16 August.

Master Harold …and the Boys is a beautifully-crafted one-act play that takes place inside the St. George's Park Tea Room in 1950 Port Elizabeth (the year apartheid was enforced) on a rainy and windy afternoon. A profound and personal story, Master Harold echoes Fugard’s Eastern Cape boyhood and reflects on a particularly painful incident in Fugard’s own childhood.

Master Harold – Hally – is a youthful Eastern Cape teenager (Matthew Venturas) who spends most afternoons with the perceptive and wise Sam (Thabani Sibiya) and the more submissive, less sophisticated Willie (Loyiso MacDonald) - two middle aged male servants who work in his family’s “tea room”. He spends his afternoons doing school homework, while Sam and Willie tend the shop. Hally looks to Sam as a substitute father figure, as his own war-wounded, alcohol dependent father is noticeably absent. The taught and play examines the complex relationship between the two men and the young boy, using powerful imagery and memorable metaphors. It is a story about pride, hurt, fear and bigotry which was for many years banned in South Africa.

This time the director is DHS’s Shaun Gray.

Tickets are R65 and R50 concessions. Scholars group booking: R40pp. One free teacher per group of 10 pupils. Shows are 11am weekdays for school groups. Puvblic performances are Thurs and Fri at 8pm; Sat 5pm and 8pm and Sun at 2pm and 6pm.
To book call Thandeka on 031-305-6889 or email tsibisi@mweb.co.za. Catalina Theatre Tickets are now available online at www.strictlytickets.co.za or on our website at www.catalinatheatre.co.za or at www.goingplacesSA.co.za / www.goingplacesSA.com.

The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

Courtyard Theatre DUT: 17 – 21 August

Durban University of Technology, Television, Drama and Production Studies Presents the annual Dance Drama entitled REJECTED ANGELS - a season of Contemporary Dance inspired by Albinism."Discrimination against albinos is a serious problem throughout sub-Saharan Africa, but recently in Tanzania it has taken a wicked twist. Many people in Tanzania and across Africa, for that matter believe albinos have magical powers and witch doctors are now marketing albino skin, bones and hair as ingredients in potions that are promised to make people rich".

Rejected Angels addresses rumors and strange beliefs made by witch doctors that if you use a bald head when fishing you will get rich and If you spread an albino blood on the ground in a mine you will find gold. These rumors come and go but the problem is, the people who follow witch doctors do not question them.

This production involves all the second and third year Drama Students who specialise in Theatre Dance and showcases 4 works by acclaimed Durban based choreographers Mdu Mtshali, Sifiso Majola, Musa Hlatshwayo, Sifiso Khumalo and Directed by a Dance Lecturer Mdu Mtshali.

Date: 17 August to 21 August 2009
Time:19h00
Venue: The Courtyard Theatre (DUT Mansfield Road)
Tel: 031 373 2194
Email: lebohangs@dut.ac.za

Kizo Art Gallery, Gateway: 2 July – 2 Aug

Exhibiting Artists Names: Keith Calder, Clint Strydom, Gavin Rain, Taju, Welcome Danca and Bheki Khambule.

The Kizo Art Gallery, in Gateway Umhlanga, will host the official KZN launch of the 2010 African Fine Art Collection opening to the public on 3 July, featuring the first artworks to have been approved for inclusion in the 2010 African Fine Art Collection.

The exhibition at Kizo will include Keith Calder’s series of 11 exceptional bronzes entitled Footballers; Clint Strydom’s series of powerful black and white photographs which successfully capture and document the passion for soccer that exists in rural South African communities entitled The Real Heroes; Gavin Rain has produced some amazing works of neo-pointillism with images hidden within other images; Welcome Danca’s rich portraits of soccer in the streets; Bheki Khambule’s paintings of the host stadiums and works by Kenyan artist Taju will be showcased.

All of these works have been inspired by South Africa’s hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ and they have all been recognised as Official Licensed Products of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.

“In its 80 year history the FIFA World Cup™ has evolved into so much more than simply the most-watched sporting event on Earth,” said Spaull, “It has become a global symbol of excellence, bridging divides and uniting people around the world in a shared passion for the event. In 2010 it becomes even greater – with the first African FIFA World Cup™. To celebrate the world returning to Africa we are launching 2010 Fine Art – one of the largest and most ambitious international art collaborations in history.”

2010 Fine Art is a South African company that has acquired from the Global Brands Group, FIFA’s Master Licensee, a global license to produce and distribute fine art related to the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. “Fine art on this scale has never before been licensed for a FIFA World Cup™”, said Craig Mark, Managing Director of 2010 Fine Art. “As South Africans we are extremely proud that 2010, our FIFA World Cup™, will break this new ground. 2010 Fine Art will uplift, inspire and unite, creating new platforms to bring the world to Africa and take Africa to the world through art.”

The 2010 African Fine Art Collection will be extended to include more artists and aggressively promoted both locally and internationally in the run up to and during the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. For more information contact Nathi on 031 566 4322 or nathig@kizo.co.za or see www.kizo.co.za.

Eight Week Beginners Course - R360

La Lucia ~ Thursday 9 July - 27 August at 7:30 - 8:30pm
Glenwood ~ Tuesday 14 July - 1 September at 7:30 - 8:30pm
Contact Senta for a registration form / 082 829 3658 / senta@mayadance.co.za

After the course, all participants will be invited to join Maya Dance Company and continue with their Belly Dancing!

Please visit www.mayadance.co.za for more info on Belly Dancing and Maya Dance Company and our teaching Qualifications and Certifications!

Maya Dance Company
Board member of BDASA (Belly Dancing Association of South Africa)
Associate member of SADTA (South African Dance Teachers Association)

Catalina Theatre - Saturday 8 August at 6.30 pm

In honour of National Women’s Day, the annual women’s day event, Celebration of Women is being staged at the Catalina Theatre in Wilson’s Wharf on Saturday 8 August with a glittering line-up.

On arrival, the Catalina Theatre are treating the ladies to a welcome drink, finger snacks and a goodie bag that contains spa vouchers, magazines, uShaka and Nivea products. Generous giveaways will be up for grabs where one of the prizes is a cruise for you and your friends.

An outstanding programme for the evening includes up-and-coming Durban jazz fusion band, Black Cheese. Playing mostly fusion sounds of international flavour, Black Cheese will use the resonance of piano, bass, drums and vocals to entice you to ‘boogie’ to their fresh sounds. Black Cheese has been entertaining crowds for a year and has been gaining in musical stature.

For the ladies enjoying their special day, the sultry vocals of Brandon will add to the ambience of this special performance on a perfect winter’s evening.

Durban modelling agency, Boss Models Productions will present a brilliant fashion and beauty show, showing off the latest in trends. Garments being displayed are from Coco’s.

The evening will be filled with magical music moments, anecdotes, songs and fashion.

Tickets are R150 per person; time is 6:30pm till late .

To book call Thandeka on 031-305-6889 or email tsibisi@mweb.co.za. Catalina Theatre Tickets are now available online at www.strictlytickets.co.za or on our website at www.catalinatheatre.co.za or at www.goingplacesSA.co.za / www.goingplacesSA.com.

The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

PRESIDENT JACOB ZUMA TO ADDRESS NATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATIONS IN KWAZULU-NATAL PROVINCE

President Jacob Zuma will on Sunday, 09 August 2009, deliver a keynote address at the National Women’s Day celebrations in KwaZulu Natal province, Vryheid, Bhekuzulu Sports Grounds.

The 2009 National Women’s Day Celebrations are jointly hosted by the Ministry of Arts and Culture, the Ministry for Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities and the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government.

This year’s Women’s Day celebrations take place under the theme “Together empowering women for development and gender equality”, a call by government to all sectors of society, to unite in a national effort for the advancement of women in all spheres of our national life.

The 2009 Women’s Day celebrations mark the 53rd Anniversary of the historic 1956 Women’s anti-pass march and it is an opportunity to pay tribute to the ordinary women who have contributed to our liberation and to the building of a united, non-racial, non-sexist and democratic South Africa.

As a build-up to the main event, the two Ministries will on Saturday, 08 August 2009, host a gala dinner where 18 KwaZulu-Natal-based projects will receive funding to the value of R11.5 million as part the Department of Arts and Culture’s Investing in Culture Programme.

Through the Investing in Culture Programme, the Department provides empowerment opportunities for unemployed people through skills development, training and job creation. Since 2005, the programme has benefited 95 projects in Kwazulu Natal to the value of R54 million.

Government has made great strides towards the achievement of legislative equality between women and men. Many women have benefited from the expansion in the provision of basic services including water, electricity, sanitation and provision of social security benefits, amongst others. Government acknowledges that more still needs to be done to ensure that all women are uplifted from the conditions of poverty and underdevelopment.

Noting the importance of the social and the economic empowerment of women, Government has established a Ministry dedicated to serve the interests of women, children and persons with disabilities. The establishment of the new Ministry is an important milestone and will go down in history as one of the progressive steps in addressing the challenges facing women.

President Jacob Zuma will be accompanied by the Minister of Arts and Culture, Ms Lulu Xingwana, the Minister for Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities, Ms Noluthando Mayende-Sibiya, the Premier of KwaZulu Natal, Dr Zweli Mkhize and other senior government officials.

In addition to the national celebrations, various provinces will host mini-events in commemoration of the Women’s Month.

An exhibition celebrating the human form

The Anton Benzon @ Crouse Art Gallery from Sat 27 June.

Five exceptional South African artists are working to the theme of capturing the human form in its many shapes and guises. “The idea is to examine the human form and in so doing take visitors on a visual wander through the expression of what the human form portrays. Colourful brush strokes, bold lines and lifelike forms jump out at you while standing and admiring the canvases that adorn the gallery’s walls,” says Michelle Dodds of Crouse Gallery.

Capturing the true beauty of human figures at the Anton Benzon @ Crouse Art Gallery are artists Ina Van Schalkwyk; Elga Rabe; Jean Abrie; Linkie Lombard and Helena Wagenaar. Rabe and Lombard are no strangers to the Anton Benzon @ Crouse Art Gallery as they have delighted art lovers with their solo exhibitions of previous work.

Crouse Artdealers specialises in original SA art. They offer art of our country’s best artists like Anton Benzon, Diane Erasmus, Errol Boyley , Marie Vermeulen Breedt, Bea, Este Mostert, Annette Poulton, Luther Marais, Father Frans Claerhout, Cornelius Bosch, Andre De Beer, Robert Domijan, Christian Nice, Gabriel De Jongh, Lienkie Lombard, Johan Smit, Chris Tugwell, Portchie, Ina van Schalkwyk and many more.

It is owned by Michelle Dodds (who also runs the gallery) and Chris and Suzette Crouse.

Gallery hours are 9am til 4pm weekdays and 9am til noon on Saturdays. They are closed on Sundays. For more information to phone 031 312 2315 or visit their website – www.artdealers.co.za

For the duration of Wit, one of the walls in the Loft theatre will become a Wall of Remembrance to honour the lives of friends, colleagues and family whom we have lost to cancer. Please drop off photos of special people who have died of cancer so they photos can be pinned to the wall. They can be left with Trevor Draai at the Front of House office of the Playhouse. Please bring copies of photos (not precious originals) or if you prefer, pse email photos to illa@pubmat.co.za.

Wit is supported by the Grahamstown National Arts Festival and the National Arts Council..
Show times Wit
Tues 21 July – 8pm ; 22 – 8pm; 23 – 8pm; 24 – 8pm; 25 – 3pm and 8pm; 26 – 6pm
Tickets R100 throughout - Book at Playhouse boxoffice on 031 3699 555 or Computicket. Wit is a play best suited to adult audiences – rating: PG14.

Tues 21 – 8pm
Wed 22 – 8pm
Thurs 23 – 8pm
Fri 24 – 8pm
Sat 25 – 3pm and 8pm
Sun 26 – 6pm

Playhouse Loft Theatre: 21 – 26 July

Hilton Arts Festival: 20 September
Voted best of the fest by Beeld and Pretoria News!

Wit is that rare beast: art that engages both the heart and the mind. In Wit, Margaret Edson delves into timeless questions with no final answers: How should we live our lives knowing that we will die?

Wit was invited onto the Main festival this year of the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown – a huge honour and rarity for a Durban production. The reward was sold-out houses, great feedback and one of the most positive and rave reviews of the festival. Christina Kennnedy opens her review in festival daily newspaper, Cue, with: “Talk about ending the Festival with a theatrical bang… this is theatre of the highest order than engages both the head and the heart, no question about it. … (Clare) Mortimer’s performance will leave you reeling, Wit will leave you stunned.”

Wit stars the hugely talented Clare Mortimer, along with a multi-award winning supporting cast including Neil Coppen, Liv Borgen, Alison Cassels and Jimmy Lithgow. The two KZN stagings mark the first time this drama is being presented in KZN.

The play begins with Vivian Bearing (Clare Mortimer), a renowned professor of English saying, "It is not my intention to give away the plot, but I think I die at the end. They've given me less than two hours."

Wit will be staged at the Playhouse Loft Theatre from 21 – 26 July for seven performances only; and Hilton Arts Festival for one performance only on 20 September. Full details on the KicksArt website.

Wrap up release

Three days of superb weather greeted visitors to the 6th Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show this past weekend.

The most spectacular boat show to have taken place in Durban was laid out only at the Durban Marina where exhibitors compared the Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show to international renowned boat shows such as the Miami, Milan or Port Lauderdale Boat Shows.

Well over R150 Million worth of crafts floated in the exhibition area with 50 boats being in the water and another 50 boats on land were displayed for people to explore and discover.

Record crowds consistently flowed into the marina over the three days to find out more about all things aquatic and they were not disappointed. With boats arriving from all over the world to add to the international aspect of the show, boats that were built as far a field as Australia and America. Alongside them the exquisite locally built crafts glistened in the sunshine.

Included were fantastic jet ski displays, demo rides on some of the powerboats available, talks hosted by Garmin that included an in depth discussion of experiences by Bowman Ken Venn from the South African entry, Shosholoza in the America’s Cup and the fabulous Blokart that has been launched in the country from New Zealand that added to the fast and extreme aspect of the show.

Event Organiser, Barry Meehan beamed at the success of this year’s show, “We are delighted with the thousands of people that have come out to enjoy Durban’s winter weather. It is affirming to see the keen interest of the local public to water sports. Exhibitors were impressed with the entire show and the sales that have occurred over the weekend!”

Children enjoyed learning how to sail with Craig Millar’s developmental academy, Sail Africa, taking youngsters out in the colourful Sail Africa dinghies to experience sailing first hand. The Durban Model Boats Club gave lessons on how to control their spectacular miniature boats with their real size counter parts not too far away from them. Children watched intrigued as the model boats zipped along the water.

The Simply Sailing Regatta took place under challenging conditions in the channel of the Durban Harbour with hardly a breath available to assist the yachts. The skilled crews from around the province managed marvellously under the conditions to guide their boats around the course. It was lovely to see the youth that are coming through the sailing ranks at the regattas that take place in Durban and surrounds.

Look out for next years Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show that will be bigger and better at the Durban Marina.

Centre for Fine Art, Animation and Design

CFAD (the Centre for Fine Art Animation and Design) in Durban’s CBD is getting ready to host their annual Winter Vacation Young Artist Programme in which high school learners with an affinity to art and design, are given a taste of post-matric art studies in a college environment for the duration of the July school holidays.

The project – now in its ninth year – sees talented youngsters aged between 10 and 18 years working through an intensive art course, not usually offered at high school level. Among the modules covered will be drawing, painting, computer graphics, animation and introduction to Toon Boon animation.

The course runs from 11 – 18 July daily at the CFAD campus in Albany Grove.

“This project is part of CFAD’s long term commitment to create artistic opportunities for talented young people. We have had phenomenal response from running the course over previous years, and I am really looking forward to working with the class of 2009!” enthuses Nanda Soobben, Creative Director of CFAD.

Some of the participants who have already signed up, have done the course before. CFAD has kept in contact with many of the aspirate young art-makers and follows their careers with interest. One student in particular, Nicole Pillay, who was in the class of 2000 has gone onto to become a successful designer.

The Centre for Fine Art, Animation and Design (CFAD) is a tertiary institution that offers training in fine art, animation (2D and 3D) and graphic design. The CFAD was established in 1994 by world-renowned cartoonist, illustrator and journalist Nanda Soobben. It is from a need in the community that the institution was born.

For more info on the Winter Vacation Young Artist Programme and the other projects run at CFAD, contact Sasha on 031 305 2480.

uShaka Marine World Upper Deck: May 27 to July 18

Get ready to shake it all up to the sounds of the 60s with the Upper Deck supper theatre’s new musical extravaganza. Twist and Shout features the talents of Durban songbird Lauren Laing and dynamic boy-band Tequila Sunrise starring Jonothan Didlick, Lyle Buxton, Bradley Marshall and Cavin Sewell.

Featuring hits from artists such as the Beatles, the Doors, Dusty Springfield and the Mamas and Papas, the show promises to take guests on a long and winding walk down memory lane. All the favourites are included in the line-up from Doo Wah Diddy, Ferry Cross the Mersey and It’s My Party to Georgie Girl, These Boots, California Girls and She Loves You.

Durban “pop darling” and regular uShaka entertainer Lauren Laing made it to the top 20 in the 2002 Idols SA competition, and has shared the stage with the likes of Garth Taylor and Amore Vittone. Tequila Sunrise performed in the Upper Deck’s show Let’s Hear it for the Boys in August last year and again, by popular demand, over the festive season. They also featured in the uShaka Christmas extravaganza Dolphins by Starlight in December. Twist and Shout on the Upper Deck will be staged Wednesday to Saturday nights at 8pm (dinner starts at 7pm) from May 27 to July 18. Tickets at R150 per person include a delicious buffet menu. Bookings can be made at 031 328 8068 or Computicket.

Playhouse Opera from 3 July to 19 July

These July holidays will be made livelier and brighter for the whole family with a welcome return of KickstArt’s award-winning production of the colourful children’s classic, Winnie-the-Pooh, at the Playhouse Opera from 2 July to 19 July

This charming production played to capacity houses and was hailed by critics as the holiday highlight of 2006.

Now, the celebrated team of director Steven Stead and designer Greg King, will be remounting this holiday favourite for a limited two and a half week season. The production is being re-directed by Peter Court from Steven Stead’s original 2006 production. Set design is again by Greg King, lighting design is by Mike Broderick, musical direction by Justin Southey and costume design is by Peter Court.

The delightful adventures of Winnie-the Pooh, Christopher Robin and their funny, loveable friends in the Hundred Acre Wood, are bought to vivid life by a first-class professional cast, and select team of talented younger actors. Catchy, hummable songs are by the inventive local composer, Justin Southey.

The cast is much the same as it was in the original 2006 production, with Rowan Bartlett heading the company as the loveable bear, and Carol Trench flying out from Norway to don squeaky Piglet’s fat suit. Other seasoned professional cast members include Peter Court (Eeyore), Anthony Stonier (Rabbit), Michael Gritten (Tigger), Liesl Coppin (Kanga) and Marc Kay (Owl).

Book at Computicket, and for more information visit KickstArt’s website: www.kickstart-theatre.co.za.

Performances are scheduled Tues-Sun at 2.30pm, and Fridays at 7pm. Tickets are priced at R100 (adults) and R80 (children under 12) throughout. There is a special low price preview on Fri 3 July (R80 throughout).

RAINBOW YOUNG PERFORMERS PROJECT 2009

Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre: 3 - 19 July

This year’s Young Performers Project, which is for the first time supported by Rainbow is Big River – The Adventure of Huckleberry Finn to be staged at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre over the July school holidays.

The Young Performers Project is an annual event which takes place every July over the school holidays. The performers are all high school learners, but the context is strictly professional.

Themi Venturas directs Big River – The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn the family musical version of Mark Twain’s profound adventure classic Huckleberry Finn story which reminds us that two people from very different backgrounds can share a commonality and embark on an astonishing life adventure together.

Big River – The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn will be on during the July School Holidays and is suitable for the whole family. It is supported by Rainbow.

For more information contact the Catalina Theatre on 031 305 6889.

An evening of poetry and jazz with Nelisa Kala

The Catalina Theatre, 18 & 19 July

The Awakening is a multi-art production which comprises spoken-word poetry, acoustic music and the visual arts written and composed by Nelisa Kala which comes to the Catalina Theatre in Wilson’s Wharf for two performances only on 18 and 19 July.

“The production promotes a spiritual awakening of emotion, positive creative expression and change. It amalgamates several styles of art into one production and explores emotion as it moves through anger, passion, pain, love and finally spiritual growth,” says Kala, a radio personality on East Coast Radio and an avid writer whose poetry is often featured online and in print media.

The eclectic combination of various genres of music with traditional Xhosa, Zulu, French and English lyrics intends to appeal to a mass audience. Coupled with moving poetry, this production will lead the way in avant-garde artistic movements. It comprises all of her original poetry and music which, with the accompaniment of a small ensemble, progresses into a divinely-inspired masterpiece as an artist, Sandy Doherty-Bigara, paints the backdrop to the evolving project.

Key to the evening is Sandy Doherty-Bigara who is both an artist and will be doing backing vocals. Also performing is Keith Naidoo on lead guitar; on bass guitar is Donovan Banks; on keyboard is Lazarus Pillay and on drums is Ross Viljoen.

The official launch of the production is due to take place on 18 July 2009 at the Catalina Theatre in Durban, with a second show scheduled for19 July 2009. The launch date was chosen to commemorate Nelson Mandela Day, a man without whom this production and the opportunities that come thereof would not be possible.

To book call Thandeka on 031-305-6889 or email tsibisi@mweb.co.za. Catalina Theatre Tickets are now available online at www.strictlytickets.co.za or on our website at www.catalinatheatre.co.za or at www.goingplacesSA.co.za / www.goingplacesSA.com.

The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

Preparations are well under way

Preparations for the sixth Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show that takes place this weekend (17 – 19 July) are well under way at the Durban Marina.

Moorings are being placed for the public to have easy access to all the stunning crafts that will be on display on the water. This year the show will have the most number of floating boats displayed compared to previous years, with 50 beauties that the public can investigate and discover.

Regulars will find the new Show layout far easier to negotiate, as the entire Boat Show is situated only at the Durban Marina, extending from the Point Yacht Club, past the Royal Natal Yacht Club and extending up to Café Fish.

Beautiful craft will be on display for the public to come and admire. Multi-hulls, sailing and powerboats will all be open for people to explore, discover and perhaps, own. All things aquatic can be found at this year’s Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show, the only boat show in South Africa to have these magnificent craft displayed in their natural habitat - on and around the water.

The well-known Royal Cape Catamaran named Fennessy that stopped traffic is back in its natural habitat and invites people to explore her luxurious space.

The biggest Catamaran that has ever been displayed at the Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show has travelled down from Richard’s Bay and her mast towers above all other crafts that are moored in the Durban Marina. This Phenomenal Cat is the first ever off the production line, so Durban is in for a treat exploring this 18m Super Cat.

The latest in fun-filled sports is the newest innovation from New Zealand, the fabulous Blokart. This windsurfer, built for land, has a sail that naturally propels the buggy forward. The three wheeled cart has the operator sitting in it while zipping along, reaching speeds dictated by the wind velocity.

New to the show is an option to enjoy life under the water. Calypso Dive and Adventure Centre will have a presence, tempting people to come and feel the serenity of life beneath the waves.

If adrenaline is what you fancy, then take your place in the two-seater Formula One Powerboat that will be on display. Acclaimed SA champion, Paul Shepard will be chatting about his fast paced life in the incrediabley powerful boat.

Garmin will enthrall visitors with their awesome indoor display. Every marine situation from Bass, Deep Sea and Ski Fishing, Sailing and Power boats will have live kits displayed at their stand.

As far as parking at the Show goes, there will be limited space available at the Durban Marina. Patrons are advised to park on the Esplanade, or at the Esplande Parking Garage (immediately opposite the Show entrance) or at the Point Yacht Club Visitors’ Parking. Another great option is to park on the island at Wilson’s Wharf. This parking area is being run by the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), and the R5 fee will go towards their much-needed funding initiative. A free Springbok-Atlas shuttle bus service runs between Wilson’s Wharf and the Durban Marina permanently during the Show. Ferries are also available from Berth One at Wilson’s and the refuel jetty at the Durban Marina - R20 one-way and R30 round trip.

The sixth Durban International Boat and Leisure Show from 17 – 19 July will definitely keep the whole family occupied with a feast of activities to choose from.

For more information on all aspects of the event, go to: www.durbaninternationalboatshow.co.za

CFAD, 201 Salbany House, Albany Grove still on display

23 unemployed post-matric youth with an aptitude for the creative industries from South of Durban have been learning valuable design skills as part of the South Durban Basin Youth Art Skills Programme currently being conducted at the Centre for Fine Art Animation and Design (CFAD) in Durban’s CBD.

“This project is part of CFAD’s long term commitment to create artistic opportunities for unemployed school leavers. I am really impressed with the commitment and enthusiasm of the learners, they are a fine group of young people!” enthuses Nanda Soobben, Creative Director of CFAD.

Eurakha Singh, social development manager, of Ethekwini Municipality, area based management team approached CFAD with the possibility of training unemployed youth in art and design. Through a consultative process with Nanda Soobben, director of CFAD, and Krish Moodley, academic director, a programmme was devised to empower the learners with basic knowledge and skill to become young design entrepreneurs and creative problem-solvers. The programme aims to capture their interest and encourage a positive expression of their energy, as well as provide adequate skills for them to be able to ultimately earn a living from their newly-acquired craft.

An exhibition of their work is on public show at the CFAD campus (201 Salbany House, Albany Grove) which is open weekdays, office hours. For more info contact 031 305 2480.

Durban Marina: 17 – 19 July

The sixth annual Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show will display everything new and exciting in the world of boating at the Durban Marina from Friday 17 to Sunday 19 of July.

Regulars will find the new Show layout far easier to negotiate, as the entire Boat Show is situated only at the Durban Marina, extending from the Point Yacht Club, past the Royal Natal Yacht Club and extending up to Café Fish.

Beautiful craft will be on display for the public to come and admire. Multi-hulls, sailing and powerboats will all be open for people to explore, discover and perhaps, own. All things aquatic can be found at this year’s Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show, the only boat show in South Africa to have these magnificent craft displayed in their natural habitat - on and around the water.

The latest in fun-filled sports is the newest innovation from New Zealand, the fabulous Blokart. This windsurfer, built for land, has a sail that naturally propels the buggy forward. The three wheeled cart has the operator sitting in it while zipping along, reaching speeds dictated by the wind velocity.

New to the show is an option to enjoy life under the water. Calypso Dive and Adventure Centre will have a presence, tempting people to come and feel the serenity of life beneath the waves.

If adrenaline is what you fancy, then take your place in the two-seater Formula One Powerboat that will be in the water. Acclaimed SA champion, Paul Shepard will be taking adventure-junkies for a lightning-fast lap or two around the harbour.

Garmin will enthrall visitors with their awesome indoor display. Every marine situation from Bass, Deep Sea and Ski Fishing, Sailing and Power boats will have live kits displayed at their stand.

The Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show will also feature hands-on demonstrations of exhibitor boats throughout the Show period.

The Simply Sailing Regatta takes place over the weekend of the Show. This all-class event will feature everything that sails, from radio-controlled yachts, through dinghies, hobies and multihulls, up to racing and cruising yachts. An excellent viewpoint for the public will be the lawns of the Royal Natal Yacht Club, which will be open to all Boat Show patrons for the duration of the Show. Join in their beer garden atmosphere, and sample the enticing menus on offer. On the other side of the Show, the Point Yacht Club will also be open to all, enticing hungry patrons with their renowned buffet menu. Durban’s premier fish restaurant with possibly the best view in the City, Café Fish, will be offering patrons their normal mouth-watering menu items, as well as succulent fishy take-aways on their front deck over the Boat Show weekend.

Sticking to the theme of fish restaurants, the first 3,000 paying patrons that visit the Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show will be rewarded with a R20 John Dory’s Voucher from Wilson’s Wharf, so make sure you get yours by visiting the Show on the Friday or Saturday.

As far as parking at the Show goes, there will be limited space available at the Durban Marina. Patrons are advised to park on the Esplanade, or at the Esplande Parking Garage (immediately opposite the Show entrance) or at the Point Yacht Club Visitors’ Parking. Another great option is to park on the island at Wilson’s Wharf. This parking area is being run by the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), and the R5 fee will go towards their much-needed funding initiative. A free Springbok-Atlas shuttle bus service runs between Wilson’s Wharf and the Durban Marina permanently during the Show. Ferries are also available from Berth One at Wilson’s and the refuel jetty at the Durban Marina - R20 one-way and R30 round trip.

The sixth Durban International Boat and Leisure Show from 17 – 19 July will definitely keep the whole family occupied with a feast of activities to choose from.

For more information on all aspects of the event, go to: www.durbaninternationalboatshow.co.za

Catalina Theatre: Until 12 July 2009

Written and performed by Grant Jacobs and Rory Booth

Presented in association with TheatreBIZ

Following the amazing success of Festive Fun with Bob and Rob, the talented Grant Jacobs and Rory Booth have come up with a sequel for the June/July holidays – The Further Adventures of Rob and Bob.

Two of the theatre community’s most hard-working rising stars and Catalina regulars, Rory Booth and Grant Jacobs, have jointly devised, scripted, created and directed a delicious story about brothers Bob and Rob who go on another fabulous adventure and learn important life lessons en-route. This production is especially relevant to little boys as the focus of their adventure this time takes them into the world of TV and technology.

The Further Adventures of Bob and Rob is perfect for children. It is only 45 minutes long, so is suitable for the little-ones. Tickets include a boat ride around the harbour to make a full morning’s entertainment for families. Bring warm clothes to stay snug during the boat ride because it can get cold in the harbour!

To book call Thandeka on 031-305-6889 or email tsibisi@mweb.co.za. Catalina Theatre Tickets are now available online at www.strictlytickets.co.za or on our website at www.catalinatheatre.co.za or at www.goingplacesSA.co.za / www.goingplacesSA.com.

Shows are at 11am daily including Mondays / seven days a week from 27 June – 12 July 2009.
Tickets cost R45 for show and boat ride, or R30 for show only.

The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

KickstArt presents Margaret Edson’s Wit

Grahamstown Festival: 9 – 11 July
Playhouse Loft Theatre: 21 – 26 July
Hilton Arts Festival: 20 September

Wit is that rare beast: art that engages both the heart and the mind. In Wit, Edson delves into timeless questions with no final answers: How should we live our lives knowing that we will die?

KickstArt presents Margaret Edson’s multi-award winning play, Wit, which opens in Grahamstown at the National Arts Festival, before coming to the Playhouse Loft in July for a short season and the Hilton Festival in September for one performance only.

Tickets – Computicket

Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre: 23 – 30 June

The inimitable music duo of Ian von Memerty and Rory Rootenberg Rory and Ian, are two of South Africa’s best-loved entertainers and they’ve joined forces in a hilarious and moving not-to-be-missed journey down musical lane. The inimitable music duo of Ian von Memerty and Rory Rootenberg perform highlights from their favourite musicals. This show has played to full house in both Cape Town and Johannesburg, and will be back for a 1 week season only. Together these old colleagues and friends provide an evening filled with heart, great harmony, mutual enjoyment and some of the finest moments from their acclaimed careers.

CFAD, 201 Salbany House, Albany Grove frm Sat 27 June

23 unemployed post-matric youth with an aptitude for the creative industries from South of Durban have been learning valuable design skills as part of the South Durban Basin Youth Art Skills Programme currently being conducted at the Centre for Fine Art Animation and Design (CFAD) in Durban’s CBD.

“This project is part of CFAD’s long term commitment to create artistic opportunities for unemployed school leavers. I am really impressed with the commitment and enthusiasm of the learners, they are a fine group of young people!” enthuses Nanda Soobben, Creative Director of CFAD.

Eurakha Singh, social development manager, of Ethekwini Municipality, area based management team approached CFAD with the possibility of training unemployed youth in art and design. Through a consultative process with Nanda Soobben, director of CFAD, and Krish Moodley, academic director, a programmme was devised to empower the learners with basic knowledge and skill to become young design entrepreneurs and creative problem-solvers. The programme aims to capture their interest and encourage a positive expression of their energy, as well as provide adequate skills for them to be able to ultimately earn a living from their newly-acquired craft.

An exhibition of their work is on public show at the CFAD campus (201 Salbany House, Albany Grove) which is open weekdays, office hours. For more info contact 031 305 2480.

1. Calling Bands! / Musos

26, 27, 28 June
Open Mic stage – free opportunity to perform as part of Mr Price Pro Ballito
Send demo tape and band info to info@swank.co.za
Committee to decide by 19 June.

2. Calling Clubs, Societies and organsiations

26, 27, 28 June
A display area to be set up infront of the pharmacy for clubs, societies and organisaitons
Are you part of a camera club, radio controlled cars cub, croquet club, tennis club, civic organization and do you want an opportunity to interact with the public?
Send info and motivation to info@swank.co.za
Committee to decide by 19 June.

2. Calling artists and crafters

26, 27, 28 June
A display area to be set up for artists – art in the sun - and a separate area for crafters – the craft market – to showcase hande-made and local works of art and craft.
Send info and motivation to info@swank.co.za
Committee to decide by 19 June.

For additional info, contact Chantal Pillay on 032 946 1997
KwaDuduza / Dolphin Coast tourism .

Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre: 16 – 21 June

The remarkable vocal talent of Rory Rootenberg returns to the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre from 16 June, with his delicious production of Cadenza and More.

The intoxication and infectious “musical mampoer” has been touring South Africa for over 12 years – allowing hundreds of audience members nationwide to have endless “cadenzas”. Laughs and gasps abound as Rootenberg takes audiences on a delightful magical musical journey that takes one from the romantic to the ridiculous.

Having started his career being one of the brothers in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Rootenberg spread his wings under the guidance of Ian Von Memerty in 1995 with his first solo production of Cadenza. Having now performed literally hundreds of performances internationally, this former Drakensburg Choir singing maestro has played roughly 750 shows in total in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe. He teams up with Durban-based pianist, Anne Duthie, to cover a myriad styles from Afrikaans liedjies to Abba; from La Boheme to Lloyd Webber; from Bizet to Brel; and lots in between that Puccini never dreamed of!

Cadenza and More is a combination of all of the most requested items from his various shows during the past few years and provides an opportunity for him to showcase his impressive vocal range and falsetto of approximately four and a half octaves. The compilation show has been showered with awards including seven VITA Awards.

Rootenberg’s musical diversity, wonderful sense of humour, charming anecdotes and astonishing variety of songs will have audiences rollicking. Rootenberg has been entertaining audiences in such diverse roles as children’s theatre, pantomime, musicals and cabaret. Durban audiences can look forward to a romp through musical genres with this “master-voice” of South Africa with the fantastic support of Duthie as she accompanies him on piano, adding to the atmosphere of brilliance.

Cadenza and More is being performed Tuesday – Thursday 07h30pm
Friday 08h00pm
Saturday 03h00pm and 08h00pm
Sunday 03h00pm.
Tickets are R125.00 each and are available through Computicket.

Join Rory Rootenberg as he whisks you through the musical ages with his wonderful performance of Cadenza and More at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre from 16 June.

featuring Zebra & Giraffe

Durban Botanic Gardens: Sunday 21 June 2009 @ 2:30pm

Performing for the first time in the Durban Botanic Gardens at the Old Mutual Music at the Lake concert series is the up and coming SAMA Award winning group Zebra & Giraffe. The Friends of the Durban Botanic Gardens and East Coast Radio, Durban’s No 1, invite you to come and enjoy your picnic at the lake and support another of South Africa’s highly rated rock bands.

The band will be performing numbers from their 2008 album “Collected Memories” which has received rave reviews and has produced three hit singles, namely “The Knife”, “Arm Yourself” and Oxymoron”.

Opening the concert at 2:30pm is the group Starplayer comprising Ryan Lunn on vocals and guitar, Scoop on bass, Antony Ellis on drums and Nigel Seed also plays guitar. This band has played various music concerts and forms a perfect partnership with Zebra & Giraffe in the rock music genre.

Tickets - Gates open at 12:30pm. Only R100p/p.
Concession tickets of R50 children 6yrs to 12yrs available now through Computicket 083 915 8000
And also from the Info Centre in the Durban Botanic Gardens on 031-3091170 (open 7 days /week).

For more information about this and other concerts in the Durban Botanic Gardens, visit our website for more information - www.durbanbotanicgardens.org.za

An exhibition of paintings by Diane Erasmus
The Anton Benzon @ Crouse Art Gallery – 16 May.
254 Lillian Ngoyi / Windermere Rd Morningside, Durban.

South Coast painter Diane Erasmus will be the next artist under the spotlight at the Anton Benzon @ Crouse Art Gallery in Durban’s Lillian Ngoyi Rd in Morningside, with her second solo exhibition at this spacious gallery entitled The Sky’s the Limit, set to be open to the public from Saturday 16 May.

“The sky is the limit reminds us that the process of learning is never ending. We never actually get to a point where there is not something more to experience,” says Erasmus.

The title takes on a literal response as well. Erasmus works from a quant Ramsgate studio which she shares with artist and Crouse Gallery muse Anton Benzon. Renovations to the studio has meant that their work space is now elevated and has an expansive view of the ocean. Erasmus spends times drawing the skies from her window – particularly at sunrise and sunset. She describes the space as her “studio in the sky”.

“The sunrise and sunsets are exquisite. It is the most auspicious time of day for contemplative prayer and spiritual time to absorb and listen to God. There is so much interference and noise during the course of the working day that one appreciates the quiet time at the beginning and end of every day. Looking from my window I can see the sky. It really is God’s masterpiece. And for an artist, every day is different and is a constant inspiration,”

Erasmus has been experimenting with huge vistas of skies – both literal and interpretative - a selection of which will be on display at her new solo exhibition.

As well as her skyscapes, Erasmus favours moody seascapes and emotive landscapes. Erasmus is known for her series of florals, Namaqualand scapes and Drakensberg vistas. She works in oils and acrylics. Her work boasts an extraordinary sense of light and surprising palette of colours in impressionist-inspired textured paintings.

Erasmus was born and educated in Port Elizabeth. In 1990 she began painting under the guidance of Rob Wareing, She was later influenced by Titta Faschiotti, a personal friend who helped develop her natural ability to capture the essence of the fall of light.

Having painted professionally for close on 20 years, Erasmus has acquired a growing reputation as a sensitive and highly-original artist with a unique style all of her own. She believes that it is preferable to paint from life as this heightens the authenticity and spontaneity of the work and enhances the atmosphere which the image inspires.

Crouse Artdealers specialises in original SA art. They offer art of our country’s best artists like Anton Benzon, Diane Erasmus, Errol Boyley , Marie Vermeulen Breedt, Bea, Este Mostert, Annette Poulton, Luther Marais, Father Frans Claerhout, Cornelius Bosch, Andre De Beer, Robert Domijan, Christian Nice, Gabriel De Jongh, Lienkie Lombard, Johan Smit, Chris Tugwell, Portchie, Ina van Schalkwyk and many more.

It is owned by Michelle Dodds (who also runs the gallery) and Chris and Suzette Crouse. Gallery hours are 9am til 4pm weekdays and 9am til noon on Saturdays. They are closed on Sundays. For more information to phone 031 312 2315 or visit their website – www.artdealers.co.za

Heritage Theatre, Hillcrest: 16 – 21 June

POW: John Vlismas' new one-man show which comes to the Heritage Theatre in Hillcrest from 16 – 21 June, promises a twist like never before - 70 minutes of dark observation, outrageous opinion and thought-provoking belly laughter - all without the use of his signature foul language.

Imagine a show so profoundly funny that even profanity dare not rear its ugly, albeit hilarious, head. This time around John Vlismas will be returning from his long running gig as King of the Comedy Underground to break new ground. His David Blaine-like focus will see him through the never before attempted challenge of getting through 70 minutes of outrageous opinion, dark observation and thought provoking barbs without so much as a 'gosh darnit'.

"I was challenged by someone that I couldn't be funny without swearing. Obviously, I told him to *&(^& himself while his mother &*^% $&% the *^&^ of a sailor with her &^%%^ while the dockyard dog (*&^ his )(*&). But then I thought about it. How hard could it be to make a show just as challenging, just as dangerous and just as funny as I always want them to be without using all my favourite words? If Julius Malema can get where he is, and George Bush can score two terms, and Steve Hofmeyer can survive a suicide bombing by his own colon, why can't I be "black and clean?"

Durban comedian, Simmi Areff opens for Vlismas on select performances.

The show ticket includes a delicious two course meal, with coffee and pudding options. To book contact the Heritage Theatre - 031 7654197, or online at www.heritagetheatre.co.za

Auditions for annual festive season adult panto
2pm Friday 5 June: Rhumbelow Theatre, Umbilo

Preparations are underway for the 14th annual festive season adult panto, Sinderella, which comes to the Jubilee Hall in UKZN. All that is needed is a leading lady and her devoted companion!

Auditions for the roles of Sinderella and Buttons will be held on Friday 5 June at 2pm at the Rhumbelow Theatre in Cunningham Rd Umbilo.

Audition candidates will need to prepare one song to sing which best shows their vocal range and skill, and bring either a pianist or backing tracks to perform. They will also be required to show their acting and dancing skills – to this end, they will be given a scripted-excerpt to present and shown a dance routine to follow.

Successful candidates should be available to rehearse from mid September. The Pietermaritzburg run is at the Hexagon Theatre from 26 October, and the Durban run at the Jubilee Hall is from the 3 November until 31 December.

For more information – or to book your audition spot.
Contact Sue on 082 882 98 69.
Candidates should bring a detailed CV.
A print photo of themselves.
And their contact details.

New date for rained out concert

Durban Botanic Gardens - Sunday 14 June at 2:30pm

Old Mutual and East Coast Radio Durban’s No 1, invite you to enjoy a “new” special day in the Durban Botanic Gardens in celebration of moms and the wonderful MEMORIES of times spent in the beautiful Durban Botanic Gardens. The new date for our Mother’s Day Concert is on Sunday, 14 June and it will be themed “MEMORIES”.

Anyone who purchased tickets for 10 May, may be use them on Sunday 14 June only.

The theme of the concert is “Memories are made of this..” to celebrate the 160th anniversary of the Durban Botanic Gardens. If you have any stories and pictures recording a special event or visit to the Gardens, we invite you to drop them off at our Info Centre with your name and contact details.

The KZN Philharmonic Orchestra will present the same musical programme under conductor Lykele Temmingh, with guest artists Melanie Roberts and Natalie Rungan.
There will be a special appearance by the KZN Youth Orchestra at 1:45pm

Tickets - Only R80p/p. Concession tickets of R20 children 6yrs to 12yrs available now through Computicket - 083 915 8000 and also from the Info Centre in the Durban Botanic Gardens - 031-3091170 (open 7 days /week) - Gates open at 12:30pm.

For more information about this and other concerts in the Durban Botanic Gardens, visit our website for more information - www.durbanbotanicgardens.org.za or contact the Info Centre in the or the Friends Office weekdays – 031 2025819

Playhouse: Saturday 13 June

Lovers of Indian Classical Music are in for a treat when the sitar genius Ustad Shahid Parvez graces South Africa with a three city concert tour titled Two Shades of Raga.
Ustad Shadid Parvez will be accompanied on table by leading table player Akram Khan. The concert is a double bill and also features master flautist Rupak Kulkarni accompanied on table by Anubrata Chatterjee.
Book at Computicket

19 May – 14 June RETURNS TO DURBAN AFTER A NATIONAL SUCCESS

The 2008 run was so well received that this top show will be touring the country again - South Africa’s most successful two hander revue is back. This hilarious two-man piano show, conceived and originally performed by Ian von Memerty and Bryan Schimmel returns with all of its ever green appeal intact along with some dazzling new material. Don’t miss this phenomenon - seen by more than 250 000 people, in more than 750 performances on 3 continents.

Roelof Colyn “the witty, urbane, master of comic timing” - had the press eating out of his hand and thrilled audiences with his ‘musical mastery and goofy charm’. He is joined by the extraordinarily talented newcomer, Jonathan Roxmouth, who has been igniting stages around the country with his performances as Amadeus “a totally unique pianistic madman’, Buddy “an assured, powerful, versatile talent’ and Vince Fontaine “a born show-stealer- truly outstanding”.

Two men at two grand pianos give a dazzling display of pianistic virtuosity and hilarious impersonation. A performance of constant surprise, intelligence and wit, and music that ranges from the great classic masters of Bach and Beethoven, through the kings of soul Ray Charles and Fats Waller, via the queens of show biz and pop Elton John, Freddy Mercury and Liberace – A Handful of Keys is a completely South African product of international standard

Featuring LOYISO – Sunday 31 May 2009 Durban Botanic Gardens – 2:30pm

Top South African R&B artist Loyiso is appearing for the first time at the Old Mutual Music at the Lake concert series on Sunday 31 May. Old Mutual and East Coast Radio, Durban’s No 1, invite you to come and support one of South Africa’s icons in music and fashion.

Loyiso Bala is highly respected as one of South Africa’s multi-faceted R&B artists. He will be singing his newest and most popular material at this his debut appearance in the Gardens. Singles from his current album “I want you” “Blow your Mind” , Take me Back” and “Dali Wami” were simultaneously all on the Top 100 radio charts in South Africa late last year. The Pixie Bennett Band will appear as the guest artists who will open the concert at 2:30pm. Pixie Bennett’s participation in the recent Idols competition has helped to expand her band growing fan base who has been part of the Durban music scene for several years.

Tickets - Book your tickets early through Computicket and don’t miss out on this special treat to hear your favourite R&B artist.
Gates open at 12:30pm.
Only R100p
Concession tickets of R50 children 6yrs to 12yrs available now through Computicket 083 915 8000 and also from the Info Centre in the Durban Botanic Gardens on 031-3091170 (open 7 days /week)

For more information about this and other concerts in the Durban Botanic Gardens, visit our website for more information - www.durbanbotanicgardens.org.za
or contact the Info Centre in the or the Friends Office weekdays – 031 2025819

Catalina Theatre: 28 – 31 May 2009

Presented in association with TheatreBIZ.

Durban’s favourite bluesman returns to the Catalina from 28 until 31 May on his latest tour of South Africa.

Guitar Wiz Dan Patlansky is an incongruous package – oozing rock star sex appeal he smashes stereotypes – not your average blues guitarist and not your average ambassador for Durban either – but he is both and more, and is eager to play at the Catalina Theatre on Wilson’s Wharf from 28 – 31 May.

He comes to the Catalina bearing gifts – a whole album full of great new original tunes from his third album: Real. He will not be ignoring by now signature tunes from his earlier albums – True Blues (2004) and Dan Patlansky and the Missippi Muthers – Standing at the Station (2000).

For more information or to book, contact the Catalina Theatre on 031 3056889.
Full Price: R75
Pensioners & Students: R50
BUY 1 GET 1 FREE: Sat @ 5pm & Sun @ 2pm

The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

Exactly five years ago, the suburb of Glenwood turned a corner when an ambitious community-spirited restaurateur Darryl Hofmann opened a modest but watershed restaurant / café Yossi’s.

Yossi’s pioneered the busy Glenwood strip. Their opening encouraged others to follow, resulting in one of Durban’s treasurers – the bustling, vibey Davenport Rd restaurant and café precinct.

It was Hofmann’s tenacity and vision coupled with his strong sense of community spirit which has set the tone for what followed. Despite the activity and volume of visitors to the area, it still feels like “popping up to the local” - it hasn’t lost its strong sense of intimacy and friendliness.

Yossi’s has grown from strength to strength, but has not lost any of its casual bohemian charm. It still serves an array of spicy, fragrant Moroccan inspired dishes. It still offers candle light and comfy cushions. For their birthday season, they are reverting to their opening menu for regulars to enjoy some culinary nostalgia.

Understanding that money is tight, Hofmann has introduced some Mad Moroccan Monday night specials for the budget conscious and has created a range of especially affordable meals.

Keeping the celebratory mood, Hofmann is offering a free glass of wine with every meal from original menu served during May, and for theatre-goers, if they produce their theatre ticket, they can enjoy a free cappuccino or glass of wine with their after show meal. Hofmann is particularly grateful for the on-going support of the arts and theatre communities and loves hosting patrons who come for a bite after gallery openings or theatre shows.

Yossi’s fifth birthday season starts on Thursday 14 May. The public are welcome to enjoy the specials and re-live the fab food to be found on the menu five years ago!
Yossi’s is open for lunch and dinner most days and can be found on 127 Davenport Rd Glenwood

ICC: 8pm - Sat 30 May 09

After the sell-out production of the 99% Zulu Comedy in March at the Playhouse, the producers decided bring the show back for one show only on 30 May at the ICC Durban Arena due to the overwhelming public demand.

The show will, for the first time host one of South Africa’s biggest comedians, Marc Lottering. He will share the stage with the Zulu Queens of Comedy, the talented Sne Mkhize and Celeste Ntuli. Vusi Ximba perform at the ICC for the first time since his recent illness. The winner of SABC1’s So You Think You’re Funny? Sifiso Nene will prove his mettle as a formidable force in the comedy circuit.

The Ntuzuma-born Siyabonga Radebe, known for his comical role in the SABC1 drama series A Place Called Home, will be a surprise comic find in the programme.

However the real big underdog at the show will be Ndumiso Lindi. Known for his trade mark hat, funky urban stylish look and brilliant impersonations, Ndumiso Lindi is regarded as one of South Africa’s top black comedians. An entertainer with flair, Lindi delves into honest observations of everyday life in South Africa; the diversity of South African cultures; as well as the uniqueness of black people – he paints the nation from a young black man’s point of view.

On Saturday, 30 May Durban and the broader KZN will be treated to new levels of comedy in a show whose programme will be directed by the popular Kenny Makenzo. DJ Siyanda will spin from his “old school” vinyl collection throughout the show. The show will start promptly at 20h00 and tickets are available at Computicket and Shoprite/Checkers for R120.

Playhouse Drama: 16- 31 May

One of the countries most applauded living treasures, Ronnie Govender, will appropriately be celebrating his 75th birthday on stage as he opens Thunsil, a new production featuring excerpts of his best loved works, from 16 May in the Playhouse Drama featuring a celeb-studded cast.

Thunsil (Tamil for mischief-maker) will feature a narrative of the author’s literary journey interspersed with stirring and memorable moments from his acclaimed plays.
Govender has gathered a veritable “whose-who” of performers.

Ronnie Govender is known and respected as a cultural activist, playwright, director, author, poet and critical voice. Although he lives with his family in Cape Town, he has his roots firmly planted in Durban. He is the grandson of an indentured labourer, and was born in 1934 in Cato Manor – a complex community which inspired much of his creative work including his novel Song of the Atman, and his celebrated collection At the Edge and Other Cato Manor Stories, winner of the Commonwealth Writers' Prize for Best First Book in Africa.

Thunsil, a new production featuring excerpts of his best loved works, comes to the Playhouse Drama from 16 May until 31 May. Tickets at Computicket.
Scholars R20 under 18 years; R80 all performances, R100 on Friday / Sat / Sun

Benefit Concert: Garth Anderson

Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre: Mon 1 June @ 7.30pm

Join Mark Banks and a host of Durban theatre luminaries for a very special fund raising evening to benefit veteran Durban theatre personality Garth Anderson for one night only at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre on Monday 1 June at 7.30pm as we Laugh Out Loud with Mark Banks and Noel Coward.

Anderson is the founder and artistic director of the Actors Co-operative, and a respected theatre practitioner whose work has been performed as far afield as New York, Perth, Singapore, the United Kingdom, Belgium and France. He is especially well-known for his work in the field of children’s theatre. He is the recipient of the National Vita Award for direction (White Men With Weapons), and has won numerous awards for his work in classics such as Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night and Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest.

Garth was diagnosed with diabetes seven years ago, and has gradually become more and more physically debilitated over time. Over the last three years he has had both legs amputated just below the knee, and is currently undergoing further surgery for new infection. It is not known how many further operations he will have to undergo. He has been fitted with two prosthetic legs, but with the surgery he cannot currently use them for walking. Unable to work, he is currently living in Cheshire Homes and has become dependent on the generosity of several friends and the support of the theatre community.

The theatre community salutes the contribution Anderson has made to the theatre industry in KZN. Under the umbrella of KickstArt, a fabulous benefit concert has been arranged themed around two of Garth’s greatest loves: Comedy and Coward. The first half of the hour long programme will see accomplished local performers Lisa Bobbert, Anthony Stonier, Steven Stead, Karen van Pletsen, Frances Currie and Shelley MacLean singing 10 of Noel Coward’ best loved and most amusing songs.. Friend and associate of Anderson, Mark Banks will be taking control of the second half of the evening, with a hilarious half hour of his popular stand-up comedy.

The management of The Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre has donated the use of the theatre for the evening; Computicket have generously waivered their surcharges / commissions and will sell the tickets for the concert and the theatre community will be giving of their time for free. The event will be produced / directed by the award-winning KickstArt management team.

Tickets are R120 each and booking is through Computicket.

KZN: 25 – 30 May

The 11th annual African Renaissance Festival will be hosted at venues in Durban and Richards Bay from 25 to 30 May. The festival is held during the last week of May to coincide with Africa Day and is the only annual celebration of the African Renaissance ideals on the continent.

It is a significant gathering of like-minded citizens of Africa as they share ideas with key decision-makers from around the country and abroad. The week-long festival sees delegates from around the globe including head of states, leaders in government and business, representatives from NGOs, civic structures, emerging entrepreneurs and local communities.

The theme adopted for this year’s African Renaissance is “Uniting the African World”, and will focus on the global economic crisis and its impact on Africa’s business, tourism and arts and culture sectors. Also under the spotlight throughout the festival is examining creative ways of addressing the global issue of moral regeneration – a challenge to faith-based leaders, secular and civic society and youth leadership.

The festival comprises a major two-day conference at the ICC on May 27 and 28, a Youth Pioneers Conference featuring 250 delegates representing various significant youth organisations on May 26; a seminar entitled Unity of Faith to be held on May 30 in Richards Bay looking at the role of the church in the African Renaissance and a celebratory, fund-raising banquet to be held at the ICC Durban, with the legendary Hugh Masekela providing entertainment on May 29.

The ever-popular African Renaissance Africa Day Concert will be held at the ICC Arena on Monday 25 May at 6pm and is open to the public. This year’s dazzling line-up includes Thandiswa Mazwai, former member of Bongo Maffin and hailed as this generation’s Mama Africa (Miriam Makeba); Oliver Mtukudzi (better known as “Tuku”), singer, songwriter and best selling artist in his home country, Zimbabwe, as well as the legendary Ray Phiri and Stimela.

Tickets are available to the public and prices have been kept low to ensure as many fans as possible can enjoy the musical feast. Tickets are R50 throughout (no concessions) and available through Computicket.

For more information about the full African Renaissance programme contact reception@wozani.co.za or telephone 031 266 9792.

I.C.C.: Monday 25 May

A highlight of the African Renaissance Festival is the ever popular Africa Day Concert featuring a star-studded line-up of Thandiswa Mazwai, Oliver Mtukudzi (better known as “Tuku”), and Ray Phiri with Stimela at the ICC Arena on Monday 25 May at 6pm.

Thandiswa Mazwai, hailed this generations “Mama Africa” (Miriam Makeba), is widely known as lead singer of the popular kwaito group “Bongo Maffin”. She released her solo album “Zabalaza” in 2004 and was signed with an American label later that same year. Her solo work is a genre-bending marriage of traditional Xhosa chants and instruments with modern kwaito, gospel and jazz sounds, and has earned her a parade of awards, including Best African Contemporary Album and Best Female Artist.

Oliver Mtukudzi, better known as “Tuku” is a best-selling artist in his home country, Zimbabwe, and his musical career spans over twenty years and 40 original albums. He is heavily influenced by chimurenga, the genre pioneered by Mapfumo and inspired by the hypnotic rhythms of the mbira (thumb piano), as well as pop influences, South African mbaqanga, the energetic Zimbabwean pop style JIT, and the traditional kateke drumming of the Korekore. Described as one of the greatest soulful voices of African Music, Tuku’s enduring popularity is largely a result of his powerful lyrics, which invariably deal with social and economic issues, and which are injected with an infectious sense of humour and optimism.

Ray Phiri founded Stimela, with whom he conceived gold and platinum winning albums such as Fire, Passion and Ecstasy, Look, Listen and Decide as well as the controversial People Don’t Talk, So Let’s Talk. He was approached by American singer and musician, Paul Simon, in the late 1990’s to join his Graceland project along with Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Ray collaborated again with Paul Simon on Simon’s Rhythm of the Saints album, which saw him perform on stages in Central Park and Madison Square Gardens, as well as appearing on top US television shows. Subsequently Ray released a solo album and his music is a mixture of African jazz, fusion and mbaqanga.

Catalina Theatre: 7 – 24 May

One of the world’s most popular comedy-thrillers, Shear Madness, which is an uproariously animated whodunit, returns to the Catalina stage after it was staged for the first time over the festive season.

Shear Madness is the world’s second longest running play (after Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap) and probably America’s greatest theatrical success story. It combines comedy, a juicy whodunit murder mystery… opportunities for the audience to give input to help craft the script – and the resolution of the murder. The ending of the play is different every night as audience members hear clues, question the characters and solve the crime. The humour also features current affairs so the cast amend the script depending on newsworthy events of the time.

The play is set in a unisex hair salon in the city in which it plays. The landlady famed veteran concert pianist Isabel Czerny, who lives above the shop, is murdered – stabbed with a pair of scissors. The theatre audience gets involved in the action by questioning the actors and attempting to solve the crime. The characters include a chatty camp hairdresser, Tom Whitcomb (Marc Kay) and his flirty streetwise assistant, Barbara Demarco (Daisy Spencer), and the customers in the salon played by Claire Mortimer; Michael Gritten; Dhaveshan Govender; and Loyiso MacDonald which lead up to a madcap murder reminiscent of the Marx Brothers. The end result is a surprising mixture of audience sleuthing and up-to-the minute improvisational humour.

Every night the cast are giving away a Schwartzkopf product to the witness with the most outrageous hairstyle as adjudged by our suspects during the interval.
The production is suitable for teenagers upwards.

For more info – call Thandeka on (031) 305 6889/ 3057612 or email tsibisi@mweb.co.za
Tickets: R80pp / R40 concessions.
The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

Theatrebiz by arrangement with the Marton Agency presents Shear Madness by Paul Portner.
Owned and Created by Marilyn Abrams and Bruce Jordan
Originally directed by Bruce Jordan
Produced, Directed and Designed by Themi Venturas

PANSA, in partnership with the National Arts Festival and Theatre Group Siberia from Holland is hosting The Novel-Script Project as a collaborative writing development project in July 1009.

Three South African writers will be fully-funded to attend the National Arts Festival to participate in a writer’s exchange with 3 writers from the Netherlands-based theatre company Siberia. This project will put the focus on building the capacity of South African playwrights and to help them to develop international networks.

The 6 writers will explore how to adapt a novel to a play for the stage. South African writer Zakes Mda’s novel The Madonna of Excelsior will be the basis of the workshop. The series of workshops will culminate in a series of staged readings, which will be presented at the Festival.

The 3 South African writers who are selected for the workshop will receive return airfares, accommodation, standard festival per diem and an opportunity to see a number of productions at the Festival.

Writers who are interested in participating in The Novel-Script Project should provide a 200 word biography and a 300 word motivation on why they would like to participate in this project. Please also supply a 2 page scene of dialogue from an exisiting script of your own, with a note regarding the play and where it has performed in the past. Writers must be available to travel to Grahamstown between 6 and 11 July.

Interested writers are asked to apply by Friday 15 May by emailing info@pstproject.co.za for more information you can call Emma on 082-6736662

For more information, contact Janelle on 084 474 0531

Durban Botanic Gardens: Sunday 10 May at 2:30pm

Old Mutual and East Coast Radio Durban’s No 1 invite you to enjoy a special day in the Durban Botanic Gardens celebrating all moms at the Music at the Lake Mothers Day Concert.

To mark this special day we have planned a “double bill” for the afternoon. At 1:45pm the KZN Youth Orchestra will perform for 20 minutes playing a selection of music in a tribute to their moms.

At 2:30pm the popular and multi talented musicians of the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of Lykele Temmingh, will present a programme of classics and contemporary music to celebrate our mothers.

Our two soloists Melanie Roberts and Natalie Rungan have each chosen their favourite songs to evoke all those happy and joyous memorable moments shared with mothers wherever they are.

Tickets - book your tickets early and enjoy picnicking under the palm trees. Gates open at 12:30pm. Only R80p/p. Concession tickets of R20 children 6yrs to 12yrs

available now through Computicket 083 915 8000 and also from the Info Centre in the Durban Botanic Gardens. 031-3091170 (open 7 days /week)

For more information about this and other concerts in the Durban Botanic Gardens, visit our website for more information - www.durbanbotanicgardens.org.za or contact the Info Centre in the or the Friends Office weekdays – 031 2025819

Saturday 9th May 11.30am to 11.30pm
Giba Gorge Mountain Bike Park, Mariannhill

One of the most insane events of the year!! Durban Muso's rocket to the rescue for Durban music hero, Roberta Pijper.

Roberta Pijper is a staunch supporter of the Durban music scene. Just recently, Roberta has fallen ill and was admitted to hospital with a diagnosis of cancer... and the response from Durban has been phenomenal! On Saturday 9 May, a massive number of big names will play a mini festival in honour of Roberta, and will raise funds for her hospital bills and her well-being, and of course, raise the energy to bring her to a speedy recovery!

This is one of the most insane events of the year! As all of this has been generated from a great love of a local music hero, all the bands, and everyone involved in its production, have asked that you be extravagantly generous in your donation towards Roberta's health!

Line up includes Napalma, Maisha, Habit To, Shomon, Avatar, T.H.O.T.S,
Roly Struckmeyer & Dave McMillan, the Pixie Bennett Band, the Meditators, Fiona Tozer, Toi Toi Toy...and of course there will be HEAPS of crazy drumming from the African Drumshack drummers, as well as fire dancers, jugglers & hip hop dancers, so bring all your gear and join in!

On the day, there will also be raffles with great prizes, from Djembe drums, to CDs, toys, gig vouchers and lots of awesome STUFF!! Generous sponsors include:
East Coast Productions - Face Studios - Kablooey Studios - Luna Lounge

Entrance fee is your very generous donation!
For MAPS and DIRECTIONS, VIDEOS and loads more info, check out: www.lunalounge.co.za

Peter Pan

Saturday 9 May: M1 Playhouse’s Mayville, Ramsay Rd.

Steven Stead and Greg King of KickstArt are planning for their brand new, spectacular stage musical based on the classic J.M.Barrie novel, Peter Pan, and are holding auditions for Lost Boys, Pirates and Indians, which comes to the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre this Christmas holidays.

“We need young male actors aged 10 to 15 years, of any race group, who are capable of singing and acting to a high level, and who speak excellent English, to play the six Lost Boys who form Peter Pan’s Never Land gang,” says Stead. “We’ll also cast Wendy’s brothers, John and Michael from these auditions. In addition we are also looking for 6 talented adult male actors, aged from 18 to 50 years, to play Captain Hook’s fearsome pirate crew. These actors must be able to sing and dance, as they will be playing singing Pirates and dancing Indian braves.”

Auditions will take place on Saturday 9 May in room M1 at the Playhouse’s Mayville Complex, Ramsay Rd.

Auditions for the boys will be between 10.30am and 1.30pm. No reservation of an audition time is necessary, but all applicants should arrive at 10.30am, and put their names on a list at the door. Please bring a short song with sheet music or backing track that shows off an ability to ‘belt’. If applicants get through the singing audition, they will be required to stay and attend a dance/acting audition. The audition lists will close at 11.45am.

Auditions for Pirates and Indians are from 2.30pm to 5.30pm, again with no reservation of audition time. All applicants will first attend a group dance audition and then those who get through this round will be asked to sing/act. Please bring a character song that shows vocal range, along with sheet music or backing track. Prepare a two sentence “pirate monologue” demonstrating character and accent work.

The show will rehearse from 9 November, afternoons and evenings, until it opens on 7 December and runs until 10 January. Performances will be 2.30pm Tues-Sun, and 7pm Fri and Sat.

With support from Glen Bo, Simmi Areff and Lil Paul.

THURSDAY APRIL 30TH-SUNDAY MAY 3RD - CATALINA THEATRE

MARTIN DAVIS is back from his home town London, for a run at the Catalina Theatre. Davis who toured around RSA on the Comedy Revolution last year with top cult comedians is back for a 4 day run in Durban.

Davis skids and bounces across the stage, strung up and tugged around by unknown forces, firing off a relentless rapid-fire assault that hits every corner of the room and kills 100% of all known hecklers stone dead. Going where mere joke-tellers fear to tread with his characteristic kamikaze bravado ("Go on, heckle me") he walks the razor edge of audience participation, daring them to pick him off it.

With residences at the Comedy Café and So Ho Ho, and regular appearances at the country’s top venues including The Comedy Store, Jongleurs, The Glee Clubs and The Stand, Martin has a strong and dedicated following all over the UK and further afield - in Ireland, he makes appearances at Dublin’s Laughter Lounge, The Empire in Belfast and sold-out gigs in Galway and Cork. However, giggling does not stop there – Martin has wowed audiences at the Kilkenny International Comedy Festival, The Smirnoff Mule Comedy Festival in Durban and Cape Town, South Africa, and the Lowlands Festival, Holland. 1999 ended with a sellout one-man show in Grahamstown and Ratanga Junction, Cape Town, whilst 2001 included appearances at: The Lucky Strike Comedy Tour in Holland, The Dutch Diligentia Festival and Martin's Dutch TV debut on "The Comedy Factory". In 2002 Martin returned to the Cape Town Festival, toured to Singapore and Dubai and in June 2003, as well as topping the bills in the best UK comedy clubs, Martin performed in Jakarta, The Hague, Belgium and once again returned to the South Africa Comedy Revolution roadshow.

Supported by Glen Bo who met and worked with Davis in London during his life there hosts the show with sure-fire-wit, gregarious charm wrapped in angst and love for midgets and small woodlands animals. Nominated for 3 comedy awards in 2008, and walking away with "best solo promoter" and most innovative stand-up" run up, Bo is underground but an utter professional. " KZN's premier alternative comedian" H.W News.

Alternating with Bo during the 4 days is Simmi Areff. Heard weekly on East Coast Radio, Areff is no typical Muslim. He is witty, hilarious and opned for Riaad Moosa and John Vlismas in 2008.

New face is Lil Paul performing in Sunday's show.

This is the must see comedy and stand-up event of the year.

MEDIA QUOTES ON DAVIS.
“hilarious … Davis whisks inconsequential exchanges into an electrified atmosphere … he makes it looks so easy” Chortle “On the ball, Davis, a consummate professional, never dies” Cape Times

CATALINA THEATRE box office: 031-305-6889
Tickets R70, SUNDAY 2 for the price of 1
THURSDAY APRIL 30TH-SUNDAY MAY 3RD
www.strictlytickets.com ( from Monday)

Hellenic Hall, Durban North: 9 May
Maya Dance Company is holding their annual Belly Dance Showcase "Once upon a time in Cairo" on 9 May at the Hellenic centre in Durban North.

9 May is World Belly Dance Day, so the Maya Dancers will be performing, not just as a studio, but with thousands of belly dancers around the world! World Belly Dance Day's aim is to educate and inform the public about the love and respect this beautiful art form deserves.

The show will give the audience a vast insight into belly dance and its many different styles, including Saidi, Malaya laf, Wings of Isis, Veil and some modern fusion numbers. Maya Dance Company students from beginner to professional will be performing. Members of the Maya Performance Group who have performed in the award winning show Shall We Dance at the Playhouse, will be performing solos in the show. Senta Seele, principal teacher of Maya Dance Company will be performing the famous Dance of the 7 veils.

The matinee is at 14:00 and tickets are R50 for adults and R35 for kids under 12. The evening supper theatre show is at 19:00 and tickets are R120, including supper Proceeds from the concert are being donated to Kitten Action.

Please contact Senta on 082 829 3658 for more information and to book tickets.

Tango Nights: Bovim Ballet for Durban
Playhouse Durban: 29 April – 3 May, 2009

Bovim Ballet from Cape Town is bringing their sensual Tango Nights – which combines the allure and sensuality of tango with the athleticism of rock ballet en-pointe - to the Playhouse for a short season from 29 April – 3 May as part of a national tour.

Bovim Ballet, under the Artistic Directorship of acclaimed choreographer Sean Bovim, will be touring to Durban's Playhouse Theatre with their full-length dance sensation, Tango Nights.

Bovim’s carefully selected music includes the powerful ‘Roxanne’ from the film Moulin Rouge and Gotan Project which, combined with masterful lighting by Daniel Galloway, set design by Karl Staub and clever choreography, result in a high impact production and a visual feast guaranteed to entertain audiences of all ages. Bovim continues his fusion of fashion and dance through his collaboration with international designers such as Malcolm Klûk and CGDT who have designed the exquisite costumes.

Bovim, who is known for repeatedly pushing choreographic boundaries says, “I use classical ballet because of its physicality, musicality and creativity; to show off extraordinary technique combined with a fusion of styles that has become my own vocabulary”. He adds that for him, ballet is not only about the great classics such as Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty, but deserves to be given the space to evolve just like architecture, art and the culture that surrounds us.

Over the past 15 years Bovim’s work has been seen all over South Africa and as far afield as the USA, Russia, Denmark, Spain, the Edinburgh Festival and Ireland, where Queen at the Ballet played to more than 30,000 people with standing ovations at every performance at the Point Theatre in Dublin. Sean won the Dance Indaba Fringe Award for Choreography in 1995, the National Choreographic Competition in 1999 and SwingTime won a Naledi in 2005.

Special discounts available for pensioners, students and block bookings of ten or more. Tickets are available through Computicket. Advance booking is essential in order to avoid disappointment.

Production: Tango Nights presented by Bovim Ballet
Venues: Durban Playhouse, 29 April – 3 May, 2009;
PE Opera House, 6-10 May, 2009;
Bloemfontein Sand du Plessis, 10-13 June;
Johannesburg Lyric Theatre, 17-21 June

Sat 2 May
9am until noon: Durban City Hall
Past, Present and Future: Open Day, Exhibition and Conference
History: Catherine Burns and Julie Parle
Present: various stakeholders, staff and patients
Future: McCord CEO, Dr Helga Holst
International relationships: Friends of McCord
Keynote address: Dr Zweli Mkhize
Music by McCord Coir, Penzance Primary under Shelley McLean, Warner Beach Primary (also celebrating their centenary this year)
Entry free – all welcome!

2pm until 5pm: McCord Hospital
Hospital Tours – explore McCord!
Have you ever wanted to see inside an operating theatre? Find out how many babies are born in a hospital every day? Follow in the steps of a busy doctor?
Then spend an hour exploring McCord to get a better understanding of what life in a busy suburban hospital is all about.
Entry free – all welcome!

Sun 3 May
10.30am: Ridge Park School
Thanksgiving Service
Preacher: Dr Michael Cassidy
Musicians at the service include Melvin Peters (keyboard); Bruce Baker (drums); Philani Ngidi (bass); George Mari (trumpet) and Shanthini Francis and Radha Mannie (vocals).
Entry free – all welcome!

Throughout May
Local History Museum, Durban City Hall complex
A Walk through Time
The History of McCord, curated by Carol Brown
Entry free – all welcome!
For more info: Zodwa Mbatha at McCord on 031 268 5725

Fri 24 April – noon – stadium

The eThekwini Municipality hereby invites artists to put forward their proposals for large scale public artworks for the Moses Mabhida Stadium (MMS). In order to allow artists to familiarise themselves with the MMS, artists are encouraged to attend an on-site briefing. The briefing will include a presentation of the stadium concept as well as an inspection of the various areas within the stadium for which art is proposed. An information pack including the proposed budget will also be provided at the briefing. The briefing will be preceded by a safety induction and artists will be required to provide some form of identification (i.e. ID book) in order to gain access to the site.

Artwork in any medium will be considered. However, applicants must take into account that the stadium is a public environment with both indoor and outdoor areas. Please be aware that sculptures and installations will be required to meet the legislated safety requirements and be sufficiently robust to withstand the effects of weather and public use. Environmental considerations will also be important.

Proposals will be adjudicated by an advisory committee. The judges' decision is final and no correspondence with the judges will be allowed.

DETAILS OF ARTISTS BRIEFING :
DATE: 24th April 2009
TIME: 12h00
VENUE: Moses Mabhida Stadium Visitors Centre – Isaiah Ntshangase Rd (Old Walter Gilbert Rd, opposite the Shark Cage)

Artists who are interested in attending the meeting should register their interest by emailing cbrown.durban@gmail.com by 23 April.
Please provide your name, contact details and ID.

Catalina: 9 – 25 April

Written and performed by Kurt Egelhof
Directed by Nic Fine
Presented in association with TheatreBIZ

Examining the complex relationship between father and son, Kurt Egelhof returns to Durban with a highly acclaimed one-hander entitled For Generations which comes to the Catalina Theatre in Wilson’s Wharf from 9 – 25 April.

Egelhof cut his teeth on the Durban stages more than a decade ago prior to pursuing a career in movies, TV and national theatre. He returns to his home town to share his long awaited triumphant return to the Durban stage.

Performed by Kurt under the skillful direction of Nic Fine this production has received rave reviews throughout its tour. For Generations is an exploration into the state of mind that exists in every single one of us. It is tempered by the ancient rhetoric: Who Am I, Where Do I Come From, and Where Am I Going?

By presenting the work in a dramatic narrative style, the piece attempts to engage it's audience enough to invoke 'their own' personal narrative, to embrace an own version of their own stories. The men from our lives, our fathers before us who through their own very real hopes and dreams, opened the universe in preparation for our arrival, may have passed on too early, with too much information unshared before we were able to receive it. And in this time, when the image of men as role models for their sons on how to become a good, decent upright person seems to be at an all-time low, comes a wave of inexplicable insight from what must be an inexplicable source: the sound of our forefathers' voices coming up from deep inside of us. This is how the piece was made, as Kurt tried to listen to his ancestral voices from beyond the grave. For Generations, is also the story of Everyman and Everywoman. A story worth telling.

Egelhof has appeared in a myriad of movies and TV programmes including Zulu Love Letter, Traitor’s Heart, The Ghost and the Darkness, Human Timebomb, Cyborg Cop, Sweet ‘n Short, African Skies, Kwagga Strikes Back, Windprints, The Native Who Caused all the Trouble, Back to Freedom and Night of the Cyclone.

Full Price: R75 / Pensioners & Students: R45
Shows are Thurs @ 8pm, Friday @ 8pm, Sat @ 5pm and 8pm, Sun 2pm and 6pm
BUY 1 GET 1 FREE: Sat @ 5pm & Sun @ 2pm
For more info – call Thandeka on (031) 305 6889/ 3057612 or email tsibisi@mweb.co.za.

The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

Old Mutual Music at the Lake

Sunday 19 April at 2:30pm

Old Mutual proudly announces a return visit of PRIME CIRCLE to the Durban Botanic Gardens as part of their 2009 Old Mutual Music at the Lake Concert series. These concerts are supported by East Coast Radio so make your way to the Gardens on Sunday 19 April. Local band Spoonfeedas will open the concert at 2:30pm.

Prime Circle has enjoyed continued success and gained much respect within the SA music industry since 2001. With two albums having already achieved gold status and a host of No 1 hit singles across charts country-wide, Prime Circle is on a roller-coaster ride. They are in great demand to do overseas tours after their successes with sold-out shows in the UK and participation in the Dubai Desert Rock Festival, My Coke Fest 2008 and several appearances at the 46664 Concerts. Their third album “All or Nothing” sold over 10 000 copies in the first three months. With new band members adding lively energy to their music, Prime Circle is the best of the best.

Book your tickets early and enjoy picnicking under the palm trees. Gates open at 12:30pm. Only R100p/p. Concession tickets of R50 children 6yrs to 12yrs

available now through Computicket 083 915 8000 and also from the Info Centre in the Durban Botanic Gardens 031-3091170 (open 7 days /week)

Kids Zone – children are always welcome and parents this is a wonderful opportunity to relax while your children are entertained and kept busy during the concert. Secure parking is available on the Juventus ground off lower St Thomas Road, adjacent to the Botanic Gardens and the Munies Hockey Field off lower Sydenham Road.

For more information about this and other concerts in the Durban Botanic Gardens, visit our website for more information - www.durbanbotanicgardens.org.za or contact the Info Centre in the or the Friends Office weekdays – 031 2025819

Emmanuel Catholic Cathedral: Sun 19 April

Diakonia Council of Churches will be holding an ecumenical prayer service on Sunday 19 April in the Emmanuel Catholic Cathedral in Durban from 3.00pm to 4.30pm.

The preacher will be Anglican Bishop Rubin Phillip.

On 22 April, all South Africans are called to vote in the National Elections. It is God's will that our people are governed fairly - by leaders who are committed to God's values, the dignity of every citizen, truth, freedom and justice for every woman, man and child. It is also God's will that these elections are free of violence, intimidation, coercion and corruption.

ALL ARE WELCOME. The newly launched book chronicling the history of the Diakonia Good Friday services, Pilgrimage of Hope, is available at the Diakonia offices.

For more information – contact the Diakonia Council of Churches on 031 310 3500.

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SABC, 100 Old Fort Road: 18, 19 April

If you’re an aspiring screenwriter with a vivid imagination whose ideas are larger than life, The Writing Studio has an exciting Weekend Workshop for Scriptwriters on April 18 and 19 that is guaranteed to turn words into big screen action!

Aspirant screenwriters can sharpen their storytelling skills and develop their craft at The Writing Studio’s Weekend Workshop for Scriptwriters at the SABC in Old Fort Road – on Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19 from 10am until 5pm.

Within ONE WEEKEND budding screenwriters will understand the principles of writing for a visual medium and what it takes to be screenwriter in South Africa.

The inspirational and motivational workshop is ideal for ANYONE with an idea for a story. If there is something or someone you want to write about this is your opportunity to turn thoughts into words. Ideas are transformed into concepts that will be reworked into hardcopy, into 120 pages filled with dramatic action, lively characters and description.

The cost of the workshop is R900. If you are a registered student, scholar, or a pensioner, the cost of the workshop is R800. For more information and registration, visit the website www.writingstudio.co.za, or email daniel@writingstudio.co.za.

1909 - 2009

Celebrations: Fri 1, Sat 2 and Sun 3 May 09

McCord Hospital, in Durban’s Overport, celebrates 100 years of serving the people of Durban with a series of participative events throughout the year – with particular emphasis around their centenary in May.

Always at the forefront of social change, McCord hospital strives to be proactive in anticipating what future societal health needs will be, and prepares to address these needs. Characterised by good governance, visionary and courageous leadership, the hospital has earned a high reputation of providing excellent quality health care, that is affordable, cost-effective and above all, compassionate.

Known for its comprehensive HIV care, ground-breaking clinical programmes and valuable research, McCord is planning a series of inclusive, participative, informative and engaging events to mark this significant milestone.

McCord has “friends” throughout the world who represent the hospital abroad. A rare gathering of many of the global friends, volunteers, partners and international visitors will take place as they travel to Durban to share in the centenary celebrations as well as spend time in and around the province.

The celebrations are launched formally at a Meet and Greet Gala Evening held at the Durban Art Gallery on Friday 1 May – an evening civic function for 300 guests all of whom have a connection to McCord Hospital.

Currently on exhibition in the Durban Art Gallery is an international exhibition about Aids – Not Alone: An International Project of Make Arts Stop Aids which has been curated by Carol Brown and David Gere, which provides a fitting backdrop for the commemoration’s opening function. A highlight of the exhibition is the magnificent Keiskamma Altarpiece created by the women of Hamburg in the Eastern Cape. It is a triptych combining detailed embroidery, appliqué and beadwork. It is an enormous work measuring 13 feet high and 22 feet wide, representing a community struggling to come to terms with the devastation of HIV/Aids and poverty. The exhibition is open to the public.

On Saturday morning, Past, Present and Future: Open Day, Exhibition and Conference will take place in the Durban City Hall which is open to invited guests, health-workers, the McCord family and interested members of the public. The morning presentation will showcase themes from McCord – past, present and future. Present day McCord is contextualized by looking to its astonishing, ground-breaking history and looking forward to its plans of extension, growth and continued service.

Two options are suggested for the afternoon – a visit to the McCord exhibition in the Durban Local History museum (alongside the City Hall) where a comprehensive exhibition shows a potted history of the astonishing hospital, as well as a selection of photos, artifacts, old medial equipment, personal memorabilia and material taken from various archive sources to give visitors a better understanding of the socio-political context of the hospital and its amazing 100 year journey. Curated by Carol Brown, A Walk through Time, is an educational and informative exhibition reflecting on McCord’s first one hundred years. A myriad of historical photographs have been gathered for the occasion by the UKZN History Department in conjunction with McCord staff, and accompany text panels.

Also on offer for Saturday afternoon are guided tours throughout the hospital. From 2pm until 5pm there will be regular guided tours throughout the hospital to give visitors a better sense of McCord, the space it occupies and the work that it does.

Specially trained volunteer ambassadors from the ranks of McCord hospital will show visitors through the Local History Museum exhibition over the weekend, and throughout the hospital on Saturday afternoon.

An inter-denominational church service will be held on Sunday morning at Ridge Park hall (alongside McCord hospital). Participating in the service will be faith-leaders and church-leaders who have a particular connection with the hospital. The service will be hosted in conjunction with the Diakonia Council of Churches – with whom McCord have an enduring relationship. Michael Cassidy will be presenting the sermon.

Later in the year, a Commemorative Book will be launched. The History Department of UKZN, in conjunction with McCord hospital, is researching a comprehensive and informative book which examines the historical, medical and sociological significance of the first 100 years of the hospital. A myriad of carefully-researched previously untold stories and unpublished photographs will be included.

The hospital holds a unique position in providing affordable, quality medical services to the people of Durban. The busy McCord Hospital / School of Nursing / Sinikithemba complex sees 148 000 outpatients and haves 11 000 admissions per annum. Services offered include Internal Medicine, Surgery, Orthopaedics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Paediatrics, Ophthalmology and Outpatients.

From its beginnings as a Mission Hospital providing services to underserved people at the turn of the century, to its current status as an institution which is managed along business lines for the provision of medical and nursing services, there has been an unwavering commitment to the provision of high quality medical care through dedicated and well trained staff.

Recently McCord Chief Executive Officer, Dr Helga Holst, was invited by The Office of the Global AIDS Co-ordinator to be present when outgoing US President Bush gave his farewell speech and to share in the achievements of the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Dr Holst was accompanied by a Durban family who are beneficiaries of the PEPFAR programme. This is their second visit to the White House – they were invited in 2005 one year after McCord Hospital starting receiving PEPFAR funds through the Elizabeth Glaser Paediatric AIDS Foundation.

“This is an institution worthy of support and one which gives a great sense of pride and satisfaction to all its partners,” says CEO Dr Helga Holst.

For more information – contact Zodwa Mbatha at McCord Hospital on 031 268 5725.

Saturday 18 April: Playhouse 410 studio, Acutt St.

High School learners who can sing, dance and act, are invited to audition for this year’s Young Performers’s Project – on Saturday 18 April at the Playhouse’s 410 studio in Acutt st.

Director Themi Venturas will produce and direct this year’s musical – the choice of which is still undisclosed.

The 2009 Young Performers’ project is scheduled to run over the July school holidays this year at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre. This year’s production follows up on Curtain Up, One Voice, Grease, Oliver, Fiddler on the Roof, The Wiz Annie and last year’s School of Rock SA.

Auditions take place this Saturday. Entrants who get through the preliminary rounds will be required to put aside the whole day until 5pm.

Criteria to audition is that you:
(1) Must be between 12 and 18 years old and be AT HIGH SCHOOL.
(2) Must be able to SING, DANCE & ACT as this is a musical.
(3) Must have a PASSION FOR PERFORMING.
(4) Must be available to attend WEEKEND REHEARSALS till the show opens on the 6th July.
(5) Must be available to DO THE SHOW EVERY EVENING AND WEEKEND.
(6) Must be able to SPEAK ENGLISH.
(7) SINGERS and MUSICIANS are especially NEEDED, as there is a BAND in the production. Performers who can PLAY the following instruments will be favoured for some roles: Guitar (Lead), Bass Guitar, Drums, Keyboards, any Brass & Wind, Violin’s etc.

Should you have any queries please contact the Catalina Theatre 031 3056889.

Playhouse Opera: Saturday 18 April 2009

The introductory dance work from SiddhArts, in association with the Consulate General of India, is a compelling piece entitled ChakraView and is at the Playhouse Opera for one performance only on Saturday 18 April.

Performed by a vibrant cast of local dancers, many of whom have had training in India, the piece is inspired by everyday happenings that have affected the world deeply. Exploring the theme through dance and movement, internationally trained dance choreographer, Varsha Sharma has married both contemporary and Indian Classical dance creating different movement and styles that makes for a visually stunning dance work.

ChakraView offers us a view into the duality of the mind and works off a basic theory that, if our actions are dependent on our thoughts, then our experiences are a result of these thoughts.

It will be explored through an exciting music score, bringing together world music and combining them with live orchestration by talented and versatile local percussionist Vishen Kemraj on an array of instruments. It also features music off the award winning soundtrack - Slumdog Millionaire, Rahul Sharma, Amaan and Ayaan Ali Khan and a host of other world renowned musicians."

Sharma continues, "By changing the nature of our thoughts we can liberate ourselves from this illusionary ChakraView of the mind. I believe this will be an utterly thought provoking journey as pieces were inspired by the Mumbai attacks, 9/11 and closer to home, the xenophobic attacks. The work looks toward religion as a unifying factor and embracing each other in all our diversity. It celebrates life and pays tribute to the human spirit.

The dancers are Kajal Bagwandeen; Varsha Sharma (Choreographer); dancers from the Nateshwar Dance Academy and others.

Tickets are available at R50 and R75 at Computicket on www.computicket.co.za or phone 083 915 8000.

Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre: 22 March to 19 April 09.

Top Durban theatre producers, KickstArt, starts its busy year with the wacky black-comedy rock-musical, Little Shop of Horrors, which comes to the Elizabeth Sneddon theatre on campus from 22 March until 19 April.

The year starts with a bang with a zany production of the smash-hit cult-musical Little Shop of Horrors, which spoofs the tradition of B-grade Sci-Fi movies with a delicious pastiche of 50’s music and comic-book imagery.

The all star local cast is headed by Bryan Hiles as Seymour, the would-be botanist, and the inimitable Lisa Bobbert as his ditzy love interest, Audrey. Aaron MacIlroy makes a welcome KickstArt debut as the sadistic dentist, Orin Scrivello (also played by Neon Anthem’s Liam Magner on certain nights), and Peter Court plays Mr Mushnik, Seymour’s miserly employer. The sinister plant is voiced by the supremely talented Tim Wells.

The cast is further enhanced by the glamorous, all-singing all-dancing trio of Pume Zondi, Londiwe Dhlomo and Belinda Henwood who form a Supreme’s style Greek Chorus. Neon Anthems’ Cobus van Heerden and Liam Magner complete the impressive cast list playing a variety of crazy cameos. The production team is equally impressive: The show is directed by Steven Stead, with sets by Greg King and costumes by Terrence Bray. Musical Direction is by Evan Roberts and Shelley Maclean, choreography by Janine Bennewith and lighting by Tina Le Roux.

This show is set to stun! It runs at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre from 22 March to 19 April. Book at Computicket for all these productions, and for more information visit KickstArt’s website: www.kickstart-theatre.co.za.

Durban Exhibition Centre - Good Friday 10 April - 6:15am

The focus on the 2009 Diakonia Council of Churches Good Friday service will be Crucified by Corruption, with guest preacher Prof Tinyiko Maluleke, to be held on Friday 10 April 2009 at the Durban Exhibition Centre from 6:15am.

The 24th Ecumenical Good Friday looks at corruption – the malady that is prevalent in every aspect of our lives and within every stratum of our social order – political, personal, corporate and religious. Jesus Christ, was crucified by a corrupt political and religious system and died to save us from the corruption in our hearts which is fed by our own greed for power, privilege and prestige. He died to bring life to those most affected by corruption – the poor, the voiceless, the vulnerable and ourselves.

Over the years the Good Friday Services have become a landmark event in the life of the city and our member churches, with many thousands of people attending and joining in the procession which follows through the streets of Durban and ends at the front steps of the City Hall, with a flowering of the cross.

Entry to the Good Friday Service is free and all are most welcome to participate in this significant, multi-lingual Christian Easter event.

The newly launched book chronicling the history of the Diakonia Good Friday services, Pilgrimage of Hope, will be available at the service, and from the Diakonia offices.

For more information – contact the Diakonia Council of Churches on 031 310 3500.

Written and directed by Dhaveshan Govender

Presented in association with TheatreBIZ
Catalina Theatre, Wilson’s Wharf: 4 – 15 April 2009
An interactive fun children’s show – The Mystery of the Missing Easter Eggs…
– will play daily at 11am at the Catalina Theatre in Wilson’s Wharf for ten days from 4 – 15 April 2009.

Celebrate the Easter holidays with a fabulous interactive holiday show written and directed by Dhaveshan Govender. Parents and grandparents join the kids in ingeniously solving the mystery of the missing Easter eggs. If you find the eggs, each child will then get an Easter egg. After the show take a cruise around Durban bay on the Sarie Marais.

Suitable for young people under the age of 12.

Shows are at 11am daily including Mondays / seven days a week from 4 – 15 April.

Tickets cost R45 for show and boat ride, or R30 for show only

To book call Thandeka on 031-305-6889 or email tsibisi@mweb.co.za. Catalina Theatre Tickets are now available online at www.strictlytickets.co.za or on our website at www.catalinatheatre.co.za or at www.goingplacesSA.co.za / www.goingplacesSA.com

The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

St. Thomas Orphanage in Sydenham caught fire on Sunday causing considerable damage. Their entire storeroom, kitchen and out-building has been burnt down along with a lot of their belongings.

Fortunately nobody was hurt. All the children are below the age of 10 and really do not deserve this misfortune. We are asking everyone we know to donate old clothes, toys, bedding etc to the orphanage so that they can use it as well sell what they can’t at a fete to raise funds to rebuild the out building.

If anyone has anything to donate, please contact Michelle Bester and she will arrange to collect it.

Michelle Bester
E-Mail: mbester@theunlimitedworld.co.za
Phone: +27 (0) 31 581 0002
Fax: +27 (0)86 665 8789
Cell: +27 (0) 72 204 5148

The Southern African Theatre Initiative’s

Playhouse: 4, 5 April

The Southern African Theatre Initiative’s national consultation process on the performing arts is gathering momentum, with the KwaZulu-Natal Theatre and Dance Indaba on 4 and 5 April 2009 marking the halfway point in this endeavour.

The KZN indaba, taking place at the Playhouse over the weekend of 4 and 5 April, is the fifth of nine provincial indabas being hosted around the country.

SATI is heading to all the provinces, with the support of the Department of Arts and Culture (DAC), to listen to the issues affecting arts practitioners prior to the National Indaba. There, provincial task teams will make submissions and recommendations to DAC to inform future legislation and ensure growth, development and sustainability within the various arts disciplines.

“The performing arts are not a single event,” Tumane pointed out. “Our contribution to economic development should be quantified to ensure that we are taken seriously.”
The Indabas are a part of the national consultative process on theatre and dance an initiative by Southern African Theatre Initiative (SATI) supported by the Department of Arts and Culture (DAC), National Arts Council (NAC) and Business Arts South Africa (BASA)

To secure a place at the KZN Indaba, all stakeholders are urged to phone SATI at 011 838 8932 or e-mail info@sati.org.za.

Courtyard Theatre: 28 March – 3 April 09

Shakespeare’s seldom-staged blood-soaked political Roman tragedy, Coriolanus, gets a new lease of life as staged by the DUT at the Courtyard Theatre from 21 – 27 March.

It is a play of action before thought. Shakespeare’s final tragedy which shows us how little people and politics have changed over time. This poignant political thriller is as relevant now as it was in the 1600s when it was written – marrying a fighter of superhero proportions to a story of political intrigue. The context of economic hardship, patronising leadership, society caught in an unwelcome war, people unhappy and looking for change is as familiar now as it was in Roman times.

Directed by Debbie Lutge, set design by Josef van Scalkwyk and costumes by Debbie Lutge, the production is being performed by the Department of Television, Drama and Production Studies. The cast comprises first, second and third year students. It is the busy department’s first production of the year.

DATES: Sat 28 March - 3 April 2009
SHOWS: nightly at 7pm
VENUE: Courtyard Theatre, Mansfield Road, DUT campus
Secure parking at Gate No. 4 opposite the Courtyard Theatre.
BOOK: Contact: Duven Naidoo (Theatre Manager) duven@dut.ac.za - 0313732532 (Departmental Secretary) Lebohang Sibisi - 0313732194 lebohangs@dut.ac.za Fax: 0313732820
TICKETS:R10 for scholars R15 public; March Sat 21 Mon 23-27 @ 7 p.m. nightly with 2 matinees on Mon and Friday @ 2:30 pm for school block bookings

Please join us for a sit down supper and the launch of this coffee table book chronicling the history of the annual Diakonia Good Friday services: 1985 - 2008

Durban City Hall
Wednesday 1 April 2009
5.30pm for 6pm

Guest of Honour / Keynote address
Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu

Pilgrimage of Hope – an informative, elegant and collectable coffee table book which chronicles the annual Diakonia Good Friday services – will be launched to the public at a glittering dinner function at the Durban City Hall on Wednesday 1 April in the presence of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu.

Making a rare public visit to Durban, Archbishop Emeritus Tutu – who has long been a supporter of the work of Diakonia – will be the guest of honour and will give the keynote address at the launch dinner.

Tables of ten R1 500 per table
One space at a table R175
Book at roland@stansell.za.net
Booking enquiries: Roland on 082 499 8636
(bank transfers or EFT deposits)

The Rhumbelow Theatre supports the Diakonia Council of Churches and their initiatives and is making their booking service available for this event.

For more info: Diakonia on (031) 310 3500
or email them on rsvp@diakonia.org.za
or visit their website on www.diakonia.org.za

The book Pilgrimage of Hope will be on sale at the event and in selected book shops thereafter.
The retail price is R250 per book.
All profits will be channelled into Diakonia projects.

Fresh Paint Gallery: 60 Davenport Rd, Glenwood, Dbn

Featuring work by Sarah Whitaker, Bheki Khambule, Sibusiso Duma, Welcome Danca and Alexander Chitungo. .

Fresh Paint can be found at 60 Davenport Rd, Glenwood, Dbn. Gallery hours are 9am until 4pm, Saturday 9am until 1pm – or after hours by appointment. It is open daily. For more information, contact the Gallery on 031 201 8367.

presents

Political Parties Manifesto
Diakonia: Thursday 19 March 2009 5pm for5.30pm

Please join us the second part of a two part series Key political parties participating in the election present the essence of their party manifesto to the public.
This week hear leaders from the DA; Cope; UDM and ID talk about their plans for the country’s future.

This week hear leaders from the DA; Cope; UDM and ID talk about their plans for the country’s future.

For more info: Diakonia on (031) 310 3500
or email them on rsvp@diakonia.org.za
Book at roland@stansell.za.net
Booking enquiries: Roland on 082 499 8636
or visit their website on www.diakonia.org.za

Catalina Theatre: 5 – 8 March

Saudiq Khan - Cape Town-based flamenco guitar virtuoso – performs in a unique Hispanic collaboration for one weekend only at the Catalina Theatre in Wilson’s Wharf from 5 – 8 March.

Guitar fans will recall his previous Durban season when he performed in the successful Nocha De La Guitarra, which was a unique fusion with classical guitarist James Grace.

Saudiq Khan hails from Cape Town, and was inspired by Flamenco guitar music at an early age. He studied the guitar locally and in 1989 had the opportunity to travel to Spain to experience the true culture in the heart of the aficionados. On his return to South Africa, he became involved with various Spanish Bands and Flamenco dance groups performing all over the country. Saudiq became well known for his fiery Flamenco touch. In 1992 he started his own Flamenco Guitar School to promote Flamenco Guitar playing amongst local enthusiasts. Great guitarists like Paco de Lucia, Rafael Riqueni and Carlos Bonell complimented the inspiration in Saudiq’s Flamenco world.

Saudiq Khan is considered is a flamenco powerhouse as his strength and dexterity on the Spanish guitar has earned him a growing reputation throughout South Africa. He heads Casta Alma, which consists of six highly accomplished local instrumentalist with international experience.

Shows are on Thurs 5 at 8pm, Fri 6 at 8pm, Sat 7 at 8pm and Sunday 8 March at 6pm.
For more information or to book, contact the Catalina Theatre on 031 3056889.

The Upper Deck: uShaka Marine World: Until March 14

The first offering of the year from the scenic supper theatre venue, The Upper Deck on the Phantom Ship at uShaka Marine World features a smooth, stylish and classy production – the kind of show that deserves a good response from Durbanites.

All kudos to producer Wayne Scott and director Charon Williams Ross for creating good quality entertainment over the years since The Upper Deck moved onto the supper theatre circuit. They have put together an enjoyable tribute to the “blondes” of the music industry. So, expect to hear hit songs by Marilyn Monroe, Christina Aguilera and Madonna alongside their male counterparts Sting, Bon Jovi and David Bowie as well as numbers made famous by Duffy, Faith Hill, Clare Johnstone, Ronan Keating, Kylie Minogue, Beyoncé, Olivia Newton John, Alicia Keys, Rod Stewart and Dolly Parton.

Heading the production are Lauren Laing and Jonathon Didlick. Costumes: Fleur de Londiwe Dhlomo, Jacqui Majoor, Tami du Preez dance and sing their way through Denya Maslen’s effective choreography. Along with the top-notch five-piece uShaka band headed by musical director Shem Mahabeer, backing singers Tammy Saville and Ricky Hastings deserve acknowledgement for adding to the quality of the music.

Blondes on Deck runs from January 14 to March 14 with shows from Wednesdays to Saturdays at 20h00 (dinner starts at 19h00) Tickets R150 include a good buffet menu. Bookings can be made at 031 328 8068 or Computicket.

Review: Caroline Smart

Saturday 28 February, at 11:00 - 15:00

Dancers Senta Seele and Warren are opening a "dance boutique" named RAKASA - meaning 'female dancer' in Arabic.

Although they will be importing mainly belly dance outfits and belts etc, they will stock beaded fringing to enhance belly dance and latin outfit. They are launching a range of belly dance practice wear, which is also ideal for latin and Ballroom: very wide pants (great for ballroom practice); narrow pants; short skirts; wrap tops; drawstring tops and strappy tops.

“I have been fortunate to have made some great friends in Cairo, who have led me to the right suppliers - good quality, but not at tourist prices,” says Seele.

They will be running open days from their home where they will sell the goods, and teachers are also welcome to phone us if they need something at another time, or want us to come to their studios.

Their first open day is on Saturday 28 February, at 11:00 - 15:00 at their home - 2 Sagewood Mews, 10 Up the Hill, Sunningdale. Orders for these can be placed at the open day. They have a variety of fun slogans, and there is also the option of having Warren help design your own logos or slogans for the practice wear.

“The fringing is usually 1m long and is sold either in straight pieces of approx 10cm in width, or small Vs or large Vs - or full sets of a combination of shapes. Each string of beads is sewed onto the cord individually so they are easy to cut without losing the beads. If you are wanting specific colours, we cannot guarantee what they will have in stock, but please let us know your favourites and we will do our best to get them for you!” says Seele

Senta Seele - Maya Dance Company - 082 829 3658 - senta@mayadance.co.za - www.mayadance.co.za

Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre: 17 – 28 February

Master satirist, Pieter-Dirk Uys, returns to Durban’s Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre from 17 – 28 February to stage his phenomenal Elections & Erections: a personal journey through the minefield of fear and fun on the eve of South Africa’s most crucial general election.

Pieter-Dirk Uys celebrates the two issues that were illegal for most of his life in South Africa: democracy and sex. He uses humour, his weapon of mass distraction, and compares today’s freedom of speech to those years of no freedom. And yet then there was enough speech to help end a brutal system and usher in a young democracy. There was also laughter.

The issue of the next President and a new Government is not making South Africans laugh. The tsunami’s of recession, economic woes, crime, corruption and denialism merge with the Zunami of Comrade Jacob’s dramatic journey to the most powerful position in the land. Nothing seems to be funny anymore.

It is time to laugh! Pieter-Dirk Uys invites you share that shower with him and his chorus line of politicians and people. Democracy and sex are both freely available in South Africa and each carries the warning of danger. Come and lead the parade with laughter at fear. Turn it into fun and optimism for a future after only fourteen years of a remarkable and unique democracy. If the people find the courage to lead in that direction, the government will be just too happy to follow.

ELIZABETH SNEDDON THEATRE from Tuesday 17 February till Sunday 1 March
BOOK AT COMPUTICKET
Book early to avoid disappointment. Bookings can also be made at the Money Market counters at most main Checkers outlets.

National Tour:
SNEDDON THEATRE DURBAN 17 February till Sun 1 March
NELSON MANDELA THEATRE at the Jo’burg Civic 3 - 15 March.
BAXTER THEATRE CAPE TOWN 7 April - 2 May.
Book at Computicket


Remainder of Durban Season:
Thur 26: 20h00 performance 8 (R90)
Block booking R81 / pensioners and students R70
Fri 27: 17h00 performance 9 (R100)
Block booking R90
Fri 27: 20h00 performance 10 (R120)
Block booking R108
Sat 28: 17h00 Performance 11 (R100)
No concessions
Sat 28 20h00 Performance 12 (final – R120)
No concessions
Sun 1: 15h00 performance 13 (R90)
Block booking R81 / pensioners and students R70
Sun 1: 18h00 performance 14 (R90) FINAL
Block booking R81 / pensioners and students R70

Catalina Theatre, Wilsons Wharf: 27 Jan – 1 March 09

The Catalina Theatre in Wilson’s Wharf hosts Southern Soul, a close harmony-focused season of song directed by Hamish Kyd which opens on 27 January and runs until 1 March.

In 1952 an enthusiastic young Jewish entrepreneur became an unlikely partner in Atlantic Records because owner Ahmet Ertegun recognized that he had a unique manner of identifying Black American musical talent. Soul Music had found Jerry Wexler.

Wexler took Atlantic Records to the South of America when he unearthed previously undiscovered singers who performed their songs with “church fervor” encapsulating the most intimate emotions - such as the need to be loved, the frustration of not being loved, and the ecstasies of being loved. Wexler’s aim was to capture these emotions on record. His efforts gave rise to soul legends such as: Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Otis Redding, Percy Sledge and Wilson Pickett.

The original Zzzing band is probably best known for performing in the late Mervyn Goodman’s Motown shows in the then-Playhouse Cellar. They reformed for a season last July at the Catalina, and now are about to launch their debut album and another stage season, this time putting classic Soul music into the spotlight

The concept of a vibrant close harmony group has been re-invited under the Zzzing banner but now with a different line up – the new generation Zzzing comprises Victor Dludlu, V-Tec Majola and Portia Zungu. They pay tribute to the original band and the part they played in putting local soul and R&B music on the KZN and national musical map.

V-Tec Majola is credited for bringing together an astonishing line up of fine voices from Newlands – neighbourhood chums who have gigged together in various combinations over the years. The show features Prof Gopal (Hamish Kyd) as narrator, Sli Nodangala, Rory Booth and Zzzing

The production is staged by Storyland in association with TheatreBiz.

Copies of Kyd’s novel, Charlie will be for sale at the boxoffice.

PRESS NIGHT and Zzzing CD Launch: 27 Jan 2009 @ 8pm

SHOW TIMES: Wed – Fri @ 8pm
Sat @ 5 pm & 8pm
Sun @ 2 pm & 6 pm

TICKETS: R75
SPECIALS: Buy 1 Get 1 Free - Wed @ 8pm, Sat @ 5pm & Sun @ 2pm
BOOKINGS: 031 3056889 / www.strictlytickets.com
For more info – call Thandeka on (031) 305 6889/ 3057612 or email tsibisi@mweb.co.za

The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.

Valentine’s Day Special: Sat 14 Feb at 7pm

The Catalina Theatre in Wilson’s Wharf is offering a Valentine’s Day special in conjunction with their Southern Soul on 14 February.

Why not get dressed up and make Valentine’s Day an occasion to remember? Get into something that is soulful and romance your mate in the 60’s style. The idea is to dress up in sixties gear - you will be lavished with some soul food and some soul music to make this romantic day memorable. Soul supper is served from 7pm and the show is at 8pm.

Denis Hurley Centre
Launch: Sunday 15 February 09

An exciting new initiative spearheaded by Emmanuel Cathedral will breathe life into a pre-WW1 building in the inner city, transforming it into an innovative outreach centre.

The launch of the Denis Hurley Centre at which the proposed project will be presented to potential partners, funders, interested parties, faith groups, sister organisations, press and public, will take place on Sunday February 15, led by Cardinal Wilfrid Napier.

Situated on the corner of the busy Denis Hurley Street (Queen St) and Cathedral Rd in the heart of the city, the three storey Emmanuel Cathedral Parish Centre was built as a primary school shortly before the beginning of World War 1. Already much in use, the vision is to give this sturdy building a major upgrade, overhaul and facelift. It is a listed building, so the distinctive façade cannot be altered. The intention is to make the building more useful for the social service and educational objectives of the Cathedral without compromising the centre’s heritage, and adding to its architectural value.

A long process of dialogue, research, consultation and planning has already taken place to ensure that the transformation is appropriate on every level and addresses all architectural and social needs and good environmental practise will be adhered to.

The new building will be used to its optimum. It will house the Cathedral’s outreach and social responsibility programmes – including homeless support and feeding projects; refugee pastoral care; nursing / HIV / AIDS programme; a comprehensive counselling service; the St Vincent de Paul Society.

For more information, contact the Emmanuel Cathedral on 031 306 35 95. Should you wish to consider becoming a partner, volunteer of donor, contact Selvan Subban – 031 261 8416 / 084 5119315 / ssubban@xsinet.co.za or for other info Paddy Kearney on pkearney@saol.com / tel 031 201 3832 / 072 806 4417.

Quilt Workshop: Temple David Hall - Thurs 12 Feb 10am - noon

One of the participative events to be held as part of the McCord Hospital Centenary Commemorations to be held in May this year, is the creation of a giant quilt to be made by who ever has a connection to McCord – be it current and past staff, current and past patients – in fact any one who wants to get involved!

If you can thread a needle – you can make a quilt! Participants will be given a square of fabric, needles and the option of some decorative material to work with. Quilt squares can be sewn, decoupaged, appliquéd, painted, collaged, stenciled. Participants can choose their creative medium of choice.

To get the creative juices flowing, internationally-acclaimed contemporary quilt artist, Rosalie Dace, has volunteered to run a free introduction to quilt-making session on Thursday 12 February in the Temple David Minor Hall (entrance either 369 Ridge Rd Overport, or from McCord Rd) to give interested participants some ideas, suggestions and pointers as to how to utilize their quilting square most creatively. Dace emphasizes that no prior quilting experience is necessary to create an interesting statement piece or mini-artwork with basic materials and a fabric square.

Dace warmly joins the management of McCord in inviting you to spend a creative morning learning elementary quilt making techniques. Participants are welcome to bring their own quilting “ingredients” (scraps, felt, buttons, paint etc) or alternatively use materials provided. The introductory work will take in the region of two hours.

For more information, or to book your space at the workshop, contact Lee on 031 268 5742 / leeah4021@yahoo.com.

Quilt starter packs with the fabric square and quilting ingredients will be for sale for R5. The R5 will be refunded on receipt of the finished quilt square. It is hoped that all finished quilting squares will be returned by the end of February.

Following last year’s successful Gauteng Theatre and Dance Indaba, the South African Theatre Initiative (SATI) will be holding similar indabas across the rest of the country, in a bid to stimulate debate among local cultural practitioners.

The first indaba for 2009 will be held in Cape Town at the Baxter Theatre on 7 and 8 February. Further indabas will be held in the remaining six provinces during the next few months.

These conferences form part of SATI’s national research and consultation process, in partnership with the Department of Arts and Culture (DAC) and the National Arts Council (NAC), and are aimed at addressing issues within the various arts disciplines to ensure the growth, development and sustainability of the sector.

Theatre and dance stakeholders in each province – from individual practitioners, administrators and educators to non-governmental organisations and government representatives – are invited to spend two days debating SATI’s key research areas. These are transformation, networking, compliance, human resource development, local market development, and the issue of funding versus sustainability.

A task team will be elected at each provincial indaba and will attend the National Indaba, where all draft resolutions will be debated and recommendations will be made to the DAC to inform policy and future interventions in the arts sector.

Those wishing to attend any of the indabas (to which entrance is free) may book their place by phoning SATI at (011) 838-8932, or e-mail info@sati.org.za

Date: Friday 13 February - 6pm until 6am
Entry: Registration R70 at the door
Queries: email events@timomotoso.org

O That you would Bless me Indeed
And Enlarge my Territory
That Your Hand would be with me
And that You would keep me from Evil
That I may not cause pain

Following the remarkable support for the first all night prayer Jabez Night of Blessings vigil in the year, Rev Tim Omotoso – founder of Tim Omotoso Global Outreach (T.O.G.O) – is hosting a second a prayer meeting, punctuated with music and dance, on Friday 13 February to be held in the Durban City Hall inviting people to start their year with focus and commitment to acquire and welcome blessings.

Inspired by the story of Jabez and his productive prayer, Rev Omotoso will lead a night vigil to call for blessings for the year ahead. The programme includes music and dance by The Chrysolite; Covenant Voices; Hosanna Voices; and Tim Omotoso Global Outreach Zulu Dance Troupe.
Tim Omotoso Global Outreach is an Apostolic and Prophetic ministry designed under Trinitarian auspices to propagate the gospel of Jesus Christ to our generation. Rev Omotoso believes we have heard and are still hearing the word of God but the hour has come to reveal the God of the word!

For further information contact: 071 133 2292 / email: events@timomotoso.org / visit www.timomotoso.org

Date: Thur. 12 February 2009
Venue: 32 Melbourne Road, 1st Floor Scotts House (Off Moore Road)
Time: 18h00 till late
Tickets available at the door - R20

Tim Omotoso Global Outreach (T.O.G.O) invites you to an evening of celebration, fellowship… and all that jazz!
Ticket includes buffet and welcome drink on arrival Cash bar (no alcohol) / tuck shop on premises

Featuring an all-female jazz group from Port Elizabeth and the T.O.G.O Zulu Dancers, Heavenly Dancers, the Chrysolite, Thobeka and Nife

For further information contact: 071 133 2292 / email: events@timomotoso.org / visit www.timomotoso.org.

Durban International Convention Centre 30 Jan – 1 Feb 2009

The organisers of It’s A Woman’s World, an upmarket exhibition for women, planned from 30 January to 1 February 2009 at the ICC Durban, regretfully announce that due to the severe economic restraints facing would-be exhibitors, that the show has had to be postponed until early 2010.

Plans for a bigger, better show will be announced early in the New Year. The organisers wish to thank all sponsors and members of the media for their support, and trust that they will continue to support this worthwhile show, which focuses on the upliftment of all women of South Africa, in the year to come.

For more information go to www.womansworld.co.za or contact Devra on 083 259 1481.

Zulu Jazz Lounge: Fri 30 Jan 8pm

Joe Delew celebrates his homecoming to Durban after living in Stockholm and Zurich with a session of Latin Jazz with friends on Friday 30 January at the Zulu Jazz Lounge in the Playhouse.

Delew is in the process of launching an exciting Afro-Brazilian group in the near future, but this "homecoming" one-off concert sees him performing in a quartet context with the irrepressible Philani Ngidi on bass, long-time collaborator Dan Chiorboli on percussion and exciting new talent Sbu Zondi on drums..
.
Tickets R50 at the door

Thunsil – Mischief Maker

Ronnie Govender will be staging a compilation show in May featuring a collage of his favourite works to celebrate his 75th birthday and his life in the theatre. He is holding auditions at the Seabrook theatre on Sunday at 2pm. He is looking for a coloured woman actress; a black male actor and a white male actor.

Interested candidates prepare to perform one short spoken word piece. They should bring a CV and recent photograph would be an advantage. No need to pre book your slot!

Kickstart will be holding auditions for their first production of the year - the wild and whacky musical, Little Shop of Horrors, on Saturday 17 January at the Playhouse Mayville complex.

Kickstart – KZN’s premier multi award-winning theatre producers – will be staging the fabulous funky musical, Little Shop of Horrors, in the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre on UKZN campus from March 20. This will be their first production of the year.

They are looking to cast three roles for coloured / black women. Successful applicants should be talented and vivacious; aged between 18 and 40 years old; should be able to sing well and dance / move and should be able to speak and sing in English using an American accent.

Interested candidates should book their audition time by phoning Steven on 072 796 4236. Candidates should prepare to perform one Motown / 50’s pop song. They should bring along either a backing track on disc or sheet music for their chosen song. They should also be prepared to dance and wear appropriate clothing and dance heels. Bringing a CV and recent photograph would be an advantage.

The audition will be from 10:30am until 4pm on Saturday 17 January at the Playhouse’s M2 rehearsal room in Ramsay Rd, Mayville. Rehearsals for the production commence on 23 February.

Fresh Paint Gallery: 60 Davenport Rd, Glenwood, Dbn: now on

On at the Fresh Paint Gallery in Davenport Rd, Glenwood, is a Celebration of African Art – a collection of never before seen works from a diverse array of artists from across Africa.

Closest to home local artist “DKZ” Simon, originally from the Congo and a protégé of Themba Siwela, will have his first public viewing, exhibiting his charming, naive visions of Zulu cultural life.

Zambian brothers Jeff and Jim Lungu make a welcome return with an entirely new collection of their delightful, stylised paintings which cross-pollinate pointillism, expressionism and much more alongside the similar but slightly tougher style of their compatriot Lawrence Mactribuoy. Also from Zambia are the beautifully observed and executed village scenes of Poto Kabwe.

From the Cameroon are two internationally recognised artists, Salifou Lindou and Blaise Bang, who have exhibited across Europe and Africa, including this year’s Joburg art Fair. Of all the artists exhibiting at Fresh Paint theirs is the least literal or figurative, with Bang working mainly in and on metal in an iconographic fashion and Lindou using a variety of interesting media in his lyrical yet challenging paintings.

Representing the DRC is Bisimwa Muheme whose vibrant palette knife paintings make wonderful use of light, colour and contrast to create mood and substance. The huge dusk scene by fellow countryman N’Lahu- Muntu is all about mood and his smaller work speaks of another reality altogether.

Fresh Paint can be found at 60 Davenport Rd, Glenwood, Dbn. Gallery hours are 9am until 4pm, Saturday 9am until 1pm – or after hours by appointment. It is open daily. For more information, contact the Gallery on 031 201 8367.

Fresh Paint Gallery: 60 Davenport Rd, Glenwood, Dbn: now on

Fresh Paint will be hosting an exhibition of selected affordable artworks by members of the North Coast Art Group for three weeks - from 17 December.

Fresh Paint can be found at 60 Davenport Rd, Glenwood, Dbn. Gallery hours are 9am until 4pm, Saturday 9am until 1pm – or after hours by appointment. It is open daily. For more information, contact the Gallery on 031 201 8367. Enquiries Fresh Paint 031-2018367 or Pearl 0824924365.

Durban International Convention Centre

30 Jan – 1 Feb 2009

It’s a Woman’s World is an exciting inaugural exhibition and show coming to the Durban International Convention Centre from 30 January to 1 February 09, promising to be a multi-layered experience which talks particularly to issues and themes of interest to women without alienating male visitors.

The up-market event will have separate sections that appeal to every facet of the women’s market separately packaged under the themes of Uniquely You, Comfortably You and Dynamically You.

It’s a Woman’s World is being staged at the luxurious Durban International Convention Centre on 30 January - 1 February. Exhibitors are advised to book early as space is selling fast.

For more information go to www.womansworld.co.za or contact Devra on 031-2669828 or 083-2591481

uShaka:  November 12 –January 10

The Phantom Ship’s popular Upper Deck supper theatre continues providing world class entertainment with a nostalgic tribute to Boys Bands. Back by popular demand – Lets Hear it for the Boys show takes us on a journey from the first boy’s band in the 60’s (The Beatles) till the new and popular boys bands of the new millennium including Backstreet Boys, Westlife, Il Divo, Teatro, and even including well known South African Boy Band, Eden.

The show stars Jonothan Didlick (returning from his latest performance at the Barnyard in Johannesburg), Lyle Buxton (best known for his lead performance in Guys ‘n Dolls at the Sneddon Theatre) Cavin Sewell (returning fresh from his lead performance on the cruise ship the “Melody” and Bradley Marshall (recently seen on the Phantom Ship’s performances of Tainted Love – A tribute to the 80’s as well as Luther Vandross – The Tribute). The show will include hit numbers such as I Want it That Way, Bye,Bye,Bye, No Matter What, When you say nothing at all, I’ll make love to you/End of the road, Flying without wings and many more.

The show is produced by Wayne Scott and directed by Charon Williams-Ros.

Show times are Thursday to Saturday 7pm for 8pm (show starts). Tickets are R150 including a delicious buffet meal. To book call 031 328 8000 or Computicket 083 915 8000 or go to  www.computicket.co.za

Brand New Adult Pantomime, Brand New Supper Theatre Venue!!

Running until 31 December The Boho

(Right next door to Bean Bag Bohemia)

Durban’s fun, festive fabulous 12th annual adult panto is Sleeping Beauty … and that Little Prick runs for the holiday season in Durban at a brand new venue alongside Beanbag Bohemia in Durban’s Greyville.

Yes boys and girls, after many years happily spent sullying the memory of our best loved fairytales, this year’s festive adult pantomime takes us back in time to the beautiful princess who pricked her finger on a spindle and slept for a hundred years until the kiss of her one true love broke the spell. Yeah right…

Of course, this being pantomime there’s bound to be more pricks than on your granny’s pin cushion, a fair sprinkling of double entendres, a slew of delicious one-liners and enough knob jokes to hang your hat on.

A brand new script written and directed by Anthony Stonier, features Anthony Stonier (as the Bad Fairy - Miss Begotten), Rowan Bartlett (as the Good Fairy – Miss Carriage), Peter Court (as Bladder, The Court Jester), Sean De Klerk (as Nobby – The House Elf), and introducing Justine Aboud (as Princess Aurora) and Junaid Cassimjee (as The Prince).

The over-the-top set and costumes are by Peter Court; music selection is by Anthony Stonier; backing tracks are by Tim Pullen of Tim Trax. All Equipment and staging supplied by Black Coffee and Anthony is dressed by Annarosa’s Dress Up.

The Boho is in fact the St Mary’s Hall immediately adjacent to Bean Bag Bohemia in Windermere Road. 3 Phase electricity has been installed so that there can be supersonic air conditioning!  The Boho will become a supper theatre for the duration. Tables of eight or 10. Catering is by Beanbag Bohemia. There will be an option of a non-dining ticket. Meal begins at 18h30, show at 20h00. Sundays will be a lunch followed by a matinee (12h30 lunch for 2pm show).  Special discounts on Tuesdays and Sundays only.

Ideal festive season office party options / client entertainment. Packages designed to suit your requirements. Booking through Computicket. Any enquiries on 083 250 2690.

New Year’s Eve special.
R300 for meal and show. Supper is served from 8pm, and the show comes down just before midnight. The ticket includes entry to the Bean Bag New Year’s Party

In partnership with UNICEF, the RedCap Foundation has launched a special gift in stores to support children this Christmas. The Kids are Priceless teddy  bears will be sold in Mr Price Home stores country-wide and make the perfect Christmas or birthday gift for children.

More importantly, proceeds from the teddies will benefit UNICEF and RedCap Foundation programmes which aim to provide important stimulation and learning to young children across South Africa.

The teddy-bear campaign is part of the wider partnership between the RedCap Foundation and UNICEF to benefit early childhood development in South Africa.

"Our  teddies  are  the  perfect  way  to  support less fortunate kids this Christmas,  and  we  hope  that all South Africans will show their love and devotion  to  children  as  part  of  the Christmas spirit by buying a bear in-store,"  said  Natasja  Ambrosio,  Foundation  Manager  for  the RedCap Foundation.

The campaign was also fortunate to receive the support of several UNICEF Celebrity Advocates including Danny K and fiancé’ Lee-Anne Liebenberg, Tshedi from the popular music Group Malaika, and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Yvonne Chaka-Chaka.

Teddies are available in stores from 10th December 2008 from just R19.99 each.  Larger teddy bears, which will also benefit UNICEF, will be on sale at Sheet Street during the Christmas period only.

For more information contact Nastasja Ambrosio at Mr Price on…0832635102 NAmbrosio@mrpricegroup.com
For more information on the RedCap Foundation and UNICEF visit www.redcapfoundation.com or www.unicef.org/southafrica

Ellis Pearson presents A Theatre Adventure Starring Sean De Klerk!
Boho Theatre, right next door to Beanbag Bohemia in Windermere Road: 6 – 31 December
For the first time ever, international theatre maker, Ellis Pearson directs another performer in a role he wrote for himself.

The curtain is coming down on our world. Is it the final curtain? Will there be an encore?

Join Doughnut, a crazy inventor, and Jock, a ballroom dancing wannabee,  in a madcap adventure to help Professor Fifi, save our planet from a lunatic with the power to switch off the sun ...forever.

Ellis and Sean take a unique, seriously thought provoking, yet highly entertaining look at the global warming crisis.

Ellis has created a theatre epic to rival a combination of Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter and James Bond! It is a gigantic battle between good and evil. The arch villain has done what no one else has dared to do. He has stolen the sun and now holds the world to ransom. Can the unlikely heroes rise to the occasion and help to bring back the light?

Blackout is a comic celebration of everything that is wonderful about theatre – energy, danger, laughter and astonishment; clever use of objects and sound making devices.

Boho Theatre – Right Next Door To Beanbag Bohemia In Windermere Road

6 – 31 December.
Tues – Sun @ 11h00
Booking at Computicket  / R 40
Allow us to entertain your children this festive season holiday! (Adults welcome too!!!)

Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre
Festive Season: 29 Nov – 4 Jan
What would the Durban Christmas holidays be without the magic of a KickstArt pantomime? This year, they have chosen to stage everybody’s favourite fairytale, Cinderella which comes to the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre on campus from 29 November until 4 January.

Cinderella is being given the full pantomime treatment: gorgeous costumes, lavish sets, toe-tapping songs, jokes aplenty, a lively chorus of dancers, and fabulous special effects. Once again, director Steven Stead and designer Greg King are set to enchant audiences with another spectacular family show, following in the tradition they have established with their earlier successes such as The Wizard of Oz, Aladdin, Winnie-the-Pooh, and The Jungle Book. 

The top-notch local cast is headed by the lovely Belinda Henwood as the rags to riches heroine, with Darren King and Thomie Holtzhausen excelling in their hilarious roles as her Ugly Sisters. Bryan Hiles brings all his characteristic charm to playing Buttons, her friend and admirer, while in true panto style, Janna Ramos Violante and Marion Loudon add a dash of style and panache as Prince Charming and his valet, Dandini. Alison Cassels completes the cast as a glamorous Fairy Godmother.

Cinderella will run at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre from 28 November to 4 January, with performances Tues to Saturday at 2.30pm, Friday and Saturday at 7pm, and Sunday at 3 pm. There are no performances on Christmas Day, Boxing Day or New Year’s Day. Tickets are R90 for adults, R70 for children under 12 and can be booked through Computicket. Discounted pensioners tickets (R70) can be purchased from Computicket outlets only, on presentation of appropriate ID, but not on the internet or the telephone.

Catalina Theatre, Wilson’s Wharf: 10 – 31 Dec

An interactive fun children’s show – Festive Fun with Bob and Rob – will play daily at 11am at the Catalina Theatre in Wilson’s Wharf for two weeks from 10 – 31 December.

Two of the theatre community’s most hard-working rising stars and Catalina regulars, Rory Booth and Grant Jacobs, have jointly devised, scripted, created and directed a delicious story about brothers Bob and Rob who go on a fabulous adventure and learn important life lessons en-route. This production is especially relevant to little boys as the focus of their adventure is a quest to find an X-Box 360 Special Edition.

Festive Fun with Bob and Rob is perfect for children. It is only 45 minutes long, so is suitable for the little-ones. Tickets include a boat ride around the harbour to make a full morning’s entertainment for families.

To book call Thandeka on 031-305-6889 or email tsibisi@mweb.co.za. Catalina Theatre
Shows are at 11am daily including Mondays /seven days a week from 10 – 31 Dec.
Tickets cost R45 for show and boat ride, or R30 for show only

The Catalina Theatre is still functioning thanks to the incredible generosity and support from Rainbow Chicken, National Arts Council and Ethekwini Municipality.